No doubt that the game of the weekend in the southwest was the derby match played at Sandy Park between the unbeaten Exeter Chiefs and the Cornish Pirates in the Championship.

The Devon side reached the half-way mark of the regular season with another win their eleventh over their Cornish rivals winning a hard fought match 22-15. The Pirates at least had the satisfaction of taking a bonus point back across the border thanks to five penalties from fly-half Rob Cook and denying the Chiefs a try-scoring bonus point.

Mark Stevens report from the WMN can be found here

Next weekend it’s the start of the British and Irish Cup with Scottish side Gael Force visiting Camborne to face the Pirates.

In National League 1, the CornishAll Blacks gave Esher a right old tussle at Polson only going down by 10-6 against the league’s pace-setters. Tony Yapp kicking the All Blacks’ penalties.

Redruth were once more on the wrong end of a tight match losing 22-20 at Stourbridge. Lewis Vinnicombe (2) and Mark Bright scored the Reds’ tries with Brett Rule adding a conversion and a penalty.

A week’s break now in National League 1, which will no doubt be most welcome by the players.

In the Tribute regional leagues, in South West 1 West, St. Ives looked on course for a win over Avonmouth OB’s with 15 minutes to go of their game at Alexandra Rd leading 20-7, but at the final whistle the Hakes were left wondering what had happened as the Bristol side took the spoils 21-20! Ashley Weston, Nick Hitchen and Tim McBride scored tries for the Hakes with Ian Morgan kicking a conversion and a penalty.

In Western Counties West, Camborne are the new leaders, thanks to a fine win at Tavistock 13-8 and the fact that previous leaders Kingsbridge’s match at Okehampton was called off. A Tom Notman try and the boot of Dave Mankee saw the Cherry & Whites home.

In the latest Cornish derby at this level, Wadebridge Camels leap-frogged Truro after their 24-3 win at St. Clements to go third. Matt Ballard (2) Shaun Hawkey scored the Camels’ tries with adding all three conversions and a penalty. For Truro Ross Martin dropped a goal.

Penryn had a fine win at home against Devonport Services 57-19, with Darren Pellow scoring a hat-trick of tries and Dave Pascoe kicking seven conversions.

Newquauy Hornets defeated bottom side Withycombe 24-19 at the Sports Centre thanks to a penalty-try and further scores from Dan Pearce and Alex Woodley, Sam Cullen kicked the other points.

Bude’s game at Tiverton fell foul of the weather.

In London London Cornish defeated Weybridge Vandals 13-10 in London 2 SW. Dickon Moon’s report can be found here

In the Cornwall & Devon League both Hayle’s and Saltash’s matches were postoned. Liskeard & Looe hosted Falmouth and won 20-6, whilst St. Austell and Stithians both hosted Devon opposition losing to Crediton 15-6 and Bideford 24-0 respectively.

It was the second weekend of Internationals with France’s defeat of South Africa in Toulouse on Friday night by 20-13, the world champions having led the French 13-3 at one point, being the best game of the weekend.

Ireland dented Australian hopes of a Grand Slam tour holding the Wallabies 20-20 at Croke Park thanks to a late try from Brian O’Driscoll.

England huffed and puffed to a 16-9 win over Argentina, Scotland defeated Fiji 23-10 at Murrayfield, for whom former Camborne player Josh Matavesi made his debut. Wales defeated Samoa 17-13, whilst the All Blacks, New Zealand of course were made to work hard for their 20-6 win over Italy in the San Siro stadium in Milan

I watched two games live this weekend with both matches ending with a one point winning margin for the victorious side.

Sunday’s Championship encounter at Camborne between the Cornish Pirates and the Bedford Blues was a gripping affair, but when the Blues fly-half Myles Dorrian stepped up with just 2 minutes remaining to take a penalty on the 22 in front of the Pirates’ post it looked like another defeat was looming for the Cornish side, however to everyone’s utter amazement the ball flew past the right hand upright and the Pirates held on for an important 25-24 win.

Trailing by ten points at half-time 7-17, the Pirates had been very generous to their viditors allowing them in for a couple of tries just before the break due to some pretty feeble first up tackling. Blair Cowan had scored the Pirates opening try, which fly-half Rob Cook converted, which at the time put the Pirates 7-3 up untill the mad couple of minutes before half-time.

The Pirates came out second half intent on making up the arrears and they did with Cook adding a penalty and then converting Gavin Cattle’s try following a fine break from hooker Dave Ward.

Quick-thinking from winger Rhodri McAtee, who took a quick throw up in Hubert’s Hill 22, gave lock Ben Gulliver the chance to score the home side’s third try for 22-17 lead. The Blues hit back with a third convertred try to grab the lead once more, until another penalty from Cook gave his side the slenderist of leads. The late drama from Dorrian made sure that it was just enough to earn the points.

