Photo: Head coach Graham Dawe, Tamar Cup crucial preparation

Cornwall have named eight Redruth players in their starting line up for Monday night’s Tamar Cup clash with Devon at Tiverton kick-off 7:30 pm.

Reds hooker Richard Brown, who recently made his 200^th appearance for the club, has been named as captain.

No players from Plymouth Albion have been named in the match day squad. There are eight players in the starting XV earning their first cap for Cornwall, prop Andruis Zacharovas, lock Brad Howe, half backs Jack Oulton and Mitch Vague, centre Jack Simmons and the back three of Alex Ducker, Dean Bonds and Rhys Brownfield.

Photo: Penryn’s Mitch Vague set to make Cornwall debut at fly-half

Whilst from the bench Dom Connor, Sam Bartle, Robbie Dugard, Everard Reid and Fraser Honey could all make their county debuts.

Head coach Graham Dawe said. “This game is crucial to allow us to observe players in the County shirt and how they perform under that additional pressure. We have away games against Surrey and Devon before we face Hertfordshire at home this season. There will certainly be pressure on everyone involved in this year’s squad.

He added. “Places for the championship games are up for grabs and players who perform well in the Tamar Cup, training and for their clubs, are in the mix for selection.”

Dawe will be joined this season by coaches Marek Churcher and Rhodri McAtee along with Strength & Conditioning coach Tristan Lark.

The Tamar Cup game comes slightly earlier than in recent seasons but is still a vital test prior to the Bill Beaumont Cup games.

Photo: Camborne’s Rhys Brownfield set for senior debut at full back

Chairman of selectors Terry Carter said the squad was continually evolving. “Our initial squad has changed slightly as other players come into contention whilst some others have left the squad through injuries and availability. We have again run our development squad this season and a number of guys have come into contention via this route”

He went on to say “Further players may be included at a later stage if injuries or form preclude selected players”.

Following the Tamar Cup game a number of training sessions have been programmed in for the build-up to the first game that takes place on Saturday 6 May.

Cornwall start their defence of the Cup with two games on the road at Richmond on May 6^th against Surrey and then seven days later at Ivybridge against Devon before playing their only home game at Camborne on 20^th May versus Hertfordshire.

Cornwall (Redruth, unless stated) R Brownfield (Camborne), D Bonds, J Simmons(Camborne), D Tout (Rossendale & Bude), A Ducker, M Vague (Penryn), J Oulton;T Phillips, R Brown (capt), A Zacharovas (Camborne), B Howe, B Jenkins (Barnstaple), G Jones (Penryn), M Grubb, BJ Chapman.

Replacements: D Connor (Brixham), S Bartle (Camborne), R Dugard (Barnstaple), J Drew (Camborne), C Fuca, G Randlesome (Penryn), E Reid (Pirates Amateurs), J Murphy (Barnstaple), F Honey (Launceston), R Kevern (Camborne), T Notman. T Robinson (St. Austell), R Friend (Okehampton).

Photo: London Cornish skipper Craig Chatley receives London 2 SW plaque from Middlesex RFU President Tom Brownsell

Redruth can thank the goal kicking of Brett Rule, who landed three of the Reds four conversions as the edged a game of two halves 33-29.

Both sides managed to score five tries in a thrilling National League 2 South encounter. The first half saw Redruth score four tries through Rule, Shaun Buzza (2) and Nielson Webber with Rule landing three conversions and Joel Matavesi the fourth to lead 28-5.

The second half saw Worthing exploit turnover ball in deadly fashion to score four ties of their own but crucially only convert two of them.

Dean Bonds scored Redruth’s fifth try, their sole points of the half.

The bonus point win moves Redruth one point closer to Taunton whom they face on Saturday, a game that will likely decide who finishes fourth in the final table.

Disappointing results for both our sides in National 3 SW, Launceston were cruelly denied at the end by Lydney as the home side stormed back from a 24-15 deficit to take the spoils 27-24. The result confirmed a second relegation in two seasons for the Cornish All Blacks, although the effect of London Welsh’s demise from the Championship has to be factored into the promotion/relegation shake up down the league pyramid.

