Pirates double over the Blues ensures safety

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Photo – Tom Kessell scorer of one of the Pirates’ tries at Bedford

The Cornish Pirates 31-21 win against Bedford Blues on Friday night at Goldington Road sees them safe for another season in the Championship.

Tries were scored by Tom Kessell, Matt Evans and a brace from Craig Holland, who was making his 50th appearance for the Pirates.

Laurence May kicked nine points, with his replacement Kieran Hallett also landing a penalty.

Next Sunday the Cornish Pirates host Plymouth Albion, who are still battling relegation: it promises to be a feisty affair.

Read Gavin Cattle’s reaction in the link.

Match report in this link.

No National League 2 to report, but England Counties were in Périgueux playing France Fédérale.

All the points came from the boot with Counties’ Chris Johnson landing eight penalties for a 24-15 win. Launceston’s Ben Hilton played in the game that attracted a crowd of 3,500.

In Tribute South West 1 West, a good win for Camborne at home to Avonmouth Old Boys 47-18. Town scored seven tries, with Alex Ducker romping home for three, Cameron Bone (2), Tony Whittle and skipper Steve Kenward. Dave Mankee kicked the rest of the points.

Not such good news for St. Austell, whose two season stint at this level hangs by a thread following their 20-5 reversal at Tregorrick Park to Thornbury,  Ian Venner with their only try.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro edged an entertaining derby at home to Wadebridge 25-22. Adam Gayton, Matt Cross and Ben Teasdale scored Truro’s tries with “Eggy” Williams kicking the other points. For the Camels, Will Pengelley, Dom Hawkey and Jack Oulton all scored tries with James Grubb kicking the rest of their points.

Penryn won another close encounter against Okehampton 21-17. Adam Hughes, Josh Chambers and Andy Seviour scored the Borough’s tries, which Matt Horton converted.

St. Ives lost heavily at Wellington 71-0.

Up in London 2 SW, London Cornish lost their title decider at Tottonians 26-14.

They will now seek to earn a home play-off spot from their final two fixtures.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, congratulations to Saltash who, after defeating South Molton 87-18, can look forward to Western Counties West rugby next season. Ashes ran in thirteen tries with both Max Veneables and Will Morton bagging hat-tricks. Veneables also kicked eleven conversions.

Pirates Amateurs had a fine 53-3 win over Bodmin, with veteran  Richard Carroll getting a couple of tries.

Hayle lost at home to Withycombe 21-18. Rob Goodman and Damien Lynes scored the Lions’ tries and Scott Harvey kicked the other points.

Falmouth went down 11-9 at Honiton. Justyn  Irons kicked all their points.

Bude picked up a point at Paignton despite losing 40-27. Joe Wilson (2) and Harry Goodrun (2) got their tries.

Liskeard –Looe lost 92-5 to Exeter Saracens.

Well done to Jack Nowell with his brace of tries against France as England won a curious but nevertheless enthralling match 55-35. Not very often you watch an international with twelve tries!!

Whilst the attack coaches will be purring with delight, the defence coaches will be tearing their hair out!

Viewing the game would have been much more pleasant without the constant need of people leaving their seats every few minutes!! One guy in my row went 8 times!!! Why? It’s ruining the Twickenham experience!

Max Bodilly’s brace of tries weren’t quite enough for Exeter Chiefs, who relinquished their hold on the LV=Cup losing 23-20 to Saracens with the last kick of the match.

Good to hear that former Red Aaron Penberthy has pencilled a further one year deal with Championship side Jersey.

Jack Innard and Stu Townsend both helped England to the 6Nations Under 20 title with the 24-11 win over France in Brighton.

Finally, some sad news this weekend. Alf Lawton, father of Camborne and Cornwall player Ashley, and a great supporter of Cornish rugby, sadly passed away on Saturday. Alf was a great contributor on the TASC forums and loved the banter. We shall miss him on the touchline. Thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.

Posted in Bill's Blog


Camborne & St. Austell win through to Cornwall Cup Final

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Photo – Dan Rutter looks to make a break past Yorkshire hooker Will Scholey

Saturday’s rugby action centred on the two National League 2 South games, but not exclusively!

The Cornish All Blacks finally chalked up a bonus point win this season 29-8 at Clifton, thanks to tries from BJ Chapman, Darren Semmens, Chris Courtier and Ryan Westren.

The win moves them above Clifton and 10 points off the relegation zone.

Redruth went down at home to champions elect Henley Hawks 28-13.

The Reds scored unconverted tries through Kyle Marriott and Rhodri McAtee, whilst Murray Westren kicked a first-half penalty.

It’s another weekend off for the clubs next weekend, as England Counties (including Launceston’s Ben Hilton) take on France Fédérale in Périgueux on Friday night.

The only other league game affecting a Cornish side was in Tribute Western Counties West, Wadebridge Camels lost at Okehampton 22-3.

The Tribute Cornwall Cup semi-finals took place last weekend, resulting in another Camborne versus St. Austell final.

At the Recreation Ground, Camborne were given a stern test by Truro before running out winners 24-5. Former Truro player Ben Kemp scored one of two Camborne tries with the other being dotted down by Alex Ducker, whilst Dave Mankee kicked fourteen points. Darren Jacques powered over for Truro’s sole points.

At Penryn, St. Austell had to battle hard to overcome the Borough 22-20. Tries from Dan Pearce, James Martin and a Penalty-try plus the kicks from Andy Ashwin saw the Saints home. For Penryn, Andrew Seviour and George Jones scored tries with the boot of Martin Strick getting the other points, sadly for Penryn a last-gasp 40 metre penalty attempt by Matt Horton faded and Penryn’s hopes of an upset were dashed.

The final is set for Saturday 2 May, venue and kick-off time to be confirmed by the Cornwall RFU.

