Cornwall Rugby Football Union Under 20s 2014/15 County Championship campaign begins on Sunday 30 November.

Following a trial session at Truro RFC, the Under 20’s have trained for the last 6 weekends sometimes in atrocious weather in preparation for their first game against Gloucestershire at Camborne RFC with a 2.30 pm kick off.

CRFU President John Grindle said, “This is the first game at this level for some of the team and they start with a tough game. I want to thank the coaching team of Ian Morgan, Mike Rawlings, Bryn Jenkins and team manager Chris Lea for their work in pulling together the team.” He went on to say, “I would also like to thank Camborne for hosting the game, Kelsall Steele for their sponsorship of the match shirts, along with ITEC our programme sponsors.”

Cornwall face one other game in the group stages on January 25th against Devon at Ivybridge and depending on results, are hoping for a quarter-final place to be played in February.

Coach Ian Morgan said, “We have a young squad who have trained well and in good numbers on Sunday mornings in Truro. They now face a stern test against a strong Gloucestershire squad.”

Coach Mike Rawlings said, “It is testament to the guys who have trained on Sunday mornings after games for their own clubs on the Saturday. They have trained hard and know they face a difficult task, but they will be extremely proud to pull on the famous black and gold shirt of Cornwall. ”

CRFU Chair Denis Preece said, “This is the first opportunity for some of these players to represent Cornwall at senior level. A number of the players, who have gone before them, have gone on to represent the full County XV and some have played at Twickenham!!”

Cornwall Under 20 team manager Chris Lea said, “This squad is a mixture of players from last season, new players nominated from clubs and guys who have progressed through the Under 18 age group. It is great to see these guys getting progression through the County system and a number of former players are now playing at Premiership and Championship level, as well as clubs within Cornwall.”

Cornwall: Tom Eley (Truro), Konnor Ewudzi (St. Austell), Jack Simmons (Hartpury Coll), Rhys Brownfield (Pirates Ams), Jake Woodward (Wadebridge Camels), Dan Rutter (Redruth), Zac Noeda (Truro); Jay Tyack (Redruth), Locryn Williams (St. Austell), Tommy Phillips (Redruth), Todd Prisk (Redruth, Capt), Dan Marsh (Truro), Adam Hughes (Penryn), John Haines (Cornish All Blacks), Neil Stanleick (Camborne).

Replacements (from): Sam Furse (Newquay Hornets), Joe Martin (Truro), Russell Stevens (Hayle), Tony Pellow (Penryn), Ollie Williams (Falmouth), Tom Sandercock (Cornish All Blacks), Lewis Thomas (Redruth), Sam Rodda (Newquay Hornets), Adam Smith (Redruth), John Tyler (Penzance & Newlyn Colts).

Coaches – Ian Morgan, Mike Rawlings, Bryn Jenkins

Team Manager – Chris Lea

OLD ALLEYNIANS 16-19 LONDON CORNISH

London Cornish stay top of London Two South-West after a hard fought 19-16 win at Old Alleynians, reports Ben Gilby

On a damp, dank afternoon in Dulwich, ‘The Exiles’ had to work hard to ensure they left with a victory.

Cornish came into this game having not conceded a try in four games, and, in total only nine points in this period. They were under no illusions as to the task that faced them at Old Alleyians though, with the ‘Old Boys’ being the only side to lower Tottonians’ colours in the league this season.

The build-up to the game saw Cornish forced into making late changes to their starting line-up as Craig Chatley was injured in the warm-up. This could have resulted in a slow start for the visitors, but to their credit, ‘The Exiles’ took the lead after just three minutes, when, following early pressure, they were awarded a penalty which Luke Spells successfully kicked. With a light shower beginning to fall, the ball became very tough to handle, and it was very much an even-stevens period. Alleynians showed great pace on the wings, with Gareth Wynn making the yards, before a Cornish infringement, and Paul O’Connor levelled the scores after ten minutes.

