Reds swoop for Albion duo

HAMBLY ANNOUNCES FIRST NEW SIGNINGS FOR THE REDS

By Bill Hooper, at the Recreation Ground

With the dust of the Cornish rugby season barely settled following Cornwall’s dramatic win in Sunday’s Bill Beaumont Cup Final, Director of Rugby Nigel Hambly has moved to add two further members from the Cornwall side to his playing squad.

Redruth Director of Rugby Nigel Hambly welcomes Chris Fuca, Fraser Honey and Matt Shepherd to the club. Photo Jeff Till

Both Matt Shepherd and Fraser Honey have put pen to paper and agreed to join Redruth for next season from Plymouth Albion.

In addition, Hambly has also brought former Redruth favourite Chris Fuca back to the club as forwards coach for next season.

Speaking at the Recreation Ground on Tuesday evening Honey was looking forward to the challenge of playing for Redruth.  He said. “I am delighted to have signed for Redruth, it’s a club I have followed for many years. I think I can bring something to the club and also improve my game with the quality of the coaches here; I have a huge amount of respect for Nigel, Chris and Matt.

Honey was really excited about the prospects for the new season as the pieces begin to fall in place. “The support here at Redruth is the best in the league, I’ve played here for Launceston and Bury St Edmunds as well as the various county age groups, so I know many of the lads already here from those days and of course with the wonderful month we have just had with the Cornwall squad, I’ve played with Jack Oulton when I was at Launceston and he was on loan and I think we have proved that we form an exciting half-back partnership.

Matt Shepherd returns to the club in a player/coach role and is equally enthusiastic about the prospects for the new season. He said. “I feel that this is the right move for me now at this stage of my rugby career, I am really looking forward to working with both Fucs and Nigel, I’ve heard a few stories about Nigel he’s a legend here and huge respect for what he did to get Redruth playing in National 1. I think having both of them here will attract a number of players to the club.

Not only will Shepherd bring a wealth of experience to the side but he is also looking forward to helping develop the young talent that came through the club last season. “There are a lot of really good young players at the club, boys like Jack Simmons, Aaron Simmonds, Jack Hodge and I really am looking forward to helping them develop to the next stage of their rugby careers.

Returning to the club having cut his coaching teeth at St. Ives Chris Fuca is thrilled to be back at the club he calls home. “I am delighted to be back, I spoke with Nigel earlier in the year but I wanted to honour my commitments at St. Ives for last season before agreeing anything. I am really looking forward to my role as forwards coach. I shall be purely coaching to start with but I might have a run out if I am fit enough at some stage.

“I think the player signings that we have announced tonight shows real intent from the club that we need to improve on last season’s results, and I think the work going on at the club both and off the park shows that the club want to push on and make a statement this season. Both Fraser and Matt are hugely respected by the other players and they can only help improve the playing standards at the club.

Fuca is keen to get the Redruth edge upfront back. “Maybe last season our scrum wasn’t quite the potent weapon it’s been in previous seasons, so no question that is something I shall be working on. Fitness has a big role to play so there will be a lot of fitness work pre-season and work on our plays going into the new season. We will bring in some expertise for various areas like strength and conditioning and make sure everything is done in properly planned way.

Director of Rugby was pleased with his first signings for the new season. “I am really pleased to having both Matt and Fraser joining the club for next season and to have Chris back here in a new role for him. Fucs is an icon here and I think he has a very bright future in a coaching role, I think he will relish the challenge of coaching at this level.

As for Matt,I am delighted to see him back at Redruth. I had spoken with one or two other potential candidates but it didn’t work out, Marek Churcher suggested I approach Matt and he was immediately very receptive to what I had in mind. Matt’s proven quality and hugely respected as player and I think he has lot to offer in a coaching role here. When I approached Matt about the role he told me he still wanted to play, for me that was the best response to hear from him, he will bring his huge experience to the squad. 

As for Fraser, I’ll be honest I haven’t seen a lot of him playing, but from what I have seen he is very good and reads the game intelligently, kicks the ball well and puts you in good areas on the field, his success rate kicking for goal is high so all in all a quality player with proven ability in National 1.”  

Hambly also confirmed that Chris Allen would take up the Team Manager’s role for next season and said that plans for the second team next season were progressing  as well as the colts set up for next season under Steve Larkins.

