By Ben Gilby LCRFC Press Officer

The biggest game in the history of London Cornish RFC is getting nearer, as Cornish Exiles supporters and officials count down the hours for their London Two South promotion play-off clash at Medway RFC in Rochester this Saturday.

In this winner takes all clash, the victors will gain promotion to London One South –  just one division below National League rugby – which would be the highest level that London Cornish have ever played at.

Photo Mark Osei-Tutu has been in sparkling form all season for Cornish

Whilst Medway are new opposition for ‘The Exiles’, their ground is very familiar, as it was the location for Cornwall’s Bill Beaumont Cup victory over Kent in May 2013 – a game that saw London Cornish’s Director of Rugby Dickon Moon patrolling the Rochester side’s touchline as part of the Cornwall County coaching staff. If Moon’s charges can pull off a result similar to the one that representatives from ‘God’s Country’ did on that day, then everyone in Black and Gold will be very happy indeed come 4:45pm on Saturday afternoon!

The Kent side will provide seriously tough opposition as they have won seventeen of their twenty league games in London Two South-East this season.

The only games lost were to eventual champions Maidstone (38-22) and Tunbridge Wells (24-23).

They also drew at home to Maidstone 14-14 – which was the only game that the league winners failed to win all campaign.

Medway boast an incredibly impressive attack, averaging 38 points a game during the league season, conceding an average of just 14. Like Cornish, they reached the Regional Quarter-Finals of the RFU Intermediate Cup, which they did so by beating Deal & Betteshanger (20-6) and Staines (48-7). Tellingly, they have not lost a league game at home all season.

DoR Dickon Moon looks to mastermind play-off success for Cornish

Cornish go into the game on the back of their best ever league season, having finished second in London Two South-West, winning 19 of their 22 matches, with the only losses coming to eventual champions Tottonians (19-6 at home, 26-14 away) and at fourth placed Warlingham (16-15). The ‘Black & Golds’ had the best defensive record in the division this season; only conceding an average of 13 points per game, and the second best scoring record, with an average of 28 points per game scored. One of the strong points about this London Cornish side is the high representation of Cornish born and bred players in the side – something which helps to provide a stubborn, never-say-die attitude as London Cornish Director of Rugby Dickon Moon proudly asserts: “With players from across the county from Penzance to Saltash in our ranks, we are truly a Cornish side with a Cornish coaching team in Tom Sincock, Marc Sweeney and myself. If we could win we would become one of the county’s top 5 ranked clubs, which would be some achievement given 13 years ago we were the lowest of the lot!”

Photo Ben Ievers has ruled the line-out this season

Looking ahead to the game, Moon believes that Medway go in as favourites: “Medway are the home side, and had a better playing record than us in the respective leagues, but we wouldn’t be here if we couldn’t play and I hope we can display the same relentless tenacity that has characterised our league season.”

Whatever happens, a memorable occasion is in store, with Medway RFC putting on a Cornish Pasty lunch for their guests, with a big barbecue promised. As Moon concludes: “It’s going to be a great occasion for both clubs, neither of which has played at the higher level, and I am sure Medway will be great hosts too.”

The club hope for a good turn-out of London and South-East based Cornish exiles to support them on Saturday – plenty of Black and Gold and St. Piran’s flags will be incredibly welcome! For those of you in Cornwall not able to get to the game, BBC Radio Cornwall will be providing regular live updates from Medway throughout Ross Ellis’ Saturday Sport Show.

Finally, as was posted on London Cornish RFC’s twitter feed earlier this week – Can the club with no ground of their own, no clubhouse and no money make it to London One? Well, given the pride and passion that the team have played with this season, there is no reason why not!

The Cornish Pirates wrapped up their home Championship program going down to promotion favourites Worcester Warriors 69-8.

The Warriors ran in ten tries in a comprehensive win, which shows the gap facing the Pirates’ at the moment.

People will point to the win against Bristol and to a degree they have a point, there were however extenuating reason for that performance fuelled by some unwise comments in the Bristol camp pre-match.

Lee Hall’s match report in the link for WMN

The Pirates wind up their season next Saturday with a trip to Leeds to play Yorkshire Carnegie looking for a 6^th place finish.

Focus is now on next season and it was good to hear this week of the signing of scrum-half Alex Day from Northampton Saints. Day, who turned 22 this week, was a member of the England Under 20 side that won the World Championship in Vannes two seasons ago.

