At long last the RFU Council finally decided to go ahead with the “Championship” next season to replace the existing National League 1. Details from the RFU site can be found here in the link . It looks at present as if the Cornish Pirates will take up the invitation to join the Championship. Obviously more details will emerge as time goes on, also whether Redruth or the Cornish All Blacks will be able to take up the offer should either club win National League 2 in April. For the dream to continue of top class rugby in Cornwall it’s imperative that the Cornish Pirates are part of the new set up. As to how it will all finally be financed remains to be seen, though I understand that the Cornish Pirates will coming up with an iniative, which will involve the fans.

Back on the playing side, what a cracking game of rugby at Camborne Recreation Ground yesterday afternoon as the Cornish Pirates took on the league leaders in National League 1 Leeds Carnegie. It was typical of this season’s games from the Pirates, full of every emotion possible, but no fairy-tale ending as Leeds held out to win by 2 points 25-23. I can’t recall a start to a match quite like it, 16 seconds into the game and Leeds had points on the board as lock Kearnan Myall collected the kick-off and just ran and kept on running through the static Pirates defence to dot down under the posts! Unreal. Then a couple of minutes later former Pirate Richard Welding scored up in the corner a second Leeds try, with Alberto Di Bernardo slotting over the opening try’s conversion it was a nightmare start for Mark Hewitt’s side.

Fearing the worst we were instead taken on a roller-coaster ride of emotion with Leeds falling foul of referee Nick Williams, Rhys Jones pegged the Yorkshire side back, a couple of yellow cards for the visitors helped the Pirates cause as well. Then Leeds stretched out once more a penalty from yes Alberto, you could sense that PA, Phil Westren was dying to roll back a couple of seasons for his famous “Alberto Dee Bernardo” in his inimitable style, and then a third Leeds try scored by scorching winger Tom Biggs. A few weeks ago the Pirates would have sunk without trace at such another set-back, but this side is now made of much sterner stuff, they showed great character ably led by skipper Addy Winnan, who had another towering game, his example influences his team to greater deeds and they responded. Hooker Darren Dawiduik scored a great try and Rhys Jones with his sixth penalty brought the Pirates close, but it was Alberto’s second penalty that gave Leeds a narrow win. After the match Alberto was heard to say that the Pirates’ fans were the best as he happily mingled with the home crowd. What a star he is. You can read my match report on the main site.

One good thing to come out of yesterday’s match was the fact that those habitual early leavers from the stand actually stayed put and watched the game to it’s conclusion. Hopefully the latecommers at the start of the match will have learn’t their lesson as well!!! Then everyone can enjoy the game without interuption!

On Saturday, Redruth made it eleven wins on the trot even though they were made to work very hard by Tynedale winning 15-5. Some times you have to win ugly, and this display was far removed from some of the fluid displays from the Reds this season, but as winter approaches and the grounds become heavier the Reds will have to adapt. Paul Thirlby and Mark Bright scored the Reds’ tries with Mark Scrivener adding a penalty and conversion on his return from injury. Redruth have a week off now as National League 2 takes a break before taking on Cambridge at the Recreation Ground.

A Cambridge side that will be left to reflect after the Cornish All Blacks pipped them 23-21 at Grantchester Road. Marc Dibble, Ben Turner and Mal Roberts scored the CAB’s tries with Adam Staniforth kicking a penalty and conversion and Jon Fabian also kicking a penalty. A result which lifts the Launceston club to third.

Mount’s Bay now know the task ahead of them to avoid the drop following the RFU’s decision, with a fourth win over fellow strugglers Southend 40-15, thanks to a 28-point haul without reply during the second half. Dan Hawkes boot contributed 25 points thanks to 7 penalties and two conversions from two penalty tries awarded, Nick Burnett scored the other Bay try.

In the Tribute regional leagues, St. Ives scored first and last in their drawn match at Paignton 20-20. The Hakes scored a couple of tries at Queens Park through Hano Dirksen with with Karl Martin converting both scores and a couple of penalties. Interesting to note that Rudolph Meredith who was with Redruth last season has just signed up for St. Ives he will be a big asset for the Hakes.

In Western Counties West, the big match was at the Molesworth Field as Wadebridge Camels entertained Newquay Hornets with the Camels winning 29-12. Camel’s try scorers were Alasdair McClennan, Richard Treleaven, Oly Lock, Matt Angwyn Shaun Hawkey with Leigh Charles adding a couple of conversions. For Newquay Simon Horton and Romey Vassell scored tries with Horton kicking a conversion.

Bude got their first point of the current campaign with a 14-14 draw at home to Tiverton. Andy Yates and Matt Williams scored the tries with Matt Trewin adding the conversions.

Camborne lost heavily in Somerset as Minehead Barbarians won 42-7, Shaun Woods scored a late try which Dave Mankee converted for Town’s only points.

Up in London 3 SW, London Cornish won at Wimbeldon 9-8. See Dickon Moon’s report here.

In the Cornwall & Devon League, Penryn got back to winning ways with a 13-11 win at Wellington Taron Peacock scoring all the Borough’s points with a try conversion and two penalties.

