Words Bill Hooper, photos Simon Bryant Ikitisphoto

Photo: Cornwall squad at a sunny Redruth!

Cornwall went through their paces last night (Thursday 5 May) at Redruth, ahead of Saturday’s opening game in this season’s County Championship campaign, which sees the Duchy defending the Bill Beaumont Cup thrillingly won at Twickenham last May against Lancashire.

The Cornwall Selectors have had much food for thought following Cornwall’s fine 45-10 win against Devon to retain the Tamar Cup for a fifth year.

Following a selection meeting at St Austell on Monday, the selectors were again locked in discussions last night at Redruth. My sources tell me that they are mulling over one or two positions with the bulk of the side picked.

Nineteen of the players who went to Twickenham last season were at training last night. Add to that all those players that featured in the Tamar Cup, plus players such as Sam Matavesi and Greg Goodfellow then you can see the dilemma the selectors are facing.

Photo: Graham Dawe get his point across

I spoke with Graham Dawe prior to training and asked for his thoughts on the eve of another campaign for Cornwall.

I asked him if being defending champions brought added pressure. He said: “Well yes, there is, as always, massive expectations from the Cornish public, supporters committee and selectors, but as in any campaign there is pressure, all we can do is manage that expectation and deliver.”

Dawe was delighted with the performance of the squad against Devon: “I think all the lads put their hands up to be considered for this game. I was impressed with the start and the way the set-piece went, the boys really showed pride and commitment to the shirt. I couldn’t have asked for much more.”

Dawe is taking each game as it comes without looking ahead too much. A good start on Saturday is vital to the success of the campaign: “The first game is always important. If you don’t win it then you are struggling and relying on others. Gloucestershire are always a physical side but we will concentrate on our game, putting together the components we want to play. We highlight five main components and we want to get those five right. If you get ahead of yourself in sport looking too far ahead, you find it all comes tumbling down.

Photo: Greg Goodfellow back on familiar turf

Fitness has always played an important part in Dawe’s preparations and I asked him the fact that many of the squad had been playing National league 1 rugby with him at Albion this season was a plus: “Well, you could look at it that way, but even these guys have to earn the right to play. There is no question that every Cornishman aspires to pulling on the black and gold and running out at Redruth or Camborne in front of a huge crowd that drives the lads on. We want to get the crowd behind us from the off, they have a key role to play.

“I have played here before when things haven’t gone well and they get on your back, and quite rightly so because they expect success. Last season we were under the cosh from Hertfordshire and it took a great try from Robin Wedlake and a try saving tackle from John Dawe to see us through against a good side who matched us all the way.”

STOP PRESS SIDE JUST RELEASED

CORNWALL TEAM TO PLAY GLOUCESTERSHIRE 7 MAY 2016

1. Tom Cowan-Dickie, Redruth
2. Rupert Freestone, Plymouth Albion
3. Craig Williams, Redruth
4. Ben Hilton, Cornish All Blacks
5. Tony Whittle, Camborne
6. Kyle Marriott, Redruth (Captain)
7. Sam Matavesi, Plymouth Albion
8. Herbie Stupple, Plymouth Albion
9. Matt Shepherd, Plymouth Albion
10. Billy Searle, Plymouth Albion
11. Robin Wedlake, Plymouth Albion
12. Nielson Webber, Redruth
13. Sam Parsons, Redruth
14. Jon Dawe, Plymouth Albion
15. Jake Murphy, Plymouth Albion

Replacements:
Richard Brown, Redruth
Barry-John Chapman, Taunton
Damien Cook, Camborne
Chris Fuca, Redruth
Greg Goodfellow, Chinnor
Lewis Vinnicombe, Redruth
Lewis Webb, Taunton

Coaches: Graham Dawe, Ian Morgan
Strength & conditioning: James “Earpy” Earp

Photo: Player’s player of the Year at Redruth Tom Cowan-Dickie

On the final Saturday of the league season a good crowd of over 1,000 enjoyed the sunshine, rugby and beers as both the Reds and Redingensians served up an end of season thriller in National League 2 South, that ended in a 33-all draw.

It was a real ding-dong affair that see-sawed all afternoon. The Reds found themselves on the wrong side of the referee, especially in the first half as the penalty count mounted.

Still they managed to get a share of the spoils with Brad Howe’s late try and Dave Mankee’s fourth conversion.

Other tries were scored by Lewis Vinnicombe (2), Tom Cowan-Dickie and a penalty-try award.

Before the game, Kyle Marriott was named the Redruth Supporters Player of the Year.

Other awards made the following evening included:
Hellfire Shield (Best Team Player) – Luke Hattam
Attendance & Fitness Trophy – Brett Rule
Roy Jennings Cup (most improved player) – Brad Howe
Mr & Mrs JT Penberthy Shield (Development XV Player of the Year) – Jack Williams
Nathan Thomas Shield (Most Improved Young Player) – Luke Hattam
AJ Paul Cup (Club Person of The Year) – Chris Fuca
Players Player of The Year – Tom Cowan-Dickie.

Congratulations to all award winners!

The Cornish All Blacks completed their programme with another big loss at play-off hopefuls Old Albanian 90-3. The CABs will look to re-group next season in National League 3 SW.

Congratulations to Barnstaple who won their play-off and join Exmouth in National League 2 South next season.

In Tribute Western Counties West, both our relegated sides completed their programme. Penryn with a depleted side and one eye on the Bank Holiday Monday Cup Final (lost 62-8 to Camborne) were beaten 47-12 at Crediton. Rob Banks kicked four penalties for the Borough.

Saltash lost at home 68 – 0 to champions Okehampton, who will go into South West 1 West next season.