Some gutsy performances for the Pirates today, flankers Ben Cowan and Sam Betty had excellent games as did both the locks Ben Gulliver and Shaun Pammenter. In the backs the classy Cook caught the eye as did the industrious Nick Jackson in the centre.

Some positives to take forward as the Pirates build for Saturday’s clash at Sandy Park against the undefeated Exeter Chiefs. It promises to be a cracker!

In National League 1, Redruth this week were on the wrong end of an 11-10 scoreline as London Scottish maintained their push for top honours as they came back from 10-0 down to win with a last-gasp Frankie Neale penalty.

Fair to say that Redruth were put under tremendous pressure in this game and did well to lead at half-time 7-0 thanks to a try from Mark Bright converted by Brett Rule, Rule added a second half penalty, but Redruth made the fatal mistake of trying to close the game down and were made to pay for it.

The Cornish All Blacks got back to winning ways in impressive style winning 33-29 at Otley. Sam Hocking, Jason Luff and Josh Lord scored Launceston’s tries with Tony Yapp converting all three plus four penalties. Next up for the Cornish All Blacks the visit of leaders Esher to Polson next Saturday!

In the Tribute leagues, in South West 1 West, another fine result for St. Ives as they won 23-14 at Torquay Athletic. A penalty-try award and a second try from prop hugh Noot both converted by player/coach Ian Morgan who also kicked three penalties,

In Tribute Western Counties West, this week’s derby was at Camborne as the Cherry & Whites made it nine wins from ten with a 27-3 win over Penryn. Tom Hinds, Tom Knotman, Shane Woods and Joe Parma scored tries for Town with Dave Mankee kicking a conversion and a penalty with Woods also adding a conversion. For Penryn Taron Peacock kicked a penalty.

Newquay Hornets at last got back to winning ways with a 17-12 win at Minehead. Tim Eustace, Rob McIntyre and Lee Pascoe scored the Hornets’ tries with sam Cullen adding a conversion.

Truro won well at Withycombe 42-10 with tries comming from Luke Trescothick (2), Jake Champion (2) and Mark Lee. Scott Martin added four conversions and three penalties.

Wadebridge Camels had a fine win at home against Tiverton 51-0, scoring nine tries in all, Dan Briskham enjoyed a hat-trick, whilst Matt Ballard bagged a brace. Other scores came from Cam Lees, Tom Crothers Shaun Hawkey and Ben May. Josh Taylor added three conversions.

Bude won at home against Tavistock 22-10. Simon Hicks, Matt Trewin Luke Dunkin and Kurt Blake all scored tries with Trwin adding one conversion.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish won at Winchester by 20-7, match report here

In the Cornwall & Devon League, Stithians’ fine run came to an end at Teignmouth were the Cornish side lost 40-10 in a feisty encounter which saw three players dismissed two for the hosts and one for the visitors! Stithians sole try was scored by Damien Lyall, with Martin Strick converting and adding a penalty.

In the Cornish derby Liskeard & Looe won the battle of the “Lions” 14-6 at Hayle. Josh Rule kicked a couple of penalties for the home side, whilst James Knowles-Johnson converted his own try as well as a penalty try for the visitors.

Falmouth drew at home to Torrington 9-9, Jack Brown with two penalties and also a penalty from Matt Horton.

St. Austell lost at Bideford 15-12, Andy Ashwin kicking four penalties.

Saltash well-beaten at Crediton 63-, Rob Eatwell scoring for the Ashes with Morgan Toms converting.

In the Championship,having struggled with a spate of injuries the Cornish Pirates were this week hit by a flu bug prior to their trip to Rotherham, so in many ways it was perhaps not too surprising that they lost at Clifton Lane 29-20. Former Redruth centre PJ Gidlow came on as a second half replacement for the Titans making his debut for his new side.

The Pirates scored a couple of tries from scrum-half James Doherty and all-action skipper Blair Cowan. Jimmy Moore playing at fly-half slotted both conversions and a couple of penalties. Chris Stirling will no doubt rue the fact that his side didn’t get any points from the game despite their handicaps. Mark Stevens WMN match report can be found here

In National League 1 Redruth secured a narrow win over a very useful Otley side at the Rec. The Reds welcomed back Mark Bright after his Air New Zealand Cup exploits with Tasman Makos. It took the Kiwi No.8 just three minutes to set up a try for scrum-half Mark Richards in the Piggy Lane Corner.