Rikki Bentham, Harry Dawe and a penalty-try award plus the boot of Fraser Honey accounted for the All Blacks’ haul. Near the end Launceston lost prop Andy Knight to a red card.

Camborne’s play-off hopes took a terminal blow up at Brixham as they were comprehensively beaten 38-14. Ashley Lawton scored a late try and were awarded a penalty-try both converted by Dave Mankee.

Town need to win both their remaining games and hope that Dings Crusaders slip up to get back in the play-off spot.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro put their Cornwall Cup disappointment behind them with a 27 all draw at Devonport Services. Matt Symons (2), Daryl Riches Ollie Seagrove and Luke Trescothick scored tries, Alex Stuthridge with a conversion.

Wadebridge Camels returned home empty-handed from Cullompton after a 27-0 loss.

St. Austell enjoyed a fine win in South Devon winning 48-16 at Sidmouth, Adam Kellow, Chris Ashwin (2), Ian Venner, Charlie Nicholson, Max Duggan and Liam Freeman all crossed for tries. Freeman also landed five conversions and a penalty.

St. Ives had a good win at Wellington 48-5 scoring seven tries through Sean Stevens, Martyn Lawrence (2), Dan Rutter, Tom Nicholas and Jordan Gott (2). Gott added five conversions and a penalty.

Bude lost at Crediton 31-14, the result is not ideal for the North Cornwall side as they are now level with Burnham who have a game in hand. Adam Black and Will Kingdom scored tries for Bude both converted by Dan Pearce. With the bottom two going down Bude need to get wins but with a home game to play-off hopefuls Cullompton and a tricky trip to Devonport Services it will be a tall order.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish completed their home program with a 29-17 win against London Exiles. Tries were scored by Tom Ievers, Chris Kolapo-Ajala, Rich Stephens and Jake Slade with Paddy Dean landing three conversions and a penalty.

Post match Cornish were presented with the London 2 SW trophy and will look to complete an unbeaten league season away to Twickenham on Saturday.

Meanwhile, in the Tribute Cornwall & Devon League leaders Falmouth lost for only the second time this season in the league at Withycombe 17-14.

With the Eagles facing a points deduction for fielding an unregistered player, they will hope to be confirmed champions at home this Saturday when they face struggling Bodmin.

Owen Hambly and Tom Tonkin scored tries both converted by Justyn Irons.

Saltash were made to work hard by Honiton before overcoming the Lacemen 38-28.

Paignton were awarded the points against Plymouth Argaum, though a friendly was played. It means that Paignton are six points ahead of Saltash with two games to play. It looks like the Ashes will run out of games to claw back the second promotion spot.

Pirates Amateurs won 14-6 at Penryn. Jack Nicholas and Liam Lonsdale scored the Ams tries both bettered by Lonsdale . Matt Horton kicked a couple of penalties for Penryn.

Better news for Penryn is that recent Pirates’ signing Toby Freeman will be head coach at the Borough next season assisted by Ian Morgan, Dave Pascoe and Gareth Tedstone. Graham Dawe will still be available as coaching consultant.

Lanner’s current good form continued with a 38-6 win against Plymstock at St. Day. Bev Stone (2), Adam Harris, Ryan Latino and Nick Prout all crossed for tries with Prout kicking the other points.

Despite losing at home Bodmin 23-18 to Tavistock, the losing bonus point was enough to move Bodmin out of the drop zone for now.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Hayle completed their league program with a 28-5 win at Veor. Gareth Mankee scored three of their tries. They will now look to try and complete a league and cup double when they take on Liskeard-Looe in the semi-finals of the Tribute Cornwall Clubs Cup later this month.

Newquay Hornets remain in second spot after seeing off Camborne School of Mines 27-19.

Liskeard-Looe won 43-19 at Helston to remain in third place, whilst Roseland defeated St. Agnes 19-12.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, Lankelly-Fowey won the battle of the top sides edging out Illogan Park 24-16. They go into the final game at home to Camelford knowing a win bonus point will crown them champions.

Redruth Albany defeated Perranporth 24-17, whilst the game between Camelford and Stithians was postponed.