Up in London, there was more play-off disappointment for London Cornish as they lost 37-31 to Sevenoaks. The Exiles looked down and out at 29-9 down at half-time. They rallied superbly in the second half to 29-23 but the Kent side held on to secure a spot in London 1 South next season.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, Tavistock’s 15-15 draw at Newquay Hornets was enough to save them and condemn Hayle to Cornwall 1 next season. Matt Burbridge and Dan Johns scored tries for the relegated Hornets with Ryan Johns adding the other points with the boot.

Falmouth lost at Withycombe 27-24, the Devon side with one eye on a Twickenham visit next weekend did enough to win the game against the Eagles.

Pirates Amateurs lost at home to Honiton 24-17. Mike Roach, Rhodri McAtee and Ashley Weston scored tries with McAtee adding a conversion.

Congratulations to Camborne Reserves who 20-0 at St. Austell to clinch the inaugural Tribute Duchy League.

Photo: Steve Larkins on duty in Japan with Truro College at the Sanix Tournament

Truro College have won their opening three games in the Sanix Tournament in Japan. A 47-3 win over Saga Technical High School was followed up by a much tighter affair a last minute 20-15 win over Tokyo University Gyosei HS, thanks to a length of the field try and conversion to win the game. Their final pool game saw them defeat Koreans Soeul University HS 43-3.

Truro College then faced Iwami Chisuikan High School in the last eight and won another tight game 24-21.

They will now face Higashi Fukuoka High School in Wednesday’s semi-final.

On Saturday, all roads lead to Redruth as Cornwall begin their defence of the Bill Beaumont Cup against Gloucestershire. A big crowd is expected, and hoped for, to cheer the boys on!

Tickets are £10 on the gate with under 16s free. £5 for stand transfer.

Photo: A fitting finale for coach Liam Chapple

Camborne retained the Tribute CRFU Cornwall Cup with a resounding 62-8 win against a valiant Penryn side, who kept on playing right up to the final whistle.

The win was Camborne’s fourth in a row, and a record equalling tenth as they join their great rivals Redruth as record joint winners of the Cup.

Sadly, as things stand, Camborne will not be able to add to their successes next season, as promotion to National League 3 SW means that they will be playing in the Tribute Cornwall Super Cup alongside Redruth and Launceston.

Camborne got off to a great start with an early penalty kicked by full back Rhys Brownfield before winger Alex Ducker scored the first of his three tries in the game, following a great break by centre Jack Simmons.

Penryn were working hard with the back row of Grant Randlesome, skipper George Jones and No.8 Jordan Rose to the fore. Prop Matt Williams latched on to an interception to trundle up Camborne twenty-two, Borough got a penalty, which they kicked to the corner. From the lineout claimed by Randlesome, lock Ben Trevaskis stormed over in the corner for an unconverted try.

Photo: Ben Trevaskis who scored Borough’s only try

Penryn’s fly half Rob Banks then added a fine penalty from 40 meters out to level the scores just after the half-hour mark.

Camborne took a firm grip on the final with two further tries before half-time, the first from prop Malcolm Hearn after several phases and then a fine score from centre Richie Kevern following good work from half-backs Taron Peacock and Murray Westren. Brownfield bettered both scores to put Town 20-8 up at half-time.

In the second half the greater fitness of Camborne began to tell, skipper Dave Roberts got the first try of the second half following another good run from Kevern.

Photo: Richie Kevern followed up his fine game for Cornwall on Tuesday night with another great game in the Cup Final

Giant lock and man-of-the-match Ben Kemp was the next to cross the whitewash.

Penryn then found themselves down to fourteen men as replacement winger George Mitchell was yellow carded for a high tackle.

It didn’t help the Borough’s cause as Ducker completed his hat-trick with further tries coming from Brownfield and Kenward.

Brownfield converted all but the final of the second half scores for a personal tally of twenty points.

Camborne’s Director of rugby Liam Chapple came on to play the last few minutes of the game but the lads couldn’t conjure a try-scoring chance for him on his Camborne swansong but he did kick the final conversion.

With the Camborne Reserves crowned Champions of the Duchy Tribute League on Saturday it all capped a fine Bank Holiday weekend for the Cherry and Whites faithful.

After seeing his side presented with the cup Liam Chapple spoke of his great pride he has in his players: “That caps off the season for us nicely, add the Duchy League title the Reserves won on Saturday then it’s been a great season. The time is right for me to stand aside; the boys are ready to step up to that next level. I shall miss this group of players, if they stick together for the next couple of seasons they could push on to the next level again.”

Chapple was full of praise also for Penryn: “They stuck at it throughout and did their club proud it’s been a difficult season for them but I am sure they will bounce back.”

Penryn’s coach Paul Trevaskis was philosophical with his side’s defeat: “Well played Camborne! They had too much for us today. We knew it would be tough, but well done to our boys who showed great commitment throughout to do the club and town proud.”

Camborne: R Brownfield, B Drew, J Simmons, R Kevern, A Ducker, M Westren, Taron Peacock; M Hearn, L Trewhella, J Drew, D Cook, B Kemp, T Whittle, J Goldsworthy, D Roberts (Capt).

Replacements (all used): S Bartle, A Zacharovas, M Woolcock, S MacDonald, S Kenward, L Chapple.

Camborne scores: Tries, Ducker (3), Hearn, Kevern, Roberts, Kemp, Brownfield, Kenward, Conversions, Brownfield (6), Chapple, Penalty, Brownfield.

Penryn: C Hinchley, W Paine, M Vague, A Seviour, J Salisbury, R Banks, Tian Peacock; R Burley, J Smith, M Williams, A Hughes, B Trevaskis, G Jones (Capt), G Randlesome, J Rose.

Replacements (all used): J Dale, K Beesley, K Oldfield, R Hancock, P Hinchley, G Mitchell.