With Mark Scrivener adding a couple of second half penalites the Reds looked set for the win until Otley hit back with a penalty from their excellent fly-half James Murray who also converted Oliver Stedman’s try. Redruth held out 11-10.

The Cornish All Blacks were well beaten up at Cambridge 22-8 with just a Tony Yapp penalty and a try from Bruce Pow to show for their efforts.

In the Tribute regional league in South West 1 West, St. Ives followed up their win at Yatton the previous week with an impressive 52-5 win over St. Mary’s Old Boys at Alexandra Road. The Hakes ran in eight tries with Ashley Weston, Tom Nicholas, Tom Outram, Nick Hitchens (2), Ben Taylor, Tim McBride, and Shane Poynton all crossing. Player/coach Ian Morgan chipped in with four conversions with James Trezise adding a couple more.

In Western Counties West, Camborne kept the pressure up on leaders Kingsbridge with a 30-14 win at home to Okehampton. Joe Parma, Sam Matavesi, Ryan Spargo and Laurie Manna all scored tries for the Cherry & Whites. Shane Woods adding a couple of conversions and two penalties.

The aforementioned leaders Kingsbridge won 23-0 at the Sports Centre against Newquay Hornets who are having a torrid season thus far.

Truro are third in the table after their 27-11 win at Tiverton. Rikki Brandon and Luke Trescothick scored Truro’s tries whilst the boot of Scott Martin added 17 points.

Wadebridge Camels also won in Devon 29-15 at Tavistock. Danny Briscombe (2), Ben Collings and Mark Grubb scoring the Camels’ tries. Josh Taylor kicking three out of four conversions and a penalty.

In the day’s Cornish derby Penryn defeated Bude at the Memorial Ground 34-7. Six tries for the Borough faithful to cheer from Mike Slater, Matt Symons, Allen Jordan (2), Taron Peacock and Kevin Hughes. Peacock slotting a couple of conversions. For Bude Matt Willimas got their sole try, which Olly Denford converted.

Up in London it was Intermediate Cup day with London Cornish progressing to the 3rd round with a 25-21 win over Sevenoaks. Dickon Moon’s match report can be found here.

In the Cornwall & Devon league, village side Stithians are up to third after a 41-20 win over visitors Torrington.

St. Austell, after a couple of defeats won at Tregorrick against Teignmouth 20-14.

Hayle beat Falmouth in the Cornish Derby 16-7, whilst up in the east of the county Liskeard & Looe lost at Lux Park to leaders Wellington 23-19 and Saltash lost at Moorlands to Bideford 13-9.

FROM TRELAWNY’S ARMY SUPPORTERS CLUB

PRESENTATIONS OF PLAYERS OF THE YEAR AWARDS

At our Annual General Meeting held this evening at the St. Austell Brewery Visitor Centre the following awards, as voted for by our membership, were presented by our guest for the evening Mark Stevens, Sports Editor, of the Western Morning News.

CORNWALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR 2009

RECIPIENT OF THE BILL OSBORNE MEMORIAL SHIELD

RYAN WESTREN (CORNISH ALL BLACKS)

CORNWALL U.20 PLAYER OF THE YEAR 2009

RECIPIENT OF THE TONY MEAD MEMORIAL SHIELD

SEAN HAWKEY (WADEBRIDGE CAMELS & UWIC)

The Cornish Pirates are going through a pretty tough time at the moment and on Saturday London Welsh heaped more misery on the Cornish side with a 34-10 win at Old Deer Park in the Championship.

It was the Pirates’ third straight loss with the Welsh exiles scoring six tries, to confirm their status as one of the pre-season favourites for promotion. Rhys Jones kicked a first half penalty with Wes Davies scoring a second half try, which Jimmy Moore converted.

The Pirates will hope to bounce back this Sunday when they entertain Birmingham & Solihull at Camborne with a 2pm kick-off.

In National League it was very much the case of the one that got away as the Cornish All Blacks let a 19-3 lead at Blackheath to lose 20-19 with the last kick of the match. Launceston’s head coach John Hill felt that his side had “committed suicide”

Launceston led at the break thanks to an un-converted try scored by centre Ryan Westren. A lead which they increased early in the second half with try from Ben Turner converted by Tony Yapp. Despite Blackheath getting on the scoreboard thanks to a penalty, Launceston’s Ed Lewsey scored his side’s third try with Yapp adding the extras.

Blackheath hit the All Blacks with two converted tries in the final ten minutes, before landing a long-range penalty with the last kick of the game to seal the win.

At Redruth, the Reds ran out predictable winners 91-5 against a hapless Manchester, who never-the-less deserve a huge amount of credit for never giving up and scoring a consolation try right at the end of the game. If Manchester keep on sticking at it as they did on Saturday then they will despite defeat make a lot of friends. I wish them all the best for the rest of the season.

