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

Yesterday evening, players, coaches and officials from the Cornwall RFU assembled at St. Austell Brewery Visitors Centre to plot a chart that will hopefully bring Cornwall a third successive Bill Beaumont Cup, reports Bill Hooper.

With a new group there were some new faces and inevitably some familiar faces from previous seasons who will not be participating this season.

Tristan Lark has replaced James Earp as strength and conditioning coach this season whilst a replacement backs coach is set to be formally announced very shortly, possibly later today.

Cornwall Chairman of Selectors Terry Carter said. “Selecting an enlarged squad for the team building event has been challenging with a number of new guys coming onto our radar this season. We feel we have a good balance of players with experience and determination to represent Cornwall. We have players representing a number of clubs some who have come through our development program alongside those who have progressed from our under 20s.”

On the player front it was good to see players such as Tommy Phillips, Shaun Buzza, Jack Oulton, Joel Matavesi and Alex Ducker whom have had an outstanding season for Redruth in the fold alongside seasoned campaigner Chris Fuca.

Photo: Joel Matavesi (Redruth)

Whilst from Camborne, exciting centre Jack Simmons, last season’s Cornwall Under 20 skipper, Jon Drew, and Richie Kevern amongst the Town contingent.

Photo Jon Drew (Camborne)

Prop Digby Parsons and fly-half Fraser Honey represented Launceston with former All Blacks, Ben Hilton, Jake Murphy, Robbie Dugard, Richard Friend ready for another campaign.

In addition Tom Cowan-Dickie, Matt Shepherd and Robin Wedlake, Plymouth Albion stars from last season’s campaign will once again feature for Cornwall this season.

For Cornwall coach Graham Dawe it was a chance to touch base with his new squad and get to know the players ahead of working with them. “Tonight is important in the scheme of things, said Dawe. “Some of the players here tonight I haven’t seen play and don’t know too much about but obviously come highly recommended by our selectors, we always look to uncover a nugget or two and see how far they can go. One such player could be Brixham player Dom Connor a utility back row forward who was educated at Liskeard.

Photo: Graham Dawe

Dawe isn’t too concerned about the new format of the competition. “We can’t control those matters, so we must concentrate on what we can influence, our performance and our results. The next few weeks is going to be about moulding a team from a new squad, we’ve lost a few players from last season but I am keen to see what the new lads coming in have to offer and see how much they want the shirt.

The added attraction for Cornish fans this season is a Championship clash against old foes Devon to which Dawe gave a wry smile. “We aren’t going to get ahead of ourselves, it’ll be a great occasion for the fans but I am not going to get wrapped in the hype that will surround that game, it’s another game, another hurdle to overcome on the road to where we want to be.”

Photo: Dom Connor (Brixham)

Former Cornwall skipper, and no doubt a contender for the role again this season, Ben Hilton always gets a buzz when the county squad come together. “It’s good that we have this get-together, it’s something I wanted the county to do when I first became skipper and eventually we got there and now it’s the norm. This shows that we mean business and that we take the competition seriously. The players come into the set-up and are won over by just how much this means to us all.

Photo: Ben Hilton (Barnstaple)

Hilton has no doubts that Cornwall will there or thereabouts again this season. “Two is not enough, we have to push the boundries we have to push forward the ambition. We want a third win on the trot, we want to put Cornwall on the map and fly the flag proud and bold, and say to people we are here, we are who we are do not forget Cornwall as a rugby hotbed.

“It is difficult sometimes for people to realise that there is rugby beyond Exeter and that there is a lot of talent west of the Tamar and if the Cornwall rugby team can be a vehicle for young talent to progress, like Billy Searle now at Bristol, then all well and good.

“I have had so much from my county career including playing for England Counties which has been a huge honour last season we saw Tom Cowan-Dickie, Matt Shepherd and Craig Williams all involved either during the spring games or the summer tour, so I hope other Cornwall players can taste some of that this season.

