Photo: London Cornish DoR Dickon Moon

Nicolas De Battista’s try scored in the dying moments of the game gave the Pirates a bonus point win 34-5 against Rotherham Titans. The win sees the Cornish side leap-frog Jersey in the championship table back into fifth place. The two sides will lock horns at the Mennaye on Sunday, St. Piran’s Day!

The Pirates’ other tries came from Tom Duncan, Tom Channon and man-of-the-match John Stevens.

Laurence May kicked three conversions and a couple of penalties, with Will Cargill adding the extras to De Battista’s late effort.

In the Cornwall & Devon League, Falmouth finally caught up with their game-in-hand defeating Tamar Saracens 61-12. Dave Jones bagged four tries, Dan Hubble two, with Tom Simmons, Brad Cock and Tom Edmonds, skipper Justyn Irons kicked eight conversions.  The win puts Falmouth 14 points clear at the top of the table.

In Cornwall 1 Helston defeated leaders Newquay Hornets 29-8, whilst their nearest challengers Hayle were held 12 all by Liskeard-Looe. Veor defeated St. Agnes 27-17 and Roseland won 24-5 at Camborne School of Mines.

Newquay Hornets still head the table but only on points difference from Hayle, with Liskeard-Looe a further five points behind.

In Cornwall 2 Lankelly-Fowey moved to the top of the table following their 36-8 win at Trewergie against Redruth Albany. St Just defeated Camelford 24-12, Stithians had a walkover against Perranporth.

Congratulations to the Cornish sides who made progress in their National Cups last weekend. Truro won 14-7 at Chew Valley in the Intermediate Cup, thanks to tries from Jack & Luke Tidball both bettered by Ashley Hosking.

Truro’s reward is a trip to Swanage and Wareham in what is a quarter-final tie on March 18^th.

London Cornish in the same competition easily defeated Harrow 63-20 to reach the last eight, they now face Charlton Park should they win then the winners of Truro’s tie await them in the semis.

In the Senior Vase, Saltash advanced to the last eight defeating Winscombe 32-20. Ashes tries came from Will Morton (2), Ryan Cruickshanks  and James Moriarty. Kieran Down kicked the other points.

Saltash will face Swindon Old Boys at home in the last eight again on Match 18^th.

St. Austell Colts made it through to the last eight of the National Colts Cup after beating Thornbury Colts 26-8.

Cornwall Under 20s lost their second group game to Gloucestershire Under 20s 9-18 at Redruth on Sunday. St. Austell’s Cavan Boyer kicked all Cornwall’s points in the first half. The Gloucestershire pack dominated throughout in the heavy conditions.

Cornwall travel to Hampshire for their final group game on Sunday March 19^th.

UNDER 20 COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS

CORNWALL 9 – 18 GLOUCESTERSHIRE

By Bill Hooper at the Recreation Ground Redruth.

Cornwall have it all to do in three weeks time against Hampshire following defeat in their second pool game of this season’s Championship.

The conditions suited the big heavy Gloucestershire pack which they revelled in. Sadly Cornwall had no answer to the powerful visiting scrum, they were mercilessly penalised by the referee, with the penalty count against them well into double figures, and more, by the end. It was a salutary lesson for the lads.

Naturally it was a result and performance that disappointed Cornwall coach Mike Rawlings. He said. “We were never going to win that game without any scrum or set-piece ball, we weren’t good enough today in a game and conditions that suited an upfront game and that obviously cost us dear.

“Credit to the boys, they never gave up trying and at the end they managed to pinch one against the head.

Rawlings acknowledges that it had been a steep learning curve. “Some of the lads learnt a lot today, a steep learning curve for them, hopefully they can take that lesson going forward and we can improve on that in our next game.

“We will regroup at training over the next couple of Sundays at Truro College and look to address the problems we had today.

“The focus now is away to Hampshire if we can get a win up there then we will progress to the quarter finals and that would be a great achievement for this young group this season.

There were aspects from Cornwall’s performance that pleased Rawlings. “I thought Cavan Boyer kicked his penalties very well in difficult conditions. Max Duggan at No.8 carried well he brings a lot of aggressiveness to his game, Cory Teague got through a lot of work and Declan Matthews in the centre tried very hard on a day that didn’t suit the backs.

Playing down the slope into the driving rain Gloucestershire dominated from the kick-off as Cornwall struggled at the set-piece; it was no surprise that the visitors went ahead after just 7 minutes when skipper Tyler Jerum powered over with an unconverted try.

A high ball into the twenty-two from centre Declan Matthews was not released by Gloucestershire’s full back Macaulay Dale leading to a penalty kicked by wing Cav Boyer.

Boyer was on the money with another kick just a couple of minutes later for Cornwall to put his side 6-5 up.

Cornwall were still under pressure at scrum time, eventually referee Max Weston’s patience wore out with Cornwall prop Adam Wright being yellow carded.