Pic Chris Anstey puts in a big hit on OA player

Crucially, the Black & Golds hit back and, with the forwards in clear control of matters, Alleynians were forced backwards before the ball was zipped out by Rob Healey who found the impressive Phil Dale who dived over in the far right hand corner for his third try in four games to re-establish the lead. Spells’ conversion attempt from a tight angle missed.

With the benefit of the slope, Alleynians had the best of the second quarter, and two successful penalties by Paul O’Connor saw them take a wafer-thin 9-8 lead at the break. Cornish knew there were plenty of opportunities in the second half as, on the occasions that they had got forward momentum, the home side found it hard to contain them.

Yet, it was the home side who made the strongest start as a great move at pace resulted in Jake Smith dotting down, with O’Connor adding the conversion to increase their lead to 16-8. Once more, Cornish responded to the concession of points positively. After an attack, a penalty was earned, but Spells’ attempt missed. The momentum continued though and the forwards began to force Alleynians back into their ten metres on a regular basis. A series of line-outs and drives resulted in Ben Ievers grounding the ball just in from the left-hand touch-line. The conversion attempt from Luke Spells missed, but Cornish were now right back in it.

Alleynians had their chances sporadically, but Cornish had the upper hand. They were regularly repelled by quite outstanding defence from the home side. The pressure finally told and led to the concession of a penalty which Spells kicked on 65 minutes.

Pic – Rob Healey looks to get his back-line on the move

Old Alleynians won a penalty shortly afterwards, but O’Connor, who kicked well all afternoon, crucially missed. Back came Cornish, who laid siege to the home side’s line. The sheer determination to grind out a result was there for all to see, as the sensational vocal support from the Cornish fans got ever louder. As the game moved into stoppage time, Alleynians could hold back the tide no longer, and conceded a penalty in front of the posts. Luke Spells made the kick, and the game was won.

Whilst Cornish may not have been at their best, it was desire and sheer will to win that got them over the line. Massive respect has to go to Old Alleynians who were impressively stubborn opposition. Equally impressive was the large number of Black & Gold clad support, which surely outnumbered the home support. The 1st XV now focus in on their next game in a fortnight – a massive top of the table clash with Tottonians at The REMPF.

Photo – Ben Priddey scored two of Redruth’s six tries against Dings

Despite the counter attraction of International rugby on the television, there was still plenty of great local rugby to get out and watch last weekend.

The Cornish Pirates saw a losing bonus point snatched from their grasp with last gasp penalty at Clifton Lane against Rotherham Titans it finished 21-13!

That latest defeat sees the Pirates slip back to second from bottom in the Championship table seven points ahead of Plymouth Albion.

The Christmas clash at Brickfields will be very interesting!

You can read Nigel Walrond’s match report in the link here.

Reaction from coaches Gavin Cattle and Alan Paver in the link here.

I saw a very entertaining game at the Recreation Ground where Redruth overcame a dogged Dings Crusaders side 36-25 in a game of nine tries.

Bearing in mind that Dings are currently bottom of National League 2 South it just shows that all sides are competitive in this league.

You can read my match report in the link.

The Cornish All Blacks looked to have staged a remarkable comeback at Cambridge after they trailed 21-0 after just 12 minutes!

A red card for Cambridge skipper Stefan Liebenberg gave the All Blacks a sniff of a comeback, which they did before another last gasp penalty consigned them to another single point defeat.

You can read Conrad Sutcliffe’s match report from the WMN in the link.

In Tribute South West 1 West, Camborne edged closer to the top two with a 37-27 win at the Rec against Thornbury.

A brace of tries from skipper Steve Kenward plus scores from Taron Peacock, Rob Floyd and Alex Ducker – back in the Cherry and White fold after a brief sojourn at the Pirates – gave Town maximum points. Kevin Mankee added 12 points with the boot.

St. Austell are on the up following another good win at home against Wells 31-25. Jack Grigg, Miles Davey, Dan Johns Paul Winterbottom and Liam Freeman all scored tries for the Saints with Dan Pearce kicking three conversions.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro maintained their third place with a 62-7 over St. Ives at St. Clements Hill.