Plymouth Albion’s fate was sealed yesterday as they lost 29-0 at Moseley.

Sad to see the Devon side slip into National League 1 next season, it remains to be seen what impact their relegation will have with players being loaned out from Championship sides. No doubt Redruth and Launceston will watch developments keenly.

I am sure that this time last season Plymouth Albion supporters will have thought that their side was too good for relegation, food for thought!

Battling Lydney proved too hot for a depleted Redruth as the home side ran out winners 29-17 to keep their survival hopes alive in National League 2 South.

Lydney will be hoping that the Reds can do them a favour next Saturday in defeating Southend and denying them any points, whilst a bonus point win at Shelford would see them safe.

Ed Bawden’s WMN match report in the link

The Cornish All Blacks succumbed at Polson to play-off chasing Taunton 30-19, however the Cidermen will rely on a heroic effort from the All Blacks at Bishop’s Stortford to deny the Essex side a play-off berth.

Suzanne Cleave’s match report from the WMN

Launceston remain 3 points ahead of Redruth so next Saturday will settle a mid-table finish bragging rights!

The Tribute regional leagues were wrapped up yesterday. In South West 1 West, Cleve have long been crowned Champions with Ivybridge as runners-up and facing a play-off against South West 1 East runners-up Towcestrians next Saturday.

Camborne’s defeat at North Petherton 52-26 sees them finish the season in a disappointing 6^th position, a far-cry from the hopes and aspirations of head-coach Liam Chapple. The injury list at the club has not helped at all but nevertheless hopes had been high of a better performance this season. Next season Camborne will be Cornwall’s sole representatives at this level with their nearest opposition being potentially Bideford and Teignmouth!

St. Austell’s two season stay at this level ended with defeat at Bridgwater 31-14. They will look to re-group next season in Western Counties West. Before that they will be hoping to land their first Tribute Cornwall Cup against Camborne at Truro on Monday 4^th May.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro pulled off a good win at play-off bound Kingsbridge 27-25. Mark Carlyon, Theo Gayton and a penalty-try converted by Jake Champion who also landed the other two conversions and two penalties made up the Truro haul. A good finish for Truro who end up the top Cornish side finishing fourth. That said both coaches Josh Lord and Mark Richards will be disappointed that they weren’t stronger contenders in the promotion battle.

Wadebridge Camels finished a good fifth after a poor start to the league campaign blew away any hopes of an immediate return to South West 1 West. They finished the campaign going down to Exeter University 44-15, a side, who in the final analysis ended up losing the most with their massive points deduction.

Penryn will feel disappointed not finishing higher than eleventh and they will hope to climb the table next season under a new coaching regime. For the record Borough slipped to a 37-28 defeat at Sidmouth in their final game.

It’s been a torrid season for St. Ives as they finished bottom of the table. A 52-0 loss at Devonport Services in their final game pretty much summed up their season. Hopefully the Hakes can re-build next season in the Cornwall & Devon League.

The Tribute Cornwall & Devon League had it’s grand finale yesterday when the top two sides played at Crediton. The home side defeated Saltash 23-12 to claim the title. Both sides were already assured of promotion to Western Counties West next term.

Pirates Amateurs ended up in fourth following a 48-36 win at Exeter Saracens.

Falmouth’s win at home to Paignton 32-17 saw them finish sixth. Tom Spiller, Ashley Searle, James Dobson and Alex Sutheridge all crossed for tries in the bonus point win.

Bude also finished on a high beating relegated South Molton 35-24. The Seasiders ended up seventh.

Bodmin, in their first season at this level, finished a very respectable eighth following their 26-22 win over early pace-setters Withycombe.

Hayle ended up ninth, perhaps a final placing that is a little disappointing but they ended on a high defeating OPMs 64-19.

Liskeard-Looe’s brief stay at this level ended with conceding their game at Honiton.

A mention for St. Columbia & Torpoint who ended up third in Devon 1.

The Tribute Cornwall Clubs Cup final will be between Lanner and Veor. Lanner defeated last season’s finalists Perranporth 16-8 at Ponsmere Valley, whilst Veor, who last won the cup in 2013, beat Illogan Park 23-16 at Paynters Lane.

For Lanner, only re-formed this season, it will be a first appearance in a Clubs Cup Final.