Hayle won at Plymstock 14-11 with a try from Mike Seager and three Mike Crump penalties. Truro had a good trip to North Devon winning at Bideford 13-3, Chris Gilbert with the try and Dan Dunkin with the conversion and two penalties. Saltash found it tough at Tavistock as they lost 24-8, Will Davenport with a try and Ollie Rayner a penalty.

Falmouth suffered a ninth consecutive defeat at the Recreation Ground losing 31-5 to OPM’s, Chris McColl with Falmouth’s try.

A very welcome return to form for the Cornish All Blacks on Saturday as they recorded their first win after three succesive defeats when they beat visitors Wharfedale by 38-10, scoring five tries in the bargain. Winger Marc Dibble with a brace, Sam Hocking, Scott Hobson and Ben Turner scored the tries. Full-back Jon Fabian kicked a couple of conversions and two penalties, whilst replacement Mike Provis dropped a goal. Joint head coach Chris Brown was delighted with his side’s win “We’ve been performing in fits and starts, but today I think we put it togeather with some simple stuff, when we got momentumn in the early stages, we were patient, and we opened them up out wide.” He went on to add “This win was important for our comeback but it doesn’t put us anywhere different from where we were last week in terms of the season”.

Redruth kept up their awesome pace at the top of National League 2 with a tenth consecutive win, this time by 35-17 at Waterloo, the win came at a price as skipper PJ Gidlow suffered a serious cheekbone injury, which may well sideline the centre for a few matches. The Reds scored five tries through James Mann, Lewis Vinnicombe, Rob Thirlby, Paul Thirlby and Mike Georgiou. Paul Thirlby added two conversions and a couple of penalties. Next up for the Reds next Saturday, Tynedale, who beat Cambridge in some style 49-15. Can the Reds make it eleven on the trot? Kick-off for this match is 2pm.

Mount’s Bay have found a rich vein of form with a third consecutive win, this time at fellow strugglers Westcombe Park by 26-8. Fly-half Dan Hawkes scored all of the Bay’s points with two converted tries, three penalties and a drop-goal. Another win on Saturday at the Mennaye against Southend will further boost Bay’s prospects of staying up.

In National League 1, the Cornish Pirates’ revival continues with a 19-3 win against Esher at the Pillar Data Arena. Irish winger Brian Tuohy scored both the Pirates’ tries with fly-half Rhys Jones kicking three penalties. Next Sunday the Pirates entertain table-toppers Leeds Carnegie at Camborne with a 2pm kick-off. Can the Pirates maintain form and overturn the league leaders? It promises to be a cracking encounter.

In the Tribute regional leagues, in South West 2 West, St. Ives won a tight encounter at a blustery Alexandra Road 9-6 against Torquay Athletic, Karl Martin once again proving the match-winner with three penalties.

Western Counties West, saw leaders Cullompton maintain top spot with a very comfortable win over Wadebridge Camels by 42-3, a result which dents Camels hopes of promotion this season. A Jake McConnell penalty was all they had to show for their efforts.

Camborne defeated Ivybridge 10-3, Adam Nottman scored the Cherry & White’s try with David Mankee adding the conversion and a penalty.

After their defeat at home to Cullompton last Saturday, Newquay Hornets were keen to make up for that set-back against North Cornwall rivals Bude, they did so in some style winning 55-12. Hornets ran in nine tries through, Adam Rainey (2), Rob McIntyre, Lee Woodhatch, Simon Horton, Stuart Williams, James Ingle, Andy Dixon and Dan Johns. Sam Cullen adding five conversions. Dave Uglow scored a try and Matt Trewin converted a penalty-try for Bude.

London Cornish defeated London South Africa 12-3 in their latest London 3 SW match. Read Dickon Moon’s report here

In the Cornwall & Devon League, Penryn’s home match against Bideford didn’t take place as the referee didn’t show up.

Hayle won the Cornish derby as they defeated poor old Falmouth comfortably 34-3. It was the Lions first home win of the season. Hayle’s tries were scored by hooker Adrian Symons, centre Wayne Jenkins, brother Kevin, lock Richard Spear and winger Dave Seager with two. Fly-half Mike Crump converted two scores. Full-back James Instance kicked Falmouth’s solitary penalty.

Truro will be disappointed to lose at St. Clements to Tavistock 22-16, all the points scored during the first half. James Willcocks scored Truro’s try, which Scott Martin converted, Martin also kicked a couple of penalties, with brother Ross dropping a goal.

Saltash failed to build on their win at Falmouth losing at Moorlands Lane to Plymstock Albion Oaks 20-17. For the Ashes half-backs Geoff Thompson and Ollie Rayner scored tries, both converted by Rayner who also kicked a penalty.

STOP PRESS: Looks like the RFU’s plans for a fully pro level 2 have moved a step closer today, see link.

The Western Morning News of the 11th November carries an interesting article by Mark Stevens, rugby faces revolution

Redruth’s fine run continued on Saturday afternoon as they dispatched West Country rivals Cinderford with an awesome display of running rugby that left the Gloucestershire side chasing shadows for the best part of the afternoon. Cinderford will consider themselves fortunate that it was only 51-12. With a certain British secret agent back on the big screen this week, Redruth served up their very own “Licence to Thrill”, never mind 007, it was more like 003 at the Reds, with their back three of Rob Thirlby (3), his first arguably would win Sky’s Try of the Month, no contest, Nathan Padley (2) and Lewis Vinnicombe helping themselves to six of the eight tries scored. Bonds, Craig Bonds that is scored the opening try after only five minutes, whilst Kiwi No.8 Mark Bright scored the only try for the forwards. It was though a team performance. You can read my match report in the link.