Gloucestershire maintained their domination scoring a second try from a catch and drive through winger Terence Barbarinsa, converted by centre Robbie Faulkner.

Cornwall No.8 Max Duggan was having another excellent game, he carried a lot of ball and looked dangerous going forward. A good break by fly-half Callum Boyce led to a third penalty success for Boyer and leave Cornwall trailing 9-12 at half-time.

If Cornwall hoped playing down the slope would bring a change of fortune it didn’t materialise as the rain and murk intensified during the second half. Two penalties from Faulkner closed the game out for the visitors.

Despite great vocal support from the contingent of Trelawny’s Army at the game, Cornwall couldn’t find a way through a very well-organised Gloucestershire defence.

Frustrations erupted a couple of times during the game when a couple of bouts of fisticuffs broke out, but the dye was cast well before the final whistle sounded.

Cornwall must now travel to unbeaten Hampshire for their final game in three weeks time. Hampshire defeated Berkshire 36-24 at Sonning in the other game played on Sunday.

Cornwall U.20s: R Edwards (Launceston), D Hubble (Falmouth), D Matthews (Redruth), M Blee (Camborne), C Boyer, C Boyce (both St. Austell), N Nash (Brixham); A Wright (Redruth), C Dewson (Launceston), K Vinson (Penryn), H Culverhouse, C Teague (both Wadebridge Camels), J Osborne (Launceston), W Gilder (Capt), M Duggan (both St. Austell).

Replacements: J Hodge (Redruth), A Vincent (Lankelly-Fowey), M Scott (Saltash), C Sayer (Camborne), B Andrews (Devonport Services), S Firth (Falmouth), H Jones (Unattached).

Cornwall scores: Pens, Boyer (3)

Yellow Card: Wright (20)

Gloucestershire U.20s: M Dale (Bristol Uni), T Babarinsa (Cinderford), R Smith (Cardiff Met), R Faulkner (Drybrook), F Murphy (Cleve), T Webb (Newent), S Boyland (Brighton Uni); C Lane (Lydney), J Williams (Gloucs Uni),  A Chalkin (Bristol Uni), W Greenway (Gloucs Uni), R Herbert (Stroud), B Mustoe, T Jerum (Capt) (both Cleve).

Replacements: J Hughes (O Patesians) C Lane (Lydney), F Crosby (Gloucs Uni), M Adams (Cinderford), L Locke (Longlevens), M Loader (Salisbury), F Sharp (Clifton), T Knight (Chosen Hill FP).

Gloucestershire scores: Tries Jerum, Babarinsa, Con, Faulkner, Pens, Faulkner (2)

Referee: Max Weston (Somerset RRS)

Crowd: 250

Photo: Cornwall u.20 in action against Gloucestershire last season

Cornwall Rugby Football Union  Under 20 County Championship campaign 2017 continues on Sunday 26 February with a home game at Redruth against Gloucestershire kick-off 2 pm.

Following the first game against Berkshire, Cornwall has held a further two training sessions at Truro College.

CRFU President Peter James said “This will be another test for these young guys; playing Gloucestershire is never an easy game.  Having watched the game at Camborne I was encouraged by the skill, commitment and overall team spirit within the camp. A good start but another hard game on Sunday against a side that has something to prove”

Cornwall face one further game in the pool stage, against Hampshire, who won their opening game away to Gloucestershire 12-10, on Sunday March 19 at Overton RFC Hampshire.

Coach Bryn Jenkin said “The result against Berkshire was pleasing; however there were some basic errors that we needed to work on. Although a cracking result for the squad we now have to get our feet firmly back on the ground for the game on Sunday.”

Cornwall have made six changes to the starting XV from the Berkshire game with four of those in the pack.

Kieron Vinson starts at tight-head, whilst Callum Dewson comes in at hooker. In the second row Hugo Culverhouse partners Cory Teague in a Wadebridge Camels’ boiler house.

In the back row Jack Osborne steps up from the bench n to partner Will Gilder and Max Duggan.

In the backs Falmouth’s Dan Hubble comes in on the wing, fresh from his five-try haul against Plymstock Albion Oaks last weekend, whilst Reuben Edwards is another who steps up from the bench staring at full-back.

On the bench four new players come in Jack Hodge, Aaron Vincent, Brandon Andrews and Matt Blee all come in to join Matt Scott and Cam Sayer who drop to the bench.

Backs Coach Matt Shepherd said. “We must learn from the last game against Berkshire we were not up to the mark in the first 15 minutes which could have put us on catch up all the game. Once the team gained the upper hand, they relaxed, scored some brilliant tries with great forwards and back interplays”

Cornwall earned a bonus point win against Berkshire coming out winners 64 – 3 at Camborne RFC. A good crowd of over 200 people were there to cheer on the team and we hope for similar support at Redruth on Sunday 26 February. Entry will be by purchase on the gate of a £5 programme with U16 entering for free.