Penryn scores: Try, Trevaskis, Penalty, Banks

Yellow Card: Mitchell (67)

Referee: Stuart Read (Devon RRS)

Crowd: 512

Man-of-the-match: Ben Kemp another busy afternoon from the giant lock worked hard put in some storming runs and scored a good try.

In the Tribute Clubs Cup Final which preceded the Camborne v Penryn game, Lanner took revenge on Veor (who beat them in last season’s final) to complete their own league and cup double winning 23-8.

For the village side it was their first win ever in the Cornwall Clubs Cup.

Veor took an early lead thanks to a penalty from Gareth Williams, but Lanner soon levelled matters through man-of-the-match Matthew Cann.

Cann then added the conversion to a bizarre penalty-try award and then kicked a second penalty to leave the Falcons 13-3 to the good at half-time.

With heavy drizzle driving across the pitch, Veor lost a couple of players to sin bin in the second half as both Andrew Lancaster and Joe Parma headed for the naughty step.

Cann extended Lanner’s advantage with a further penalty before converting No.8 Dave Hewitt’s try.

Veor got some consolation near the end, when winger Bevin Stone put in a fine run up the touchline bouncing off tackles to score in the corner.

Veor suffered another yellow card late in the game, but it was Lanner skipper Dan Job who stepped up to receive the Cup from CRFU President Kenny Plummer.

Tamar Cup 2016

Photo: Victorious Cornwall side with Tamar Cup last night

CORNWALL 45 – 10 DEVON

Report by Bill Hooper Photos Simon Bryant at Tregorrick Park

Cornwall retained the Tamar Cup, on a bitterly cold evening, with a thrilling 45-10 win against their Tamar neighbours Devon in front of a large enthusiastic crowd at St Austell.

Cornwall out-scored their opponents on the try front seven to one and could have had a hat-full more scores but for errors and solid defence from the men in green and white.

Prior to the game there was a minute’s silence in respect of former county stalwart Reg Roberts and also Devon RFU chairman David Butt, both of whom sadly passed away recently.

Despite a scrappy start from both sides, Cornwall began to drive through the forwards, earning a penalty which fly-half Dave Mankee kicked to the corner. Lock Ben Hilton was held up over the line and from the resulting scrum No 8 and skipper Kyle Marriott picked up and drove over for Cornwall’s opening try.

Photo: Cornwall skipper Kyle Marriott on the charge with Grant Randlesome in support

Further good work from the forwards notably prop Tom Cowan-Dickie, and Marriott, led to another penalty, which Mankee popped in the corner, with Hilton claiming the ball to set up Marriott for his second try at the posts. Mankee added the conversions to both opening tries.

Full back Dan Pearce looked dangerous running from deep, whilst young lock Todd Prisk and the Penryn duo of Grant Randlesome and George Jones were industrious at the breakdown.

Not surprisingly Cornwall scored a third try before half-time, when the ball was moved at pace along the line with centres Nielson Webber and Duncan Tout linking well with winger Sam Parsons, who scooted over for an unconverted try.

Photo: Sam Parsons scores Cornwall’s third try

Devon, who had already looked to the bench during the first half, did get on the board before the break when fly-half Dan Powell kicked a penalty for a 19-3 score-line.

Both sides brought on fresh players at the start of the second half, with Cornwall centre Pale Nonu soon making inroads.

Richie Kevern, on at fly-half, combined well with Tout to put flying winger Jon Dawe in for Cornwall’s fourth try.

The Camborne back was again in action, linking well with BJ Chapman in a move that almost brought a further score. Instead Kevern set up a catch and drive and when the ball was moved wide slipped in under the sticks for try number five, converted by Pearce.

Devon’s best move of the night was rewarded with a score by James Martin following good work from flanker Dan Williams, who put Martin away for the try, Olly Wickets adding the extras.

Cornwall weren’t finished yet, adding further tries before the end from the rampant BJ Chapman and Tout, both converted by Pearce to make the final score 45-10.

Cornwall skipper Kyle Marriott accepted the Tamar Cup from county presidents Kenny Plummer and Maureen Jackson.

Photo: Craig Williams with his Paul Bawden Memorial Man-of-the-Match award

After the game, Cornwall’s assistant coach Ian Morgan was delighted with the performance of his Cornwall side: “I was really pleased with how it went tonight, bearing in mind the limited preparation time we have had. I thought our defence was outstanding and our forwards were tremendous.”

Morgan felt that a few of this side had put their hands up for the opening Bill Beaumont Cup game: “It goes to show the power of that black and gold shirt when players come in and put on a performance like that. Boys from Bude, St Ives and Penryn have tonight shown their passion and commitment, fair play to them they have all worked hard at training and brought in to what we want to achieve as a county side.”

Morgan was full of praise for skipper Kyle Marriott: “He only played for forty minutes but he gave it his all. He is a great ball carrier and his work rate in the rucks and mauls is phenomenal. Other old heads like Ben Hilton, Craig Williams and Damien Cook have got so much experience at this level that we are very fortunate to have them.

“We will take tonight’s result and then build next week with our two sessions on Tuesday and Thursday at Redruth, in preparation for that first game against Gloucestershire.”

Morgan was also delighted by the crowd: “A fantastic turnout on a bitterly cold evening, they got behind the boys, we want more of the same at Redruth on Saturday week.”

CORNWALL (Redruth unless stated): D Pearce (Bude), S Parsons, D Tout (Bude), N Webber, J Dawe (Plymouth Albion), D Mankee, R Friend (Cornish All Blacks); T Cowan-Dickie, R Brown, C Williams, T Prisk (St Ives), B Hilton (Cornish All Blacks), G Randlesome, G Jones (both Penryn), K Marriott (Capt).