Posted in Bill's Blog


Shep kicks Cornwall to Cup Glory

BILL BEAUMONT CUP FINAL

CORNWALL 14 – 12 CHESHIRE

By Bill Hooper at Twickenham Stadium

Matt Shepherd, held his nerve to split the uprights with the conversion of Seti Raumakita’s game-saving try to win Cornwall the Bill Beaumont Cup to the delight of the Cornish fans who went beserk at the final whistle.

Matt Shepherd of Cornwall (Plymouth Albion) kicks the winning conversion. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

Credit to the crest-fallen Cheshire boys who must have thought they had the game won, but this Cornish side never gives up, despite playing the second half with fourteen men, got their just rewards for an outstanding campaign.

Huge praise to the players, selectors and coaching staff, especially Marek Churcher, who perhaps doesn’t always get the credit he deserves, but who’s contribution is massive.

Jess Tompsett of Cornwall (Redruth) is tackled by Nathan Rushton of Cheshire (Sedgley Park). – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

Prop Jess Tompsett travelled up on the supporters bus on the morning of the game as his partner had given birth to a daughter just hours earlier.

Cornwall arrived at the West Car Park to be greeted by the hordes of black and gold clad fans from Trelawny’s Army, One & All, united behind our boys. The reception the team got off the bus was truly inspiring.

Brad Howe of Cornwall (Redruth) charges at Tom Morton of Cheshire (Macclesfield). – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

Despite the lateness of the hour there was a good crowd packed into the lower tier of the West Stand, with the Cornish crowd in full voice as the teams entered the pitch.

Conditions were nigh on perfect at kick-off despite the usual swirling breeze at Twickenham.

Cornwall had the better of the opening exchanges, but couldn’t breech the Cheshire defence. That set the scene for much of the first half, dogged defence.

Grant Randlesome of Cornwall (Penryn) strides forward. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

Cheshire then had a long period of territory and possession with wings Rory Hardman and Sam Stelmaszek looking lively.

The Cornish back row of Sam Stevens, Edd Pascoe and Brad Howe got through a lot of work, whilst Tony Whittle had his usual all action game.

The deadlock was finally broken, by guess who? Alex Ducker. Taking a pass from centre Richie Kevern, Ducker burst through a pair of Cheshire defenders to speed to the line, Fraser Honey kicked the conversion and Cornwall were 7-0 up as the fans cheered like mad.

Alex Ducker of Cornwall (Camborne) runs in a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

Cheshire roared back at Cornwall, but once again the Cornish defence was outstanding, tackle after tackle knocked the big Cheshire forwards back, with Cornwall winning turnover ball.

In the lead up to half-time, Cornwall had a penalty on the Cheshire 10 metre line, in front of the posts, Honey elected to kick for goal, his kick rebounding off the Twickenham posts.

Richard Kevern of Cornwall (Redruth) throws a pass. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

Following a ruck there was an altercation near the touchline involving scrum-half Jack Oulton, after the officials deliberation, referee Phil Davies brandished a red card at Oulton, Cornwall would have to play the whole of the second half with just fourteen men.

Cornwall need to re-organise, Shepherd moved to scrum-half, and Craig Williams came on for the excellent Dan Job, who had carried well as well as Tompsett.

Jack Simmons of Cornwall (Redruth) tries to secure the ball after the tackle. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

Cheshire sensed blood and went for it. Pressure eventually told when fly-half Tom Morton squeezed over in the corner for a try he couldn’t convert.

Both sides looked to the bench to find that extra lift, both George Jones and Grant Randlesome had the Penryn contingent on their feet as they surged up field.

But it was Cheshire who now exerted the greater pressure, they drove at the Cornwall line and despite heroic defence by the black and gold, they finally mauled over for a try from Tom Sanders, Morton slotted the conversion and it was Cheshire ahead as the clock ticked down.

Cornwall, Head Coach Graham Dawe watches the match at close quarters. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

Cornwall had a penalty with Shepherd kicking to the corner, three times Cheshire were penalised and thrice Shepherd went for the same, try-scorer Sanders was the first dispatched to the bin for cynical play, followed by Jack Collister.