Skipper Will Gilder added. “To be part of the last game and see the way the boys came together after a tough first ten minutes, gave a real show of our potential, but now we have to come back down to earth to go into the Gloucestershire game level headed and composed. They will be a tough outfit and will no doubt put us under pressure from the word go, therefore we need to play for the 80 minutes to hopefully get the result we want.”

CORNWALL RFU UNDER 20 TEAM GLOUCESTERSHIRE UNDER 20

SUNDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2016 @ REDRUTH RFC 2 PM KO

1)   Adam Wright                   Redruth RFC

2)   Callum Dewson              Launceston RFC

3)   Kieron Vinson                 Penryn RFC

4)   Hugo Culverhouse         Wadebridge Camels RFC

5)   Cory Teague                   Wadebridge Camels RFC

6)   Jack Osborne                  Launceston RFC

7)   Will Gilder (Captain)       St Austell RFC

8)   Max Duggan                    St Austell RFC

9)   Noah Nash                       Brixham RFC

10) Callum Boyce                  St Austell RFC

11) Cavan Boyer                   St Austell RFC

12) Tom Sandercock          Launceston RFC

13) Declan Matthews            Redruth RFC

14) Dan Hubble                     Falmouth RFC

15) Reuben Edwards            Launceston RFC

Replacements;

16) Jack Hodge                     Redruth RFC

17) Aaron Vincent                 Lankelly Fowey RFC

18) Matt Scott                        Saltash RFC

19) Cam Sayer                       Camborne RFC

20) Brandon Andrews       Devonport Services RFC

21) Matt Blee                         Camborne RFC

22) Harvey Jones                  Unattached

Travelling Reserves:-

Dan Reed                               Matt Healey                            Harry Smith                          

Seb Firth                                Ethan Tyler                            Toby Robinson

Hector Bright                                    Connor Gilbert                     

Coaches – Mike Rawlings, Bryn Jenkins, Matt Shepherd

Team Manager – Chris Lea

GLOUCESTERSHIRE UNDER 20 V CORNWALL

• 1 Alex Chalklin University of Bristol RFC
• 2 Jack Williams University of Gloucestershire RFC
• 3 Jacob Hughes Old Patesians RFC
• 4 Will Greenway Drybrook RFC
• 5 George West University of Gloucestershire RFC
• 6 Regan Herbert Stroud RFC
• 7 Brandon Mustoe Cleve RFC
• 8 Tyler Jerum Cleve RFC (Capt)
• 9 Sam Boyland Brighton University RFC
• 10 Tom Webb Newent RFC
• 11 Finn Murphy Cleve RFC
• 12 Robbie Faulkner Drybrook RFC
• 13 Robbie Smith Cardiff Metropolitan University RFC
• 14 Terence Babarinsa Cinderford RFC
• 15 Macaulay Dale University of Bristol RFC
• Replacements:
• 16 Costner Lane Lydney RFC
• 17 Frank Crosby University of Gloucestershire RFC
• 18 Matthew Adams Cinderford RFC
• 19 Lewis Locke Longlevens RFC
• 20 Matt Loader Salisbury RFC
• 21 Finn Sharp Clifton RFC
• 22 Tom Knight Chosen Hill Former Pupils RFC
• Travelling Reserves
• Jack Lister Cirencester RFC
• George Dowse University of Gloucestershire RFC
• Jordan Taylor Cinderford RFC

Photo: Sam Matavesi in action for Cornwall in 2016 Bill Beaumont Cup Final

Trelawny’s Army are indebted to Neale Harvey for allowing us to re-print his article that appeared in Sunday’s The Rugby Paper and which concerns us all.

EXCLUSIVE By NEALE HARVEY

Lancashire head coach Mark Nelson has slammed cost-cutting proposals that could see the England Counties team and the County Championship axed.

The Rugby Paper understands elements within the RFU hierarchy view county rugby as an unnecessary financial burden and that behind-closed-doors talks aimed at slashing the Union’s commitment to it have been taking place for months.

England Counties take on their Scottish counterparts at Moseley this Friday and while this summer’s proposed tour to Portugal and Spain is expected to go ahead, the scheduling of future tours and matches during the Six Nations remain shrouded in doubt.

With the long-term future of the historic County Championship also being debated, Nelson told The Rugby Paper: “Elements within the RFU would happily see County rugby go but in my view it’s a fundamental part of rugby below the professional game.

“County rugby is a different competition; it’s the only representative chance the majority of club players ever get. It gives those players an opportunity to represent their Counties at Twickenham and then to tour with the Counties’ national team.

Photo: Ben Hilton & Aaron Penberthy, just two of the many Cornish players to have represented England Counties

“It’s a massively important part of the English game and people who seek to undermine that or bring about its demise are being massively detrimental to the game. I know discussions are taking place but I don’t understand the arguments against it.”

Nelson fears money used to fund County rugby will be diverted into leagues.