Jack Nowell scored his second England try, and his first at Twickenham in the red rose shirt, as England retained the Calcutta Cup 25-13 against Scotland. Well done Jack!

Former Pirate Blair Cowan had a very good game for Scotland.

Jack Innard and Stu Townsend both came on for England Under 20s in their 26-11 win over Scotland in Darlington on Friday evening.

On Sunday both Jack Stanley and Billy Keast were involved with England Under 18s in the defeat to Wales 23-18 at St Helens.

Camborne & Truro School’s Cameron Sayer scored in the Independent Schools Lambs 73-26 win over the Boys Clubs of Wales prior to their tour to North America.

On Sunday, Cornwall Under 20s lost their semi-final to Yorkshire 63-3 at Camborne. Read the previous blog entry about the game.
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Members of Trelawny’s Army Supporters Club were present at Camborne last Sunday to not only cheer on the Cornwall Under 20s but to also make a donation towards the travelling expenses of the nine Cornwall players selected to take part in the Divisional Festival at Welbeck College, Loughborough over Easter.

Players in the picture l-r Dan Rutter, Tommy Phillips, Neil Stanleick, Rhys Brownfield, Jack Simmons, Ian Gordon (TASC), Todd Prisk, Tommy-Lee Southworth and Ian Morgan (CRFU coach). Players missing Tom Eley and Jay Tyack

Photos by Simon Bryant Iktis photo.

Posted in Bill's Blog


The White Rose again dash Cornish dreams

UNDER 20 COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI-FINAL

CORNWALL 3 – 63 YORKSHIRE

By Bill Hooper at the Recreation Ground with Photos courtesy Of Simon Bryant Iktis photo

Cornwall’s dream of a first Twickenham final at this level since 2002 were ruthlessly crushed by a Yorkshire side full of running who ran in eleven tries. Six coming from a potent back three of full-back Robbie Davidson and wingers Rob Rekis and man-of-the-match Ben Magee, who bagged a hat-trick.

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Photo – Cornwall prop Tommy Phillips feels the force of Yorkshire’s Brodie Wilson

After the match Cornwall coach Bryn Jenkins held his hand up and conceded that there were no complaints: “On the day we were beaten by a very good team, we had hoped for better but it just wasn’t to be. Naturally I am very disappointed for the lads and all the hard work they have put in this season, it’s the furthest we have come for twelve years.”

Whilst in the Yorkshire camp head coach Anthony Posa was delighted with his side’s fine performance: “I am really proud of the lads today, we have travelled a long way not knowing what to expect but everything clicked. Credit to Cornwall who threw everything at us near the end to try and get a score but we held out and that was equally satisfying.”

Yorkshire kicked off in bright sunshine with stiff breeze at their backs and immediately had Cornwall under pressure camping in the 22.

The Cornish scrum hitherto a major force found themselves under pressure from the Yorkshire pack as the visitors elected to scrum a penalty from five meters out, the drive saw skipper and No.8 Josh Burridge claim the opening try.

Less than two minutes later Yorkshire were in again as the ball was moved wide to the speedy Rekis who romped in at the scoreboard corner. Fly-half Chris Bell was on cue with the conversion, the first of four successful kicks in the tricky wind.

Cornwall were clearly rattled and it got worse when moments later centre Jack Simmons was yellow carded for a clumsy tackle that caused a major dust up between both sets of players. Yorkshire lock Declan Dunn was also sent to the cooler for his involvement in the fracas leaving both sides with fourteen men.

It didn’t appear to affect the Yorkshire lads too much as further powerful, straight running aided by some missed first up tackles saw centres Elliot Morgan and Oliver Fewtrell cross before the half-hour mark for a 26 point lead.

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Photo – Rhys Brownfield kicked Cornwall’s only points

From a rare Cornish incursion up to the Yorkshire 22, centre Rhys Brownfield kicked a penalty.

Leading up to half-time both sides again found themselves down to fourteen men as props Tommy Phillips (Cornwall) and Joe Fell (Yorkshire) were sin-binned for an altercation.

Cornwall need a good start to the second half to stand any chance of making a fist of it, instead it was more of the same from Yorkshire.

A loose kick out the Cornwall 22 was gathered by the impressive Rekis who set off on a diagonal run to link with fellow wing Magee, the Ilkley flyer raced into the Park Gate corner with consummate ease.

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Photo – Jack Simmons tries to evade Yorkshire’s James Thompson

Cornwall had a brief moment of territory down in the Yorkshire 22, with the Redruth duo of Dan Rutter and Phillips almost manufacturing a scoring chance.

Yorkshire countered in style with Magee slipping a tackle and notching his second score, suddenly Yorkshire were 3-36 ahead.

Any thoughts of a second half comeback had been well and truly blown asunder as Cornwall continued to chase shadows.

Further tries from Magee, Fewtrell, Davidson lock George Hedgley and Rekis put the icing on the cake for Yorkshire, whilst for Cornwall the sound of the final whistle couldn’t come quickly enough.

The White Rose will play Berkshire in the final on 3 May, after they accounted for Eastern Counties in a tighter affair 32-30.

Cornwall 3 pts

Penalty – Brownfield

Yellow Cards – Simmons (18), Phillips (35)

Yorkshire 63 pts

Tries – Burridge, Rekis (2), Morgan, Fewtrell (2), Magee (3), Davidson, Hedgley, Conversions – Bell (4)

Yellow Cards – Dunn (18), Fell (35)

Cornwall: C Swan, A Taylor (both Cardiff Met), J Simmons (Hartpury Coll), R Brownfield (Pirates Ams), J Woodward (Wadebridge Camels), D Rutter, S Fox; T Phillips, T-L Southworth (all Redruth), J Tyack (St. Ives), T Prisk (Redruth, Capt), A Hughes (Penryn), S Furse (Newquay Hornets), J Haines (Cornish All Blacks), N Stanleick (Camborne).