Jake Murphy is another who is looking forward to the new campaign. “Another campaign, it doesn’t seem five minutes ago that we were celebrating our win at Twickenham. It’s a new challenge with some new players coming in so we have to see how we gel as team going forward. We know the other counties are out to topple us and it’s going to be tough with our first two games on the road. I have no doubts that Graham and the coaching squad will make sure we are focused to meet the challenges ahead.

“Graham has the knack of unearthing new talent each season, see where Billy Searle is now, Christian Judge now in the Championship with Bedford so playing for Cornwall will open doors for players.

Tom Cowan –Dickie is relishing getting stuck in for Cornwall again this season. “Looking forward to it off the back of last season’s win, hopefully we can pull it off again this season. I was fortunate enough last season to play with Cornwall and also England Counties, that was a great thrill for me last year and I hope for it again this season.

All photos Simon Bryant Iktis photo

Video by Kevin Bishop from last Sunday’s Cornwall Under 20s win against Devon

Photo – Last season’s squad in action against Berkshire

Under 20s

Cornwall 33 Devon 19

U20s coaches Mike Rawlings, Bryn Jenkins and Matt Shepherd will have been pleased by the bright start their squad have made to the season prior to the Championship pool matches. With conditions good at Polson Bridge the crowd were able to see the new crop of talented Cornish lads run in five tries against their Devon counterparts.

After three weeks of training the large training squad of over 60 players representing many Cornish clubs brought together by Colin Hatch was reduced to 34 for the game against Devon. The numbers of players available at this age group is quite remarkable and represents the effort that has been invested into developing players out of Colts or College rugby. The coaches had to maintain the tricky balance of giving all the players a good chance to show their skills as the next match day squad will be reduced to 22 with 4 reserves. To come away with a win as well was really fine work and the players were really keen to make sure that the chance to play in the black and gold shirt was a proud moment and a chance not to be missed.

The tries were scored by Ethan Tyler (2) Toby Robinson, Aaron Vinson and Max Duggan but they were down to good continuity and possession and effort by their team mates. Tyler and Boyer added the conversions. Devon for their part scored three tries, (one of those a penalty try) and added two conversions. But the organisation and preparation of the Cornwall squad was very apparent and the players stuck to the plan.

There now follows one more training session at Truro College and then it’s off to Camborne on Sunday 5^th February (kick off 2pm) to play Berkshire in the first of the three pool games. The focus and attention to detail will provide the selected squad every opportunity to make Cornish supporters proud.

Cornwall squad picked to play Devon

Forwards:

Lewis Lee, Adam Wright, Matt Healy, Aaron Vincent, Callum Dewson

A win was the only objective for Camborne on Saturday and they got just that with 25-18 success against Ivybridge.

It’s been a tough few weeks at Crane Park and the Cherry and Whites mounting injury crises will not ease matters in the short term.

Having been in charge for a couple of league games Liam Chapple has had a chance to assess the situation. “I don’t think there is any need to panic. For a promoted club we are sitting in an enviable position. I’ve brought Rhodri McAtee and Timoci Kava in to bolster the squad and will be looking to bring in a few more. The players I hope to bring in will add to the quality we already have. Last week we lost three of our squad with injuries so it would be naive not to try and get some players in.

“I thought both Kava (lock) and McAtee (flanker) did well today, Rhodri was the first to put his hand up to help us out in that position, that’s testament to his commitment to this club. Both players are still getting used to our patterns and systems and that will come in the next couple of weeks.”

Camborne’s points came thanks to tries from James Goldsworthy, Rhys Brownfield and a forwards try that has been attributed to either Goldsworthy or Jon Drew, depending on the source, whilst Dave Mankee kicked a further ten points.

This Saturday Camborne travel to Launceston for what should prove to be a right ol’ battle with both sides needing the win for different reasons.

Elsewhere in National 3 SW, Launceston couldn’t back up there win last week at Ivybridge with a second success on the road at Salisbury where they lost 14-7. Ryan Westren scored their try converted by Fraser Honey.