Tries for Truro were scored by Jake Champion (2), Adam Gayton (2), Rikki Brandon, Luke Trescothick (2), Ben Teasdale, Luke Tidball and Ross Denning. Craig Williams kicked six conversions.

For the Hakes Tom Chandler got a try converted by Niall Prisk.

Penryn went down at home to Kingsbridge 29-3. Jake Seviour with the Borough’s only points.

Wadebridge Camels picked up a losing bonus point at Torquay were they lost 33-27. Tom Rowe, Jamie Lumb and Chris Humphries scored the Camels’ tries, with Jamie Grubb kicking the other points.

This Saturday Wadebridge entertain Truro!

In London 2 SW, London Cornish remain top of the table following a 20-0 win against Old Reigatian. Mark Osei-Tutu, Joe Skinnard and Rob Healey with Luke Spells kicking a conversion and penalty.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League we have new leaders, Saltash. The Ashes defeated former table toppers Withycombe at Moorlands 37-35.

There is a match report from the Plymouth Herald in the link.

Pirates Amateurs got back to winning ways defeating South Molton 50-10 at the Mennaye.

Nick Hitchings (3), Steve Kent, Jack Lonsdale, Rhys Brownfield and Danny Toolan scored the Ams tries with Brownfield kicking the other points.

Bude’s game at OPM’s was abandoned when the referee walked off the pitch with 12 minutes to go following abuse aimed at the referee from the touchline! OPM’s led 16-7 at the time. We await to see if the result will stand or the game is ordered to be re-played!!

Hayle defeated Falmouth in a Cornish derby 25-13. Damien Lynes, Alex Thornton and a penalty try award made up the Lion’s three tries with Dan Magee kicking the other points.

Rob Fitzpatrick scored the Eagles only try with Justyn Irons kicking the other points.

Bodmin lost at Paignton 44-14. Jamie Taylor and Jon Trevarthan scored Bodmin’s tries both converted by Taylor.

Liskeard-Looe’s miserable season continues as they lost 57-0 at Lux Park to Crediton.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Newquay Hornets win at nearest rivals Veor 22-11 maintains their 100% record.

Third place Illogan Park defeated Perranporth 45-14, whilst Camborne School of Mines had the better of Stithians 68-12. Helston defeated bottom side Roseland 36-3.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, just the one game played as St. Just conceded to Camelford. A top of the table clash ended in a 21 all draw at Trevarth between Lanner and St. Agnes. Lanner remain top on points difference.

Congratulations to Cornish Pirates duo Gavin Cattle and Alan Paver who played in the Armistice Day game at Bath for the Barbarians against Combined Services, for whom Penryn’s Kye Beasley came on during the second half.

Great to see Josh Matavesi playing at fly-half for Fiji against Wales in Cardiff last Saturday, a close game saw Wales sneak it 17-13.

Also former Pirate Blair Cowan had big game for Scotland against New Zealand at Murrayfield, the All Blacks snuck out the win 24-16.

As ever I keep an eye on rugby in Brittany and with Vannes going well in their pool in Fédérale 1, it was good to learn that Comite de Bretagne side defeated last season’s finalists Bourgogne 20-12 at Viry Chatillon in the Coupe des Fédérations – the French equivalent of the County Championships.

There was a Cornishman involved Tom Parker who currently plays at Vannes played for Brittany.  Brittany will play their quarter-final in December.

Dave Pascoe in action for the Combined Services last season against the Barbarians – Photo Simon Bryant Iktis photo

It proved to be an excellent weekend for teams wearing a black shirt whether internationally or local.

Whilst the Kiwi’s were laying down a marker ahead of next year’s Rugby World Cup at Twickenham defeating tournament hosts England 24-21, the Cornish All Blacks finally put an end to a losing run defeating Worthing 29-19 at Polson Bridge, a fitting tribute to former Launceston & County President John Fry who sadly passed away this week.

Kieron Lewitt notched up a total of 24 points with a try, five penalties and a couple of conversions. Chris Chew scored the other try for the All Blacks.