Replacements (all used): J Martin (Truro), R Stevens (Hayle), D Marsh (Truro), A Smith (Redruth), L Hattam (Exeter Uni), L Thomas (Redruth), T Eley (Truro).

Yorkshire: R Davidson (Hull), R Rekis (Blaydon), E Morgan (Northumbria Uni), O Fewtrell (Leeds Beckett Uni), B Magee (Ilkley), C Bell (Huddersfield), J Thompson (Newcastle Uni); J Fell (Otley), W Scholey (Newcastle Uni), C Ward (West Park Leeds), D Dunn (Otley), G Hedgley (Darlington MP), J Coser (Harrogate), B Wilson (Durham Uni), J Burridge (Capt, Wharfedale).

Replacements (all used): N Jackson (Cleckheaton), H Wales (Otley), L Harris (Leeds Uni), J Plunkett (Cleckheaton), J Walker (Huddersfield), E Hinchcliffe (Heath), T Battye (Doncaster Phoenix).

Referee: Chris Newton (SW Group)

Crowd: 563

Man-of-the-match:  Ben Magee (Yorkshire) three tries and showed plenty of pace and willingness to run with the ball.

Further photos courtesy of John Ashton from Yorkshire in link 1   & link 2

Posted in Bill's Blog


Stadium – update from Ian Connell

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Photo by – Simon Bryant Iktis photo

I am sure that everybody involved with The Pirates was as disappointed as me as the proceedings at the Strategic Planning Committee meeting in Truro came to their conclusion. I know that the confused ending will have brought total dismay to everyone.

On Radio Cornwall this morning I was asked whether or not I was angry with the outcome. I have experienced many emotions during the last 24 hours, including anger, but it is now time for a period of reflection where the emotion of anger may not be the most useful emotion to focus upon.

Last evening, the SPC made a mess of their voting arrangements. Instead of a supermarket we have the prospect of multiple supermarkets, instead of limiting further new home approval we now have the prospect of over 1,000 newly approved homes, instead of limiting air pollution and traffic congestion we have the new prospect of adding to these problems. While these problems were being created, we failed to invest in the future by failing to approve a £10M gift to the County through the infrastructure development of S4C. This may be difficult to follow but this is what happened last evening. I am sure that this will be the subject of further review because it was embarrassing to watch.

However from our perspective we have to recognise the following:

  • The West Langarth application was deferred – it is NOT refused
  • A 3 month deadline is imposed to resolve the various outstanding issues
  • Stadium for Cornwall continues to have planning consent

Late into last evening and during today, the Stadium partners have been consulting to determine what we do next. Further discussions are planned after the weekend.

To all our stakeholders, I would like to express my thanks for all the messages of support that have been received. They are much appreciated. Your continued support will be equally appreciated as the Stadium partners with the S4C Group continue to work together to find the solution for S4C and for the problems created by the SPC last evening on the advice of their legal and planning advisors.

Why is Sport (Pirates) and Education (Truro & Penwith College) combining together to create an inspirational community centre in Truro so difficult to understand? It works in other parts of the UK, why does Cornwall want to be so different and lose the opportunities from which other counties are currently benefitting?

Don’t lose the faith! It’s merely half-time!

Ian
Chairman Cornish Pirates

Posted in Bill's Blog


Cornwall name side to take on the White Rose

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By Bill Hooper TASC Press Officer & Photos Simon Bryant Iktis photo

CORNWALL make two changes to the starting XV that took the field against Kent for Sunday’s semi-final clash with Yorkshire at Camborne RFC kick-off 1pm.

The Under 20s will be looking for a first Twickenham final since 2002, when they lost to Hampshire 27-14.

The following season they again reached the semi-finals only to lose to Yorkshire 39-12 at Redruth a game in which Yorkshire winger Nick Cooper starred.

Cornwall will once again be weary of the danger the white rose possesses out-wide with wingers Rob Rekis – five tries in the last two games – and Ben Magee being closely watched.

The pack also has notably players with back row George Hedgley having been close to Scotland Under 20 selection this season, whilst lock Stuart Nel and No.8 Tom Berridge are more than a handful.

Fit again Jake Woodward returns to the wing following his four tries scored for the Camels against Torquay last Saturday, whilst in the pack hooker Locryn Williams is unavailable his place is taken by Redruth’s Tommy-Lee Southworth.

On the bench there are further changes with Hayle’s Russell Stevens, Redruth’s Adam Smith and Luke Hattam, now playing at Exeter University, coming in.

Since the win over Kent the Cornwall squad have been preparing in earnest for the tough challenge they know Yorkshire will pose. Bryn Jenkins & Mike Rawlings coaches of the forwards said: “The whole squad were on a bit of a high following the victory in Kent but we soon bought them back to ground. We will be missing a couple of guys Locryn Williams who travels to New Zealand and Tony Pellow through injury. Selection has been difficult with a number of guys putting in good performances and some guys have missed out for this important game.”

Whilst Cornwall coach Ian Morgan added: “Since the quarter final victory we have trained on Sunday mornings with a final session against Camborne School of Mines which has proved beneficial.”

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Photo – Tommy Phillips another young Cornish prop with a growing reputation

The Cornwall RFU hope for a big turnout of supporters on Sunday to cheer the boys on to Twickenham.

The gates to the ground will be open at 12 with the clubhouse open earlier for those who wish to attend and saviour the atmosphere. Entry is by the purchase of a programme which costs £3; Camborne RFC will have the clubhouse open for alcoholic / non-alcoholic beverages and light refreshments on sale.

CRFU President John Grindle said: “This is a tough game for Cornwall having to face an unbeaten Yorkshire team. I am sure the squad will do their very best to put on a creditable performance in front of a home crowd. I would like to thanks Camborne RFC for hosting the fixture and the sponsors of the Cornwall U20 Shirts Kelsall Steele.”