The Cornish Pirates kept their hopes alive of a best runners-up spot in their British & Irish Cup pool with a 34-10 win against Ospreys at Maesteg.

Pirates’ tries came from the forwards with Brett Beukeboom (2), Tyler Gendall and Marlen Walker all crossing whilst the referee also awarded the visitors a penalty-try. Laurence May added a couple of conversions and a penalty with Craig Cargill also adding a conversion.

In National 2 South, Redruth followed up their fine win against Chinnor the previous week with a 28-14 win at Redingensians. Unsurprisingly Alex Ducker scored another couple of tries with Lewis Vinnicombe and Shaun Buzza also dotting down. Brett Rule kicked the other points. The only sour note being a red card for centre Pale Nonu early in the second half for an illegal tackle.

In Western Counties West, Truro turned on the style to defeat Tiverton 41-14. Tries came from Ben Teasdale (2), Ethan Tyler, Josh Symons, Luke Tidball, Ethan Pattison and Lewis Bowns. Ashley Hosking added three conversions.

Wadebridge Camels defeated St. Austell 22-13 in a hard-fought Cornish derby. Tom Rawlings, Dickie Dawe and Matt Ballard scored the Camels’ tries with Dan Thomas kicking the other points.

For the Saints, who had Adam Kellow sent off for a high tackle early in the second half, Liam Freeman scored all their points with a try, conversion and two penalties.

St. Ives lost a tight game 24-26 at home to Torquay Athletic.

Bude picked up a win 12-8 over Sidmouth at Bencoolen. James Comber scored both tries with Dan Pearce kicking a conversion.

In London 2 SW, having dropped their first points of the season last week in a draw, London Cornish got back to winning ways with a 33-13 win against Old Reigatian to open up a fifteen point gap at the top of the table.

In the Cornwall & Devon League, leaders Falmouth defeated second placed Paignton 34-0 at the Rec to go nine points clear at the top, with a game in-hand. The Eagles’ tries came from Dan Hubble, Tom Simmonds, Trevelyan Ward, Tom Spiller, Tom Edmonds and  John Baglow, whilst  Edmonds added a couple of conversions.

Penryn warmed up for the visit of Falmouth this Saturday with 27-5 win at Tavistock. Andrew Seviour, Grant Randlesome, Mitch Vague and James Salisbury scored the Borough’s tries with Vague adding two conversions and a penalty.

Saltash are back up to second following a 69-0 win at Moorlands against Argaum. Ryan Cruickshanks led the scoring with three of Ashes’ eleven tries.

Lanner won 27-6 at Bodmin and Pirates Amateurs defeated Tamar Saracens 10-7.

There was a surprise in Cornwall 1 when Liskeard-Looe defeated Hayle 8-3 at Lux Park. Chris Chew scored the East Cornwall Lions try.

Newquay Hornets are top following their 19-7 win against Helston. Roseland beat School of Mines 18-7 and Veor won at St. Agnes 16-8.

In Cornwall 2 Lankelly-Fowey are top after their 15-8 win against Redruth Albany. Stithians are second on points difference after beating Perranporth at home 22-14. St. Just inflicted a heavy defeat on a valiant Camelford 84-0.

This Sunday sees Cornwall Under 20s in action at Polson Bridge against Devon, kick –off 2 pm. This is a friendly game before Cornwall kick off the Championship proper against Berkshire at Camborne on Feb 5^th.

Ducker scored a great try against Chinnor

It was good to get back to rugby and see my first game for 2017, and what a game it was as Redruth defeated Chinnor 29-12 scoring four superb tries in a National League 2 South thriller.

The pick will be Alex Ducker’s sixty-metre run from his own twenty-two, a contender for try of the season.

The Reds first try wasn’t half bad either as Jack Oulton finished off a break by Lewis Vinnicombe. Shaun Buzza powered over for try number three with Joel Matavesi wrapping up the bonus point just after half-time.