Read Suzanne Cleave’s match report from the WMN in the link

In the other National League 2 South game played, disappointment for Redruth who for the first time this season failed to pick up any league points from a game as they lost at Shelford 31-11.

The Reds’ points from a Greg Goodfellow try and a couple of penalties by Ashley Hosking.

Redruth will look to bounce back at the Rec next Saturday when they entertain bottom side Dings Crusaders.

Ed Bawden’s WMN report in the link

There were just two re-arranged games in Tribute Western Counties West, Truro had all five points in the bag before a ball was kicked in their game at St. Clements Hill against Tiverton as the Devon side travelled with just one recognised prop!

In a game played with un-contested scrums Tiverton “won” 17-0

Penryn won their re-played game at Torquay Athletic 32-13 with George Jones scoring two of their five tries.

There were two Tribute Cornwall Cup quarter-finals played on Saturday, holders Camborne were given a stiff test at Clifden Park before progressing at the expense of Bodmin 36-18.

Town’s tries were scored by Grant Thirlby, Rob Floyd, James Goldsworthy, Callum Moyle, Neil Stanleick and Cameron Bone with Dave Mankee slotting three conversions.

Ali McPhee and Mark Trevarthan scored tries for Bodmin with Jamie Taylor kicking the rest of the points.

St. Austell overcame Wadebridge Camels at Tregorrick 30-21 to also make the semi-finals.

Saints’ tries came from Darren Pellow, Callum Wilson, Ben Chenoweth and Rob Jeffs with Dan Pearce kicking a couple of conversions and a penalty, whilst Liam Freeman dropped a goal.

For the Camels, Mark Grubb Gary Gynn and Will Pengelly scored tries with Danny Thomas adding all three conversions.

The draw for the semi-finals which will be played in the New Year is;

Camborne v Truro / Pirates Amateurs

Bude / Penryn v St. Austell

The two outstanding quarter-final ties are due to take place on Saturday 29^th November.

In the RFU Intermediate Cup London SE, London Cornish progressed to the next round after defeating Portsmouth 62-0.

There was a full program in both Tribute Cornwall 1 and 2, in Tribute 1 Newquay Hornets continued their run with 43-7 win against Illogan Park.

Veor consolidated their second place with a 26-10 win at Stithians.

Perranporth defeated Helston 24-10 at Ponsmere Valley and Roseland got the better of Camborne School of Mines 31-28 at Philleigh.

In Cornwall 2, St. Agnes lead the way following their 78-3 win against Lankelly-Fowey, whilst second place Lanner won 100-0 against Redruth Albany at Trewirgie.

On Sunday the Cornish Pirates slipped to a home defeat in the Greene King RFU Championship 28-13 against Nottingham.

It was a disappointing performance from the Pirates and they will be looking to bounce back next week against Rotherham in Yorkshire.

You can read Bill Sobey’s match report and Ian Davies’ comments in the links.

No Jack Nowell in the England team last Saturday against New Zealand but he is back with the squad preparing for next Saturday’s game against South Africa.

A shoulder injury kept Josh Matavesi out for the Fiji side that lost 40-15 to France in Marseille on Saturday evening, he too is back in the mix for Fiji next match against Wales.

Former Pirate Blair Cowan played for Scotland in their 41-31 win over Argentina at Murrayfield.

Both Gavin Cattle and Alan Paver from the Cornish Pirates will play for the Barbarians on Armistice Day at Bath’s Recreation Ground against the Combined Services.

Four Naval personnel from RNAS Culdrose feature in the Combined Services side which will once again be captained at scrum-half by Penryn’s Dave Pascoe.

Prop Kye Beasley (Penryn), hooker Ben Priddey (Redruth) and lock Marsh Cormack (Taunton) make up the quartet.

Picture by Richard Major – John Fry back row centre with some of the 1999 winning squad in 2009.

It was with great sadness that TASC learned of the passing of former Launceston and CRFU President John Fry.

John was CRFU President when Cornwall triumphed at Twickenham in 1999 against Gloucestershire to lift the County title for the third time.

He was very well-respected throughout the game in Cornwall.