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Photo – Cornwall fly-half Dan Rutter equally at home at 9 or 10 for Redruth

Whilst CRFU Chair Denis Preece said: “The team had a superb result against Kent, and will hopefully benefit from a large and vocal crowd turning out at Camborne RFC on the 15 March to cheer on the young black and gold team!!” We really need to have as many supporters as possible attending and supporting the guys.”

Cornwall Under 20 team manager Chris Lea said: “We are now into cup competition rugby, one game away from a Twickenham final. For those guys not involved we know they will be disappointed, but as a squad we want them at Camborne to support and be a part of the semi-final experience. We thank them for their efforts but know a number of them will be in contention not only next season but for two or more seasons at this level.”

CORNWALL U.20: C Swann, A Taylor (both Cardiff Met), J Simmons (Hartpury Coll), R Brownfield (Pirates Ams), J Woodward (Wadebridge Camels), D Rutter), S Fox; T Phillips, T-L Southworth (all Redruth), J Tyack (St. Ives), T Prisk (Redruth, Capt), A Hughes (Penryn), S Furse (Newquay Hornets), J Haines (Cornish All Blacks), N Stanleick (Camborne).

Replacements: J Martin (Truro), R Stevens (Hayle), D Marsh (Truro), A Smith (Redruth), L Hattam (Exeter Uni), L Thomas (Redruth), T Eley (Truro).

Travelling Reserves: Z Noseda (Truro), T Sandercock (Cornish All Blacks), R Burley (Penryn), A Hayler (Loughborough Uni & RAF)

Posted in Bill's Blog


Pirates play-off hopes extinguished by Titans

On Sunday in the Greene King Championship, the Cornish Pirates slipped to another home defeat this time at the hands of Rotherham Titans 28-10 and with it saw their slim hopes of a play-off place this season all but extinguished.

It was a frustrating performance from Kernow’s finest, especially with the St. Piran’s festivities around the game and of course an eye on this Thursday’s vital Planning Committee meeting at County Hall which will decide the fate of the stadium plans.

Tom Kessell scored the Pirates’ only try with a lovely angled run to the posts, he will no doubt be doing likewise for Northampton next season, whilst Bristol bound prop Jamal Ford-Robinson was on his rampaging best.

Max Bodilly, not for the first time this season, showed his attacking prowess and proved a constant thorn in the Titans’ side.

You can read Phil Stoneham’s WMN report in the link.

Also Ian Davies’ reaction in this link.

Thursday’s result is the one the Pirates and Cornwall are hanging on!

In National League 2 South a mixed day for our Cornish sides. Redruth picked up only their second win on the road this season 29-20 at relegation haunted Dings Crusaders.

The Reds lost Greg Goodfellow to stomach bug prior to the game, also had four yellow cards in the game, and then lost Rhodri McAtee with a shoulder injury.

On came young Dan Rutter to acquit himself well once again and enhance his growing reputation.

You can read Ed Bawden’s WMN report in the link.

The Cornish All Blacks slipped up at home against in-form Cambridge 28-7 with just a try from Barrie-John Chapman converted by Kieron Lewitt to show.

It was a performance that DoR Neil Bayliss described as ‘the worst performance this season by far!’

You can read Suzanne Cleave’s WMN report in the link.

In Tribute South West 1 West, a day to forget for both Cornish clubs, but for St. Austell the mire has become even stickier.

A 40-5 loss at Wells now sees the Saints six points adrift of safety with four games to play! Dan Pearce scored the Saints only try.

Camborne lost at Thornbury 32-11, Rob Floyd scoring their try and Alex Ducker a couple of penalties.

Both sides will now turn their attention to this Saturday’s Tribute Cornwall Cup semi-finals against Penryn and Truro respectively.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro won the derby against St. Ives 49-18 leaving the Hakes in a perilous position.

Dan Marsh, Chris Gilbert, Jake Seviour, Darren Jacques, Luke Tidball (2), Eggy Williams and Ieuan Boon scored Truro’s tries, with Williams also kicking three conversions and a penalty.

For St. Ives, Tom Murray and Sam Heath scored tries and Jamie Prisk kicked eight points.

Wadebridge Camels put Torquay Athletic to the sword 92-5 at the Molesworth Field, with Cornwall Under 20 star Jake Woodward scoring four of their thirteen tries! James Grubb kicked twelve conversions!

Penryn lost 14-11 at Kingsbridge, Jack Willey with the try and Martin Strick with a couple of penalties.

In London 2 SW London Cornish defeated Old Alleynians 18-16. See previous blog entry for a match report by Ben Gilby.

In the Tribute Cornwall & Devon League Saltash and Crediton continue their dual at the top of the table. Both sides look assured of promotion and the title will be decided on the final day of the season when Saltash travel to Crediton!

Saltash defeat former leaders Withycombe 31-14, whilst Crediton had a walkover against Liskeard-Looe, who will look to re-group in Cornwall 1 next season.

Pirates Amateurs surprisingly lost at South Molton 21-12, whilst Bude defeated OPMs 38-14.

Falmouth won the derby against Hayle 27-16, with Bodmin dipping out at home to Paignton 19-20.

In the Tribute Cornwall Clubs Cup pool matches, Illogan Park defeated Redruth Albany 76-13, Roseland won at Camelford 30-0 and Lanner defeated Helston 50-7. The game between Veor and St. Agnes was postponed.

Here’s hoping Jack Nowell will keep his place for Saturday’s Calcutta Cup match against Scotland at Twickenham. Go Jack!

Well done to Jack Stanley who played for England Under 18s in their win over Scotland Under 18s 39-27 up at Kingston Park, Newcastle.

Tom Parker is still going great guns in Brittany with Vannes currently top of their pool in Fédérale 1 despite losing at Tyrosse 35-32 on Sunday. Next up the derby against Saint Nazaire in three weeks time

Tom will also be turning out for a Brittany Select against a Basque Select in Bayonne on Saturday 21st March.