Replacements (all used): B Taylor (St Ives), L Chapman (Cornish All Blacks), D Cook, B Kemp (both Camborne), BJ Chapman (Taunton), C Fuca, M Shepherd (Plymouth Albion), L Jones, R Kevern (Camborne)

Cornwall scores: Tries Marriott (2), Parsons, Dawe, Chapman, Tout, Conversions, Mankee (2), Pearce (3)

DEVON (Exmouth unless stated): C Briant (Ivybridge), T Goodman (Brixham), M Wathes, L Paterson (Ivybridge), O Rice, D Powell, Matt Ryan;  J Morgan (Ivybridge), C Bryce (Brixham), M Dowrick (Newton Abbot), Jack Fahy, D Lomes (Ivybridge),  D Williams (Torquay Ath), W Sprangle (Tiverton, Capt), Ross Morshead.

Replacements (all used): I Dalton, N Berry, A Priest (Bideford), D Folland (Bideford), O Wickets (Bideford), H Ridgeway, J Martin.

Devon scores: Try Martin, Conversion, Wickett, Penalty, Powell

Yellow Card: Dalton (80)

Referee: Richard Timbrell (Bristol RRS)

Crowd: 1025

Trelawny’s Army Supporters Club Cornwall man-of-the-match: Craig Williams. Cornwall’s win was based on front row dominance and Craig anchored the scrum well all night.

Photo- Launceston’s head coach Jimmy Tucker lifted by his side’s gutsy display against Redruth

Redruth, as widely expected, won the derby against the Cornish All Blacks at Polson Bridge on Saturday in both clubs’ penultimate game of the season. Launceston pushed the Reds all the way.

Despite going down 17-34, the Cornish All Blacks put up one of their better performances of a season that they will want to forget, with many in the 883 crowd feeling they were unlucky not to get more from the game, with two late Redruth tries giving the Reds a flattering score-line.

The game was also the second leg of this season’s Tribute CRFU Super Cup, with Redruth retaining the Cup with a 51-17 aggregate score. CRFU Chairman Denis Preece was on hand to present the Cup and medals to the players.

Chris Fuca enjoyed his trip to Polson, scoring three tries with other scores coming from Lewis Vinnicombe, former All Black Nielson Webber and Luke Jones, with Dave Mankee adding a couple of conversions.

Fraser Honey kept Launceston in the hunt with four penalties as the Reds fell foul of the ref far too often, whilst Richard Friend scored their only try.

Jake Childs had a fine game for the home side and was deservedly named their man-of-the-match, whilst Chris Fuca with his three tries along with Kyle Marriott stood out for the Reds.

Redruth finish their program at home this Saturday against Redingensians, whilst Launceston face a tough trip at Old Albanian!

The Cornish Pirates completed their Championship program with a 55-33 defeat at Nottingham. Tom Duncan, Jack Andrew, Matt Evans, Laurie McGlone (fittingly) and Mike Pope all scored tries, with Laurence May and Kieran Hallett, on his final game for the club, sharing the four conversions.

It marked the end of Ian Davies’ tenure at the Pirates. Despite the success he has had at the club, he will leave with the frustration of not being able to see it fulfil its true potential, due to the on-going saga over the Stadium for Cornwall!

It also marked the final game for Nottingham’s Head Coach and former St Ives and Pirates’ player Martin Haag, who will be England Under 20s head coach next season.

Recently Cornish Pirates’ Chairman Ian Connell expressed his hope that the Pirates will move into the Stadium in June 2018.

In the Regional league, Tribute South West 1 West, champions Camborne avenged their opening day defeat at home to Weston-super-Mare with a 23-14 win in Somerset.

There was a brace of tries scored by Damien Cook with Noah Sixton getting the third. Rhys Brownfield kicked a couple of conversions and a penalty.

Other news from Camborne this weekend was the confirmation that Director of Rugby Liam Chapple will step down from his role after the County Cup final, to be replaced by Ian Morgan.

Photo: Ian Morgan back in charge at Camborne next season

Chapple can be proud of his tenure at the Cherry and Whites culminating in masterminding, along with Phil Angove, their return to the National Leagues next season.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro sealed a third place finish with a 29-18 win at Cullompton. Harvey Bell, Luke Tidball, Ben Teasdale, Matt Cross and Ashley Riches all scored tries with Ashley Hosking adding a couple of conversions.

St Austell finished on a high with a 23-22 win at Tiverton, but at a cost with lock Will Gilder suffering a suspected broken leg! Shane Johns and Adam Kellow scored tries with Cav Boyer kicking the other points.

Wadebridge Camels also finish on a high with a 51-5 win against Devonport Services. Will Pengelly scored five of the Camels’ nine tries with Dom Hawkey (2), Sam Stone and Matt Ballard getting the others, James Grubb kicked three conversions.

Penryn’s fate was sealed at home as promotion chasing Okehampton ran out 38-5 winners, Adam Hughes with Borough’s only score.

Penryn will have the consolation of disputing the Cornwall Cup Final against Camborne on Monday 2 May, at St. Austell.

Saltash’s relegation was confirmed in mid-week with their loss at Okehampton; they lost again on Saturday, this time at Kingsbridge 53-7, Ollie Mulberry with their sole try converted by Todd Croft.

Photo – DoR Dickon Moon hopes this year London Cornish can succeed in the play-off

In London 2 SW, London Cornish prepared for their play-off against Sevenoaks with a 62-22 win against KCs Old Boys. Matt Hakes scored four tries, with Stefan Duda getting a brace.

The play-off game is set for this Saturday at Sevenoaks, kick-off 3pm and any Cornish support will be most welcome as the Exiles look to gain promotion to London 1 South for next season.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, celebrations at St Ives, as the Hakes made sure of the second promotion berth with a 64-3 win against Plymstock. St. Ives scored eleven tries as they marked their return to Western Counties West in style.

Bude were awarded their shield as champions of the league following their 55-15 win against Paignton.