It was a performance that pleased both Adrian Rutter and Nigel Hambly and was just the start absent head coach Marek Churcher would have hoped for to start 2017.

Liam Chapple faced with injury problems ahead of Ivybridge game

In National League 3 SW, Camborne suffered a heavy defeat at Hornets 45-6, who inaugurated their new artificial grass pitch. All Town had to show for their efforts were a couple of Dave Mankee penalties and an injury list to boot. Lock Ben Kemp has a broken arm, whilst Ben Drew filling in at flanker sustained a deep cut over an eye requiring stitches. It’s a situation that head coach Liam Chapple know’s only too well!

Launceston picked up an encouraging win at Ivybridge 23-16. Sam Snell scored their try with Fraser Honey kicking 18 points.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro won the mid-Cornwall derby at St. Austell thanks to an Ashley Hosking penalty at the death. Luke & Jack Tidball each scored tries for Truro with Hosking kicking the other points.

For the Saints Hector Bright and James Martin scored tries with Liam Freeman kicking their other points.

Wadebridge Camels lost 39-12 at Sidmouth, Dan Thomas and Matt Ballard scored tries for the Camels with Thomas kicking a conversion.

St. Ives lost 32-21 at Exeter University. Martyn Lawrence (2) and Ben Jenkin scored the Hakes tries with Jordan Gott adding a couple of penalties.

Bude faired no better at Torquay losing 41-10, Will Kingdom and Olly Denford with their tries.

Up in London 2 SW, London Cornish were held by KCS Old Boys 22 all, dropping their first points of the season. Despite the draw the Exiles have extended their advantage at the top to twelve points.

In the Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, Falmouth maintained their top spot following a 34-10 win at Lanner.

Penryn scored a point a minute as they slaughtered poor old Tamar Saracens 80-0. Borough scored twelve tries with Grant Randlesome grabbing a hat-trick as did Colin Campbell! Matt Horton added ten conversions.

Good to see Jordan Rose back in action after injury.

Pirates Amateurs defeated Saltash 17-12 to dent Ashes’ promotion hopes. Ashley Weston, Jack Nicholas and Dan Magee scored the Ams tries with Magee kicking a conversion. Phil Eatwell and Adam Coutts crossed for Saltash with Kieran Down adding a conversion. Pirates Amateurs lost skipper Jamie Barrett with a broken leg which held the game up for over an hour, we wish him a speedy recovery.

Bodmin came a cropper at Honiton who ran out convincing winners 56-0.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, there were opening day wins for Hayle 58-0 at a depleted Camborne School of Mines, Newquay Hornets who won 29-10 at Roseland, St. Agnes who pipped Helston 12-10, whist Veir and Liskeard-Looe drew 18 all.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, Lankelly-Fowey won at Camelford 43-0, Illogan Park defeated St. Just 36-5 and Stithians won at Redruth Albany 28-8.

In the Duchy Cup semi-finals both Wadebridge Camels Reserves and St. Austell Reserves won through to the final. Camels defeated Saltash 27-17 and St. Austell beat Launceston 22-3.

In the Plate semi-finals both Camborne Reserves and Bodmin Reserves advanced to the final as neither opponents could raise a side!

Photo- Redruth’s Brad Howe receives the Tony Pill Memorial Cup as man-of-the-match

REDRUTH 54-7 CAMBORNE

Words By Bill Hooper, Photos Phil Trevarton

Redruth comfortably retained the Rodda’s Milk Cup against old rivals Camborne in front of a large crowd on a sunny Boxing Day afternoon.

It’s been a difficult ten days for the Cherry and Whites and any chance of Redruth offering some seasonal goodwill to their near neighbours were soon dispelled with a powerful display of running rugby that ran Town off their legs.

Prior to the kick-off there was a minute’s silence in memory of John Bishop a stalwart of Redruth both as a player and administrator who passed away recently.