Sunday as you all know, Cornwall Under 20s play Yorkshire Under 20s for a place in the County Championship Final at Twickenham. More on this blog during the week.

Posted in Bill's Blog


Cornish over come multiple hurdles to claim win

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Photo – centre Jackson Szabo looks to evade tackle

London Cornish 18-16 Old Alleynians

Report & Photos by Ben Gilby

London Cornish overcame a virus sweeping through the squad, a mid-game injury and a very strong opposition to record a vital 18-16 win over Old Alleynians at The REMPF.

Prior to the game, ‘The Exiles’ lost three key players in captain Dave Theobald, vice-captain Luke Spells and lock Harry Somers to a stomach virus, which also affected several others who did play. The upshot of this was a return for Mark Osei-Tutu at number eight, who returned from almost six weeks out injured last weekend for the 2s when he scored a hat-trick of tries at Old Reigatian in the Zoo Sports Shield Division Three. Tim Homan was also back, for the first time since the beginning of January, with Tom Baker making his first start at fly-half.

Alleynians are always stubborn opposition with a nasty habit of upsetting teams in good form, and they started well on a sunny afternoon, with a strong breeze taking the edge off of what would otherwise have been a very mild afternoon. Playing with the wind behind them in the first half, the Dulwich side showed an early example of their prowess with a glorious behind-the-back off load by their superb full-back Gareth Wynn, which was picked up by Tom Unwin. The visitors’ scrum-half nudged a grubber kick through which forced a line-out within five metres of the Cornish line. Any advantage this may have given Alleynians was soon frittered away as ‘The Exiles’ won a penalty from the throw and cleared the danger.

Just a minute later, it was Cornish’s turn to launch a clever kick through as a sensational kick for territory from Tom Baker gained the home side huge metres. Alleynians secured the resulting line out, but lost possession soon afterwards, and the ball was picked up by Jackson Szabo, who went on a scything run, leaving countless attempted tacklers in his wake as he sprinted home from over 25 metres to score the game’s opening try after seven minutes. Josh Allison’s conversion attempt into the fierce breeze missed.

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Photo – Debutant fly-half Tom Baker on the move

However, the lead was not to last long. Just three minutes later, Wynn launched a pass that to several people on the touchline appeared to be slightly forward. The pass was snaffled up by Tom Shanahan who flew through to score. Wynn’s conversion was good, and Alleynians were ahead 7-5 after 12 minutes.

After two tries in three minutes, the assembled spectators would have to wait another fifty for the next one to come along, but there was still plenty of intrigue to occupy those at The REMPF.

Old Alleynians were operating at a high intensity, always looking for quick ball, and use of their speedy backs on a dry playing surface – but it was Cornish’s own speed merchant who launched the next attack. Jackson Szabo probed through the midfield, combining with Ievers, Carew-Gibbs, Chatley and Baker in an impressive move, but the Dulwich based visitors dealt with the danger.

Shortly afterwards, a great kick through from Allison pushed Alleynians back to within 20 metres of their try line. A rolling maul was launched, with Ben Ievers in control of the ball, but when grounded it was short, and once more Alleynians cleared.

Just before the half-hour mark, The Black and Golds, already disrupted by a stomach virus in the squad suffered a further set back when former Premiership player Simon Brading had to leave the field injured. Brading had only returned from a long term injury at the end of January, and had been in influential form so fingers will be firmly crossed that this will not be a serious knock. His replacement was Tim Homan, making a welcome return to the first team.

Old Alleynians had much of the remainder of the first half, and fly-half Ed Nethersole launched a superb kick through which forced Cornish to throw in to a line-out just five metres from their own line. The pressure built, and eventually the visitors were awarded a penalty which Wynn kicked to stretch their lead to 10-5.

Cornish had one further chance to reduce the arrears before the break when they were awarded a penalty to the right of centre. Allison’s kick into the wind was adjudged to be good by the touch judges, but the referee decided otherwise, stating that he felt it had gone over one of the uprights.

The second half opened with Josh Allison having another chance to kick for goal, within three minutes, and this time, with the benefit of the wind, there was no problems. Alleynians’ lead had been cut to just 10-8.

However, just as they did in the meeting between the two sides at Dulwich in late November, Alleynians’ had the best of the first twenty minutes of the second half, and built an identical 16-8 lead to the one they had done so in that previous encounter. Cornish were forced onto the back foot as the visitors built a succession of attacks, with the home side conceding a number of penalties in a short space of time. Gareth Wynn opted to kick for goal each time, and against the wind, two of his three opportunities were successful.

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Photo – lock Ben Ivers soars high for lineout ball

Cornish’s response to this adversity was highly impressive – they rallied, and although weakened by illness and injury, they displayed a sheer bloody-minded determination that this was not going to be a game they would lose. From an Old Alleynians error – a kick going out on the full – the ‘Black and Golds’ gained a line-out on the visitors ‘22’, a great piece of combination play between Ben Devonport, Will Carew-Gibbs and Mark Osei-Tutu set up the attack, before the ball was finally grounded by Tim Homan. Josh Allison’s conversion attempt was good, and with sixteen minutes left, Cornish were just a single point behind at 15-16.

With Cornish now in ascendancy, with eight minutes left, they finally re-took the lead that they last held early in the opening stanza. ‘The Exiles’ were awarded a penalty which was kicked to touch. Alleynians attempted clearance kick only found Josh Allison who went on an impressive fifteen metre run before being halted, the resulting move saw another penalty conceded by the visitors. Allison stepped up and sent the ball between the uprights for 18-16.