Seti Raumakita of Cornwall (Plymouth Albion) dives in for the try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

From a scrum five-meters out Shepherd saw Raumakita running hard from deep, the pop pass was perfect and the giant Fijian burst the tackle to score, as Twickenham went mad.

Ben Hilton Captain of Cornwall (Barnstaple) holds the Bill Beaumont Cup aloft. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

It was left to Shepherd to put the icing on the cake and cue the celebrations as skipper Ben Hilton lifted the cup.

Cornwall (Redruth unless stated): Matt Shepherd (Plymouth Albion), Jon Dawe (Plymouth Albion) (Dean Bonds 74), Jack Simmons, Richie Kevern, Alex Ducker (Camborne), Fraser Honey (Plymouth Albion) (Seti Raumakita, Plymouth Albion 60), Jack Oulton; Dan Job (Lanner) (Craig Williams h/t), Rob Elloway (St. Ives) (Matt Ballard, Wadebridge Camels 38), Jess Tompsett, Tony Whittle (Camborne), Ben Hilton (Barnstaple, Capt) (Edd Pascoe 73), Edd Pascoe (George Jones, Penryn 52), Sam Stevens (Taron Peacock, Camborne 52) , Brad Howe (Grant Randlesome, Penryn 52).  

Cornwall scores: Tries, Ducker, Raumakita, Cons, Honey, Shepherd.

Red Card: Oulton (40)

Cheshire (Caldy unless stated): Rhys Hayes, Sam Stelmaszek (Macclesfield) (Christopher Speed, Wirral 23) , Jack Moorhouse (Sale FC), Michael Barlow, Rory Hardman (Chris Crowley, Wirral h/t) , Tom Morton (Macclesfield), Nicholas Allsop (Sandbach); Nathan Rushton (Sedgley Park) (Brendan Berry, Macclesfield 60) , Neil Briggs (Sale FC) (Josh Brown, Sandbach 46), Derek Salisbury (Daniel Matthews Macclesfield 37), Martin Gerrard (Tom Sanders 60), Jack Collister, Harrison Crowe, Callum Ridgway (David Jones 55), Josiah Dickson (Capt). 

Cheshire scores: Tries, Morton, Sanders, Con, Morton

Yellow Cards: Sanders (76), Collister (80)

Referee: Phil Davies (RFU)

Crowd: 3000

Man-of-the-match: Tony Whittle (Cornwall)

Posted in Bill's Blog


Cornwall win the Cup

Cornwall Team photo for the 2019 Bill Beaumont Cup Final. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

A Matt Shepherd conversion with the final kick of the game gave Cornwall the Bill Beaumont Cup in a tight final against Cheshire.

Cornwall led 7-0 at half-time thanks to an Alex Ducker try converted by Fraser Honey.

Playing the whole of the second half with just fourteen men following a red card to Jack Oulton, Cornwall withstood Cheshire pressure until finally cracking to an unconverted try.

Alex Ducker of Cornwall (Camborne) runs in a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 02/06/19, Cornwall, Cheshire, Bill Beaumont Cup Final, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, England

Cheshire then went on to score a second try, this time converted and looked to be heading for the win.

However, Cornwall’s never-say-die attitude was rewarded at the end when Seti Raumakita cut a great line to score and tie the scores, leaving Shepherd to add the coup de grace.

Full report to follow.

Posted in Bill's Blog


Watch County Final via ERTV

Cornwall supporters in the crowd. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 18/05/19, Cornwall, Devon, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Brixham, Astley Park, England

If you can’t make Twickenham tomorrow, then no worries you can watch the final via ERTV on the link below.

ERTV coverage of County Final https://www.englandrugby.com/news/county-championship-finals-twickenham-watch-live/

Posted in Bill's Blog


Cornwall are ready for Cheshire

Cornwall completed their final training session at Redruth RFC yesterday evening with the squad looking forward to Sunday’s Bill Beaumont Cup final 5-45 pm at Twickenham.

Jess Tompsett of Cornwall (Redruth) on the charge. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 30/05/19, Cornwall, Training, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Redruth, Recreation Ground, England

There a no injury concerns ahead of Sunday’s clash with Cheshire.

The Cornwall squad will depart for Twickenham tomorrow morning, 11 am starting from Hayle RFC, staying overnight near London.