The Cornwall Cups Finals will be held at Truro RFC on Monday 4^th May. The Clubs Cup final will kick-off at 1:30 pm, whilst the Senior Final will kick-off at 4:00 pm.

Congratulations to Camborne Colts and to Saltash Colts who will play in the final of the Colts Knock Out Cup on Friday evening at Wadebridge.

Next Saturday in the promotions play-offs sees Veor host Plymstock Albion Oaks for a place in the Cornwall & Devon League next season, whilst in the South East London Cornish travel to Medway RFC looking for a place in London 1 South next season.

By Cornish Pirates’ Media Officer Phil Westren

Jersey 28 – Cornish Pirates 26

The Cornish Pirates outscored their opponents by four tries to three but ultimately lost this closely-fought contest when a former ‘Pirate’, Aaron Penberthy, held his nerve to land a match-winning conversion.

The young Cornishman’s popularity on the island of Jersey is naturally on a high, for he had slotted a late drop goal to down Worcester Warriors in their last home game. However, for the Pirates there was at least some consolation, as they ended this match with two bonus points, which were fully deserved

There was a setback for the Pirates when prop Alan Paver had to withdraw from the team pre-match because of illness, which necessitated a late re-juggle of personnel. Paul Andrew moved across to the tight-head berth, Kiwi Marlen Walker was called off the bench to make his first league start at loose-head, and Jack Andrew filled the vacant seat on the bench.                                                                                                                            

Following some morning rain, conditions were fine and sunny at Rue des Landes, St. Peter, when visiting fly-half Kieran Hallett kicked the game off.

Man-of-the-match Penberthy first displayed his credentials in just the third minute with a penalty strike kicked from just inside his own half, and with the islanders starting well it was not long before a second successful penalty put them 6-0 up.

Wearing their usual golden yellow away strip, the Pirates looked to respond by piling pressure upon their opponents. A succession of penalty awards came their way, and although initially unable to score it was surely just a matter of time. Their chances were suddenly enhanced when home lock Pierce Phillips was shown a yellow card by Premiership referee Mr. Tim Wigglesworth, and having had several opportunities to practice their catch-and-drive routine, maul momentum towards the Jersey line ended with hooker Tom Channon applying the pressure for an unconverted try.

The Pirates were keen to apply pressure to create further scoring opportunities, but for them there was no further benefit, despite Jersey losing a second man to the sin bin when lock Nick Campbell was directed on a similar path taken earlier by his second-row partner. Indeed, the only other points of the half came on the half-hour mark when a third penalty from Penberthy made it 9-5.

Looking for a good start to the second period, for the Pirates it couldn’t get much better, as a try scored by Walker and converted by Hallett put them ahead for the first time in the match.

Sudden joy for the visiting team and their supporters was understandable, but it did not last long, unfortunately, because the hosts regained the lead just two minutes later with a converted try scored by Tongan international scrum-half Samisoni Fisilau.

The Jersey ‘Reds’ enjoyed playing a good spell of rugby and, after they went 21-12 up thanks to a try scored by another international performer in the shape of Argentine hooker Martin Garcia-Veiga, it gave the Pirates a challenge to get back into the match.

A penalty miss by Penberthy gave hope that the Pirates could make a resurgence, and they admirably did when a converted try by prop Paul Andrew brought them within just two points of their hosts.

With 67 minutes on the clock the outcome of this contest was very much in the balance, and hopes of a victory soared for the visitors when replacement centre Rheon James hacked on and full-back Matt Evans – who scored a hat-trick on the island in a 20-6 points win back in 2012 – gathered the bobbling ball and dotted it down over the line. The bonus point providing effort put the Pirates back in front and Hallett added the conversion to make it 21-26.

We know, of course, that the Pirates were unable to hold out for victory, as it was actually two former Pirates, of four who were on show, that delivered the telling blows. Flanker Joe Buckle was a late try-scorer who levelled the scores, and Penberthy kept his cool to kick the winning extras.

The Pirates, however, in securing two bonus points have commendably moved up one place in the league table to sixth. Yorkshire Carnegie drop to seventh and Jersey remain in eighth.

Speaking after the game, Coach Gavin Cattle said:

“We were in a position to win the game so to lose is naturally frustrating. Some of our execution was disappointing, and missing a couple of scoring opportunities in the first half proved costly in such a close contest.”