Alleynians hit back and ensured that the remainder of the match made difficult viewing for Cornish supporters, as the outcome of the game rested on a knife-edge. Replacement Joshua Grant-Butler broke through, but was stopped by a superb tackle by Cornish’s Will Carew-Gibbs, but soon after a penalty was conceded, just to the right of centre, well within Gareth Wynn’s range. However, the difficulty that Josh Allison had kicking into the wind in the first half now beset the Alleynian full-back, and his kick was wide. Despite several further close shaves, Cornish held on to record an absolutely vital victory.

London Cornish’s two wins over Old Alleynians this season have been by a cumulative total of just five points. There is no doubt that ‘The Exiles’ emerging victors in this game was down to the fact that they are in the habit of knowing how to close out tough matches. This was a game won in great adversity – several players suffering from a stomach virus, an injury to the influential Simon Brading – plus a superb opposition, who must take great credit and pride from their own performance.

Cornish now have a free weekend ahead of them before a huge clash with league leaders Tottonians on the horizon in a fortnight’s time.

Posted in Bill's Blog


Huge defensive effort seals the win for Cornish

Report & photos by Ben Gilby

An immensely impressive effort by One And All in the Black and Gold defence ensured that London Cornish came away from Old Reigatian with the win.

Despite overnight rain and a constant drizzle falling throughout the game which rendered the Surrey Hills that encircle Reigate almost invisible, the pitch held up well (something which the 2s may be slightly jealous of given their mudbath of an encounter against Reigatian on a back pitch), but it did mean than handling the ball was very difficult, with knock-ons occurring at a regular interval, particularly in the first half.

Cornish had to make a late re-jig of their forward line as Dave Theobald, who was to start, moved to the bench due to suffering from ‘flu. Tom Lloyd took the tighthead shirt instead of his planned position of loosehead, and Mike Bond moved up from the replacements list to start in the vacant loosehead berth. There were also two players making their first start for the club in Matt Johnson and Jackson Szabo. Additionally, Luke Spells was back in the centres for the first time since 31st January. The game started with a gusty breeze blowing against Cornish, who were resplendent in their eye catching change colours of gold shirts with thin black hoops.

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Photo – Harry Somers climbs high to secure the ball

It was the visitors who had the first opportunity when Johnson combined with Ben Devonport and Simon Brading down the left wing from a stolen line-out. The move was snuffed out by a loose pass.

It was immediately apparent that the slippery nature of the ball would provide a serious hurdle to any flowing rugby, or to many scoring chances, and the first quarter of an hour consisted of scrummages as a result of knock-ons. When chances did emerge, they generally fell the way of ‘The Exiles’, and with Ben Ievers in excellent line-out stealing form once more, a rolling maul was launched which made some vital metres. When the ball came out, Williams fed Spells, who made a trademark probing run, before offloading to Harry Somers. The former Cornish Pirate won a penalty. Allison kicked to touch, and Cornish were five metres from the Reigatian try-line. The expected maul was halted illegally, which resulted in a home forward being dispatched to the sin-bin – the first of a number of yellow cards that would be brandished during the game. The home side defended the resulting penalty well, and their winger Huw Jones ran the ball clear of danger.

Other than a series of further line-out steals by Cornish, there were few opportunities for either side which didn’t end with a knock-on, such was the slipperiness of the ball. Indeed, it would be fair to say that, in the second quarter of the game, there were only two real scoring opportunities, which both fell the way of the Black and Golds. First, a great flowing move which begun with Harry Somers feeding the jet-heeled Jackson Szabo, who after making the hard yards fed Phil Dale. He led an interchange of passes with Luke Spells and Matt Hakes, before the ball returned to Szabo. The winger’s progress was halted just five metres short of the line by an outstanding tackle from home winger Teo Bogdanon.

Rich Skinnard also led a Cornish charge with nine minutes of the half remaining, when his progress could only be stopped illegally. The resulting penalty was kicked for a five metre line-out, but the chance went. So, half-time saw the rather unusual scoreline of 0-0!

The second half saw the home side, coached by former Worcester and Esher player Jonny Hylton in the ascendancy. A series of penalties piggy-backed them up the field, but their undoing was once more in the line-out – this time an attempted throw to the front of the line was stolen by Will Carew-Gibbs. From this, Cornish worked their way up field and earned a penalty of their own – thus after 44 minutes, the very first kick at goal was launched, from around 40 metres, but Josh Allison’s effort didn’t quite have the legs. Shortly afterwards saw both sides reduced to fourteen. Cornish’s reduced defence was quickly tested when home winger Huw Jones ran through, but Harry Somers expertly dealt with the danger.

 

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Photo – Jackson Szabo probes in the centre

It was the line-out that propelled Cornish forward once more, and once Ievers secured it, Sam Williams hacked the ball through. Reigatian were forced to put the ball out. From the resulting throw, a huge Cornish maul could only be stopped with the concession of another penalty. This was kicked to touch, and the ‘Exiles’ maul was once more revved up, with Reigatian forced backwards until Harry Somers could ground the ball, which subsequently woke up the scoreboard operator from his slumber on 55 minutes. Allison added the extras, and Cornish were up and running at 7-0.

Shortly afterwards, it looked as if there would be another score when, following an Reigatian error, Matt Hakes kicked through and gathered, but was not able to ground the ball.

This let-off served to spur the home side on, and they were set to dominate the next fifteen minutes or so. Teo Bogdanon’s run saw him link up with centre Chris Bruce before an outstanding hit from Cornish’s ex Premiership man Simon Brading saved the day. However, back came Reigatian, and it was Bogdanon who again led the charge down the left. A series of recycles saw the Cornish defence halt the Old Boys, but in doing so, a number of penalties were conceded, a run of which led to the second visiting forward being dispatched to the sin-bin. From the resulting scrum, Cornish’s back line showed that regardless of the fact that they were a man short, they would not be dominated, and quite magnificently won a penalty immediately to clear. With Reigatian now permanently encamped in the Cornish ‘22’, the home side could have been forgiven for thinking that it was only a matter of time before they scored. But they reckoned without the ‘Black and Gold’ determination keep their hosts out. Ed Forsyth had a further opportunity for the Surrey side with his run down the left, but once more slippery ball prevented further progress, and Cornish, now back to fifteen had ensured their line remained unbreached.