Also in National League 2 Mount’s Bay made two wins on the trot with their first home win of the season when they defeated Blackheath 28-22. The other bonus for the Bay, their discipline no yellow cards, playing the game throughout with 15 men is so much simpler. Former Albion prop Tim Mathias grabbed two tries, with on-loan hooker from Albion Jamie Salter grabbing the other, a good day’s work for the front row boys. Dan Hawkes kicked the other points with a couple of conversions two penalties and a drop-goal.

The Cornish All Blacks’ mood must be as dark as their shirts following another defeat this time up at Blaydon by 18-16. The Cornish All Blacks’ tries came from Tim Collier and Jamie Semmens with Adam Staniforth kicking a couple of penalties.

In National League 1, the Cornish Pirates surprised many pundits with a fantastic win up at Goldington Road against the Bedford Blues by 26-6. Scrum-half Nicky Griffiths and centre Steve Winn scored the tries, with fly-half Rhys Jones converting both tries and four penalties. Hopefully the corner has been well and truly turned “Onwards and upwards”.

In the Tribute regional leagues, St. Ives got back to winning ways with a 15-13 win at St. Mary’s Old Boys. Karl Martin kicking five penalty goals.

In Western Counties West, Wadebridge Camels saw their un-baten run at home stretching back some two-and-a-half years ended by visitors Kingsbridge who ran out winners by 13-5. Gavin West got the Camels’ try.

Camborne had a narrow win at Devonport Services by 19-18, Dave Mankee scoring all of Town’s points with a try conversion and four penalties.

Newquay Hornets lost at the Sportscentre 23-22 to league leaders Cullompton in an exciting match. Jason Caruana and Rob McIntyre scored the Hornet’s tries with Sam Cullen kicking four penalty goals.

Bude are still seeking their first league win of the season as they lost at home to Weston Hornets 20-16. Scrum-half Mini Fry scored Bude’s try, which Matt Trewin converted as well as three penalties.

In London 3 SW, London Cornish drew 6-6 at Winchester, Dickon Moon’s usual report can be found in the link.

In the Cornwall & Devon League, Penryn’s fine run was brought to an end at the Memorial Ground by visitors Okehampton who won 8-7 with a last-gasp try. The Borough’s points came from a try by Peter Webster converted by Taron Peacock.

Truro lie third after their win at Plymstock Albion Oaks 13-10, Patterson with the try and Scott Martin with the conversion and two penalties. Hayle lost at Crediton 11-3, Paul Lello with a penalty the only score for the Lions. In the battle at the foot of the table Saltash travelled to the Rec at Falmouth and won comfortably 44-10. Ben Davenport and Richard Skinner both scored a couple of tries for the Ashes, with Simon Nance, Charlie Grace and Ollie Rayner also scoring tries. Rayner also kicking three conversions and a penalty. For Falmouth, it already looks like a return to Cornwall 1 next season, they scored a couple of tries through James Instance and Tom Spiller.

It looks like the Rugby Kernewek website, which I ran has been closed down by it’s host aol. Although the site was no longer used as much since the advent of this blog it still had useful information. I have set up a new blog with the same name but it will take time to restore time willing also.

NO DOUBT about the story of the weekend, Mount’s Bay’s superb win at Polson by 8-6 to notch up their first ever win in National League 2. Nobody would have given the Bay a cat in hell’s chance of gaining much in this match, but they dogged it out got to half-time at 3-3 and thought we can get something here. Adam Staniforth kicked an opening penalty for the Cornish All Blacks before Dan Hawkes replied in kind for the visitors. Bay found themselves down to fourteen men once again with prop Bruce Pow and former Lanson favourite Nick Burnett forced to sit it out either side of half-time. The winning try came after 52 minutes with lock Ben Hilton being driven over. Despite a second Staniforth penalty there was no further scoring. It was a day of shocks in National League 2 as much fancied Cambridge came a cropper at Waterloo 18-13.

News for this and other scores filtered through to the Southend were leaders Redruth maintained their fine run with an eighth succesive win 32-7 at Sumpter’s Way. Paul Thirlby deputised at 10 for the still unavailable Mark Scrivener kicking two penalties and the conversion of brother Rob’s try for a 13-0 half-time lead. Thirlby grabbed a second try at the start of the second half after skipper PJ Gidlow picked off a wayward pass from the home side to release his full back who flew up the pitch to score, Paul Thirlby kicked a fine touchline conversion. Southend hit back with a converted try of their own before the Reds’ third try came from a simple pop up pass with James Mann being the grateful recipient going in under the posts with Thirlby making it three conversions out of three. The bonus point was wrapped up when Lewis Vinnicombe scored the fourth try on 57 minutes. Next up Cinderford on Saturday.

On Sunday it was another nail bitter at Camborne as the Cornish Pirates secured the win with the last play of the match thanks to a Brian Tuohy try for a 19-15 win. You can read my match report here.