Photo by Rodney Parrish, TASC ball presentation to Bude

On a glorious spring day the Cornish Pirates put on one of their best displays of the season in defeating last season’s defeated Championship finalists Doncaster Knights 34-17 to keep their play-off hopes alive with two rounds remaining of the league season.

First half tries courtesy of a penalty-try award and a couple of rapier thrusts from Max Bodilly and Kyle Moyle with Laurence May bettering tow of the three tries left the Pirates with a healthy 19-10 lead at half-time.

That was soon improved on when Moyle scored his second try and ensure the bonus point. May then added a penalty before rounding off the scoring by converting his own try.

The only disappointing aspect was the dislocated shoulder picked up hooker Jack Innard which will now curtail his season. Fortunately Tom Channon is due back from injury and will feature against Richmond on April 8^th.

In National League 2 South, Redruth made the long trip to leaders Bishop’s Stortford and returned back to Cornwall empty-handed suffering a 32-7.

Jack Oulton scored a consolation try near the end converted by Brett Rule.

With Taunton winning, Redruth slip to fifth place in the table with four games to play.

In National League 3 SW, Camborne kept the pressure on Dings Crusaders for the play-off place with 22-21 win against Bracknell.

Town’s tries came from Josh Semmens, Ashley Lawton, Dave Mankee and Rhys Brownfield with Brownfield kicking a conversion in the tricky wind.

Launceston’s hopes of avoiding relegation were dealt a cruel blow as Brixham scored a converted try in time added on to win 18-17.

The Cornish All Blacks scored tries through Martin Kneebone, Lloyd Duke and Chris Macdonald with Fraser Honey adding a conversion.

It leaves Launceston seven points adrift of Lydney and safety prior to the All Blacks trip to Regentsholm on Saturday.

Truro’s faint hopes of making the play-off in Tribute Western Counties West are all but extinguished following their 24-15 defeat at home to Cullompton.

Truro fielded a changed line up faced with a Cornwall Cup semi-final the next day at Wadebridge Camels.

Ethan Tyler and Matt Cross scored tries for the home side with “Eggy” Williams kicking a conversion and a penalty.

Wadebridge Camels were much in the same boat as they lost at home to Crediton 27-20.

Camels tries came from Rhys Bright, Jack Scott and Christian Cotton with James Grubb kicking a penalty and conversion.

Photo by Rodney Parrish, TASC ball presentation to the Hakes

Bude did their hopes of avoiding a swift return to the Cornwall & Devon League some good with a bonus point win at home against St. Ives 35-22.

Dan Pearce scored three of his side’s tries with Ryan Vincent and Olly Mounce scoring the others. Pearce also kicked tow penalties and a couple of conversions.

For St. Ives, Tom Chandler, Archie Mackay and Jordan Gott all crossed for tries with Gott adding two conversions and a penalty.

St. Austell had a resounding win 62-5 at home to Torquay Athletic scoring ten tries. Toby Robinson and Miles Davey each scored a brace with Adam Kellow, Hugh Noot, Ian Venner, George Knowles, Shane Johns and Mark Martin all joining in the scoring. Andy Ashwin kicked six conversions.

In London 2 SW, a fine defensive performance underpinned another bonus point win for Champions London Cornish, five tries on the road enough to see off mid table Winchester by 32-5. Tries were scored by Rich Stephens, George Kimmins with two, Mark Osei-Tutu and Matt Hakes, Kimmins adding two conversions and a penalty.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, it looks like that despite a fine 67-14 win at Tavistock Falmouth cannot yet pop the champagne corks and celebrate the league title.

Despite losing AJ Geach to a red card mid-way through the first half when the Eagles led 26-7, the visitors were in no mood to buckle and pressed their foot on the pedal even harder.

In the end Seb Firth (3), Tom Edmonds (2), Tom Simmons, Dan Hubble, Tom Spiller, Mark Lea, David Jones and Hugo Page scored the tries with Justyn Irons slotting six conversions.

Pirates Amateurs couldn’t do Saltash any favours as they went down 44-15 at the Mennaye to second place Paignton. The Amateurs scored three good tries through Steve Evans, Hitchens and Lonsdale.