“There were things that we have worked on in training during recent weeks, which were in evidence and was pleasing, and we now look forward to the visit of Worcester to the Mennaye Field next Saturday. Yes, the odds are stacked against us, as they were against Bristol, but we’ll be looking to make it another special day.”

Jersey: 15 Aaron Penberthy, 14 Mark Foster, 13 Drew Locke, 12 Mark McCrea (David Bishop 59), 11 Fautua Otto, 10 Lewis Robling (Jonny Bentley 72), 9 Samisoni Fisilau (Ryan Glynn 77); 1 Sam Lockwood (Ignacio Lancuba 78), 2 Martin Garcia-Veiga, 3 Harry Williams (Danny Herriott 78), 4 Pierce Phillips, 5 Nick Campbell, 6, Alex Rae (capt), 7 Joe Buckle, 8 Paula Kaho (Dave Markham 34). Replacement (not used): Nick Selway.

Yellow cards: Phillips, Campbell.

Cornish Pirates: 15 Matt Evans, 14 Mike Pope (Laurence May 72), 13 Tom Hendrickson, 12 Alex Dancer (Rheon James 65), 11 Craig Holland, 10 Kieran Hallett, 9 Stuart Townsend; 1 Marlen Walker (Jack Andrew 49), 2 Tom Channon (Jack Innard 65), 3 Paul Andrew, 4 Laurie McGlone, 5 Darren Barry, 6 Chris Morgan, 7 Joe Atkinson, 8 Jake Parker (Matt Bolwell 65).

Replacements (not used): Will Graulich, Will Homer.

Scorers:-

Jersey – tries: Fisilau, Garcia-Veiga, Buckle; cons: Penberthy (2); pens: Penberthy (3).

Cornish Pirates – tries: Channon, Walker, Paul Andrew, Evans; cons: Hallett (3).

 Referee:   Tim Wigglesworth (RFU)

Attendance:   2,241

About to add to the growing list of Pirates who have played for the famous Barbarians, club captain Chris Morgan and fellow forward Laurie McGlone have been honoured with selection in the ‘Baa-Baas’ squad to play Scottish team Heriot’s Rugby Club.

For Chris, it will be a second appearance for the Barbarians, as he played for them against the Combined Services back in 2004, during his time at Bristol Shoguns.

Heriot’s and the Barbarians are both celebrating their 125^th Anniversaries, and competing for ‘The Investec Cup’ the match will be played next Tuesday, the  21^st April, at the Scottish club’s Goldenacre ground in Edinburgh (ko 6pm).

Kiwi-born former Scotland international Sean Lineen has been named as Head Coach for the  Barbarians, who will also have in his squad international players from  Argentina, Canada, Fiji, Namibia, Scotland, and the USA.

The Director of Rugby at the Cornish Pirates, Ian Davies, is thrilled with the recognition being given to Chris and Laurie, commenting:

“I am so pleased that both Laurie and Chris have been selected for the Barbarians. They have been fantastic servants for the Cornish Pirates and this a wonderful recognition of the respect they have earned within our game.”

For more information on the match please visit www.heriotsrugbyclub.co.uk and for tickets please log on to http://www.heriotsrugbyclub.co.uk/barbarians125/.

Report & Photos by Ben Gilby

London Cornish head into the London Two South Promotion Play-Off on the back of a 41-17 win at Weybridge Vandals this afternoon.

The game was a rather strange affair in so far that Cornish scored thirty-one of their forty-one points in either the opening twelve minutes or the final twelve minutes – in between there was very little of note for the good number of visiting supporters to enjoy – other than the glorious spring sunshine and the hog roast on offer on the patio of The Vandals clubhouse!

Any thoughts that The Black & Golds would be distracted by the upcoming London Two South promotion play-off game were dispelled as they took the lead within 55 seconds. A super break from Craig Chatley saw Weybridge struggle to hold back the pacy attack, and a recycle saw Harry Somers over the line. Josh Allison kicked the conversion and it was 7-0.

It took only six more minutes for Cornish to extend their lead when a clearance kick from Vandals’ Darren Lockyer was caught by Josh Allison. The ball found its way to Matt Hakes, who galloped through the centre, with any number of home defenders trailing in his wake, an offload to Tim Homan saw further yards made before a final pass put in Robin Heymann to score with ease. The conversion attempt missed.