In the Tribute leagues, South West 2 West, St. Ives lost for the second time this season when Avonmouth Old Boys won 10-6 at Alexandra Road, Karl Martin kicking two penalties for the Hakes.

In Western Counties West, a Cornish derby at Camborne as Town hosted Wadebridge Camels and it was the Cornwall Cup holders from North Cornwall who came out on top 12-3 in a scrappy game. Dave Mankee with a first-half drop goal scored Camborne’s only points. For the Camels two tries scored by centre Dan Briskham and winger Alisdair MacLennan with Lee Charles converting the first score.

Newquay Hornets didn’t get much out of their trip to Kingsbridge going down 36-9, Sam Cullen kicking three penalties. Bude are still on 0 points following a sixth succesive defeat as they slumped at leaders Cullompton 24-11. Ollie Denford got Bude’s try with Matt Trewin kicking a couple of penalties.

Up in London 3 SW, London Cornish defeated Leatherhead & Effingham 19-0, Dickon Moon’s report is in the link.

In the Cornwall & Devon League, Penryn maintained their un-beaten start with 20-0 win up in Plymouth at OPM’s, George Jones, Darren Pellow and Josh Chambers scored the Borough’s three tries with Taron Peacock kicking a penalty and conversion. Truro defeated old rivals Falmouth 36-3 in the “Carrick” derby, Tim Gay, against his former club, Luke Trescothick, Ben Chynoweth, and Chris Gilbert scored Truro’s tries whilst Scott Martin kicked 2 conversions and 4 penalties. James Instance scored Falmouth’s sole penalty.

Hayle drew at home with Wellington 13-13,despite leading 13-0 at half-time. Richard Grose scored the Lions try with Mike Crump kicking the other points. Saltash put up a brave effort at home to Crediton before losing 19-13, Richard Skinnard scored a brace for the Ashes with Ollie Rayner kicking a penalty.

The CRFU and DRFU have released the date for the 2009 Tamar Cup it’s Sunday March 29th to be played at Okehampton RFC with a 3pm kick-off.

The big talking point this week has been the row , which has erupted over the Launceston club’s efforts to get their brand name “The Cornish All Blacks” registered. It appears that representatives acting for the New Zealand RFU have loged an objection. I am sure that if the Launceston club and the NZRFU actually talked to each other a speedy resolution to this problem could be overcome. Let’s all hope that commonsense prevails.

A reminder that the Barbarians take on Combined Services just across the border at the Brickfields, Plymouth on Tuesday 4th November with a 7pm kick-off. All proceeds to the “Poppy Appeal”. Ticket information available on 0870 350 0402.

Apologies for no entry last week, after the Pirates match against Rotherham it took the dust a few days to settle, not just with me, with many others too it would seem judging by the week’s press and the forum chatter.

Still I think on Saturday we had an answer with a battling performance from the Pirates up in Yorkshire to maintain their un-beaten record at Castle Park. It ended 24 all against Doncaster Knights thanks to a brace of tries from Rhodri McAtee and a try from Iva Motusaga. Rhys Jones converted all three tries as well as a penalty, he was un-lucky to have a last gasp drop-goal attempt charged down. At the beginning of the week with all the doom and gloom surronding the club not many gave the boys much chance of getting anything from this game, to their credit and also coach Mark Hewitt they stuck at it and got some reward, let’s all hope that with our support they can build once more next Sunday against Moseley at Camborne. A reminder that kick-off for this match will be 2-30pm.

I watched Redruth on Saturday maintain their fine start to the season with their seventh win to remain top dog in National League 2. It wasn’t a perfect perfromance despite the 44-10 scoreline, coach Nigel Hambly admitted as much afterwards, plenty to work on before the trip to Southend this Saturday. When they do get it right they are an awesome side with pace aplenty. Great to see Mark Bright back on Saturday after his exploits with the Tasman Makos in this year’s Air New Zealand Cup. For the recored the Reds’ scored six tries through James Mann, Luke Collins (2), Richard Carroll Craig Bonds and Mark Richards. You can read my report in the link,.

Match of the day in National League 2 had to be the Cornish All Blacks’ trip to Birmingham & Solihull. In the end it was the Midlanders who got the win 23-19. Scott Hobson, on loan from Bath, got the CAB’s try with Adam Staniforth kicking the conversion and three penalties, Jon Fabian also kicked a penalty. The result leaves the CAB’s in 3rd place seven points adrift of the Reds. Saturday see’s the next Cornish derby as the Cornish All Blacks entertain Mount’s Bay, they will wany all five points from that match.

Mount’s Bay looked on course for their first win in National League 2 leading visitors Wharfedale 14-0 having scored tries through winger Mika Mua and centre Steve Johns, both converted by Dan Hawkes. In the second half it all went pear shaped as Wharfedale scored three tries through David Hall and Peter Hall (2), with Mark Bedworth kicking a penalty to end up losing 18-14!

No regional leagues this week, it was Cup and Vase action. Well done to Wadebridge Camels who defeated London 2 South side Old Colfeians, who were a National League 3 South side not too long ago, 10-5 in the EDF-Energy National Trophy 1st Rd. Alisdair Maclennan got the try which Leigh Charles converted as well as a penalty.