He added: “Clubs are looking for more funding to go around the Championship, National One and National Two, so they’re looking to cull other areas of the game to service those needs, with the County Championship potentially a victim.

“But where do they see the game going? Do they see it just becoming about league rugby with no cups, no variety and a ceiling at the top of National One?

“County rugby is aspirational and on the 2004 tour to Canada we had Ben Foden, Shaun Perry, David Strettle and Matt Jess in our team, but if you do away with it you will be condemning potential top players like them to a diet of league rugby.”

County Championship joy in jeopardy

Unwelcome news in Sunday’s papers that the County Championship is once again facing an uncertain future. Both the Rugby Paper and the Sunday Independent carry an article by Neale Harvey that certain power-brokers in the RFU are again considering scrapping the competition, along with the various England Counties sides, senior, under 20 and under 18 as part of a cost-cutting exercise!

It seems strange that the RFU, the richest rugby union in the world, should deem it necessary to make cuts to grassroots rugby, it’s very lifeline. Quite rightly people will demand to know why this should even be up for discussion and to what projects they envisage putting extra resources from these savings to?

Developments at Twickenham will be followed closely, should they propose to go ahead with this ill-advised plan.

On the playing front it was a very successful afternoon in the Greene-King Championship for the Cornish Pirates as they won in some style 42-27 at Yorkshire Carnegie.

Coach Gavin Cattle described the win as “One of the highlights of the season.”

Hitherto, Yorkshire Carnegie had only lost one game this season but they were rocked by tries from Kyle Moyle, Tom Duncan (2), Alex Day, Brett Beukeboom and Jack Andrew, with Laurence May converting all six. The win leaves the Cornish Pirates in fifth place just two points behind Ealing with a game-in-hand.

In National League 2 South, Redruth slipped to defeat as a late penalty gave visitors Old Elthamians the spoils 20-17.

A result that puts paid to the Reds outside hopes of promotion for this season. Despite missing key players Kyle Marriott and Alex Ducker, Redruth gave a good account of themselves against the well-organised London outfit.

Pale Nonu and Jack Oulton scored tries for Redruth both converted by Brett Rule who also kicked a penalty. BJ Chapman had a big game for the Reds as did Shaun Buzza when he came on.

In National 3 SW, Camborne made it back-to-back wins for the first time in 2017 as they won 35-16 at Newton Abbot. Murray Westren opened the try scoring with further scores coming from Damien Cook, Josh Semmens and Taron Peacock. Rhys Brownfield kicked three conversions and three penalties. The win puts Town back into a play-off place ahead of their game in a fortnight’s time at home to leaders Old Redcliffians.

Launceston gave a good account of themselves against Old Reds in Bristol only going down 21-17.  Jordan Duke and Andy Knight scored tries with Martin Kneebone converting a penalty-try.

The result sees the Cornish All Blacks slip back to second from bottom as sides around them won.

In Western Counties West, Truro took the spoils in the Cornish derby at Bude 24-7. Truro’s tries cane from Josh Symons, Ben Teasdale (2) and Luke Trescothick with Ashley Hosking kicking a couple of conversions. For Bude Matt Williams scored a try converted by Dan Pearce. Sadly the game was marred with a red card to Truro prop Ethan Pattison.

St. Ives had a good win at home against Burnham-on-Sea 39-5. The Hakes scored seven tries through Pete Mabbot (2), Liam Jolly, Jacob Ninnes, Joe Parma, Ben Taylor and Martyn Lawrence. Grant Thirlby kicked a couple of conversions.

Wadebridge Camels had a good win up at Wellington winning 25-12. Camels scored twenty-two first half points through tries from Will Pengelly, Rhys Bright and Matt Ballard with Callum Wilson kicking two conversions and a penalty. In the second half Wilson added a further penalty.

St. Austell lost a promotion chasing Cullompton 19-11. Max Duggan scored the Saints only try with Liam Freeman and Cav Boyer kicking penalties.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish maintain their lead at the top of the table following a 41-14 win at Andover. Miles Rushworth scored three tries for the exiles with other scores coming from Matt Hakes, Tom Patton and Chris Kolapo-Ajala. George Kimmins added four conversions and a penalty.

In the Cornwall & Devon League, leaders Falmouth gained revenge against the only side to have defeated them this season, Plymstock. The Eagles scored nine tries in a 57-6 win with wing Dan Hubble notching five! Other scores came from Seb Firth, Tom Spiller, Matt Brewer and John Baglow with Justyn Irons adding six conversions.

Saltash remain in second place after winning 43-25 at Tavistock

Penryn lost at struggling Honiton 25-12. Grant Randlesome and Kirky Oldfield with their tries, Matt Horton kicked a conversion.

Pirates Amateurs were defeated 36-28 at Topsham, while Bodmin lost at home to Plymouth Argaum 38-12.

Lanner narrowly lost at St. Day to promotion chasing Paignton 20-17.