Saltash kept the pressure on Paignton with a 62-17 win over relegated Topsham, Dom Mulberry, Steve Hillman, Phil Eatwell (2), Nick Blake (2), Ryan Cruickshanks, Kieran Down, Simon Nance and Ben Stean all crossed form tries with Harrison Reburn (4), Blake and Down kicking six conversions.

Penryn boosted their morale with a 31-27 win at Withycombe. Borough’s tries came via Grant Randlesome, James Salisbury (2) and Will Gibson, all converted by Mitch Vague who also landed a penalty.

Lanner pulled off another fine win this time at Plymouth Argaum 22-16. Adam Kevern, Adam Harris and Dave Hewitt scored tries with Nick Prout kicking the other points.

Bottom of the table Tamar Saracens 12-9 win over Bodmin did the Cornish side no favours and sees them slip into the bottom three.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Hayle clinched the title in style defeating Helston 82-7 scoring twelve tries. Congratulations to the Lions who have bounced back into the Cornwall & Devon League at the first attempt.

Newquay Hornets remain in second after their 31-7 win in the North Coast derby at St. Agnes.

Liskeard-Looe are just two points behind Hornets following their win 44-17 over Roseland.

Camborne School of Mines defeated Veor 44-17 to put paid to the visitor’s outside hopes of a play-off place.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, leaders Illogan Park were given a fright at Stithians before emerging 22-20 winners.

They remain four points ahead of Lankelly-Fowey who beat St. Just 48-24.

Lankelly-Fowey travel to Illogan Park this Saturday, for what looks set to be a title decider and looking to repeat their 34-16 win earlier in the season.

Perranporth had a walkover against Camelford.

On Sunday the second Tribute Cornwall Cup semi-final was played at Wadebridge and it was the Camels that came through against Truro 42-31 thanks to tries from Matt Ballard (2), Adam Blackmore (2), Joe Pretty, Mike Rawlings and Harry Smith. James Grubb kicking the other seven points.

Well done to the Camels who will now face St. Austell in the final on Easter Monday at Redruth RFC.

Outside of the Cornish Pirates Championship game at leaders London Irish it was the National Cup Quarter-finals that took centre stage.

The Pirates were rocked by a dazzling Irish first half spell that saw the home side race into 34-0 lead inside 30 minutes.

Credit though to the Cornish Pirates as they came back with a couple of unconverted tries before half-time through Jake Parker and Alex Dancer.

London Irish found the Cornish Pirates a harder nut to crack during the second half adding just one further try right at the end to end up 39-10 winners.

With Jersey winning the Pirates have now slipped back to sixth in the Championship, five points behind Doncaster Knights in fourth and ten behind Ealing in third.

With the Knights next up at the Mennaye this Sunday, nothing less than a win will do to keep any hopes alive of making the top four.

In the South West Division Final of the Intermediate Cup (otherwise known as the quarter-finals) Truro had a resounding win at Southern Counties South side Swanage & Wareham 46-10.

Luke Tidball helped himself to four tries whilst Ashley Hosking scored a brace and kicked four conversions and a penalty for a twenty-one point haul. Truro’s other try came from Matt Symons.

Truro now face a trip to Charlton Park for their semi-final after the London side defeated a depleted London Cornish 32-17, the exiles first competitive loss this season.

Meanwhile in the South West Divisional Final (it’s still a quarter-final) of the Senior Vase, Saltash beat visiting Swindon College Old Boys 22-5 at Moorlands.

Ashes scored three tries through James Moriarty, Lewis Wells and Shaun Crawford with Harrison Reburn kicking a couple of conversions and a penalty.

Saltash’s reward is a semi-final tie at Farnham in Surrey.

The only league rugby in Cornwall was played in Cornwall Leagues 1 & 2. Hayle moved to within a win of sealing the Cornwall 1 title without playing as Roseland couldn’t raise a side.

Newquay Hornets have moved back to second place behind Hayle after defeating Liskeard-Looe 38-15. Officials at Hornets have indicated to league officials that they will decline promotion for this season as they look to rebuild the club.