From the kick-off Redruth played at a far higher tempo than Camborne could cope with and it was no surprise that they went ahead through a try from flanker Mark Grubb who took centre Pale Nonu’s inside pass to score under the posts.

Former Mount’s Bay player Everard Reid, who has been playing with Launceston until recently, guested for the Reds at No.8.

Full-back Brett Rule added the conversion, the first of his six successful kicks in a personal haul of seventeen points.

Nonu was again prominent in the build up to Redruth’s second try scored by Rule moments later.

Both Redruth locks Brad Howe and Luke Hattam had influential games, with Howe being awarded the prestigious Tony Pill Cup as Trelawny’s Army man-of-the-match for a huge eighty minute performance.

The mercurial wing Alex Ducker set up the third try against one of his former clubs with a dazzling run before hooker Ben Priddey slipped a scoring pass to skipper Chris Fuca.

There was a brief fracas between some players which all ended amicably. Camborne fly-half Rhys Brownfield was just short of the line with Town’s best chance of the half.

Redruth spurned numerous chances before scoring a fourth try before the break through centre Joel Matavesi and a 26-0 half-time score-line.

Both sides made changes at half-time but it was business as usual for the Reds as Ducker ran down a kick through for try number five.

Huge credit to Camborne replacement Nick Wellstead who put in a double shift having played in the morning for the Reserves against the Reds in a game Redruth won 31-17.

Replacement wing Dean Bonds scored a remarkable try in Hell fire corner which involved some mid-air acrobatics.

Fuca and Matavesi then completed their brace of tries with the Redruth centre adding the conversion to his own score from wide out.

Photo- All friends after the final whistle

The Camborne faithful had already begun to depart but those that remained where rewarded as Camborne got on to the score sheet thanks to a try from replacement wing Matt Blee with Brownfield adding the extras.

Redruth’s head coach Marek Churcher was pleased with his squad’s performance. “It was good to get a run out for the squad before the New Year program and the game against Chinnor, the boys looked sharp and showed their class. Delighted also that no one appears to have picked up any knocks.”

In the Camborne camp there was disappointment at the score-line but after the problems the club have suffered the players were just glad to get back playing. “We were just happy to play today”, said club captain Richie Kevern after the game. “Our focus is on our next league game at Hornets, we had a few players missing today but they will be back, whilst we have signed Rhodri McAtee who will bring a lot of experience to the side during the second half of the season.”

Redruth: B Rule, M Bowden, J Matavesi, P Nonu, A Ducker, A Taylor, J Oulton; T Phillips, B Priddey, J Tompsett, B Howe, L Hattam, C Fuca (capt), M Grubb, E Reid.

Replacements (all used): A Wright, R Brown, T Prisk, B Fox, D Matthews, D Bonds, L Vinnicombe

Redruth scores: Tries, Grubb, Rule, Fuca (2), Matavesi (2), Ducker, Bonds, Conversions, Rule (6), Matavesi

Camborne: M Westren, B Drew, J Simmons, J Semmens, R McAtee, R Brownfield, R Kevern (capt); A Zacharovas, S Bartle, J Drew, D Cook, M Hearn, J Goldsworthy, C Sayer, M Woolcock

Replacements (all used): N Wolstead, S Macdonald, M Blee

Camborne scores: Try, Blee, Conversion, Brownfield

Referee: Zerran Bell (Devon RRS)

Crowd 1500

TASC Tony Pill Cup man-of-the-match: Brad Howe (Redruth) Having won the award last year Howe retained the cup with a strong all round performance.

Bill Hooper presents Locryn Williams with the Tony Mead Memorial Shield as TASC U.20 POY for 2016 at half-time at Redruth on Boxing Day.

Only one place to start this week and that’s in Camborne, where it has been an eventful 48 hours for all the wrong reasons.

I could sense all was not well when arriving at the ground on Saturday and this was soon confirmed when told Ian Morgan was not at the game.

You could also tell from the player’s body language that all was not as it should be and that was soon re-enforced when the game kicked off.