Dan Job of Cornwall (Lanner) charging forward. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 30/05/19, Cornwall, Training, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Redruth, Recreation Ground, England

The squad will prepare on Sunday for the game, before the coach ride to the Stadium.

Many thanks to Warren’s Bakery who have kindly provided the squad with pasties for the trip up, also to Tribute Brewery and Kelsal Steele who have sponsored a range of O’Neills leisure wear so that the squad will look “proper” at HQ.

Ben Hilton Captain of Cornwall (Barnstaple) organises the line-out. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 30/05/19, Cornwall, Training, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Redruth, Recreation Ground, England

Sunday morning sees the Family coach set off from Hayle RFC at 7 am and they will meet up with the Trelawny’s Army coaches and others from the duchy along with our “exiles” to greet the team as they arrive at Twickenham at around 3:45 pm to sea of black and gold.     

For those early arrivals at Twickenham head to the Cabbage Patch for 12-noon, where choirmaster Stu Hoy will lead the singing of the Cornish. Pasties will be available.

For those unable to travel to Twickenham, there will be full match coverage by BBC Radio Cornwall, with Dick Straughan and John Martin your commentators.

It is expected and hoped that ERTV will provide match footage of the game. See the RFU site for updates.

Posted in Bill's Blog


Ducker & Oulton picked for England Counties

Jack Oulton of Cornwall (Redruth) runs in a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 11/05/19, Cornwall, Hertfordshire, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Redruth, Recreation Ground, England

Two of the stars from this season’s Cornwall side have been picked for England Counties tour to Georgia, leaving almost immediately following the final whistle in Sunday’s Bill Beaumont Cup Final.

Alex Ducker of Cornwall (Camborne) runs in a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 11/05/19, Cornwall, Hertfordshire, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Redruth, Recreation Ground, England

For both Jack Oulton (Redruth) and Alex Ducker (Camborne), it is worthy recognition as both players have enjoyed a stand out season for both their clubs and Cornwall.

There are two games scheduled, both against a Georgia XV, with the first game taking place in Kutaisi on the 7th June and the second in Tbilisi on the 11th June, both games kick-off at 6 pm local time.

England Counties squad to tour Georgia

1. Tom Williams* Kent and Blackheath

2. George Porter* Gloucestershire and Cinderford

3. Henry Paul* Surrey And Esher

4. Danny Herriott* Kent and Blackheath

5. Nathan Morris* Kent and Old Elthamians

6. Neil Briggs * Cheshire and Sale FC

7. Bob Birtwell Lancashire and Sedgley Park

8. Joe Makin Yorkshire and Hull Ionians

9. John Kelly* Devon and Plymouth Albion

10. Ollie Hodgson Durham and DMP

11. Andrew Hughes Lancashire and Sale FC

12. Harry Hone Gloucestershire and Cinderford

13. Stephen Leonard * Kent and Cambridge University

14. Jack Daly Kent and Blackheath

15. Jack Oulton* Cornwall and Redruth

16. Dan Mugford Devon and Plymouth Albion

17. Greg Lound* Surrey and Rosslyn park

18. James Tincknell Yorkshire and Hull Ionians

19. Kieron Moffat* Kent and Old Elthamians

20. Lewis Minikin Yorkshire and Hull Ionians

21. Callum McKenzie* Durham and DMP

22. Craig Holland* Surrey and Chinnor

23. Nick Hankin* Hertfordshire and Bishops Stortford

24. Alex Ducker* Cornwall and Camborne

New caps-*

Posted in Bill's Blog


Cornwall name side to face Cheshire

CORNWALL SELECT SIDE TO FACE CHESHIRE IN SUNDAY TEA-TIME FINAL

By Bill Hooper

Cornwall selectors have stuck by the same tried and tested squad for Sunday’s Bill Beaumont Cup Final against Cheshire at Twickenham.

Cornwall Team photo for the 2019 County Championship Campaign. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 11/05/19, Cornwall, Hertfordshire, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Redruth, Recreation Ground, England

It will be the third time the two counties have faced each other in the final, Cheshire won the first final in 1998, 21-14, whilst Cornwall won the second final three years ago, 35-13, Matt Shepherd notching twenty points in a memorable performance with a try, three penalties and three conversions.  