Fourth placed Veor lost ground when they were defeated at Helston 33-30, whilst St. Agnes pipped Camborne School of Mines 21-17.

In Cornwall 2, Illogan Park went back to the top of the table without playing as Perranporth conceded the game. Illogan Park are now four points ahead of Lankelly-Fowey.

Camelford did travel to Redruth Albany and played a friendly game having conceded the league points.

Stithians played and won at St. Just 18-17.

St. Austell won through to this season’s Tribute Cornwall Cup final after beating Falmouth 27-13 at Tregorrick Parc.

Falmouth led at the break 6-3 thanks to a couple of Tom Edmonds’ penalties to an effort from Liam Freeman for the Saints.

In the second half St. Austell pulled away thanks to tries from George Knowles (2), Freeman and Miles Davey with Freeman landing a couple of conversions.

Falmouth replied with a David Jones’ try again bettered by Edmonds.

St. Austell will face in the final either Wadebridge Camels or Truro who play this Sunday.

On Sunday there was disappointment for St. Austell Colts when they lost their National Colts Cup Quarter-final at Guildford 38-12.

Cornwall Under 20s completed their pool matches suffering a second defeat when going down to Hampshire Under 20s 25-19 at Overton.

The Cornish lads found themselves 20-0 down early in the second half before rallying with three tries but Hampshire scored a fourth try to make sure they topped the group and leave Cornwall in third place.

In the other game Gloucestershire defeated Berkshire 31-5 to ensure the second qualifying berth.

Photo: Tom Sandercock one of four Launceston players in the Cornwall squad on Sunday

Cornwall Under 20s travel to play Hampshire this Sunday knowing nothing less than a win will do to keep them in this season’s competition.

It will be a tough task against a Hampshire side that has won both opening games, but one the Cornish lads will relish.

CRFU President Peter James said “This will be another test for these young guys; having won one and lost one it is all  to play for. Having watched them at Redruth and Camborne I know they have the spirit and ability to put in a good performance and get a result!”

For Cornwall and Hampshire it is all to play for on the day along with Gloucestershire in the other match, results will determine the quarter finalists from the three teams.

Cornwall have once again shuffled the pack for this game with no less than eight changes to the starting XV from the Gloucestershire game.

There is a completely new front row with St. Ives’ James Bishop at loose-head teaming up with hooker Luis Powell and tight-head Jack Hodge both from Redruth and with National League experience.

Dan Reed comes in to partner Hugo Culverhouse in the second row with another Camel Harry Smith coming into the back row.

In the backs fit again Fraser Honey comes in at fly half whilst there are recalls for both Ethan Tyler (wing) and Toby Robinson full-back.

Coach Mike Rawlings said. “The result against Gloucestershire was disappointing, they out scrummaged us and conditions on the day led to a forward orientated game and they rightly took advantage. On the day they deserved the win and will take the fight to Berkshire to try to claim a quarter-final spot.”

Cornwall Captain Will Gilder said. “The guys were disappointed to lose against Gloucestershire but on the day they were the better team and played to their strengths. We have had two further training sessions and look forward to what will be a hard trip up to Overton to face Hampshire in our final pool game of the season.

“Having the conditions in our favour in the first half and with the score only 9 – 12, meant the final 40 minutes was always going to be a tough ask. However, to lose the second half by only the 6 points, showed true guts and determination from the guys.”

Team manager Chris Lea said. “It’s real shame after the first game of the season, but they are still in with a chance, but it is a must win game. The vagaries of U20 rugby mean we lose up to 50% of our squad every year through age qualification. There are a number of these guys who will be around next season and we will be looking at new talent who can come into the squad and join them next season.”