Pirates Amateurs, who are still playing catch-up, with three games still to play, defeated Twickenham-bound Withycombe 27-26.

Falmouth lost at Tavistock 29-10, a result that has done Hayle no good. Tavistock will escape the drop if they win at Newquay Hornets in their final game, and condemn the Lions to Cornwall 1 next season.

Hayle didn’t help their cause losing 10-6 at relegated Newquay Hornets. Bodmin rounded off their program 24-19 against relegated Exeter Saracens.

Lanner and Veor again will contest this season’s Tribute Cornwall Club’s Cup Final at St. Austell on May 2.

Lanner overcame Camborne School of Mines 22-20, whilst Veor defeated Illogan Park 36-10.

School of Mines have declined promotion via the play-offs to the Cornwall & Devon league next season, gifting Topsham the place.

On Tuesday night (26 April), Cornwall take on Devon for the Tamar Cup at St. Austell RFC kick-off 7:30 pm. Get along and cheer on the boys in their only warm up game prior to the start of their Bill Beaumont Cup campaign, which kicks off at Redruth RFC at 3pm on Saturday May 7, against Gloucestershire.

Report by Bill Hooper, photos Simon Bryant.

Photo – Grant Randlesome in action for Cornwall Development XV earlier this season

Cornwall’s selectors have opted for a mix of the proven and experimental to face Devon in this season’s Tamar Cup fixture at St Austell’s Tregorrick Park next Tuesday evening 26 April, kick-off 7:30 pm.

There are ten players from Redruth in the match-day squad, which is again captained by Kyle Marriott, who lifted the Bill Beaumont Cup at Twickenham last May.

Just two of Graham Dawe’s former players at Plymouth Albion are included for this game: last season’s Trelawny’s Army Player of the Year Matt Shepherd will start on the bench, whilst winger Jon Dawe is included in the starting XV.

Photo – Graham Dawe looking to retain the County title

There are deserved call ups for Penryn’s back row stars Grant Randlesome, who has had a terrific season despite the Borough’s lowly league position, and club skipper George Jones, who has spent most of the season on the sidelines, and has just recently begun playing again but shown good form with limited game time.

The Bude duo of full back Dan Pearce, who has been in fine form this season for the North Cornwall side in their promotion campaign and centre Duncan Tout, a prolific try scorer this season, both fully justify their selection.

Former Redruth player Todd Prisk, who began this season playing in National League 1 playing for Fylde before returning to St. Ives in November, is another young forward with great potential; he was Cornwall Under 20 captain last season.

Fellow Hake and club captain Ben Taylor get a deserved call up on the bench as replacement hooker.

Photo- Camborne’s Richie Kevern a deserved call up

Camborne provide a couple of bench replacements in the shape of lock Ben Kemp and centre Richie Kevern, both of whom have enjoyed an outstanding season in Town’s successful return next season to the National Leagues.

CORNWALL (Redruth unless stated): D Pearce (Bude), L Vinnicombe*, D Tout (Bude), N Webber*, J Dawe (Plymouth Albion), D Mankee, R Friend (Cornish All Blacks); T Cowan-Dickie*, R Brown, C Williams*, T Prisk+ (St. Ives), B Hilton* (Cornish All Blacks), G Randlesome, G Jones (both Penryn), K Marriott (Capt).

Replacements: B Taylor (St. Ives), L Chapman (Cornish All Blacks), P Joyce*, B Kemp (Camborne), BJ Chapman (Taunton), C Fuca, M Shepherd* (Plymouth Albion), S Parsons, R Kevern (Camborne)

*England Counties player

+England Counties U20 player

DEVON (Exmouth unless stated): Charlie Briant (Ivybridge), Tom Goodman (Brixham), Dean Squire (Brixham), Lewis Paterson (Ivybridge), Ollie Rice, Dan Powell, Matt Ryan;  Jon Morgan (Ivybridge), Chey Bryce (Brixham), Matt Dowrick (Newton Abbot), Jack Fahy, Dom Lomes (Ivybridge),  Dan Williams (Torquay Ath), Wayne Sprangle (Tiverton), Ross Morshead.

Replacements: Isaac Dalton, Nigel Berry, Alex Priest (Bideford), Dean Folland (Bideford), Mark Wathers, George Mears, Olly Wickets (Bideford), Mike Cox (Ivybridge), James Martin.

Departing Director of Rugby Ian Davies was left frustrated by his side’s defensive performance in his last home game in charge, as the Cornish Pirates threw caution to the wind to play their part in a thriller with London Welsh which ended in a 38-all draw.

It was a game where many of the current squad were making their final home appearance before departing to new clubs next season.

Pirates rocked their opponents with early tries from Matt Evans and departing colossus Laurie McGlone, before Alex O’Meara added a couple more before the half hour mark to secure the bonus point.

Welsh pulled it back to 26-17 at half-time and before long were just two points adrift, as they secured their own try-scoring bonus point.

Further tries from Craig Holland and Tom Riley, along with Will Cargill’s four conversions, looked to be enough for the Pirates but a last gasp effort from Welsh gave Olly Barkley the chance to tie the scores, and he didn’t miss.

After the game there were the usual end of season presentations with Laurie McGlone being awarded the prestigious President’s Cup by Terry Drew, and a special presentation being made to Ian Davies for his outstanding contribution at the Cornish Pirates.

Cornish Pirates will play their final Championship game this season at Nottingham next Saturday afternoon.

Moseley have been confirmed as the side relegated following their controversial defeat on Friday night against Bristol 24-22. They will be replaced next season by Richmond, who secured the National League 1 title winning 33-29 at Hartpury.

In National League 2 South, Redruth continued their fine run with a good 32-18 win against a lively Barnes side at the Rec.

Nielson Webber, Richard Brown, Penalty-try and Kyle Marriott were the try scorers with Dave Mankee kicking a couple of conversions and penalties with Brett Rule adding a third conversion.