In Cornwall 1, Newquay Hornets and Hayle had big wins against a depleted School of Mines 89-7 and Veor 69-3. Liskeard-Looe defeated Helston 41-10 and St. Agnes ran riot against Roseland 50-0.

In Cornwall 2, Lankelly-Fowey beat leaders Illogan Park 34-16 to close the gap at the top to just three points. Perranporth won at home to Redruth Albany 57-12. Stithians had a walkover against Camelford.

Finally in this season’s Bottle Match, Camborne School of Mines relinquished the trophy they won back last season to Royal School of Mines 33-19.

Plenty of smiles up at Polson Bridge on Saturday evening after Launceston’s 43-12 win against Newton Abbot. It was the Cornish All Blacks first bonus point win this season and a result which gives them a fighting chance to avoid a second successive relegation.

Try scores for Launceston were Marc Williams Fred Bulut, Tom Sandercock, Ryan Westren, Andy Knight, Rikki Bentham and Greg Thomas. Martin Kneebone added four conversions.

Also in National 3 SW, Camborne battled to a win against Bromsgrove 20-13. Cherry and Whites’ tries came from Sam Bartle, Rhodri McAtee (a corker of a try) and Malcolm Hearn, with Rhys Brownfield kicking a conversion and replacement Dave Mankee adding a late penalty.

A good debut from Jordan Rose for Town, also good to see Jon Drew back from suspension adding his experience to the front row.

In National League 2, Redruth couldn’t make it a perfect seven wins on the trot as they slipped to defeat at Cinderford 23-21. Matt Bowden scored two tries with Sam Parsons also crossing. Brett Rule converted all three scores.

Truro came out on top in a ding-dong Western Counties West Cornish derby at St. Clements Hill winning 25-17 against Wadebridge Camels. The lead changed several time before Truro made sure of the spoils with a fourth try.

Truro’s tries were scored by Luke Tidball (2), Ben Teasdale and Josh Symons with Ashley Hosking adding a conversion and a penalty, for the Camels Hugo Culverhouse and Matt Ballard (2) scored tries with Danny Thomas kicking a conversion.

St. Austell defeated Crediton at Tregorrick Parc 31-10 thanks to tries from Max Duggan, George Knowles, Ben Chenoweth, Cav Boyer and Shane Johns. Liam Freeman kicked three conversions for the Saints.

St. Ives won 22-8 at Tiverton. Tom Chandler, Pete Mabbut and Sean Stevens scored the Hakes’ tries with the referee also awarding them a penalty-try that Jordan Gott converted.

Bude lost 16-10 at Burnham-on-Sea.

Up in London 2 SW, London Cornish’s game against Portsmouth had to be abandoned after 64 minutes due to a serious injury to a Portsmouth player. The exiles were leading 29-0 at the time and must now wait to see if the result stands.

Falmouth Eagles continue to fly at the top of the Cornwall & Devon league following their 34-0 win at Plymouth Argaum. Falmouth scored five tries through Tom Spiller (2), Dan Hubble, Tom Tonkins and AJ Geach. Justyn Irons kicked the other points.

Penryn grabbed maximum points following their 43-0 win at home to Topsham. Borough fielded their new signings Kieron Vinson and Matt Healey both signed from Truro.

Borough’s tries were scored by Andy Seviour (3), Ben Birkett, Matt Horton, Grant Randlesome and Will Paine, with Horton kicking four conversions.

Pirates Amateurs defeated Bodmin 33-6 at the Mennaye. The Ams scored tries through Danny Toolan, Dan Magee, Chav Lonsdale and Joe Chadwick with Magee kicking the other points.

Lanner beat Withycombe 20-17 at St. Day thanks to tries from Robbie Kessell, Adam Harris and Gizzy Beesley plus a conversion and penalty from Nick Prout.

Saltash had a walkover against Tamar Saracens.

In Cornwall 1, it’s very much as you were, Newquay Hornets maintained their top spot with a comfortable win against St. Agens 34-5.

Hayle keep the pressure on Hornets following their 27-10 win at a gutsy Helston.

Camborne School of Mines travelled to their old ground to take on Veor but it was the new tenants who prevailed 13-12. The Students travel to London this week for the annual “Bottle Match” against Royal School of Mines on Saturday.

Liskeard-Looe had a big win at Roseland 40-8.

In Cornwall 2, Illogan Park remain undefeated following a close shave with Stithians 8-6. Lankelly-Fowey won 22-20 at St. Just and Perranporth defeated Camelford 40-14.

Good to see Jack Nowell have a good game with England in Cardiff on Saturday evening, whilst Cornish Pirates Josh Caulfield came on for England Under 20s during their win against the Welsh on Friday evening.

Photo: Cory Teague leaps high for Cornwall

Cornwall Under 20s put on a superb show of running rugby at Camborne on Sunday afternoon running in ten tries against Berkshire in their first County Championship pool game.