Trelawny’s Army wishes to express its condolences to Margaret and the rest of John’s family and friends.

Hon. Sec Ian Gordon represented TASC at John’s funeral this week which saw a huge turnout at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Launceston.

As you would have expected many figures from Cornish rugby paid their respects.

What drama at Tregorrick Park last Saturday when St. Austell ripped up the form book to defeat Camborne 13-6 in a hard-fought Cornish derby.

For the Saints it was just their second win of the season, their first since an opening weekend success against Bideford, a win that lifted them above Cullompton in the league table.

There was certainly a sense of relief for St. Austell’s forwards coach Ashley Morcom who spoke after the game. He said. “I am much happier tonight than I have been of late, it’s good to finally stop this run of defeats we have endured, especially so in a derby game against Camborne.

“I wasn’t too concerned turning around a 3-3, I felt that we would at some stage in the game have a period of dominance and so it proved during the second half. We talked during half-time about holding on to the ball and playing with more structure and I felt that the boys took that on message on board and the score-line of 13-6 tells the story.”

In the Camborne camp a bitterly disappointed Camborne head-coach Liam Chapple summed up his side’s performance.

“I am pretty disappointed with our performance, but on the day the better team won. We were out-muscled up-front especially during the second half.

“I thought we had weathered the storm during the first half playing against the elements I was pleased to turnaround all square at 3 a-piece.

“The boys had executed the game plan pretty well to put us in a good position for the second forty, but for some reason we seemed to lose intensity whilst St. Austell upped their tempo.”

You can read my match report from the West Briton site in the link.

With no game for the Cornish Pirates last weekend due to the Championship XV game against Canada, which the Championship boys won 28-23 at Worcester, it was National League 2 South which held centre stage.

At Polson Bridge it was a case of déjà-vu as The Cornish All Blacks slipped agonizingly to another single point defeat this time 22-21 to Southend.

The Launceston side’s luck must turn at some point can it happen this Saturday when they are again at home against Worthing!!!

I am sure the Launceston lads will need no reminding about the last time these two sides met!

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

Redruth travelled up on the day to Worthing, which probably didn’t help their cause, and came close to a great result losing only 12-10. Chris Fuca and Ben Priddey scored un-converted tries for the Reds, whilst all Worthing’s points came from the boot.

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

In Tribute Western Counties West, a first win of the season for St. Ives who defeated fellow strugglers Tavistock 39-13 at Alexandra Road.

The game was a personal success for Jamie Prisk who scored three of the Hakes’ seven tries with other scores coming from Ben Taylor (2), Neil Corin and Tom Chandler with Jacob Ninnes landing a couple of conversions.

Truro made it a maximum five point haul with a 26-19 win over Torquay Athletic at St. Clements Hill. Their four tries came from Darren Jacques (2), Tom Hatfield and Carl Ranscombe with Jake Champion adding three conversions.

Penryn gave runaway leaders Exeter University a run for their money only going down finally 29-21. Jake Seviour scored a try and kicked three conversions with other scores coming from

Callum Hinchley and a great team effort finished off by Tom Hoban who instigated the move.

Wadebridge Camels couldn’t cope with high-flying Teignmouth who won 32-10 at the Molesworth Field. Sam Stone scored the Camel’s sole try with Danny Thomas adding the conversion and a penalty.

In London South West 2, an impressive second-half display sees London Cornish on top of the league following a 41-3 win at Farnham. See previous blog entry for match report.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, match of the day saw second play third as Saltash comforted their second place with a good win over Pirates Amateurs 54-22.

There is a match report in the link from the Plymouth Herald

Bodmin prepared for their Tribute Cornwall Cup tie against holders Camborne next Saturday with a 23-10 win against OPM’s at Clifden Park. That’s three wins on the trot for Bodmin who have come into a good patch of form in recent weeks.

Withycombe continue to head the table seeing off visitors Falmouth 46-13. John Tryer scored the Eagles only try with Justyn Irons kicking the other points.

Hayle put up a good fight at Exeter Saracens before slipping to a 35-31 defeat.