CORNWALL RFU UNDER 20 TEAM V HAMPSHIRE SUNDAY 19 MARCH 2017 @ OVERTON RFC 1 PM KO

1)     JAMES BISHOP             St IVES RFC

2)     LUIS POWELL                REDRUTH RFC

3)    JACK HODGE                    REDRUTH RFC

4)    HUGO CULVERHOUSE  WADEBRIDGE CAMELS RFC

5)    DAN REED                         WADEBRIDGE CAMELS RFC

6)    HARRY SMITH                 WADEBRIDGE CAMELS RFC

7)    WILL GILDER (CAPT)     St. AUSTELL RFC

8)     MAX DUGGAN                 St AUSTELL RFC

9)     NOAH NASH                    BRIXHAM RFC

10)   FRASER HONEY            LAUNCESTON RFC

11)   CAVAN BOYER                St AUSTELL RFC

12)   MATT BLEE                    CAMBORNE RFC

13)   DECLAN MATTHEWS   REDRUTH RFC

14)   ETHAN TYLER               TRURO RFC

15)   TOBY ROBINSON          St AUSTELL RFC

REPLACEMENTS;

16)   MATT HEALY                 PENRYN RFC

17)   AARON VINCENT          LANKELLY FOWEY RFC

18)   JACK OSBORNE           LAUNCESTON RFC

19)   CAMERON SAYER        CAMBORNE RFC

20)   REUBEN EDWARDS     LAUNCESTON RFC

21)   TOM SANDERCOCK     LAUNCESTON RFC

22)   HARVEY JONES            UNATTACHED

TRAVELLING RESERVES:

23)     HECTOR BRIGHT            St AUSTELL RFC

24)     CALLUM BOYCE             St AUSTELL RFC

25)     CALLUM DEWSON          LAUNCESTON RFC

26)     KIERON VINSON             PENRYN RFC

Coaches – Mike Rawlings, Bryn Jenkins, Matt Shepherd

Team Manager – Chris Lea

There was huge disappointment for the Cornish Pirates on Friday night when they lost their quarter-final tie in this season’s British & Irish Cup to Jersey Reds at rue des Landes 36-20.

A late flurry from the visitors when they scored a couple of tries saved some blushes on a night to forget.

Despite having lock Brett Beukeboom back from international duty with Canada, the Pirates lost flanker Alex Cheesman early in the game with a suspected dislocated and broken thumb.

Despite a couple of early Will Cargill penalties the Pirates found themselves trailing 21-6 at half-time and it got worse soon after the re-start. With time running out and trailing 36-6 the Cornish side struck back with late tries from skipper Tom Duncan and prop Paul Andrew both converted by Laurence May, but it was far too little too late.

Coach Gavin Cattle rued his side’s performance. “It was far below what we have achieved this season, our kicking game was poor as was our kick execution, we were second best at scrum time also. Hats off to Jersey who deserved the win on the night.”

In National League 2 South on Saturday, Redruth defeated Clifton at the Recreation Ground 26-7.

A dour first half saw the Reds lead 7-0 at the break thanks to a pick and go try from skipper Kyle Marriott converted by fly-half Joe Elderkin.

In the second half Elderkin finished off a fine move for the Red’s second try with late scores coming from Dean Bonds and the excellent Jack Oulton, Elderkin added a further two conversions.

In National 3SW, Camborne fought back at Bournemouth from 27-5 to draw 33 all.

Trailing 17-0 the Cherry and Whites got on the board thanks to an unconverted try from Jack Simmons. Bournemouth stretched away again before Town struck back with tries from Rhodri McAtee and Jon Drew both converted by Rhys Brownfield. Bournemouth added two further penalties before further converted tries from Drew and Sam Bartle tied the scores.

Camborne’s three points from the game keep them in third place, two pints behind second placed Dings Crusaders.

At the other end of the table Launceston lost 20-15 at Bracknell and now find themselves eight points behind Lydney and safety.

There was a welcome and timely return from injury for Fraser Honey who kicked a conversion and penalty, Greg Loydall and Jordan Duke with the tries for the All Blacks.

In Tribute Western Counties West, defeat for Truro at relegation haunted Crediton 20-16. Jack Tidball scored Truro’s try converted by Ashley Hosking who also kicked three penalties. With five games to play Truro could still nick a play-off place if other results go their way.

St. Ives completed the double over Wadebridge Camels winning 20-15 at Alexandra Road. Jacob Ninnes, Paul Nicholas and Lewis Thomas scored tries for the Hakes with Jordan Gott kicking a conversion and a penalty.