The remaining seven minutes saw Cornish as an attacking force, as they put together their longest period of concerted pressure since the opening quarter. Rich Skinnard made an excellent run down the right, and Reigatian managed to clear, but ‘The Exiles’ were soon back in range. Simon Brading broke through the middle and earned a penalty, which Josh Allison successfully kicked from 30 metres out to the right of centre.

From the restart, the Black and Golds gathered, and Jackson Szabo launched forward at an impressive rate of knots, his offload resulted in the game’s decisive moment as Sam Williams dived over for the second try. Allison added the extras as the lead went out to 17-0. There was still time for another sin-binning for each side, but this produced no further scoring.

Cornish remain in second place in London Two South-West, with four matches left, having won their last eight league games. Old Reigatian will feel that the scoreline was rather harsh on them, and that they could (or indeed should) have got a losing bonus point. It is also a quite incredible fact given the way both games between the two sides have gone this season, that Old Reigatian have not scored in either game against ‘The Exiles’. Whilst this was not a game that may live long in the memory of London Cornish supporters, it is winning games like this which can make all the difference come the end of the season.

Posted in Bill's Blog


Camborne take derby day spoils

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Despite the Cornish Pirates, Redruth and Launceston all having the weekend off there was still plenty of exciting Cornish rugby to keep the fans happy and away from the dreaded box!

Pick of the day was the Tribute South West 1 West derby between Camborne and St. Austell.

An exciting game played in terrible conditions didn’t disappoint with the Cherry & Whites snucking the win 18-17.

The Camborne forwards had a tremendous game in the loose and in Dave Mankee a proven goal-kicker in difficult conditions.

Congratulations to the Camborne club off the field as the refurbished Town Bar looks very ‘ansum indeed.

Both sides could well meet again this season in the Tribute Cornwall Cup Final on Saturday 2nd May, no doubt their opponents Truro and Penryn will have other ideas.

You can read my report in the link.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Penryn unsurprisingly lost at home to Exeter University 38-29.

Having held the Students 17-17 at the break, Borough led 29-17 before the students greater fitness told in the final quarter.

Penryn’s tries were scored by Mike Creeden (2), George Jones, Josh Chambers and Ben Ashwin with Martin Strick kicking the rest of the points, to earn them a bonus point.

We await to hear Exeter University’s fate over their potential 50 point deduction by the league.

Truro lost at struggling Torquay 41-27. Truro did pick up a try-scoring bonus point thanks to tries from Darren Jacques, Luke Trescothick, Tom Eley and Darryl Riches.

St. Ives’ hopes of staving off the drop took a blow losing at fellow strugglers Tavistock 27-22, though the 2 points they picked up could yet prove handy.

Ben Taylor, Ben Wheeler, Jacob Ninnes and Tom Chandler scored the Hakes tries.

Wadebridge Camels completed a miserable day for Cornish clubs at this level losing 28-15 at leaders Teignmouth and had a player sent off.

Adam Collings got his marching orders following a mass brawl. Dan Lumb and Will Pengelly scored the Camels’ tries with James Grubb kicking the other points.

In London 2 SW better news as London Cornish kept up their promotion challenge with a 17-0 win at Old Regatian. See the following entry for a match report.

In the Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, Saltash’s win by 16-0 at Pirates Amateurs keeps them ahead of Crediton on points difference. Max Veneables, part of the Cornwall training squad, scored all the Ashes’ points.

Falmouth recorded a good win over promotion challengers Withycombe 18-3 at the Rec. Oli Church and Justyn Irons scored the tries with Irons kicking the other points.

Bude had a big win at relegated Liskeard-Looe 68-7 with Joe Wilson bagging five tries.

Bodmin look set for a very respectable mid-table finish following their 16-6 win at OPMs. Mark Trevarthan scored their only try with James Taylor kicking the other points.

Hayle defeated Exeter Saracens 20-12 thanks to tries from Scott Harvey and Neil Mitchell scored the Lions’ tries with Harvey kicking the rest of the points.

In the Tribute Cornwall Clubs Cup pool stage, there were wins for Illogan Park at St. Just 22-5, Veor at Perranporth 40-9 and Roseland at Lankelly-Fowey 48-0.

Good to see Jack Nowell perform well for England despite the defeat to Ireland at Lansdowne Road 19-9. Always busy and with not great service it has to be said he almost got in at the end to score a try but the pass was adjudged forward.

Also pleasing to see Cornish lads Oli Bryant and Jack Innard with the England Under 20s in their 19-14 win against Ireland at Donnybrook.

On Friday evening, Launceston’s Ben Hilton played a major part in England Counties 37-3 win against new opponents at this level Scottish Clubs XV at Fylde.

They now go on the face France Fédérale on Friday March 20th in Périgueux.

Cornwall Under 20s County Championship semi-final will kick-off at 1 pm on Sunday 15th March at Camborne RFC. See the poster at the top of the page for details.

Posted in Bill's Blog


Cornwall hope 2015 will finally be their year

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Photo – Cornwall at Twickenham in 2014, can they go one better this year?

There was a buzz of excitement and anticipation as some 40 odd players, coaches and officials gathered at Kingsley Village on Monday evening, reports Bill Hooper.

Exeter Chiefs’ winger and former Mount’s Bay and Cornish Pirates star Matt Jess came to talk to the squad about his experiences with Cornwall and how it helped further his career.

It was the first get-together for players likely to feature in Cornwall’s Bill Beaumont Cup campaign, also for some younger players to get a taste of the senior county squad.