After a shaky opening Cornwall gradually got on top going ahead with a try from Toby Robinson. Further first half scores from Declan Matthews and Ethan Tyler along with a couple of conversions from Cavan Boyer gave Cornwall a 19-0 half-time lead.

Photo: Cornwall’s Cavan Boyer, chased by Berks Jacob John

In the second half Cornwall ran riot with further tries coming from skipper Will Gilder, Matthews, Boyer, Tyler (2), Harry Smith and Seb Firth. Boyer kicked a further three conversions and Tyler added two more.

Berkshire saved their blushes with a penalty from Jake Finlay, to leave the final score Cornwall 64-3 Berkshire!

It was a win and performance that delighted and pleased head coach Mike Rawlings. He said after the game. “I was so pleased to see the boys’ hard work over the past few weeks and months pay off today. I can remember only too well being on the wrong end of similar score-line a couple of years ago when Cornwall lost a semi-final to Yorkshire here at Camborne.

“I did think we were up against it early on as Berkshire dominated but the guys weathered the storm and that built confidence and the guys thought we can do this.

And Rawlings was full of praise for the whole squad. “They really showed their skills levels out there today, but there is still much to work on, our set-piece wasn’t up to scratch and Bryn Jenkins and I will look at that and work on it. Our fitness really told in the final quarter they fell away badly but we kept our energy levels up and finish strongly with that final try.

Cornwall’s next game is at Redruth on Sunday 26^th February when they take on Gloucestershire, who lost their opening game at Lydney to Hampshire 12-10.

Also on Sunday the Cornish Pirates were in Championship action when they took on London Scottish at the Mennaye.

A late penalty-try award converted by Laurence May gave the Pirates a 25-24 win.

Pirates’ other tries came from Alex Cheesman and Toby May, with the rest of the points from Laurence May’s boot adding a further conversion and two penalties.

It’s a weekend off for Pirates this week before they travel to Yorkshire Carnegie on the 18^th February.

On Saturday Redruth made it six wins on the bounce in National 2 South with a hard-fought 10-3 win against Bury St. Edmunds. Fortunately for the Reds they scored their points early on through catch-and-drives from Tommy Phillips and Shaun Buzza as conditions deteriorated rapidly and the pitch began very heavy.

The win keeps Redruth well placed prior to Saturday’s trip to Cinderford.

Head Coach Marek Churcher was happy with the win in such conditions. “Conditions were awful today so to get the win is all that matters. We started very well I thought our accuracy was spot on our tempo was good and I thought we might run away with the game, I think we are guilty of losing our concentration when we get ahead early on. Having said that it became very difficult after about fifteen minutes as the pitch cut up with all the rain we have had recently.”

Falmouth’s game at Tamar Saracens in the Cornwall & Devon League was postponed.

In Cornwall League 1, Newquay Hornets got an important win at Liskeard-Looe 18-5, whilst challengers Hayle had a resounding win at home against Roseland 70-5, Doug Arnull scoring three of the Lions’ eleven tries.

Helston won a tight game at Veor 27-24, Decarlo Trerise with two of their four tries. Camborne School of Mines got the better of St. Agnes 12-5, both the student’s tries scored by Tommy Lee

In Cornwall 2 there was only one game played, Illogan Park winning 55-10 at Perranporth. Redruth Albany had a walkover against Camelford whist the game at Stithians against St. Just was postponed.

Truro defeated Torquay Athletic 31-5 to get to the final of the SW Intermediate Cup. Ethan Tyler (2), Jack Hazelton and Darren Jacques scored Truro’s tries with Ashley Hoskin converting all four and adding a penalty.

Truro now face a trip to Chew Valley, on the outskirts of Bristol on Saturday 25^th February.

Saltash defeated last season’s defeated National finalists Withycombe in the Senior Vase 24-14, the tie was played on the all-weather pitch across the Tamar at Keyham. Tries were scored by No. 8 Steve Hillman prop Adam Coutts flanker Lewis Wells and wing Will Morton with Kieran Down adding a couple of conversions.

Saltash are at home to North Somerset side Winscombe in the SW Senior Vase final again on the 25^th February.

On Saturday Jack Nowell came off the bench to help England come from behind to defeat France 19-16 at Twickenham in the RBS 6 Nations. Well done Jack.

Photo: Tommy Phillips in action for Cornwall against Berkshire last season

Following a trial session before Christmas, the Under 20 squad have trained for a number of weeks. In preparation for the Championship they played a friendly against Devon U20 at Launceston RFC on the 22 January winning 33 – 19. Their first game in the Championship this year will against Berkshire at Camborne RFC, with a 2 pm kick off.

CRFU President Peter James said “This is the first game at this level for some of the team and they start with a tough game trying to avenge last year’s defeat up at Sonning I want to thank the coaching team of, Mike Rawlings, Bryn Jenkins, and Matt Shepherd. Also we must not forget the medics, backroom staff and team manager Chris Lea for their work in pulling together the team. I also offer my congratulations to Will Gilder of St Austell RFC who has been appointed the captain for the coming season”.