At this stage, it seemed as if Cornish could score at will, and the third try came after just 12 minutes. Phil Dale weaved through the midfield before putting in Will Carew-Gibbs, and the hooker rampaged through the ’22’ to score an exceptional effort. Allison added the extras, and the score-line was now 19-0.

An absolute cricket score looked highly likely at this point, but Weybridge, to their credit established an immediate foothold in the game shortly after. An impressive move between Cassian Bramham-Law, James Wellden, Craig Decoteau and Dave Stewart saw a large number of metres made. Cornish may have snaffled the ball, but the territory made in this move would prove to be a telling factor as, shortly afterwards, Vandals won a penalty at the scrum and winger Harry Reed dived over to score. Ryan Humphrey’s conversion missed.

The try caused a major change in momentum as Weybridge enjoyed the majority of possession in the last twenty minutes of the first half. Therefore, it was not a surprise when they managed to get another try back after 36 minutes. A poor pass by Cornish was taken by Cassian Bramham-Law, who combined with Dave Loubser. The move was stopped by ‘The Exiles’, but only with the concession of a five metre scrum. From this, number eight Darren Livett grounded the ball. Humphrey missed the conversion, and ‘The Black & Gold’s’ lead was reduced to 19-10 at half-time.

Photo – Rich Skinnard streaks away from the Vandals’ cover

Cornish started the second half on the front foot, with Harry Somers at the heart of most of the best play during this time. Ten minutes into the second half, they managed to extend their lead as, from a scrum, a mighty shove in the maul saw Tim Homan ground the ball. Josh Allison added the extras, and the score was out to 26-10.

However, the visitors went back into their shells after this score, with Weybridge regaining their hold on the game once more, and from another scrum gained close to the posts, Darren Livett dived over to score his second of the game for The Vandals. Ryan Humphrey kicked his first conversion of the game, and the game was back in the mix again at 26-17.

As the match entered the final quarter, it became increasingly physical and there were a number of incidents which, on another day, could have seen cards of either colour brandished by the referee – however, on this occasion, the official kept his cards firmly tucked away in his pocket. With eight minutes left, Cornish were handed a penalty in a central position, which Josh Allison successfully kicked to extend the lead to 29-17, and extinguish any hopes Weybridge may have had of ending their season with a win.

Photo – winger Robin Heymann fends off a tackle

There was over ten minutes of stoppage time played at the end of the game, and Cornish came good once more with some quite sparkling play which proved that, when ‘The Black and Golds’ played remotely near their best, Vandals could simply not cope with them. After a sensational interplay between Allison, Hakes and Lloyd, the visitors were pinged for not releasing. However, Weybridge’s attempt at clearing their lines only saw the ball run back. Harry Somers and Rich Skinnard combined before the referee ended the attack for crossing. Once more Vandals could not clear successfully, and Rich Skinnard stepped on the gas to obliterate the home side’s defence and score a glorious try. The conversion from Josh Allison missed.

There was still time for one further try for ‘The Exiles’, and what another superb one it was. Weybridge were on the front foot, and were well inside the Cornish ’22’ – a poor pass was knocked-on and picked up by Rich Skinnard who had the time and space to show his quite staggering turn of pace. A 70 metre run of incredible speed was never going to be stopped and he grounded the ball for the sixth Exiles try of the afternoon. Josh Allison had the last say of the afternoon with his conversion.

London Cornish finish the season in second place in London Two South-West, their highest ever league placing. They now have a free weekend ahead of them to prepare for the trip to Rochester on 25th April to take on Medway in the London Two South Promotion Play-Off match – quite possibly the biggest match in our club’s 52 year history.

Photo – Todd Prisk in action against Gloucestershire

Following a gruelling weekend at Welbeck College, Loughborough with the South West Under 20s competing in the Divisional Festival Redruth duo lock and County Under 20s skipper Todd Prisk and prop Tommy Phillips have been selected for the England Counties Under 20s squad to tour Hungary in June, where they will play a Hungarian Barbarians XV and Hungary Under 23s. They will be the first national representative side from England to visit Hungary.

In total nine Cornwall players were selected to represent the South West, a major achievement in itself. In addition St. Ives prop Jay Tyack and Hartpury College centre Jack Simmons have been selected as non-travelling reserves.