In the Intermediate Cup, Cornwall’s only representatives in this season’s competition are St. Ives who followed up last week’s home league win over Yatton with a win on their pitch 31-23, with Grant Thirlby scoring 21 points. Tom Outram and Ryan Bishop scored the other two tries.

In the senior Vase, there were notable wins for, Bude who defeated Hayle 10-3, Newquay Hornets at Tiverton 26-12, Camborne had a good win at Crediton 17-10, Truro had a home walkover against Withycombe, up in the London section of the draw, London Cornish beat Twickenham 42-3. Dickon’s match report can be found here

In the Junior Vase of the eight cross Tamar ties Cornwall only lost one as Roseland lost at South Molton 64-6. Bodmin beat Tamar Saracens 15-7, Stithians demolished Dartmouth 78-3, Helston won at Devonport HSOB’s 29-12, Liskeard & Looe whitewashed Salcombe 56-0, Redruth Albany had some cheer after a bad week defeating Totnes 31-21, St. Austell beat Buckfastleigh 43-5, finally Perranporth won up in North Devon beating Torrington 22-17.

Having read the article in Friday’s Rugby Times , what a shame Phil Vickery hasn’t been asked to play for the Barbarians against Australia on December 3rd at Wembley Stadium. This is the game to celebrate the 1908 Olympic rugby tournament, which as you all know featured Cornwall as reigning County Champions. Phil was very keen to play in this match and represent us (the Cornish). I understand that the Barbarians club will be playing the match wearing Cornish socks. You can read the full story here from the Western Morning News

No where else to start this week than Trelawny’s Army Supporters Club AGM held at the St. Austell Brewery Visitor Centre last Wednesday evening. It was a good evening, the highlight as ever the awarding our our Cornwall Player and Cornwall U.20 awards. We were delighted to have the Sunday Independent columnist Nigel Walrond as our guest also to present the “Bill Osborne Memorial Shield” to Cornwall Player of the Year SAM HOCKING from the Cornish All Blacks. A richly deserved accolade to Sam for his fantastic performances for Cornwall in last season’s County Shield campaign. Club President John Treglown of St. Austell Brewery, a former Redruth and County prop forward as well as a champion Cornish Wrestler in his youth, presented the “Tony Mead Memorial Shield” for the Cornwall U.20 player of the year to a fine young front row prospect PAUL ANDREW of the Cornish Pirates currently on loan to Mount’s Bay, not only did Paul play for the U.20’s but also for the senior side culminating in that County Shield final at Twickenham. WELL DONE TO BOTH OUR AWARD WINNERS.

One other piece of news from our AGM, the election as a life member of TASC, the man whose brainwave it was to form the county team’s supporters club, Dave Saunby of Falmouth. If it wasn’t for Dave then all of what we do in the Army would not be possible today.

No question about the BIG MATCH of the day in the Duchy, the National 2 top of the table clash at Redruth against the Cornish All Blacks. Despite the weather it was a cracking match played in a good atmosphere infront of a large crowd of over 2,000. You can read my report on the Reds win by 19-13 in the link. . Mark Stevens in his report in this morning’s Western Morning News makes an interesting observation about whether derby day traditions will stand the test of time in the modern rugby era. You can read Mark’s usual excellent report in the link.

In the other game involving a Cornish side in National 2, poor old Mount’s Bay had another tough assignment at Cambridge coming away with a 76-3 defeat from Grantchester Road. The league table will make depressing reading for Bay followers as they see their side propping up the table with Waterloo on 1pt. Bay once more fell foul of the referee as they had three players yellow-carded during the match, one being player coach Adrian Bick only on the field for 30 seconds and coping a yellow for his side’s repeated infringements!!!

Radio Cornwall’s live match commentary on Saturday came from Manchester’s Grove Park where the Cornish Pirates were the visitors, whether Radio Cornwall got the call right to go with this game as their live game as opposed to the Cornish derby at Redruth is open to debate. In another fitful performance the Cornish Pirates squeezed home 12-6 against the bottom side in the league thanks to tries from Nicky Griffiths and Marika Vakacegu, Rhys Jones kicking a conversion. Let’s hope next Sunday against Rotherham the Pirates can finally give the home support a performance to rekindle the fans faith in the squad.

In the regional Tribute league, St. Ives in South West 2 West, will have to play it again as their match at Brixham was abandoned after 55 minutes after referee Paul Roberts twisted an ankle and was forced to retire, Brixham led 12-6 at that point.

In Western Counties West, Newquay Hornets lie third after a fine win by 36-16 at Withycombe. Romey Vassell (2), Simon Horton, Jason Caruana and Luke Mansfield scored the Hornets’ tries with Horton kicking the other points. Wadebridge Camels won at Tiverton 9-3 with all their points coming from the boot of Leigh Charles. Camborne will be disappointed to have lost at home to Cullompton 8-6, with just a couple of Dave Mankee penalties for their efforts. Bude remain pointless after another defeat at Kingsbridge 30-5, Paul Williams saving their blushes with a last minute try.

Up in London 3 SW, London Cornish defeated previously un-beaten Chichester 10-8 at the Richardson-Evans Memorial Ground to go second in the league, Dickon Moon’s match report can be found here.