There are just a couple of positional changes for the final. Jon Dawe moves to the wing whilst Richie Kevern moves from full-back to the centre to partner club mate Jack Simmons with Shepherd having recovered from injury that forced him to miss the Devon game.

Jack Oulton of Cornwall (Redruth) runs in a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 11/05/19, Cornwall, Hertfordshire, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Redruth, Recreation Ground, England

In the back row, Edd Pascoe retains his place with fit again Sam Stevens returning having also missed out against Devon.

Disappointingly, there is no place for Bude winger Kyle Speare who is named as a travelling reserve.

The replacements bench will supply plenty to the team’s performance when they get their chance. Penryn pair George Jones and Grant Randlesome are bound to play a full part at rugby HQ, as will Wadebridge’s Matt Ballard.

The whole squad at training joined in with the congratulations to Alex Ducker and Jack Oulton on their selection for England Counties tour to Georgia, which departs immediately after the final.

Alex Ducker of Cornwall (Camborne) charing down the wing. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 11/05/19, Cornwall, Hertfordshire, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Redruth, Recreation Ground, England

While there are still 80 minutes of rugby to be played, this Cornwall team will give everything and more in this final game of their season and be a credit to their families, their clubs and their county. They have played with pride and passion wearing the black and gold and that has always been a hallmark of great Cornwall sides of the past.

The selected squad will be travelling up to Twickenham on Saturday and will arrive at the ground at approximately 3.30 pm on the Sunday and look forward to being greeted by the Cornish crowd as they step off the coach.

There may be many in the Cornwall rugby community who will be baffled by the RFU decision to move the 5.30pm kick-off to 5.45pm

Cornwall team to play Cheshire at Twickenham on Sunday 2nd June. Kick off 5.45pm

15. Matt Shepherd   Plymouth Albion

14. John Dawe           Plymouth Albion

13. Jack Simmons      Redruth

12. Richie Kevern     Redruth

11. Alex Ducker         Camborne

10. Fraser Honey       Plymouth Albion

9. Jack Oulton            Redruth

1. Dan Job                  Lanner

2. Rob Elloway          St. Ives

3. Jess Tompsett      Redruth

4. Tony Whittle        Camborne

5. Ben Hilton (captain)   Barnstaple

6. Edd Pascoe           Redruth & Royal Navy

7. Sam Stevens        Redruth

8. Brad Howe           Redruth

16. Matt Ballard      Wadebridge Camels

25. Craig Williams   Redruth

18. George Jones    Penryn

19. Grant Randlesome   Penryn

20. Taron Peacock  Camborne

21. Dean Bonds      Redruth

22. Seti Raumakita  Plymouth Albion

Travelling Reserves: Rikki Bentham, Kyle Speare, Rhys Brownfield, Charlie Nicholson or Greg Thomas

Posted in Bill's Blog


Cornwall beat Devon to reach final

BILL BEAUMONT CUP          

DEVON 20 – 50 CORNWALL

By Bill Hooper, at Astley Park

Cornwall booked their return to Twickenham in impressive style scoring eight tries as they defeated a gutsy Devon side.

There was a late change to the published team, with Sam Stevens failing a late fitness test. Fellow red Edd Pascoe came into the back row, with Falmouth’s lock Dan Sanderson onto the bench.

Roared on by Trelawny’s Army, Cornwall kicked off and looked to stamp their authority on the game.

Alex Ducker of Cornwall (Camborne) runs in a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 18/05/19, Cornwall, Devon, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Brixham, Astley Park, England

It didn’t take long with an opening try after just four minutes scored by the mercurial Alex Ducker following some good phases by the Cornish forwards, Ducker’s balance and pace bamboozled the Devon defence.

Fly-half Fraser Honey made no mistake with the first of his five successful conversions.

Devon came back into it with some good play from former Cornwall player Lewis Paterson and the impressive back row Tom McGratton, they earned a penalty that fly-half Tom Putt kicked to cut the deficit.

Honey then missed with a penalty attempt at the other end, before the game erupted with a dust up involving Brad Howe and Devon’s Dean Avery, both players were invited by referee Nick Wood to spend ten minutes on the naughty step.