Sadly not everyone will go on to play for Cornwall this season, but they will all play an important part as Cornwall, losing finalists in the past two season, seek to add a fourth county crown to those of 1908, 1991 and 1999.

Not all selected were able to be present; last season’s captain Ben Hilton was away on England Counties duty in preparation for Friday night’s game against Scottish Clubs at Fylde.

Also missing were one or two familiar faces in the county squad over previous years who have decided to call time on their county career.

County coaches Graham Dawe and Ian Morgan are both relishing the challenge, though accept that expectations, as ever in Cornwall, for success are sky-high.

Corwall County Championship Squad 26/02/14
Photo – Cornwall’s coaching duo Graham Dawe & Ian Morgan plotting another tilt at Twickenham.

Dawe acknowledges that having fallen at the final hurdle last season expectations are to go one better this season: “Expectation levels in Cornwall are as high as ever, but you have to be realistic, we start with two away games, you have got to put the building blocks in place and as a coach you are looking for consistency from your players, with just three group games that is difficult to achieve you have to ally that with performance and availability.”

“That is where the shirt comes into play; players come in and want to make the shirt theirs by right with their performance.”

“After last season I told the players that they had to go away and look at amongst other things their fitness, when you are playing against sides that have a large number of players playing in National League 1, their fitness and intensity levels are higher and to compete we must match them.”

It looks like youth could well be given its head this season.

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Photo – Veteran lock Damien Cook again play a major role this season

“We have brought some of the younger players from this season’s Under 20s into the squad it will be interesting to see how far they can develop and step up. I think the Tamar Cup game will be ideal for players like that to lay down a marker.”

“I watched Tommy Phillips playing earlier in the season and to be fair he had a few problems back then. I saw him again just before Christmas and he looked a completely different player, he stood his ground and dealt with his opposition well, people tell me he has a good work ethic and is keen to learn, if he carries on that way then he could develop into a very fine player.”

Dawe was also pleased to bring in Kyle Marriott a player he worked with at Plymouth Albion: “I think Kyle has got good qualities, a player who says little but when he speaks players listen and generally he is right in what he says.”

Also in the squad for the first time Truro’s Jake Champion: “He’s a quality player and I want to see if he can step up at this level from what I have seen in training I think he can develop further into a fine player. He is very brave, but I want to see if he can make those decisions under pressure at this level.”

Likewise Ian Morgan is relishing this season’s challenge: “We want to go one step further this year, we think we have identified where we fell short and we hope we have put measures in place to counteract that.”

“We seem to be able to cope with teams from the South and Midlands but when you come against the Northern counties they are able to pick from National 1 sides, so we need to up our game and fitness levels to compete.”

“I personally feel that there has been greater emphasis on fitness in the clubs this season, that’s my opinion on having watched Redruth, Launceston and Camborne. I also feel that the younger players these days buy into the fitness ethic through college.”

“We are going to have a program of training sessions leading up to the Tamar Cup, which we will use as a warm up game for the first Championship game at Cinderford.”

“Tonight is about getting to know each other and getting a feel for squad, the young players coming in having the chance to rub shoulders with some of the established players and for us as coaches building that rapport.”

“There is no question that this season all the shirts are up for grabs, there is no given right to a player that they will be an automatic choice, that competition for places can only benefit the squad as a whole.”

Asked who could be a surprise package in the Cornwall squad this season: “I think prop Tommy Phillips will throw his hat into the ring, he has improved immensely during his first season of senior rugby at Redruth – he is going to be one to watch.”

“Brad Howe is another player, who has come through the Under 20s from last season, he is a good strong ball-carrier training full-time at the Pirates has done him the world of good, likewise John Stevens who had an outstanding game for Redruth last Saturday, also Dan Rutter has shown himself to be an accomplished footballer able to read the game at half-back.”

Redruth’s No.8 Kyle Marriott is looking forward to his first season playing for Cornwall. He said: “I am really looking forward to it. I’ve read and heard a lot about it, and have played against Cornwall in the past for Devon, so it will be interesting.”

“I worked with Graham Dawe at Albion and it was he that started my career in a lot of ways when he signed me up for Plymouth. Hopefully I can come in and add something to Cornwall but like everyone else we have earn the right to wear the shirt.”

“It’s been a real pleasure playing at Redruth this season following my injuries at the Pirates – it has rekindled my hunger for the game.”

Having switched clubs at the end of last season, former St. Austell star, now with Launceston Matt Shepherd is also keen to get back to Twickenham.

Corwall County Championship Squad 26/02/14
Photo – Matt Shepherd keen for a more influential role this season

“I didn’t get a lot of game time last year coming off the bench. This season I have been playing in different positions for Launceston so that will give me a bit more versatility for the squad. I am comfortable playing in any position, All I want is to pull that shirt on and play for Cornwall: when Cornwall come calling you aren’t going to say no!”

Likewise hooker Jamie Salter is looking forward to the campaign. He said: “After the disappointment of last season’s final we are all desperate to get back to Twickenham and win. Luckily I had the England Counties tour to Georgia to focus on straight after, so I didn’t dwell on it for long, but now it’s time to put the record straight. I don’t want to experience another losing final and let down our tremendous supporters.”

Finally, a couple of the youngsters who have come into the training squad are Tommy Phillips and Brad Howe, both products of the Helston club and Truro College.

I asked Tommy how he felt about the call up: “I am very proud to have been called into the senior squad. I am surprised how far I have progressed since joining Redruth, and now this next step. I am really excited as to how far I can go.”

“I had a tough start at Redruth getting used to playing senior rugby, plenty of hard work and good coaching has helped my game improve.”

Brad Howe is equally thrilled to be part of the Cornwall squad: “I am really excited about the prospect, I what to show what I can do and hopefully get selected.”

“Training at the Pirates has really helped develop me as a player and understand the ethos of being a professional player. The older players down there have been great imparting their knowledge.”

Posted in Bill's Blog


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