In the Cornwall & Devon League, Penryn won the other Cornish derby with a 24-9 win up at Moorlands Lane Saltash. Tries for the Borough were scored by Richard Tresidder, Robert Trevaskis, Josh Chambers and Justin Doney with Darren Peacock adding a couple of conversions. For Saltash Will Virgo kicked three penalties. Truro won at home against Wellington 28-3 with tries from Chris Gilbert, Scott Martin and Joe Williamson, Martin kicked all the other points. Hayloe lost at home 11-3 to Okehampton with Mike Crump kicking their points. Poor old Falmouth didn’t score again losing this time 35-0 at Plymstock, it’s already looking likely that Cornwall 1 awaits Falmouth at the end of the season.

It was another frustrating Sunday afteronon at Camborne despite the beautiful late September sunshine as the Cornish Pirates lost their third National League 1 encounter of the season by 31-20 to the Merrymen of Nottingham. The high-light must be the hat-trick of tries scored by Fijian winger Marika Vakacegu, who had a fine attacking game at full-back. You can read my match report in the link.

Good wins for both Redruth and the Cornish All Blacks in National League 2, however there was further disappointment for Mount’s Bay as they crashed to a heavy defeat at the Mennaye to Birmingham & Solihull 61-8. Josh Matavesi with a drop goal and an Olly Faulkner consolation try were all the Bay had to show for their efforts in a game where they had another player red carded, flanker Brett Stroud.

Redruth once again left it late to secure the points with their first ever win up at Wharfedale 18-15. Owen Hambly and that man again, Rob Thirlby scored the Reds’ tries with Mark Scrivener kicking the other points.

The Cornish All Blacks were almost pegged back but hung on to defeat Tynedale at Polson 29-27. Scrum-half Lewis Webb an ex Penryn player scored two tries for the All Blacks, whilst Ryan Westren and Sam Hocking got Launceston’s other tries. Adam Staniforth kicked three conversions and a penalty.

Of course this Saturday sees Launceston travel down the A.30 to take on Redruth at the Recreation Ground in what promises to be a cracking encounter as second in the league entertains first. Something has to give, though what odds on a draw?

In the Tribute leagues, St. Ives in South West 2 West got a second win as they defeated Yatton 28-10 at Alexandra Road. For the Hakes three tries scored by John Navin, Ross Callaghan and Ryan Bishop. Grant Thirlby kicked the other points.

In Western Counties West, Newquay Hornets are the best placed Cornish club after three rounds, Hornets beat Tiverton 34-5 at the Sportscentre scoring six tries. Try scores were James Ingle (2), Rob McIntyre (2), Marc Richards and Ross Robins. Sam Cullen kicked a couple of conversions.

Wadebridge Camels beat visting Weston Hornets 33-0 at the Molesworth Field. Camels tries came from Alisdair Maclennan (2), Matt Ballard, Dan Briskham (2), Leigh Charles kicked a couple of penalties and a conversion.

Camborne lost for the first time in the league this season as they slipped to a narrow defeat at Kingsbridge 16-12. Adam Notman and Joe Parma scored tries for the Town, whilst David Mankee kicked a conversion, however Mankee missed with three first half penalties to frustrate Camborne.

Bude’s poor start to the season continued with a third defeat as thez slumped at Bencoolen Meadow 29-5 to Ivybridge. Fly-half Matt Trewin getting Bude’s only try.

Up in London 3 SW, London Cornish had a good win at Bognor 20-16 after trailing 16-10 at half-time. Dickon Moon provides his usual report in the link.

Match of the day in the Cornwall & Devon league was at Penryn as they took on Truro winning 13-12. Centre Darren Pellow scored the Borough’s try whilst Alex Suthridge kicked the conversion and two penalties. Truro scored two tries through prop Chris Gilbert and centre Joe Williamson with Scott Martin kicking just one conversion.

Hayle had a good win at OPM’s 34-0. The Lions scored four tries through Kevin Jenkin, Neil Mitchell, Rob Heath and Leon Phoe. Mike Crump kicked all four conversions and a penalty.

Falmouth again failed to score as they lost 19-0 to Bideford, whilst Saltash lost 40-3 at Okehampton. Will Virgo with Ashes points.

A narrow 31-25 win at Cross Green against newly promoted Otley, left the Cornish Pirates head coach Mark Hewitt fuming at the final whistle. Not at all happy with the level of performance from his side, he has thrown down the challenge to his players to turn it around pronto. Rhys Jones made a league debut at fly-half for the Pirates as Hewitt hoped to improve his options at 10. It turned out to be a mixed afternoon for the former Sale Shark. still the Pirates managed to run in five tries with a brace from Aisea Havili, lock Mike Burak, the Canadian international making his league debut also, hooker Rob Elloway and winger Marika Vakacegu, Jones adding three conversions. It’s going to be another week at the coalface for the Pirates as they seek to iron out their problems before Sunday’s match at Camborne against Nottingham.

The National League 2 table looks pretty good this morning with the Cornish All Blacks and Redruth filling the top two places. The CAB’s had a fantastic win on the road up at Blundellsands defeating Waterloo 58-9 scoring eight tries, all scored by backs. Full-back Jon Fabian notched a hat-trick of tries, winger Marc Dibble and centre Jamie Semmens a brace each, whilst replacement Jon Marlin scored the other. Fly-half Adam Staniforth converted four tries and kicked a couple of penalties before going off after 60 minutes, Fabian added two further conversions.