Camborne lost the game 6-12 and with it top spot in the National 3 SW table slipping to third but level on points with victors Dings Crusaders and Old Redcliffians all on 54 points. Camborne are third as they have lost more games.

Credit to Dave Mankee and Richie Kevern for fronting up to talk with the media after the game, in their positions it was not easy and they must be commended.

Later on we learned that Ian Morgan had been dismissed by the club and that club Chairman Alan Truscott, having earlier stated he would relinquish his role at the end of the season, decided to step down with immediate effect. Hon Sec Terry Williams has also decided step down.

Both Alan and Terry have given Camborne excellent service over a great many years and I am sorry to see them relinquish their roles.

I suspect there may be further news in the coming days but I do hope the ship can be steadied sooner rather than later at Camborne.

Whilst on the subject of Nat 3 SW, Launceston’s woes deepened as they lost at home to Hornets 16-36. Fraser Honey kicked three penalties and a conversion with Harry Dawe scoring their sole try.

In National 2 South, Redruth completed a league double with a 46-15 win at Barnstaple. The Reds notched seven tries with Alex Ducker bagging four. Tommy Phillips, Ben Fox and Luke Hattam crossed for the other scores with Brett Rule (2) and Angus Taylor kicking the conversions.

On Sunday in the B&I Cup, Cornish Pirates lost narrowly to visiting London Irish 16-17. Matt Evans and Tom Channon scored their tries with Will Cargill converting three penalties. Evans went off with a nasty looking leg injury in the second half.

It was frustrating for the Pirates as Irish have a firm grip on the pool leaving the Cornish side hoping for a best runners-up spot.

It was a better day for most of our Cornish sides in Tribute Western Counties West, Truro defeated Sidmouth 38-20 to put an end to three successive defeats. Tries came through Josh Symons (2), Luke Tidball, Ross Denning, Jack Hazelton and a penalty-try award when Tidball was illegally held back with the line at his mercy. Ashley Hosking chipped in with four conversions.

Wadebridge Camels defeated Torquay Athletic 28-3. Dom Hawkey, Matt Ballard and Will Pengelly (2) got the tries with James Grubb kicking the other points.

St Ives slipped to defeat against top dogs Devonport Services at Alexandra Road 19-14. Sam Carter scored the Hakes’ try with Jordan Gott kicking three penalties.

St Austell got a good win on the road at Burnham 17-12. Tries came from Andy Inch and Liam Freeman who added both conversions and a penalty.

Despite tries from Ollie Mounce, Charlie Watton and Ollie Denford plus a Dan Pearce conversion Bude slipped to defeat at home to Exeter Uni 41-17.

Up in London 2 SW, London Cornish made it a dozen league wins following a 31-0 win at home to Warlingham.

In the Tribute Cornwall & Devon League continue to lead the way after their 44-17 win against relegation haunted Honiton. The Eagles scored seven tries through Tom Edmonds (2), Tom Job, Justyn Irons, Dan Hubble, Tom Spiller and Nick Caine with Irons kicking three conversions and a penalty.

Saltash defeated Penryn 28-12 at Moorlands. Will Morton scored three of the Ashes’ five tries with James Moriarty and Ryan Cruickshanks also crossing with Harrison Reburn adding a penalty. Borough’s injury woes continue as try scoring hero from last week Ben Trevaskis suffered concussion and is ruled out for the season whilst prop Ryan Burley suffered a fractured tibia. Skipper George Jones and Andrew Seviour scored the Borough’s tries with Mitch Vague adding a conversion.

Bodmin picked up a couple of league points despite losing at home to Topsham 36-32. Lee Taylor scored a hat-trick of tries with Armstrong and Josh Taylor also scoring. Taylor also added two conversions and a penalty.

Pirates Amateurs slipped to a 24-22 defeat at Plymstock. Steve Evans Jimmy Tresize and Tony Matthews all crossed whilst Dan McGee kicked their points.

