PENRYN find themselves in the unusual position of underdogs for their Boxing Day derby with Falmouth.

Having played in a higher league for several years, the Borough were relegated to Cornwall/Devon League last season, a division which is being led by local rivals Falmouth as they head into 2017.

Chris Lea’s men have been blighted by injuries in this campaign – forcing them to have to concede two matches already including a Cornwall Cup tie against Falmouth.

Saturday’s trip to Saltash resulted in two more casualties, with prop Ryan Burley breaking his leg and Ben Trevaskis suffering concussion that could keep him out for a month.

Lea said: “With a couple of weeks’ break from league games and the local Boxing Day game being the next focus, we will need to cast the net a bit wider in selection.

“The fellas who have been the Tuesday night community rugby players have committed to Boxing Day and will no doubt lift themselves and the existing squad to give it a real go against a Falmouth team that know how to win.”

Falmouth will also be missing several regulars, with Andrew Varker, Matt Brewer and Jon Baglow unavailable, while AJ Geach, Ollie Church and Simon Bailey are injured.

Hooker Alex Bullock, who has stepped up from the second team in recent weeks, will have another chance to impress.

Coach Graham Whitmore said: “It’s a big game for both clubs and a great celebration at the end of the year. Our absolute focus is to perform well in the league, but the Boxing Day game enables players to keep that focus, as we do not play again until January 7.”

The Eagles have won 12 of their 13 league games and remain in pole position to take the title and promotion to Western Counties.

“It’s probably the most successful half of a season for the club in recent history. We play with ambition and that comes with an element of risk, but the players and spectators are enjoying it.”

Kick-off at the Recreation Ground on Boxing Day is 2.30pm.