Brad Howe went off after ten minutes following a twisted ankle and is likely to miss the Launceston game.

The Cornish All Blacks slumped to another defeat, this time at Chinnor 75-3. Former Red Greg Goodfellow scored two of Chinnor’s tries and kicked a couple of conversions for good measure. On-loan Pirate Kieran Goss also bagged a couple of tries.

Launceston’s sole points came from a Fraser Honey penalty.

The All Blacks face Redruth at Polson Bridge on Saturday in their final home game of the season. The game will also be the second leg of this season’s Cornwall Super Cup, with the Reds holding a 19 point advantage from the first game this season.

It was party time at Camborne as the Cherry and Whites were presented with the shield for winning South West 1 West.

Town completed their home program with a 21-17 win against play-off favourites Thornbury. Alex Ducker sped in for a couple of tries with Rhys Brownfield slotting a conversion and three penalties.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro took the wind out of leaders Kingsbridge’s sails with a fine 22-20 win to round off their home programme.

Former Red Ashley Hosking’s penalty near the end consigned the visitors to just their fourth defeat of the season.

Truro scored tries through Luke Tidball, Jack Hezelton and Toby Armstrong, with Hosking kicking a couple of conversions.

St Austell eased any worries with an excellent 39-19 win against Exeter University. The Saints scored tries through Dan Jane, Shane Johns, Sam Rhodes, James Martin, Cav Boyer and Adam Kellow with Boyer adding three conversions and a penalty.

Wadebridge Camels also eased their fears of the drop with a fine 37-12 win against Crediton who are still looking over their shoulder. Mark Grubb, Adam Blackmore, Sam Stone (2), Mike Rawlings and Will Pengelly all scored tries with James Grubb kicking a couple of conversions and a penalty.

Penryn were cruelly beaten at Sidmouth 25-24 with a last minute interception try and conversion undoing their good work.

Ben Trevaskis, Jordan Rose and Andrew Seviour scored tries with Martin Strick kicking the other points.

Penryn are six points from safety with a tricky home game against promotion-chasing Okehampton this Saturday, which they need to win to have any chance in their final game at Crediton, whom they also need to lose at Torquay! All very slim and thread-dangling!

Saltash lost at home to Tiverton 25-27. Max Venables scored a couple of tries with Tom Rixon also crossing Todd Crofts kicking the other points. A loss mid-week at Okehampton will confirm the Ashes’ swift return to the Cornwall & Devon League next season.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish booked their play-off place for the second season running with a 37-15 win at Weybridge Vandals. Tom Jeffery, Matt Hakes, Ed Atkin, Mark Osei-Tutu (2) and Chris Smart all scored tries with Luke Spells kicking the other points.

Cornish complete their league fixtures on Saturday at home to KCS Old Boys before travelling to Kent  the week after to play Sevenoaks in the play-off for London 1 South.

Further champagne was flowing in the Bude dressing room following their Tribute Cornwall & Devon League title clinching win at Plymstock 17-15. Dan Pearce was the hero with a late penalty to win the game.   Duncan Tout scored a couple of tries both converted by Pearce.

St Ives are still not confirmed as promoted alongside Bude despite a 50-0 win at Exeter Sarries. Louis Stevens, Pete Mabbott, Todd Prisk (2), Ben Taylor, Bobby Conroy-Smith, Paul Thirlby and Lewis Thomas all scored tries with Grant Thirlby knocking over five conversions.

St Ives require a point from their final game against Plymstock to clinch runners-up and promotion back to Western Counties West.

Falmouth won at the Mennaye defeating Pirates Amateurs 30-22, thanks to tries from Alex Kindjarsky, Tom Simmonds, Mark Lea and Luke Wraith with Justyn Irons adding ten points with the boot.

For the Amateurs Rhodri McAtee scored a couple of tries and they were awarded a penalty-try, Jimmy Tresize kicked a penalty and conversion with McAtee also adding a conversion.

Bodmin suffered a heavy defeat against promotion chasing Withycombe 107-8.

Hayle drew at home with fellow strugglers Tavistock 14 all. Hayle’s final game at Newquay Hornets may not be enough as Tavistock have a game in-hand also against Hornets. Hayle’s best hope is that in-form Falmouth can win at Tavistock!

Newquay Hornets conceded to Honiton.

Congratulations to Lanner who won Tribute Cornwall League 1 with 25-5 win at Perranporth. That result allied with previous leader Camborne School of Mines’ 37-12 defeat at Veor was enough to give Lanner back-to-back promotions.

Helston won 28-7 at already relegated St Agnes to send down Aggie’s North Coast neighbours Perranporth. Liskeard-Looe defeated Illogan Park, who have one eye on next Saturday’s Clubs’ Cup semi, 63-7.

It appears that League 1 runners-up Camborne School of Mines have declined to meet Topsham in the play-offs, therefore handing the Devon side a place in the Cornwall & Devon League next season.

Camborne Reserves 24 – 7 Cornwall Clubs

Camborne Reserves got some much needed game time ahead of their crucial Tribute Duchy League run in, with a victory over the Clubs XV under floodlights at Crane Park, reports Martin Symons.

The Cherry & Whites led by 12-0 early on with tries from prop Andrius Zachorovas and No 8 Olly Reynolds and a conversion by wing Kieran Whitfeld.

The County side were competitive throughout and hit back with a try and conversion from Illogan Park’s scrum-half Nick Prout.

Before half time the home side deservedly stretched their advantage to 17-7, when lock Damien George was mauled over.

The second half was nip and tuck with defences on top, but Town did manage to increase their lead towards the end of the third quarter: Sam Bartle on as a substitute No 8 was driven over from close range and replacement fly half Matt Downing struck a well judged conversion.