In the Tribute regional league, in South West 1 West, St. Ives couldn’t prevent Sidmouth registering their first league win of this campaign as the Hakes lost 24-16. St. Ives who lost former Mount’s Bay scrum-half Mike Molloy this week to Maidstone saw all their points scored by Ashley Westren.

In the Western Counties West league, there were a couple of Cornish derbies with Camborne winning at the Sportscentre against Newquay Hornets 52-20. Town scored eight tries with touchdowns coming from Joe Parma (2), Rob Floyd (2), Dave Roberts, James Rapson, James Goldsworthy and Tom Hinds. Dave Mankee adding five conversions and Dean Pascoe one. For the Hornets, Rob McIntyre crossed for a brace of tries with Matt Cross getting a third. Sam Cullen kicked a conversion with Chevy Reed kicking a penalty.

At the Memorial Ground, Penryn and Truro drew 11-11 with Truro’s Scott Martin kicking a late penalty to earn a share of the spoils. Taron Peacock scored Penryn’s try with Rob Banks kicking a couple of penalties. Truro’s try was scored by Gareth Dodgson with Martin kicking two penalties.

Wadebridge Camels, despite being a little depleted on the player front won well at Okehampton 28-14. Sam Stone, Dan Briskham and Matt Grubb scored tries for the Camels with Josh Taylor kicking three penalties.

Bude found it hard going up at North Petherton where they lost 33-10. Paul Williams scored and converted his own try with Olly Denford kicking a penalty.

In London 2 SW, another defeat for our exiles as London Cornish lost 39-9 at Tottonians.

In the Cornwall & Devon league, a tremendous win for Stithians at St. Austell, whose season has gone off the rails in recent weeks. Stithians scored three tries in their 28-10 win with Steve Hall (2) and Andy Creedon scoring the tries. Martin Strick kicking the points and Mike Creedon a drop-goal. For St. Austell Tait Richardson scored a try, which Andy Ashwin converted as well as a penalty.

Falmouth lost heavily at leaders Wellington 36-0.

Hayle lost at home to Exeter Saracens 10-3, Kelvin James kicking Hayle’s only points.

Liskeard & Looe lost at home to Crediton 18-6, James Noel-Johnson kicking a couple of penalties.

Saltash defeated Torrington 22-19, thanks to a penalty-try and scores from Kieran Hurrell and Ben Devonport. Tod Crofts kicking the other points.

Wednesday night sees the delayed Annual General Meeting of Trelawny’s Army Supporters Club, when the winners of the “Bill Osborne” Memorial Shield for the Cornwall Player of the Year, and the “Tony Mead” Memorial Shield for the Cornwall U.20 Player of the Year will be formally announced.

LAUNCESTON, recorded their fifth win from six games on Saturday as they defeated Tynedale 23-17 at Polson Bridge in National League 1. Although out scored on the try front 3 to 2, the Cornish All Blacks can thank the boot of Tony Yapp as he kicked a valuable 13 points. Tries came from Darren Semmens and Jason Luff.

Redruth made the trip to high flying Wharfedale and travelled home with a losing bonus point having gone down 28-21. Redruth were able to field Adryan Winnan at full back and will have been happy to see the return of Nathan Pedley. Redruth were always in it, having been awarded a penalty try, Lewis Vinnicombe again got on the score sheet with his 6th try of the season.

Sunday afternoon saw the arrival of Bristol to Camborne to take on the depleted Cornish Pirates, a pity this game arrived at a time when the Pirates have been decimated by injuries. A tight first half saw both sides turn around tied at 6-6. The highlight had to be Aisea Havili’s drop-goal to open the scoring….class!

The second half was a different affair as Bristol’s pack got on top. Despite the set back there were some great performances from the pirates with hooker and skipper for the day Dave Ward and No.8 Laurie McGlone showing up well.

Former Albion star Luke Arscott opened the try scoring after 50 minutes with winger Dan Norton’s try following a blindside break the pick of the scores. Flanker Redford Pennycock scored Bristol’s third try before the power of the visiting pack claimed the bonus point try as the Pirates conceeded a penalty-try near their line. At least the 4,115 crowd had something to cheer as Rhodri McAtee scored a last gasp try, which full back Rob Cook converted.

In the South West Tribute leagues, in South West 1 West, a better day for St. Ives as they drew at home to Paignton 14-14. Mike Molloy kicked three penalties and Ben Taylor scored the try.

