In an exhilarating semi final cup clash at RNAS Culdrose Community Football Club on 2nd March 2025, Newquay AFC Vets secured a convincing 3-1 victory against RNAS Culdrose Veterans 1st. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, with both teams eager to progress to the final of the competition, but it was Newquay who showcased their dominance throughout the encounter.
Newquay AFC Vets lined up in their classic 3-4-1-2 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while providing width and attacking options. Harry Ashton took his place between the sticks for the first time as the goalkeeper, shielded by a back three consisting of Dave Grose on the right, Logan Capeling in central defence, and Paul Osborne on the left. The midfield was anchored by Adam Weller and Andy Miles in central roles, with Lee Rickard in the 10 role and Ben Colquhoun and Martyn Probert providing pace and creativity on the flanks. Up front, Lee Rickard and Adam Weller formed a dynamic partnership, looking to exploit any gaps in the opposition's defence.
The substitutes for Newquay included Serkan Acar, who would later make an impact in the second half.
The match began with an explosive start as Ben Colquhoun opened the scoring for Newquay just two minutes in. A well-placed finish after the RNAS Culdrose player sent a weak back pass to his keeper allowing Ben the opportunity to intercept and finish expertly, sending the visiting fans into raptures. Colquhoun's early goal set the tone for Newquay's attacking intent.
As the first half progressed, Newquay maintained their pressure, but after a long point forward the culdrose winger drew Skipper Grose into a lunging tackle to give a penalty away. Debutant Harry Ashton showed his class with an excellent save to keep it 1-0. Good work from the culdrose right winger who sprung the offside trap and sent a devilishly accurate pass into the centre for the striker to valley home giving Ashton no chance 1-1. This seemed to galvanise as well drilled Newquay side and it was Colquhoun again who found the back of the net in the 36th minute. This time, he capitalised on a maurading run from the ever impressive Lee Budge who sent a low cross in, that was excellently dummied by Probert for Colquhoun to pounce on a loose ball in the box to give Newquay back the lead lead. With a 2-1 advantage, Newquay looked comfortable as they headed into the half-time break.
The second half saw RNAS Culdrose Veterans attempt to claw their way back into the match, but Newquay's defence held firm. In the 70th minute, a tactical substitution was made as Serkan Acar replaced Daniel O'toole, adding fresh legs to the midfield. Acar's introduction aimed to bolster Newquay's control in the centre of the park.
As the match entered its final stages, Newquay struck again in the 81st minute. Lee Budge, who had been solid defensively, ventured forward and scored a stunning goal from outside the box, leaving the RNAS Culdrose goalkeeper with no chance. This goal effectively sealed the victory for Newquay, putting them 3-1up.
RNAS Culdrose Veterans were reduced to 10 men after a frankly brutish stamp on the impressive Paul Osborne saw their number 11 deservedly sent off as Newquay AFC Vets held on to secure a well-deserved 3-1 victory. The match showcased Newquay's attacking prowess and defensive resilience, setting them up for a final date TBC against either tremough or Gunnislake who play in the other semi final of the Sunday cup competition.
We wish Culdrose well for the rest of the season apart from when we return for our league game at the end of the month.
Good luck to all Newquay sides over the weekend. Cheers Capes
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