Dan Job of Cornwall (Lanner) reaches through to score the try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 18/05/19, Cornwall, Devon, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Brixham, Astley Park, England

Cornwall’s defence was again rock-solid with Pascoe knocking over Devon players at will.

Cornwall then found themselves down to thirteen men when Ducker was adjudged to have deliberately knocked-on, it seemed a harsh call.

Putt, who had just seen a penalty attempt canon off an upright, made no mistake at the second time of asking.

Cornwall survived the short period of being down to thirteen before Howe returned, indeed wing Dean Bonds was just inches away from scoring Cornwall’s second try.

The Black and Golds maintained the pressure near the Devon line, with penalty decisions going their way at scrum-time, eventually it told as scrum-half Jack Oulton sniped, seemed to lose balance but kept his feet to score near the posts, Honey was again successful with the extras.

The Cornwall maul continues to move forward. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 18/05/19, Cornwall, Devon, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Brixham, Astley Park, England

Full-back Charlie Briant went close for the green and whites, denied once more by the granite Cornish defence.

With half-time fast approaching Cornwall got their third try, from a ruck near the Devon line, prop Dan Job drove and planted the ball on the line, Honey’s conversion put Cornwall in the driving seat at the break 21-6.

Dean Bonds of Cornwall (Redruth) catches the ball and runs forward. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 18/05/19, Cornwall, Devon, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Brixham, Astley Park, England

Cornwall didn’t deal well with the kick-off at the beginning of the second half handing possession to Devon, they went through the phases near the Cornwall line before scrum-half Ben Watts went over, Putt’s conversion brought Devon back into contention momentarily as Cornwall got their act together getting the bonus point try through the impressive Howe, Honey again made no mistake with the conversion.

Ben King of Devon (Ivybridge) can’t stop Brad Howe of Cornwall (Redruth) from going over for the try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 18/05/19, Cornwall, Devon, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Brixham, Astley Park, England

Just four minutes later further pressure in the Devon twenty-two saw giant prop Jess Tompsett drive over for try number five, and Honey adding his final conversion.

The Cornwall supporters were by now in full-cry as Cornwall, with the game in the bag cut loose with further tries from Kyle Speare, following great work from Ducker, Jon Dawe, given the scoring pass by full-back Richie Kevern and finally Taron Peacock, who found a big hole and gleefully accepted it.

Kyle Speare of Cornwall (Bude) dives over in the corner for a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 18/05/19, Cornwall, Devon, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Brixham, Astley Park, England

Devon did have the final say with a try from Avery from a missed lineout near the Cornwall line, converted by Putt, but by then Cornwall’s black and gold army was in full celebration as the plans for Twickenham were being made.

Taron Peacock of Cornwall (Camborne) runs in a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 18/05/19, Cornwall, Devon, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Brixham, Astley Park, England

Head coach Graham Dawe was pleased with the win. “Delighted for the boys but it took us awhile to get going, we fell foul of the referee again, so we have to make sure we understand what he wants. We will look to prepare for Twickenham and make sure the boys are in the best shape going into that game.”

DEVON (Ivybridge unless stated): Charlie Briant, Billy Pinkus, Rhys Palmer (Okehampton), Lewis Paterson, Frank Kelly (Plymouth Albion), Tom Putt (Unattached), Ben Watts; Matt Dowrick (Newton Abbot), Dean Avery (Unattached), Charlie Tribble (Exmouth), Adam Thomas (Brixham), Jamie Tripcony, Tom McGratton (Okehampton), Sam Thomas (Brixham), Wayne Sprangle (Bridgwater & Albion, Capt).

Replacements: Ashlee Crouch (Plymouth Albion),Shane Cooper (Exmouth), Ben King, Olly Schuster-Wood (Cullompton), George Wilson, Mitch Pinkus (Brixham), Jamie Hext (Brixham).

Devon scores: Tries, Watts, Avery, Cons, Putt 2, Pens, Putt 2

Yellow Card: Avery (19)

CORNWALL (Redruth unless stated): Richie Kevern, Dean Bonds, Jack Simmons, Jon Dawe (Plymouth Albion), Alex Ducker (Camborne), Fraser Honey (Plymouth Albion), Jack Oulton; Dan Job (Lanner), Rob Elloway (St. Ives), Jess Tompsett, Tony Whittle (Camborne), Ben Hilton (Barnstaple, Capt), Edd Pascoe, Grant Randlesome (Penryn), Brad Howe.