In Western Counties West, Camborne got back to winning ways with a comprehensive 34-0 win over visitors Minehead Barbarians. Dave Roberts with a brace, Sam Matavesi, James Rapson and Nathan Curnow were the try scorers with Dave Mankee’s boot adding three conversions and a drop-goal.

Truro are third after their 33-15 win over Okehampton at St. Clements. Two tries from scrum-half Rikki Brandon with Tim Gay and Gareth Hodgson also crossing, Scott Martin kicking the other points.

Wadebridge Camels are just behind Truro after their thumping win at home to North Petherton 50-3.Well ahead at half-time thanks to tries from Sean Hawkey Cameron Lees and Sam Stone, Camels scored another four tries during the second half through Dan Briskham (2), Ben Collings, and Matt Ballard, Josh Taylor kicking the other points.

Penryn had a fine win in Devon at Tiverton where they won 44-26. Matt Simmonds (2), Sam Harrison, Chris Mann, Rob Banks and Grant Randleson all crossed for the Borough. Banks adding 4 conversions and 2 penalties.

It was “Surf City” derby up at Bude as Newquay Hornets were the visitors with the home side catching the breaker to hit the beach first by 22-12! Bude scored four excellent tries through Danny Frost, Matt Trewin, Olly Denford and Paul Williams, Denford also landing a conversion. For the Hornets Rob McIntyre and James Bazeley scored tries with Sam Cullen adding a conversion.

Up in London 2 SW, London Cornish recoreded their second league win of the season as they defeated Trojans 24-20. Dickon Moon’s report can be found here.

In the Cornwall & Devon League, a major upset as leaders St. Austell crashed in spectacular fashion at Falmouth by 32-6, Steve Roe (2), Alex Tacchi and Phil Wells scored tries for Fal as they recorded their best win for a couple of seasons. Stithians had another great win at home to Saltash in the Cornish derby by 52-29, with the Creedon’s getting on the scoresheet as well as Lewis Vague, Ben Ashwin, Ben Waters James Bubb and Tom Clarke. For the Ashes Joe Skinnard scored a couple of tries with Kieran Hurrell also grabbing one.

Hayle lost at Crediton 22-7 with Liam Kearey scoring their try, Scott Powell converting. Liskeard & Looe lost up at Bideford 37-20.

Last week’s column when I waxed lyrical about all things Pirate must have been the proverbial kiss of death, next outing first defeat of the season!

Dawsey came down and worked out a plan to grind out a win and fair play to Albion on their 16-8 win on Saturday at the Brickfields. Missing influential Kiwi’s skipper Blair Cowan and fly-half Jonny Bentley, the Pirates trailed Albion 11-3 at the break with just a Rhys Jones penalty to show for their efforts. Albion scored a second try before Rhodri McAtee scored for the Pirates but that was as close as they would get, and so Albion became the first side to haul down the Pirates’ colours in the league this season.

Next Sunday the Cornish Pirates entertain Bristol. A great shame that former Pirate Bertrand Bédés will not be in the Bristol line up having suffered a ruptured cruciate knee ligament after just eleven minutes of the match against Rotherham. Bertrand we wish you a speedy recovery and hope to see you back playing as soon as possible.

Two good wins for Cornish Clubs in National League 1 on Saturday. The Cornish All Blacks travelled to Monks Lane and got the better of Newbury Blues 25-23. Ryan Westren and Ben Turner (2) got the All Blacks’ tries, with Tony Yapp kicking ten points.

After leading Blaydon by 6-0 at half-time, Redruth scored four second half tries to notch up their second win on the trot by 30-12. Skipper Darren Jacques, Lewis Vinnicombe, Chris Morris and Jamie Semmens all crossed for the Reds with Mark Scrivener adding another ten points with the boot.

In the Tribute Leagues. In South West 1 West, a day that St. Ives will want to forget in a hurry as they travelled back from Newton Abbot having conceded 81 points.

In the Western Counties West; match of the day was between the two unbeaten sides as Kingsbridge entertained Camborne with the home side winning 13-9. Town’s David Mankee kicked three penalties.

Truro had a good win at North Petherton winning 26-15, with tries from Chris Gilbert and Sean Rosewarne. Scott Martin’s boot kicked the other points.

Derby day at Newquay where the Hornets took on Wadebridge Camels. Camels winning 26-16, thanks to four tries from Dan Briskham, Tom O’Donnell, Sam Stone and Ben May, Josh Taylor adding three conversions. For the Hornets, a penalty try converted by Chevy Reed who also kicked three penalties.

Bude lost at Minehead by 22-17, despite scoring three tries through Dave Uglow, Steve Yates and Olly Denford. Denford also added a conversion.

Penryn will have been disappointed to lose at home to Tavistock 26-16. James Mann scored a couple of tries for the Borough with Banks kicking a couple of penalties.