 Speaking about his appointment newly appointed captain Will Gilder said. “I am honoured to have been asked to captain the Cornwall U20 team this season. Pulling on the shirt means an awful lot to us guys and being made captain is the icing on the cake. Berkshire are a side that beat us last year and we know they will come down  here with a strong squad so we need to be on top of our game for 80 minutes, to come away with a result.

Gilder plays his club rugby for St Austell RFC, and is in his second season with the U20. He will be in good company with five other Saints in the starting line up.

Cornwall faces two other games in the group stage during February and March, depending on results, with the quarterfinals being played at the end of March.

Coach Mike Rawlings said. “There have been a lot of changes in the squad from last year and we have a number of guys who will be with us for a further one or two seasons, it will be a steep learning curve for some at this new level. It is testament to the guys who have trained on Sunday mornings; it is never easy after games for their own clubs on the Saturday. They have trained hard and know they face a difficult task, but they will be extremely proud to pull on the famous black and gold shirt of Cornwall. ”

Cornwall also face Gloucestershire on Sunday 26 February at Redruth RFC, before a final pool stage game away against newly promoted Hampshire at Overton RFC on Sunday 19 March 2017.

CRFU Chair Denis Preece said. “This is the first opportunity for some of these players to represent Cornwall at senior level. A number of the players, who have gone before them, have gone on to represent the full County 15 and some have played at Twickenham!! Last season Tommy Phillips through his performances with Cornwall was selected not only for the England Counties U20 squad but was made vice-captain. I would ask that the good folk of Cornwall come out and support the young Cornwall players”

Cornwall Under 20 team manager Chris Lea said; – “This squad is a mixture of players from last season, new players nominated from clubs and guys who have progressed through the Under 18 age group. We have had fantastic numbers coming forward this season and it is testament to the ground work we have put in over the past 5 years. It is great to see these guys getting progression through the County system and a number of former players are now playing at Premiership and Championship level, as well as clubs within Cornwall”

CORNWALL RFU UNDER 20 TEAM V BERKSHIRE

SUNDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2017 @ CAMBORNE RFC 2 PM KO

1)          ADAM WRIGHT                  REDRUTH RFC

2)          MATT HEALEY                   TRURO RFC

3)         LEWIS LEE                          ST AUSTELL RFC

4)         MATT SCOTT                      SALTASH RFC

5)          CORY TEAGUE                  WADEBRIDGE CAMELS RFC

6)         CAM SAYER                       CAMBORNE RFC

7)         WILL GILDER (Captain)    ST. AUSTELL RFC

8)         MAX DUGGAN                    ST. AUSTELLRFC

9)          NOAH NASH                       BRIXHAM RFC

10)       CALLUM BOYCE               ST. AUSTELL RFC

11)      ETHAN TYLER                   TRURO RFC

12)      TOM SANDERCOCK         LAUNCESTON RFC

13)       DECLAN MATTHEWS      REDRUTH RFC

14)      CAVAN BOYER                  ST.  AUSTELL RFC

15)      TOBY ROBINSON              ST.  AUSTELL RFC

Replacements:

16)      JAMES BISHOP                 ST. IVES RFC

17)      KIERON VINSON               TRURO RFC

18)      JACK OSBORNE               LAUNCESTON RFC

19)      HARRY SMITH                   WADEBRIDGE CAMELS RFC

20)      SEB FIRTH                          FALMOUTH RFC

21)      REUBEN EDWARDS        LAUNCESTON RFC

22)      HARVEY JONES                UNATTACHED

Travelling reserves:-

23)       CALLUM HAYNE               ST.  AUSTELL RFC

24)      MATT BLEE                         CAMBORNE RFC

25)       AARON VINSON                LANKELLY FOWEY RFC

26)      CALLUM DEWSON           LAUNCESTON RFC

Cornwall name side to face Berkshire.

Coaches – Mike Rawlings, Bryn Jenkins, Matt Shepherd

Team Manager – Chris Lea

Photo: Ducker bags a further two tries at Barnes

With the Cornish Pirates Championship game at London Welsh being cancelled as the Welsh exiles find themselves in liquidation the centre of attention switched to the Reds’ trip to Barnes in National League 2 South.

Having scrapped home by a single point 33-32 the previous week against Exmouth, Redruth answered any critics with five try win on the road 33-0!

Reds’ tries came through Alex Ducker (2), Penalty-try, Kyle Marriott and Lewis Vinnicombe. Brett Rule kicked three conversions with Angus Taylor adding a fourth.

The win sees the Reds up to third in the table, four points adrift of both Chinnor and Bishop’s Stortford.

In National 3 SW, Camborne slipped to a narrow defeat at Salisbury 16-14 when the home side kicked a penalty from half-way with the final kick of the game.