Lanner picked up a losing point at Tavistock as they went down 25-24. Stone, Will Webster and Hewitt scored their tries all converted by Nick Prout who also landed a penalty.

It just leaves me to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas, or as we say in Cornish Nadelik Lowen.

Having surprisingly lost at home the previous week to bottom side Richmond in the Championship, the Pirates turned their attention to British & Irish Cup action against London Irish on Sunday.

With a rotated squad the Pirates slipped to a 33-24 defeat leaving the exiles in control of their pool prior to next Sunday’s return fixture at the Mennaye.

Jack Arnott (2) and Will Cargill scored the Pirates’ tries with Cargill converting all three plus a penalty kick.

The Championship focus this week has been about the demise of London Welsh and the fragile state of professional rugby below the Premiership, a sad state of affairs.

In National League 2, Redruth didn’t get much joy on the road losing at London Irish Wild Geese 29-21. That result sees them still fifth but level on points with Canterbury who are sixth.

Alex Ducker (2) and Matt Gidlow scored the Reds’ tries with Angus Taylor converting all three.

In National 3 SW, Camborne extended their advantage at the top of the league with a 24-5 win at Lydney.

The Cherry & Whites’ tries came from Ben Kemp, Josh Semmens and Ben Drew with Rhys Brownfield converting all three scores as well as a penalty.

With Old Redcliffians losing at Bournemouth 29-23, Dings Crusaders are now Town’s nearest challengers and they travel to the Rec this Saturday!

Launceston lost heavily at Cleve 38-0 following last week’s loss to Lydney they now find themselves 9 points adrift of safety in the relegation zone. It will be another long season at Polson sadly!

In the Tribute Western Counties West all our sides lost losing ground on the top three. Truro’s bad patch continues as they lost 25-13 at Exeter Uni. Alex Sutheridge scored their try converted by Ashley Hosking who also kicked a couple of penalties.

Wadebridge Camels lost at leaders Devonport Services 25-10. Mike Rawlings scored their try converted by James Grubb who also added a penalty.

St. Ives got a losing bonus point in their 17-13 defeat at Crediton. Ben Taylor scored a try converted by Jordan Gott who also kicked a couple of penalties.

St. Austell also bagged a losing bonus point from their defeat at bottom side Wellington 22-18.

Hector Bright and Liam Freeman scored the Saint’s tries with Freeman kicking two penalties and a conversion.

Bude went down at Cullompton 23-0.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish reached the mid-point of their league season nine points clear having won all their games, their latest a 28-15 win at London Exiles.

Cornish scored three tries in the final quarter to make sure of a bonus point win with their final try scored by Matt Hakes.

In the Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, Falmouth continues to set the pace at the top winning 23-16 at Bodmin. The home side gave the Eagles a stern test with Falmouth only sealing the win in the final moments.

Penryn continued their comeback with a fine 34-0 win in appalling conditions at the Memorial Ground. Ben Trevaskis scored a hat-trick of tries with Andrew Seviour and Matt Horton also crossing. Horton kicked three conversions and a penalty.

Lanner continue to put distance between themselves and the drop zone following a 24-22 win against Saltash. Bevin Stone (3) and Jack Kessell scored the Falcons’ tries with Nick Prout adding a couple of conversions.

Pirates Amateurs lost 29-5 at Withycombe, Kevin Stevens with their only try.

The Tribute Cornwall League has completed it’s first phase before Christmas. The top eight sides will play each other in Cornwall 1, whilst the bottom seven will compete in Cornwall 2 in the New Year.

Helston secured their place in Cornwall 1 defeating challengers Perranporth 29-5.

Cornwall 1 will comprise of, Hayle, Liskeard-Looe, St. Agnes, Newquay Hornets, Camborne School of Mines, Helston, Veor and Roseland.

Cornwall 2, Perranporth, Stithians, Lankelly-Fowey, St. Just, Illogan Park, Camelford and Redruth Albany.