Up in London it was a day off in the leagues so no game for London Cornish.

In the Cornwall & Devon League; St. Austell maintained their fine start with another win this time at Saltash 38-17.

Hayle got to back to winning ways with an 18-17 win at home to Bideford. Stithians maintained their fine run with another win this time at Plymstock by 24-17 with three tries from Nathan Thomas. Liskeard & Looe won at home to Teignmouth by 29-16, whilst Falmouth lost 16-0 at Exeter Saracens.

Bedtime reading at the moment is Steve Tomlin and Dick Straughan’s excellent book PIRATES, PIRATES! It’s a great read and I certainly recomend any rugby enthusiast to get hold of a copy. Once completed I shall review the book on the website.

You really can’t ask for much better as the Pirates completed their September program with four wins out of four, second place in the league table just one point behind early pace-setters Bristol, the next side to venture west of the Tamar in two weeks time.

Before that of course there is the little matter of the Pirates’ trip to Plymouth Albion next Saturday, always a mouth-watering prospect. Quite what the on-watching Graham Dawe will have made of the Pirates’ performance yesterday will no doubt occupy his mind for the rest of the week as he seeks to plot their downfall. Albion will be buoyed by their promising performance in defeat against Exeter Chiefs on Saturday.

Coventry’s director of rugby Phil Maynard had made a few interesting observations on the Pirates in the local Coventry press in the week leading up to the fixture, such actions merely serve to motivate the opposition even more, the reading of the table should prove sobering!

Proving the point that the Pirates were well motivated was skipper Blair Cowan’s big hit on Coventry’s blindside flanker Henno Venter after barely 3 minutes on the clock, the poor chap didn’t know what day of the week it was as he eventually got shakily to his feet having to be helped from the field.

Despite the early setback it was Coventry who had the first scoring opportunity as full-back Ben Russell missed a kickable penalty on 4 minutes.

Following a penalty kick to the park gate corner by fly-half Jonny Bentley, the Pirates set-up a good drive towards Coventry’s line. As the ball went wide Pirates’ No.8 Laurie McGlone drove powerful over the gain-line, with Coventry infringing, Bentley had the chance to open the scoring with a well-struck penalty after 8 minutes.

Coventry, however were out to prove that they are much-improved side from last season, they certainly contested well in the set-piece and loose, frustrating the Pirates as the half wore on. They were rewarded with a drop-goal from their Tongan fly-half Fangatapu Apikotoa on 16 minutes.

Buoyed by this success the visitors continued to press, scrum-half Micheal Walls went close to scoring a try as Coventry pounded the Pirates line, whilst full-back Wes Davies had to be alert as Coventry’s dangerous French winger Romain Plantey looked to get in down at the scoreboard corner.

Coventry did get some reward before half-time as Russell kicked a penalty. Stung the Pirates roared back at their opponents. Hooker Rob Elloway kicking on towards the line only for Russell to get back just in time. Further Pirates pressure saw Coventry’s skipper Jamie Miller sin-binned for his side’s persistent infringing. Despite the man advantage the Pirates couldn’t add to their score before half-time, though Bentley thought he’d scored, only for referee Mr Doyle to signal a double movement.
Half-time entertainment was provided by an excellent U.10’s match between Camborne and Wadebridge Camels as well as a display from the Cornish Comets gymnastic display team. As ever wonderful entertainment from our Cornish youngsters.

Upon resumption of play the Pirates set the ground buzzing with a wonderful score, the ever-alert Bentley chipped cleverly ahead for centre Nick Jackson who took the ball before releasing Davies who ran in to the clubhouse corner after barely 30 seconds of the second-half. Bentley couldn’t add the extras from out-wide, but he was on cue 5 minutes later as he converted his own dazzling score as he showed wonderful balance and stepping to waltz his way through the Coventry defence to score under the posts putting the Pirates15 – 6 up.

Play ebbed from one end to the other, Bentley again cross-kicked for winger Rhodri McAtee but the Welsh winger was held. Coventry attacked up at Hubert’s Hill corner through Plantey who was well tackled by lock Luke Collins, who managed also to strip the ball from the winger, great play from the giant Cornishman.

Both sides looked to their benches for that extra impetus. It was the visitors who made the breakthrough with skipper Miller claiming a try following a big drive form his forwards. Russell failed with the conversion, but he made amends shortly after with his second penalty with five minutes left on the clock to set-up a grandstand finish.

Some fine play from the Pirates saw replacement centre Mark Ireland put McAtee in for the Pirates’ third try in the clubhouse corner, Bentley couldn’t convert but he’d already done enough to earn the man-of-the-match accolade.