Replacements: Matt Ballard (Wadebridge Camels), Craig Williams, Dan Sanderson (Falmouth), George Jones (Penryn), Seti Raumakita (Plymouth Albion), Kyle Speare (Bude), Taron Peacock (Camborne).

Cornwall scores: Tries, Ducker, Oulton, Job, Howe, Tompsett, Speare, Dawe, Peacock, Cons, Honey 5

Yellow Cards: Howe (19), Ducker (27)

Referee: Nick Woods

Crowd: 1,450   

Posted in Bill's Blog


Cornwall defeat Devon to book Twickers return

The Black & Golds ran in eight tries in a 50-20 win to book a return to rugby HQ in early June.

Cornwall ran riot in the second half scoring five tries to demolish a brave Devon effort.

Ducker, Outlton and Job scored tries in the first half with Honey kicking all three conversions, to a couple of Putt penalties for the hosts.

Despite an early second half score by Watts for Devon, Cornwall kept their foot on the metal with tries from Howe, Tompsett, Speare, Dawe and Peacock with Honey adding another couple of conversions.

Devon had the final say when Avery crashed over but it was too little for the green and whites.

Cornwall will now face Cheshire in the final, after they defeated Durham today and Lancashire lost the Roses match to Yorkshire.

Full report tomorrow

Posted in Bill's Blog


Cornwall name side to face Devon

BILL BEAUMONT CUP          

DEVON V CORNWALL

Cornwall go into their third and final pool match this Saturday against old rivals Devon knowing a win will be good enough to take them back to Twickenham  for the sixth time in seven years.

Taron Peacock of Cornwall (Camborne) throws a pass. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 08/05/19, Cornwall, Training, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Redruth, Recreation Ground, England

Having already defeated Devon in this season’s Tamar Cup match at Brickfields last month 28-13, Cornwall will be keen to avenge the Championship defeat to Devon last season at Camborne 20-19, however there will be a key player from the Tamar cup win missing, full-back Matt Shepherd.

Shepherd picked up an injury against Hertfordshire last Saturday, sadly has not recovered in time.

Redruth’s Richie Kevern comes into the starting XV at full-back, whilst fellow Red Dean Bonds, a try scorer last week, gets the nod over Kyle Speare on the wing, who reverts to the bench.

Rob Elloway of Cornwall (St Ives) throws a pass. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 08/05/19, Cornwall, Training, Bill Beaumont Cup, County Championship, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Redruth, Recreation Ground, England

Albion’s Seti Raumakita comes in as a backs replacement on the bench as does Camborne’s Taron Peacock, the unfortunate player to miss out is another Cherry and White, utility back Rhys Brownfield.

Head coach Graham Dawe said ahead of the game. “It’s going to be a huge battle against Devon, we have to earn the right to make the final again, the game will come down to those fine margins and who is prepared to put their bodies on the line.”

Kick-off at Brixham is 2:30 pm.

Cornwall side to face Devon;

15. Richie Kevern (Redruth)

14. Dean Bonds (Redruth)

13. Jack Simmons (Redruth)

12. Jon Dawe (Plymouth Albion)

11. Alex Ducker (Camborne)

10. Fraser Honey (Plymouth Albion)

9. Jack Oulton (Redruth)

1. Dan Job (Lanner)

2. Rob Elloway (St. Ives)

3. Jess Tompsett (Redruth)

4. Tony Whittle (Camborne)

5. Ben Hilton (Barnstaple, Capt)

6. Grant Randlesome (Penryn)

7. Sam Stevens (Redruth)

8. Brad Howe (Redruth)

Replacements;

16. Matt Ballard (Wadebridge Camels)

17. Craig Williams (Redruth)

18. Edd Pascoe (Redruth)

19. George Jones (Penryn)

20. Taron Peacock (Camborne)

21. Seti Raumakita (Plymouth Albion)

22. Kyle Speare (Bude)

Travelling Reserves: Andruis Zacharovas (Camborne), Dan Sanderson (Falmouth), Rhys Brownfield (Camborne)   

Posted in Bill's Blog


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