There were no further scores before the final whistle of an entertaining game.

Photo credit – Dan Barbary. Line out action as Camborne Reserves take on Cornwall Clubs

Photo Liam Chapple has guided Camborne back to the National Leagues

Camborne clinched the Tribute South West 1 West title on Saturday along with promotion to National 3 SW next season with a fine 25-0 win at Wells.

The Cherry and Whites set their stall out in the first minute with an Alex Ducker try converted by Rhys Brownfield.

Brownfield add the extras to centre Jack Simmons’ try for a useful 14-0 half-time advantage.

A couple of second half penalties and a conversion of Ducker’s second try by Brownfield ensured that the champagne corks were popping in the Cherry and Whites’ changing room at the final whistle.

Town will be looking to celebrate with their supporters on Saturday following their final home game of the season against Thornbury.

Photo Simon Bryant: Ian Davies will take charge for the final time at the Mennaye on Sunday.

No game for the Cornish Pirates last weekend. Sunday will see them play their final home game of the Championship season against London Welsh, who won the British & Irish Cup on Sunday. It will be sad to say farewell to many including Director of Rugby Ian Davies, who has done so much for rugby not only at the Cornish Pirates, but in general throughout Cornwall. Ian we shall miss you and we wish the very best for the future.

Redruth enjoyed another away win 44-25 at Old Elthamians in National League 2 South. Skipper Sam Parsons (2), Tom Cowan-Dickie (2), Lewis Vinnicombe and John Stevens all crossed for tries, with Dave Mankee kicking four conversions and a penalty with Brett Rule adding a further penalty.

The win consolidates Redruth’s fourth place in the league. Cambridge are assured of at least a play-off spot following Saturday’s results.

The Cornish All Blacks went down to another defeat at Polson against Bishop’s Stortford 56-7. Tom Sandercock scored their only try with Fraser Honey adding the conversion.

I took in the Western Counties West game at Penryn between the Borough and St. Austell. An exciting game ended in a narrow 23-22 win for Penryn, which keeps their hopes of avoiding the drop alive for another week.

Martin Strick scored eighteen of his side’s points with a try, three penalties and two conversions. Will Paine scored the other try.

For St Austell, Sam Kendall, Andy Inch, Cavan Boyer and Ben Chenoweth all scored tries, with Boyer adding just the one conversion.

St Austell were left frustrated having scored four tries and losing the game!

The other games in this league involving Cornish clubs saw them all lose!

Truro lost 56-26 at Tiverton. Andy Riches (2), Luke Tidball and Matt Symons scored tries for Truro to get a least a bonus point with Ashley Hosking kicking three conversions.

Wadebridge Camels picked up a losing bonus point at Cullompton, going down 18-14. Mark Grubb and Matt Ballard scored tries with Danny Thomas adding both conversions.

Saltash lost at Exeter University 55-24 to remain bottom. Ben Hocking, Sean Crawford and Simon Nance scored tries with Todd Crofts kicking the other points.

In London 2 SW London Cornish lost their top of the table clash with Cobham 12-5. Cobham are confirmed Champions, with Cornish looking to secure a play-off place at Weybridge this Saturday. Mark Osei-Tutu scored the exiles’ only try.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, congratulations to Bude, who secured promotion despite not playing as Exeter Saracens forfeited the game. Bude need one more point to secure the title.

St Ives won their promotion tussle with Withycombe 37-14. Martyn Lawrence (2), Ben Taylor (2) and Tom Nicholas scored tries with Grant Thirlby kicking the other points. St Ives should wrap up promotion next weekend at Exeter Saracens.

Falmouth beat Hayle 28-15 thanks to tries from Tom Symons (2), David Jones and Paul Saberton, all converted by Justyn Irons.

For Hayle, Damien Lynes and Danny Clackworthy scored tries, with Lynes kicking a conversion and penalty.

Bodmin had one of their best wins of the season, defeating Pirates Amateurs 35-24. Paul Carter, Ashley Carter, Lee Taylor and Cody Armstrong all scored tries to get the bonus point, with Jamie Taylor kicking fifteen points.

For the Amateurs, Steve Evans, Ryan Cornish, Ryan Stanley and Treve Dugdale all scored tries for a bonus point, with James Tresize kicking a couple of conversions.

Newquay Hornets almost pulled off a third win, only losing to visitors Paignton by a point 19-20. Aaron McPherson, Tom Eustice and George Fox all scored tries, with Ryan Johns adding a couple of conversions.

On Friday evening at Wadebridge Camels, the finals of the Cornwall Colts Cup and Shield took place.

In appalling weather the Colts Cup was won by Helston 8-7 in a tight game against St Austell.

Photo – Paul Duval: Helston Colts 2016 Winners of League & Cup

Helston were almost made to pay the price for not taking the points on offer in the conditions. After a scoreless first half, Helston took the lead with a penalty kicked by skipper Dan Duval, before adding an unconverted try dotted down by winger Ben Richards out wide. St Austell struck back immediately with a converted try to set up a tense finale.

Helston add the Cup to the League they won before Christmas, to complete a fine season.

Some cheer for Launceston, as their colts won the Shield with a 20-14 win over Camborne, scoring four unconverted tries through centre Tom Osborne with a first half brace and then during the second half from hooker Harry Lightfoot and replacement lock Hugh Green.

It was a great evening and TASC was delighted to be able to sponsor the finals.

Photo – Liam Chapple has guided Camborne to brink of National League return

It was without doubt the big game of the weekend with the most riding on the outcome. In the end Camborne’s 19-12 win against Newent wasn’t quite enough to guarantee the long cherished dream of a return to the National Leagues, however with the champagne still on ice the corks could be popping on Saturday if “Town” can get the right result at struggling Wells.