For the Camels Mike Rawlings and Jack Scott scored tries with James Grubb adding a penalty and a conversion.

St. Austell went down to likely champions Exeter University 38-14. Toby Robinson and Peter Rowe scored tries for the Saints both bettered by Liam Freeman.

Bude got a vital win in their battle at the bottom of the table against fellow relegation candidates Wellington 22-15. Adam Black, James Comber and Matt Trewin scored tries with Dan Pearce kicking a penalty and two conversions.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish won 41-27 at Old Tonbridgians, a result that sees them crowned champions and promotion to London 1 South next season (level 6). James La Broy (3), Tom Jeffery (2), Jake Slade and Matt Hakes scored the exiles tries with George Kimmins adding three conversions.

Celebrations were marred by an injury to centre Dave Funston early in the second half who had to be hospitalised but thankfully appears to be on the mend. We wish him well.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, Falmouth clinched promotion without playing as Tamar Saracens couldn’t raise a side. The league title should be clinched at home to Tavistock on March 25^th.

Saltash kept the pressure on Paignton for the second promotion place with a 38-17 win at Bodmin, who have slipped into the relegation berth following this latest defeat.

Ryan Rayner (2), Ryan Cruickshanks, Steve Hillman, Shaun Crawford and Lewis Wells all crossed for tries for the Ashes with Harrison Reburn kicking four conversions.

For Bodmin Paul Carter, Cody Armstrong and Harry Harland scored tries with Jamie Taylor adding a conversion.

Penryn lost at Paignton 35-7 with Matt Horton scoring their only try which he converted.

Lanner enjoyed another resounding win seeing off Pirates Amateurs at St. Day 43-3.

The Falcons scored seven tries through Dave Hewett (3), Jordan Hood (2), Robbie Kessell and Nick Prout who also added a conversion and two penalties.

Dan Magee kicked a penalty for the Amateurs.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Hayle took a big step towards the title and an immediate return to the Cornwall & Devon League next season with a 33-0 win over Newquay Hornets.

Liskeard-Looe moved above Hornets into second place following their 36-7 win at Lux Park against St. Agnes.

Veor are within striking distance in fourth place after their 27-7 win at home to Roseland.

Helston beat Camborne School of Mines 24-0 at Penryn.

The Students are in action this Wednesday evening when they travel to leaders Hayle a game brought forward due to the forthcoming Easter holidays.

Sadly only one game was played in Tribute Cornwall 2 when leaders Lankelly-Fowey won at Stithians 19-7. The game was cut short due to an injury to a Stithians player after 63 minutes. We wish him well.

Both Illogan Park and St. Just were awarded walkovers against Redruth Albany and Perranporth respectively; however Perran travelled to St. Just and played a friendly game.

Congratulations to Jack Nowell as England retained the Calcutta Cup and the RBS 6 Nations Championship following their 61-21 against Scotland at Twickenham.

They now look to complete back-to-back Grand Slams and Triple Crowns in Dublin on Saturday.

England Under 20s will seek to complete their own Grand Slam against Ireland at Donnybrook with Cornish Pirates dual registered player Josh Caulfield in the squad.

There was no St. Piran’s Day win for the Cornish Pirates in their Greene King Championship fixture against Jersey Reds on Sunday at a windswept Mennaye.

The Islanders took the spoils 7-5 with the few points scored all coming during the second half.

Pirates had first use of the wind, and to be fair didn’t appear to make best use of it.

Jersey got a converted try before Kyle Moyle pounced on confusion in the Jersey twenty-two following Max Bodilly’s speculative kick, sadly Will Cargill’s effort sailed past the right hand upright at the Newlyn end.

Coach Alan Paver was disappointed his side couldn’t have made more of their possession. “It was difficult for both sides but credit to Jersey for handling it better. We couldn’t keep possession, we kicked poorly from hand, our lineout didn’t function. That period of pressure we had near half-time on their line and then the referee pings us at scrum time was hard to take. We’d driven them back twice and then it goes down, the referee saw something so there we are. It was the right decision from the lads we were the dominant scrum building momentum.