Lynes, Matthews, Kerr and a penalty-try award saw the Lions bring 2 points back from their travels.

Liskeard-Looe travelled to Bude with just 12 players, however they did play the game despite forfeiting the points losing 85-0.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Newquay Hornets maintained their fine start with a 41-5 win at Helston.

Veor are up to second spot after defeating previously un-beaten Illogan Park 38-10.

Camborne School of Mines defeated Perranporth 35-10 at Penryn, whilst Stithians defeated Roseland in an entertaining game 33-25.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, St. Agnes went top following their 31-0 win at Camelford.

Lankelly-Fowey defeated Redruth Albany 29-17.

Congratulations to Tom Kessell, Darren Barry and Kieran Hallett, a late call up, who were all involved in the Championship XV win over Canada at Worcester.

Former Red Mark Bright scored one of the tries in the 28-23 win.

Good luck this week to Jack Nowell who will be looking to feature for England against the All Blacks at Twickenham, also to Josh Matavesi who will be hoping to play for Fiji against France at the Stade Vélodrome in Marseille. Former Pirate Blair Cowan will be hoping to be in the Scotland side to face Argentina.

Cornish attack the Farnham line

Farnham 3-41 London Cornish

Report & Photos by Ben Gilby

A quite incredible final twenty minutes from London Cornish ensured they went back to the top of London Two South-West, with a crushing victory over Jonny Wilkinson’s first side, Farnham.

The first half saw the home side fail to take advantage of the wind which was behind them, and they had only a 21^st minute penalty from Christopher Penn to show for it, as Farnham led by those three points to nil.

With the wind now at their backs, it took only five minutes of the second period for ‘The Exiles’ to score the first try of the afternoon, as flying winger Robin Heymann touched down. Luke Spells’ conversion attempt missed. Whilst Cornish had the better of things over the next fifteen minutes, it took a while before this began to show on the scoreboard. Mark Osei-Tutu, with a trademark powerful run got things moving again with his seventh try of the season to extend the visitors’ lead to seven points. Then, there was a rapid fire burst of five tries in just eighteen minutes. Matt Hakes, playing in the centres got the ball rolling with two tries in just three minutes, with Spells adding a conversion for the second. With Farnham now 22-3 down, even their coach, the Harlequins lock George Robson, couldn’t inspire them to make a comeback as Cornish’s speed and confidence was now surging through the black and gold jersey.

Will Carew-Gibbs controls the ball at the back of a maul

With nine minutes left, Robin Heymann scored a delightful try with a hop and skip of a run down the left hand touchline, Spells conversion extended the Cornish lead to twenty-six points. Farnham’s luck well and truly deserted them two minutes later when, following a rare second half sortie into ‘Exiles’ territory, a loose pass was snaffled up by the black and gold’s centre Luke Spells, who galloped between the sticks to dot down, and convert his own five pointer. There was time for one further try at the death, when Cornish forward Harry Somers went over in the left hand corner.

With previous league leaders Tottonians suffering a shock defeat at Old Alleynians, this result put London Cornish two points clear at the summit. ‘The Exiles’ have now won 16 of their last 19 matches.

I was fortunate to see two cracking games of rugby this weekend at both Redruth and the Cornish Pirates.

Both games were of high quality full of running rugby with a veritable feast of tries served up in both games. What more could a rugby fan ask for?

At both games I was happy to make TASC Senior Player and Under 20 awards re-presentions to both Greg Goodfellow and Tyler Gendall in front of their home fans.

Photo by Simon Bryant Iktis photo – presenting Greg Goodfellow with his Shield at Redruth

I’ll start at Redruth were much fancied Bishop’s Stortford were the visitors.

Despite going behind to an early try the Reds showed plenty of spirit and continued improvement in the set-piece which illustrates just how far the boys have come along this season.

Eight games played with points picked up from each of those games has certainly built confidence much of the plaudits must go to head-coach Steve Larkins and his coaching team.

You can read my match report on the Reds’ 28-24 win in the link from the West Briton site.

In the other game in National League 2 South, the Cornish All Blacks came up just short once more in losing at Lydney 20-19.