At Redruth another good display from the Reds saw them dispatch Blaydon by 38-12. Full-back Rob Thirlby again showed his class scoring a couple of tries, also setting up winger Nathan Pedley for the Reds’ fourth try, lock Damien Cook crashed over for the Reds’ other score. Fly-half Mark Scrivener had a great day with the boot kicking 18 points.

Mount’s Bay are still looking for their maiden win at this level as they lost their third match going down by 44-13 at Stourbridge. Bay lost skipper Nick Burnett to a red card in the first half when they were still very much in the match. Early in the second half Bay found themselves down to 13 men as lock John Griffiths was sin-binned. Stourbridge pressed home their advantage. For Bay, fly-half Dan Hawkes kicked a penalty and full-back Andy Birkett try accounted for their first-half points. In the second half prop Adam Flide scored a try.

In Tribute South West 2 West, St. Ives couldn’t follow up their opening day win crashing 38-7 at Taunton. Stuart Turnbull scoring a last minute try converted by Ross Callaghan for the Hakes points.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Camborne made it two wins from two as they defeated North Cornwall rivals Bude 32-14 at the Recreation Ground. The Cherry & Whites scored five tries through winger Shane Woods, No. 8 Martin Woolcock, fly-half David Mankee (2) and winger Alan Notman. Mankee also kicked a penalty and two conversions. For Bude full-back Julian Morris scored both their tries, which fly-half Matt Trevail converted.

In the battle of the Hornets at Hutton Moor, Weston Hornets got the better of Newquay Hornets 19-13, for Newquay Jason Keyter and Jason Caruana scored tries with fly-half Sam Cullen kicking a penalty.

Up at Minehead Barbarians, Wadebridge Camels lost 12-8, centre Jason Olivey with a try and Jake McCarroll a penalty accounted for the Camels’ points.

In London 3 SW, London Cornish were held to a draw at home by Guildford 17-17, Dickon Moon’s usual excellent report is available in the link.

The Cornwall & Devon league also has two Cornish clubs in the top two positions with Truro just edging Penryn. Truro defeated Okehampton at St. Clements 22-11, Joe Williamson got the try with the Martin brothers kicking the other points, Scott a conversion and three penalties, Ross two drop goals.

Penryn travelled to Tavistock for the second time in three weeks, wheras they lost in the Senior Vase they prevailed in the league winning on this occassion 25-13. The Borough scored three tries thanks to Alex Sutheridge, Taron Peacock and Josh Chambers, Sutheridge kicking two conversions and a couple of penalties. A brawl near the end saw Peacock and Tavistock’s Adrian Baker red-carded.

Hayle lost at home to Bideford 29-14, Kevin Jenkin scored the Lions’ try with Mike Crump kicking two penalties and a drop goal. Saltash lost a close affair at home 19-18 to OPM’s, Ben Davenport scored both of the Ashes’ tries with Will Virgo kicking the other points. No luck for Falmouth as they lost to Crediton for the second time in three weeks as the Devonians followed up their Vase win with a 29-0 win at the Rec.

A reminder to all current members, Trelawny’s Army Supporters Club AGM is fast approching, it’s due to be held on Wednesday 1st October at the Visitor Centre St. Austell Brewery at 7-30pm. Apart from the usual buisness, the Cornwall Senior Player of the Year and the Cornwall U.20 Player of the Year awards will be announced. Refreshments will be available.

So the first of this season’s Cornish Derbies went the way of Redruth on Saturday as they won 35 – 16 down at the Mennaye against a spirited but limited Mount’s Bay side. It was a marvellous “Cornish” occassion blessed with some fine weather with clear blue skies. You can read my detailed match report on the main site. Mount’s Bay struggled early on in the lineout, it is clear that they need to find a hooker, Danny Clackworthy is a fine prop forward, not a hooker. In scrum-half Greg Goodfellow Bay have a gem of player quick to spot gaps and with pace. Bay’s back three is also exciting with youngsters Josh Matavesi and Billy Harriss teaming up with Mika Mua, but it’s the lack of numbers to choose from, which is going to cost Bay dear this season.

Redruth on the other hand will be delighted to have gained maximum points from their opening two fixtures although coach Nigel Hambly was far from satisfied after the game on Saturday, he felt that his side had coughed up too many chances and hadn’t reached the level of performance they had set pre-match. With un-beaten Blaydon travelling to Redruth next Saturday, Hambly acknowledges that his charges will have to up their performance and he is confident that his players will deliver on the day.

Also in National League 2, The Cornish All Blacks had a close affair at Polson against Cinderford winning 22-20. Trailing early in the game 10-0, the Cornish All Blacks rallyed to go 22-10 up thanks to tries from Mike Myerscough, Tony Roques, Mal Roberts and Tim Collier with Jon Fabian adding a conversion. Cinderford fought back to score two un-converted tries to leave the All Blacks winners.

With no sides in National 3 or South West 1 this season, St. Ives are the next side on the league ladder in South West 2 West, the Hakes got their league campaign off to the best possible start with a win over Newton Abbot by 19-17. Despite being outscored by 3 tries to 1, St. Ives were grateful for the boot of Grant Thirlby who scored 14 points, John Navin scoring the try.