Photo – prop Tommy Phillips

The other players involved who didn’t get selected but who did so well get to get that far were Redruth’s Dan Rutter, and Tommy–Lee Southworth, Truro’s Tom Eley, Pirates Amateurs Rhys Brownfield and Camborne’s Neil Stanlieck.

Not unsurprisingly Yorkshire, who defeated Cornwall in the Under 20s County Championship semi-final , have five players in the squad, but only three who featured at Camborne, No.8 and skipper Josh Burridge, hooker Will Scholey and flying winger Rob Rekis.

Photo – Neil Bayliss, pleased with Cornish All Blacks’ recent form.

A wet and windy Sunday afternoon saw what could well be the last cross-Tamar derby for at least a season as the Cornish Pirates’ 27-16 win over Plymouth Albion creaked open further the relegation trap door on their Devon rivals.

Pirates’ tries came via Kieran Hallett, Chris Morgan and Paul Andrew, with former Albion star Hallett kicking the rest of the points.

The win ensures Championship rugby at the Mennaye next season.

Read George Thorpe’s match report in the link.

In National League 2, the Cornish All Blacks got maximum points for the second week running with a fine 29-5 win over Old Elthamians at Polson Bridge.

Ed Holmes and Matt Shepherd both crossed twice with Kieron Lewitt adding the rest of the points from his boot.

Suzanne Cleave’s report in the link.

Redruth suffered another away day horror losing 50-7 at Dorking. Robin Wedlake scored their only try converted by Ashley Hosking, whilst to cap it all Rhodri McAtee suffered a break that has ended his season.

Ed Bawden’s report in the link.

In Tribute South West 1 West, both our sides suffered away day defeats, for St. Austell it proved to be the loss that broke the Camels’ back confirming relegation back to Western Counties West next season after a two-year stint at this level.

Saints went down 31-10 at Avonmouth Old Boys with Ian Venner and Hugh Noot scoring unconverted tries.

Camborne lost at Bideford 35-24, despite the hosts being reduced to fourteen men during the first half.

Alex Ducker, Kevin Mankee and skipper Steve Kenward scored the Cherry and Whites’ tries with Dave Mankee kicking the rest of the points.

In Tribute Western Counties West; Wadebridge Camels 36-7 win at St. Ives virtually condemns the Hakes back to the Cornwall & Devon League next season.

Matt Ballard (2), Mark Kempthorne, Jack Bolton, Gary Gynn and Dom Hawkey all scored tries for the Camels with Bolton kicking three conversions.

For St. Ives Tom Nicholas scored a try converted by Jamie Prisk.

Truro lost at Devonport Services 18-13, Luke Trescothick with their only try converted by Eggy Williams, with Jake Champion chipping in a couple of penalties.

Penryn went down at Tavistock 38-31. Martin Strick and Josh Chambers (2) scored tries whilst Strick added two conversions and a penalty with Matt Horton also kicking three penalties.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish were given a walkover by Tadley to confirm their play-off berth.

In the Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, Saltash and Crediton are locked at the top of the table with the title set to be decided when Ashes visit Crediton on 18^th April.

Saltash maintained their bid for the title with a 45-0 win at Bodmin. Will Morton (2), Ryan Cruickshanks (2), Steve Hillman Brian Veneables and brother Max all scored tries with Max Veneables kicking five conversions.

Pirates Amateurs defeated Bude 19-14 on the Mennaye thanks to tries from Lee Edwards, Mike Roach and Harry Hudson, Steve Evans and Trev Dugdale each kicked a conversion.

For Bude, Adam Black and Bradley Janes scored tries both converted by Olly Denford.

Hayle won at home against Honiton 20-5. Josh Rule and Neil Mitchell scored tries for the Lions which were both converted by Scott Harvey who also landed a couple of penalties.

Falmouth were given a walkover by Liskeard-Looe.

Easter weekend sees the usual touring fixtures with Old Dunstonians and Imperial Medics both down in the Duchy.

Easter Saturday will also see the return Rodda’s Milk Cup fixture as Camborne entertain Redruth!

Easter Sunday will also see the Penryn Easter 7’s.

Finally good luck to the Cornwall Under 20 lads who will be at Welbeck College over Easter for the Divisional Festival, and looking to make the England Counties Under 20s tour to Hungary in May.

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 50^th 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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