Paver expects Friday’s Cup game to be just as physical. “We will prepare for Friday night it’s going to be another huge challenge for us, two sides locking horns, set-piece will be key, we will keep that wheel turning and hope we can do enough to get the win over there.”

On Saturday, Redruth made the long trip to Canterbury worthwhile as they ran out winners in their National League 2 South game 29-18. Tommy Phillips, Jack Oulton (2), Matt Gidlow and Joel Matavesi all crossed for tries with Joe Elderkin adding two conversions on his debut. The win lifts the Reds back up to fourth place with six games to play.

In National 3 SW, Camborne slipped to only their second home defeat of the season as leaders Old Redcliffians virtually sealed promotion with a 23-12 win.

Matt Blee and Jack Simmons scored tries for the Cherry and Whites with Rhys Brownfield adding a conversion in the swirling wind.

Town slipped to third following this defeat just a point behind Dings Crusaders and still with a shout of a play-off place.

At the other end of the table Launceston battled to another vital win 8-7 against visitors Bournemouth. Brandon Rowley, on his club debut, scored the All Blacks try with Martin Kneebone kicking the vital penalty. Launceston have closed the gap on Lydney to just four points. They have all to play for.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro defeated St. Ives 15-10 at St. Clements Hill. Ollie Seagrove, Mark Carlyon and Jack Hazelton all scored unconverted tries for the city side, whilst for the Hakes Jamie Prisk crossed for a try converted by Jordan Gott who also kicked a penalty.

Wadebridge Camels won a try-fest against Bude 41-31 in the North Cornwall derby.

Camels out scored Bude seven tries to five with Rhys Bright getting two for Wadebridge.

St. Austell got a welcome win 24-12 against Devonport Services at home. Cornwall Under 20 star Max Duggan with two more tries to add to his impressive haul this season. Hugh Noot scored the other try all converted by Liam Freeman who also nudged a penalty over for good measure.

Almost there are London Cornish following their latest win in London 2 SW. The exiles won 19-10 at Effingham & Leatherhead. Matt Hakes scored their only try brilliantly converted in the conditions by George Kimmins, who also landed four penalties. A bonus point win against Old Tonbridgians next Saturday will see them clinch the league and promotion to London 1 South next season.

The same can be said for Falmouth in the Tribute Cornwall & Devon league. A 32-22 win against second placed Saltash on the artificial pitch at Keyham, the only Cornish derby played in Devon, puts the Eagles a massive 18 points clear with five games to play, and with their next game at home to relegated Tamar Saracens on Saturday another five points will see them crowned.

A brace of tries each from Tom Spiller and Tom Edmonds plus the trusty boot of Justyn Irons saw Falmouth to the win.

Saltash battled well scoring four tries through Will Morton, Ollie Mulberry, Tom Rixson and Phil Eatwell with Kieran Down adding a conversion. Saltash remain in second place four points ahead of Paignton, who have a game in hand, and who they visit on the last day of the season!

Lanner sid the double over Penryn when they won 22-10 at the Memorial Ground. Nick Prout (2), Dan Job and Jordan Hood scored for the Falcons with Prout adding a conversion. For the Borough Grant Randlesome got a try converted by Matt Horton who also added a penalty.

Pirates Amateurs edged Honiton 18-17 at the Mennaye thanks to a last-gasp Dan Magee penalty. Ryan Stanley and Steve Evans scored the Ams’ tries with Magee adding a conversion and an earlier penalty.

Bodmin slipped to another defeat 36-10at Plymstock. Jon Trevarthan added the conversion to a penalty-try and also a penalty for their points.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Hayle won 15-8 at St. Agnes to move clear of Newquay Hornets who were defeated at home by Veor 13-7. Liskeard-Looe closed the gap on Hornets following their 22-3 win over bottom of the table Camborne School of Mines. Roseland beat Helston 19-7.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, St. Just defeated Redruth Albany 37-7. Illogan Park and Lankelly Fowey had walkovers against Camelford and Perranporth, although Perranporth played the game as a friendly.

Congratulations to Camborne Reserves who retained their Tribute Duchy League title following a 27-6 win at nearest challengers St. Austell.

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.