Coventry threw everything into the final moments to try and snatch the win, however the Pirates had the satisfaction turning the ball over to snuff out the final threat.

Following the game Pirates backs coach Harvey Biljon was delighted with a fourth win on the trot “I said before the game we’d take the win, even if it was ugly. Quite clearly today there was one team out there trying to play rugby and one team trying to kill the game.

Obviously their ploy before the game was to slow everything down so that we couldn’t play the tempo game we wanted to play. At the same time, a game like that today was what we needed, there are smart teams out there in the Championship who are streetwise and we’ve got to look at ourselves to make sure we find a way to combat those slowing down tactics.

“We shall now sit down and review our first four games and re-set our goals for the next portion of the season, I am happy with the win today, but I would have liked to entertain a little more all the supporters we had here today, they were quite rightly frustrated with the numerous stoppages during play from our visitors.

Turning his attention to next Saturday’s derby match at the Brickfields “Good to see Dawsey at the game today, not too sure what he would have taken from today’s performance. The boys will know it’s going to be a massive game next week and I am sure we will have a massive following of supporters going up there. We as coaches have got to make sure this week the new players that have come into the squad understand the history and what a game like this is all about.”

Cornish Pirates 20 pts

Tries – Davies, Bentley, McAtee; Conversion – Bentley; Penalty – Bentley

Coventry 14 pts

Try – Miller; Penalties – Russell (2); Drop-goal – Apikotoa

Yellow Card – Miller (39)

Cornish Pirates: W Davies, J Moore, N Jackson, S Winn (M Ireland 57), R McAtee, J Bentley, B Jones; C Rimmer (P Andrew 57), R Elloway (D Ward 57), R Brits ( A Paver 68), L Collins (S Betty 76), R Labuschagne (M Evans h/t), B Cowan (capt), S Betty (T Holmes 52), L McGlone

Replacement (not used): R Jones

Coventry: B Russell, J Lewis (W Hurrell 54), P Mackenzie, C Lewis, R Plantey, F Apikotoa (O Winter 51), M Walls; D Maddock (K Davis 35-40), J Merrigan, J Hall ( R Dugard 62), S Herrington, L McGowan, H Venter (R McMillan 3, S Roberts 40), B Pons (B Dechartes 80), J Miller (capt).

Referee: Mr J P Doyle (RFU)

Crowd: 2,695

It was my first visit to Camborne this season to watch the Cornish Pirates in action, and I can assure One & All it will not be my last.

After the frustrating time of the last campaign you are immediately struck by the change in regime that now reigns at the club.

The “slightly” relaxed and informal feeling of last season, has been replaced by a much smarter, professional and orderly appearance. Gone are players and coaches loafing around in flip flops and shorts. Blazers and ties are de rigueur as well as for many of the backroom staff and match day officials. The Pirates have certainly moved up a notch or two, many would feel not before time too!!

The smarter appearance off the field has been transmitted also to the on-the-field performances with the Cornish Pirates completing a four from four win ratio from their September program, a statistic that will no doubt gladden the heart of Dicky Evans, present at Camborne on Sunday, as well as Pirates’ faithful at home and further a-field. The advent of Pirates TV this season means that now people around the globe can watch live feed of the Pirates matches and feel part of the action from a distance and there are many Cousin Jacks and Cousin Jennys who will be happy to do so.

Some things don’t change, thankfully, such as the welcome for the media from Phil Westren in the media hut. One is always well looked after, as ever, it is most appreciated.

My match report from the game is available on the main part of the site, or the posting above!

Whilst on the subject of the Pirates, this week saw the launch of the new book written by former Pirate Steve Tomlin along with journalist and radio/tv commentator Dick Straughan entitled “Pirates! Pirates!” It charts the rise of the club from Western Counties in 1995 to the present Championship status. I have a copy and once read I hope to write a review on the website. At first glance it looks to be a “must have” for any rugby enthusiast, with Christmas fast approaching it’s will be an ideal present.

I was sorry to learn this week of the enforced retirement of Wadebridge Camels lock Julian Wilce, who for many seasons wore the black shirt of Launceston with distinction. Wilcey who earned 17 Cornwall caps, picks out winning the Skinners Brewery Cornwall Cup with the Camels a couple of seasons ago and Launceston’s promotion play-off win at Halifax in 2004 as two of his career highlights. Wilcey won’t be lost to the game as coach John May is keen for him to help out on the coaching side at Wadebridge.

So on to a review of the action. In National League 1 a couple of wins for our Cornish sides. Redruth got their first win of the campaign with a 35-22 win at Nuneaton. Four tries for the Reds through scrum-half Mark Richards, winger Lewis Vinnicombe, and flankers Fraser Clilverd and Herbie Stupple. A welcome return to form from the boot of Mark Scrivener added another 15 points.