In Western Counties West, Camborne won a high scoring game at the Recreation Ground 35-31 against visitors Withycombe. Town’s tries were scored by skipper Martin Woolcock, centre Alex Hinds, winger Adam Notman and full-back Joe Parma. Fly-half David Mankee kicked three conversions and three penalties.

Newquay Hornets had a great start to life in WCW with a 28-18 win over Minehead Barbarians at the Sportscentre. Try scorers for the Hornets were Romey Vassell, Tom Bazeley and Rob McIntyre with fly-half Sam Cullen kicking the rest of the points.

Wadebridge Camels were winning their game against Ivybridge 23-0 when the game was held up after Camels skipper Gary Gynn suffered a broken leg and had to be airlifted to hospital after a 45 minute delay Ivybridge declined to resume play citing that some of their players had work commitments. The RFU will make a decision as to whether the game will be replayed or not.

Bude made a disappointing start losing 20-10 at home to Devonport Services. Lock Dan Statton scored Bude’s try with Matt Trewin adding the conversion and a penalty.

In London 3 SW, London Cornish made a fine start with a 15-10 win at KCS OB’s . Dickon Moon’s usual report can be found in the forums.

In the Cornwall & Devon league, Truro got off the mark with a huge win at OPM’s by 60-15 running in eight tries with a hat-trick for left-wing Matt Trevail. Luke Trescothick (2), Ross Martin, Sam Vaughan and Marco Danielli were the other try scorers. Scott Martin kicked seven conversions and two penalties.

Penryn back at this level for the first time in many a year scored six tries as they defeated Plymstock Albion Oaks 30-12. Tries were scored by Justin Doney, Darren Pellow, Marek Churcher (2) and Daniel Booth (2).

In the other “Cornish derby” last weekend, Hayle travelled to Saltash and ran out winners by 26-11. Liam Keary, Leon Phoe and David Seager scored the Lions’ tries with Mike Crump kicking the points. For the Ashes, Simon Watson scored a try with Will Virgo kicking a couple of penalties.

It could well be a long season for Falmouth after a disappointing display at Wellington where the Chiefs went down 29-3, full-back Jack Brown dropping a goal for the visitors.

Difficulties are still apparent Cornwall leagues, Illogan Park who won promotion from Cornwall 2 last season have been forced to pull out of league rugby due to a player shortage after many players retired after last season. St. Just, not so long ago a Western Counties West side, almost did the same but have managed to carry on. Last Saturday St. Agnes were unable to fulfill their fixture against Redruth Albany. Not I am afraid a healthy state of affairs.

Sunday’s National League 1 encounter at Camborne between the Cornish Pirates and Exeter Chiefs was a cracking affair played out in front of a crowd of around 5,000. The Chiefs won the game 32-23, you can read my match report and comments on the main site.

So it looks like we will have to wait for the RFU Council to deliver the verdict early next month as to how many clubs drop from National League 1 at the end of this season as to how many (if any!) are promoted from National League 2! What a farce.

Any way back to the playing side and away from the politics.

After all the euphoria from their opening day win over Newbury, the Cornish Pirates slipped up good’n proper in the Butts Park Arena mud on Saturday in their second league match of the season losing 16-0. It’s not very often that the Pirates fail to score a point, indeed my good friend Dick Straughan pointed out in his match report for the Western Morning News today that the last time was in April 2004 and that infamous 56-0 thrashing by Plymouth Albion.

It’s hard to understand that there are already “supporters” baying for blood after this faux pas. This is not the sort of reaction the Pirates coaching staff or players want or need as they prepare to play Exeter Chiefs at Camborne on Sunday afternoon. What is need is EVERYONE’S SUPPORT for the team as they tackle one of the pre-season promotion favourites, who will be smarting themselves following their 14-13 defeat at Sandy Park to Leeds Carnegie. A win on Sunday and the sorry events of Coventry will be pardoned.

It promises to be a great weekend for rugger fans as on the Saturday the Cornish All Blacks entertain Cinderford, whilst Mount’s Bay host Redruth!

The Reds got their season off to the best possible start with a 35-28 win over Birmingham & Solihull Bees. It was a tremendous performance from the Reds with Nathan Pedley scoring four of the Reds’ five tries. Scrum-half Mark Richards scored the other Reds’ try to cap a fine performance fron the No. 9. Rob Thirlby had a superb game at full back as did James Mann at No.8, marking his return to the side after long term injury.

The Cornish All Blacks claimed all five points on their trip to Southend despite having forwards Tim Collier and Mike Myerscough yellow carded during the game. The CAB’s four tries were scored by their forwards through Sam Hocking, Myerscough and Josh Lord, Adam Staniforth kicking the other 10 points.

Mount’s Bay lost their opening National League 2 encounter up at Tynedale in appalling conditions 14-7. Flanker Steve Dyer got the Bay try which Dan Hawkes converted.

In the EDF-Energy Senior Vase 1st Round matches played at the weekend there were wins for Truro who won 26-0 up at Saltash in the all Cornish tie, Newquay Hornets trounced Bideford 48-0, whilst Hayle got a walkover against Plymstock Albion Oaks. There were defeats for both the Fal clubs, Falmouth at home to Crediton 39-0 and Penryn lost up at Tavistock by 22-15.