Centre Jack Simmons scored the only try for the Cherry and Whites, with full back Rhys Brownfield showing great maturity to add the conversion and four crucial penalties.

Good to learn there was a good crowd at Camborne and hopefully they will turn out in force again when Camborne take on Thornbury in their final home league game on 16th April.

In the Greene King Championship the Cornish Pirates came off second best in fifteen try thriller at Bedford Blues which ended 54-46 to the home side.

Pirates’ seven tries were scored by Tom Riley (2), skipper for the day Tom Duncan, Alex O’Meara, Matt Evans, Joe Atkinson and Alex Cheesman. Will Cargill landed three conversions and a penalty with Kieran Hallett also kicking a conversion.

“It was incredibly enjoyable,” said Ian Davies after the game, going on to add “Although the score in the end reflects that Bedford perhaps just deserved to edge it, I am proud of the players for getting back into the game near the end to score those two tries.

“Each team gave a couple of soft tries away, but having said that there were some crackers. It provided some welcome sunshine. Both sides wanted to play, and there was plenty of great rugby to witness.”

The Cornish Pirates have a weekend off before their final home game of the season against London Welsh, which will also mark Director of Rugby Ian Davies’ final game in charge at the Mennaye.

In National League 2 South, Redruth maintained their good form with a 27-16 win against Clifton. Kyle Marriott, Hugo Culverhouse, Sam Stevens and a Penalty-try award secured the bonus point with Dave Mankee adding a couple of conversions and a penalty.

A fine game from the back row notably John Stevens who seemed to be everywhere.

Head coach Steve Larkins was delighted with his side’s performance and told me that plans were all ready well in advance for next season with player signings hopefully being announced in the not too distant future.

Photo – Steve Larkins already looking ahead to next season with the Reds.

It was a hard day for Launceston as the Cornish All Blacks lost to Champions elect Cambridge 109-0. Irrespective of one’s club affiliations, no one likes to see a Cornish side on the wrong end of such a score-line. The Blacks will come again.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro had a walkover against Exeter University, whose participation in league rugby next season remains the subject of much speculation. This is due to the formation of a new BUCS competition, which will involve some Saturday fixtures. A decision will have to be made soon as it will have ramifications for the league set-up next season!

Saltash won the basement battle against Penryn 29-25, Craig Jones (2), Ollie Mulberry and Will Morton scored the tries in the Ashes’ first league win since October! Todd Crofts kicked the remaining points.

For the Borough Jordan Rose, Andrew Seviour and Will Payne scored tries with Martin Strick kicking a couple of penalties and conversions. Penryn remain seven points adrift of safety with four games to play!

St Austell did their prospects of avoiding being pulled into the mire the power of good with a 46-10 win against Torquay Athletic. James Martin (2), Shane Johns, Pete Rowe, Callum Wilson and Ben Chenoweth all scored tries with Cavan Boyer kicking five conversions and a couple of penalties.

Wadebridge Camels lost at home to promotion seeking Okehampton 5-9. Mark Grubb with their sole try.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish stormed back from a 17-3 half-time deficit at home to Old Regatian to win 25-17 with Tom Ievers scoring their final try. The result keeps them in a play-off place before Saturday’s home game against leaders Cobham.

In Tribute Cornwall and Devon League, Bude have almost booked their return to Western Counties West next season following their 40-19 win at third place Withycombe.

Bude’s tries were scored by Joe Wilson, Will Kingdon, Kyle Speare (2), Duncan Tout and Dan Pearce, who also kicked five conversions.

St. Ives did their prospects no harm with a 31-0 win at Bodmin. Louis Stevens, Guy Pallett, Todd Prisk, Sam Carter and a pen-try award were the five pointers for the Hales with Lewis Thomas adding three conversions.

This Saturday St. Ives face Withycombe at Alexandra Road.

Falmouth lost a ding-dong battle at Honiton 34-31. Bradley Cox, Justyn Irons and Nick Carne with Irons kicking the other points.

Pirates Amateurs won their derby game with Hayle 33-7, Ashley Weston, Jamie Barrett, Trev Dugdale, Charlie Goldsworthy and James Tresize all scored tries with Tresize also adding four conversions.

Newquay Hornets forfeited their game at Plymstock.

The Champion of Tribute Cornwall 1 will go down to the final game of the season in two weeks time with either Camborne School of Mines or Lanner taking the title.

The Students remain in pole position, three points clear of Lanner who beat Veor 18-14, Veor could yet finish as runners up if they defeat CSM in their final game with a bonus point and Lanner fail to beat Perranporth and unlikely scenario.

Undoubtedly the Students have the tougher fixture at Veor but a narrow win will see them crowned champions.

Helston, who lost at home to Liskeard-Looe 16-12, could yet climb out of the relegation berth if they beat winless St Agnes in their final game condemning Perranporth to Cornwall 2 alongside Aggie.

Illogan Park defeated Perranporth 21-8 in a game that also doubled as a Clubs Cup quarter-final.

Tribute Cornwall 2 program was wrapped up with Champions Roseland defeating Camelford  31-17 for an unbeaten league season.

Runners-up St. Just beat Lankelly-Fowey 33-0. Stithians defeated bottom side Redruth Albany 22-3.

This coming Friday evening sees the Final of the Trelawny’s Army Colts Cup at Wadebridge Camels RFC at 8:00 pm between Helston and St. Austell. It will be preceded by the Vase Final at  6:30 pm.

Congratulations to Camborne’s Michaella Roberts who has been selected for the England U18 Talent development group game against Canada on Tuesday 5th April at Bicton college Devon. Having represented the South West Division against the North Michaella received a call up to the squad for this game and will start as loose head prop.

The talented front rower has also recently played women’s rugby for Championship side Plymouth Albion again the Royal Navy women scoring two tries and won forward of the match in Albion’s 22-10 victory.