The Cornish All Blacks looked to have their win all sown up as they led 35-12, but had to withstand a Stourbridge fight-back to finish up 35-29 winners! Skipper Mal Roberts (2), flanker Tom Rawlings, winger Lewis Paterson and centre Ryan Westren scored the All Blacks’ tries with Tony Yapp kicking the other points.

In the Tribute regional leagues; St. Ives, after their big defeat last week at Hartpury College got back to winning ways with a 13-7 win at home to Ivybridge. James Tresize kicked a couple of penalties with Matt Molloy converting Jon “Oggy” Wright’s try.

In Western Counties West, Camborne sit proudly on top of the table following their 53-10 win over visiting Devonport Services. Trailing early in the game 10-0, Town hit back scoring eight tries in reply. Winger Rob Floyd (2), flanker Ryan Spargo (2), centre Laurie Manna, fly-half Dave Mankee and forwards Martin Woolcock and Scott MacDonald all crossed for the Cherry & Whites.

Equal on points with Camborne are Kingsbridge who snatched a last-gasp win at Bude 20-15 as the scores were tied 15 all deep into time added on. Bude scored three un-converted tries through Ollie Denford (2) and Will Kingdom.

In the latest Cornish derby in this league, Truro beat Newquay Hornets 28-19 at St. Clements. It was three tries-a-piece. Mark Lea, Luke Trescothick and Scott Martin for Truro, whilst Dan Pearce, Fraser Kellythorn and Marc Richards crossed for the Hornets, but it was Martin’s boot that proved to be the match winner for Truro with 13 points.

Penryn won 23-7 at Withycombe with tries from winger Darren Pellow (2) and James Mann.

Wadebridge Camels defeated Minehead Barbarians at the Molesworth Field 22-12 with tries from Luke Davidson Ian Boyling and Matt Ballard.

In London 2 SW, not such a good result for our exiles as London Cornish lost 26-10 to London South Africa at Imber Court. Matt Strover, scored Cornish’s try with Conor O’Daly adding the conversion and a later penalty. Dickon’s match report here

In the Cornwall & Devon League a big win for St. Austell who are also four wins from four, Plymstock the latest victims dispatched 71-0!

Stithians continue to progress with a 60-12 win over OPM’s, whilst Falmouth won 16-5 at the Rec against Saltash. Hayle found it hard going in South Devon as they lost 49-14 at Teignmouth, whilst in North Devon, Liskeard & Looe couldn’t prevent Torrington getting their first win of the season as the hosts won 19-5.

At half-time you really thought that the visitors would runaway with the game in the second half as they led 20-5. Nothing of the sort, as Redruth fought back with credit to lose in the end by 17-23, Esher’s relief at just booting the ball off the park at the end when they spurned a penalty chance to deny Redruth any points sums up just how hard a test they were given.

Redruth got off to the best possible start with a try after only 5 minutes from Lewis Vinnicombe, unfortunatly Brett Rule couldn’t add the conversion as the lack of a reliable goal kicker still haunts the Reds, hopefully Wihan Neethling will soon be back fit and able to display his renowned kicking ability.

Despite the fine start it was Esher who dominated for the rest of the half with plenty of pace and power, only some fine defence from the Reds preventing the visitors from scoring more than the two tries they did, with Sam Ulph Esher had a goal kicker to keep the scoreboard ticking over.

In the second half it was a different senario, towards the end Redruth looked the fitter team as they rocked the league leaders. Tries from Craig Bonds, nicely set up by Jamie Semmens on his Redruth debut, and Brett Stroud gave the Reds hope, though the talking point was the try by Gareth Evans disallowed for a double movement.

The Cornish All Blacks suffered their first defeat of the season at Richmond against London Scottish 42-13. This time it was the All Blacks who were on the receiving end of two quick tries before the break, that coupled with the sending off of centre Ed Lewsey on 58 minutes effectivly killed the game as a contest. Lewis Patterson scored Launceston’s try just before half-time with Tony Yapp adding the conversion and two penalties.

On Friday night we all listened to coverage from Castle Park as the Cornish Pirates took on Doncaster Knights and travelled back from Yorkshire with a 21-10 win. Skipper Blair Cowan scored both the Pirates’ tries with Rhys Jones adding a conversion and 3 penalties. Three wins from three is an impressive start from the Pirates as they will look to build this Sunday when they entertain Coventry at Camborne.

A reminder that Cornwall play the Royal Navy this Wednesday evening at Hayle RFC with a 7-30pm kick-off