Marek Churcher starts Redruth reign with impressive Henley victory

The match was Redruth's first competitive game since Steve Larkins stood down as head coach

Redruth head coach Marek Churcher has praised his side after beating Henley 23-18 in his first game in charge of the National Two South side.

Tommy Phillips, Brett Rule and Ashley Lawton all scored tries in the opening half-hour against a side that had just been relegated from National One.

"The first 15 minutes Henley didn't touch the ball and we were outstanding," Churcher said.

"Our attack was sublime, we hardly kicked the ball."

The Reds saw Henley come back into the game after half-time and had to defend doggedly in the final 15 minutes as the visitors laid siege to their line.

"We said before the game that we had to be confrontational, and we were," Churcher told BBC Radio Cornwall.

"Their energy was unbelievable and to keep Henley out, they were outstanding."

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