Town had to travel with a makeshift side as injuries continue to blight Liam Chapple’s options. Josh Semmens scored Camborne’s try with Rhys Brownfield kicking three penalties.

Launceston’s good run of form continues as they won on the road again this time at Bromsgrove 27-22. Tom Sandercock, BJ Chapman and a penalty-try award along with kicks from Martin Kneebone and Greg Loydall making up their tally.

In Western Counties West, Wadebridge Camels beat Burnham 24-15 to go above Truro in the table. Camel’s tries came from Jacob Johns, Rhys Bright and a brace from Matt Ballard, Danny Thomas kicking two conversions.

Truro slipped up at Wellington 20-14, Ollie Seagrove scored Truro’s try with Ashley Hosking adding three penalties.

A lively Cornish derby at Alexandra Road saw St. Ives get the better of St. Austell 33-19. Steve Kenward and Jo Parma each bagged a brace of tries with Tom Chandler getting the Hakes’ fifth. Jordan Gott added four conversions.

For the Saints Shane Johns and Chris Ashwin crossed for tries with the referee also awarding them a penalty-try converted by Cav Boyer who also bettered Ashwin’s score.

Bude picked up a vital win at home against Tiverton 26-24. Dan Pearce scored a couple of tries and added three conversions. Bude’s other tries came from a forward effort and a penalty-try.

London Cornish were held to a second away draw 28-28 at Camberley. Chris Smart, Oli Low, David Smith and a penalty-try award all were converted. Cornish remain well in command at the top of London 2 SW.

In the Cornwall & Devon League leaders Falmouth continue to boss proceedings. Despite a tough error strewn first half that Pirates Amateurs edged 9-6 on the scoreboard despite losing new signing Everard Reid to a yellow card for a head tackle.

The Eagles stepped up a gear in the second half scoring five tries through Jamie Caruana, David Jones, Justyn Irons, Matt Brewer and replacement Dan Hubble. All five tries came from great backline play. Irons having kicked two first half penalties added a third in the second half as well as four conversions for a twenty-two point haul.

Reid coped a second yellow for the same offence that saw him sent off and all the Amateurs had to show was a try from Jack Nicholson converted by Dan Mcgee who kicked their first half penalties, final score 42-16.

Saltash had a good win at Withycombe 23-16. James Moriarty, Will Morton and Steve Hilton scored their tries with Kieran Down kicking their other points.

Penryn won 56-0 at Bodmin with centre Andrew Seviour scoring four tries. Other scores came from Aaron Cockrell, Phil Hinchley, James Salisbury, Grant Randlesome, George Mitchell and Will Paine with Mitch Vague knocking over three conversions.

Lanner lost to improving Honiton 26-5 with Adam Harris getting their only try.

In Cornwall 1 the top two Newquay Hornets and Hayle fought out a 10 all draw. Veor remain third after their 22-3 win at Roseland, whilst Liskeard-Looe won at St. Agnes 33-8. Helston defeated School of Mines 38-17.

In Cornwall 2, Illogan Park are top despite not playing as Redruth Albany couldn’t raise a side. St. Just beat Perranporth 19-15 and Stithians won at Lankelly-Fowey 17-13.

Cornwall Under 20s get their Championship campaign under way at Camborne on Sunday when they take on Berkshire Under 20s kick-off is 2 pm. All support welcome.

Photo: Marek Churcher

Redruth head coach Marek Churcher has been appointed Cornwall’s backs coach taking over the role from Ian Morgan who stepped down earlier this season.

Speaking about the appointments to the coaching staff Cornwall’s head coach Graham Dawe said, “We have been steadily putting in the building blocks for the 2017 season with players, medics etc. and this appointment is one of the final pieces. Marek is a highly respected coach, working not only with Truro College, Exeter Chiefs Academy but is also head coach at National League 2 side Redruth. He brings a wealth of knowledge both technically, but also in-depth player knowledge, at all age levels within the county.

Also assisting Graham this season will be Tristan Lark as strength and conditioning coach, and he went on to say “I’m pleased to welcome Tristan to be part of the coaching team, also Rhodri McAtee who is also on board as a skills development coach. I look forward to working closely with all of them over the coming months.

Churcher is looking forward to his new role.“It was a real honour to be considered for the position of backs coach for the county team. It is somewhat ironic that I was coached by Graham when I played for Plymouth Albion, and of course was immensely proud to have pulled on the black and gold at senior level as well. There is vibrancy about the whole set up and I am really looking forward to getting stuck into my new role.

Photo: Rhodri McAtee in action for Cornwall against Herts 2013

Cornwall RFU President Peter James also welcomed Marek into his new role. He said. “I am delighted to welcome Marek as part of the coaching team to work alongside Graham Dawe for the coming season. It is pleasing to see a talented Cornwall club coach have the opportunity to work with the full county squad.”

Cornwall first training session will be early in February in preparation for the Tamar Cup, and County Championship games.

Photos: Simon Bryant Iktis photo