Trailing 17-9 at half-time the Cornish All Blacks couldn’t turn the game around despite good tries from Billy Searle and Kyle Speare. Frustratingly another score was chalked off by the referee!!

You can read Conrad Sutcliffe’s WMN match report in the link.

The Cornish Pirates needed a win on Sunday after the disappointing news that their win against the Bedford Blues had been reversed. That decision is subject to an appeal that will be heard at a later date.

Photo Simon Bryant Iktis photo – presenting Tyler Gendall with the U.20 Shield at the Mennaye

Despite a good start the Pirates found themselves 17-30 down during the second half but they rallied in splendid fashion to pip Cross Keys 34-33 at the final whistle.

A tremendous game of rugby played by both sides. It was good to see both Stuart Townsend and Jack Innard in action with both having being called up into England’s Under 20 squad for this season.

The Pirates’ have a week off (but not from training as Ian Davies was quick to point out) as the Championship XV take on Canada next Sunday at Sixways with both Ian Kessell and Darren Barry featuring the Championship squad.

Read Bill Sobey’s match report from the WMN in the link.

In Tribute South West 1 West; Camborne made it back-to-back home wins with a narrow 16-14 win at home to Wells.

Debutant right wing Jack Dickson scored Camborne’s first try with full-back Dean Pascoe grabbing the second. Dave Mankee kicked a couple of penalties to confirm a precious win for the Cherry and Whites made all the sweater when news of leader’s Ivybridge’s first defeat of the season at home to Thornbury filtered through to the Rec.

St. Austell faced a tough trip away at Matson and despite leading 20-17 at half-time fell away during the second half to finally lose 41-27.

Saints did pick up a try-scoring bonus point thanks to tries from Sam Tank, Alex Welland, a Penalty-try and Dan Martin. Dan Pearce kicked the other points.

So, this coming Saturday all roads will lead to Tregorrick Park when St. Austell play Camborne in what will no doubt be a keenly contested Cornish derby in front of a big crowd in Clay country with both sides needing the win for different reasons.

In Tribute Western Counties West; Penryn got back to winning ways following the previous week’s slip up at Wadebridge defeating Devonport Services 22-11 at the Memorial Ground.

Borough scored tries through Chris Instance, Jack Willey and a penalty-try award with Matt Horton adding a couple of conversions and a penalty.

Truro lost at Teignmouth 17-5 with just a Jake Champion try to show for their efforts in a tight battle that saw the home side pull away in the closing quarter.

Wadebridge Camels came un-stuck at Tiverton 31-5 with just a Matt Ballard try to show for their efforts.

St. Ives slipped to defeat at Torquay Athletic 66-0.

In London 2 SW, see the previous blog entry re London Cornish’s win against Leatherhead & Effingham.

In Tribute Cornwall and Devon League; Withycombe came out on top in the battle between first and second against Pirates Amateurs 15-10.

Leigh Edwards scored the Amateurs try with Rhys Brownfield kicking a penalty and conversion.

Saltash leap-frog the Amateurs into second place following their 23-19 win at Paignton. Will Morton, Pearce Hancock and Ryan Cruickshank scored the Ashes’ tries, with Max Veneables kicking the rest of the points.

Falmouth defeated Exeter Saracens 17-12 at the Rec. George Cooper scored the Eagles sole try with Justyn Irons kicking four penalties.

Honiton defeated Bude 15-10, Adam Black scored a try for Bude with Olly Denford adding the conversion and a penalty.

Hayle lost at home to Crediton 37-13. Matt Rashleigh scored the Lions sole try with Dan McGee kicking the conversion and two penalties.

The derby game at Lux Park went the way of visitors Bodmin who defeated Liskeard-Looe 31-12 for their second win as they continue to climb away from the bottom of the table.

Trelawny’s Army, through Pete Gough and Colin Penwarden were present at the game to present both clubs with match balls following their promotions last season.

Wendon Lee Taylor (2) Williams and Job scored tries for Bodmin with Jamie Taylor kicking the rest of the points.

For Liskeard-Looe Kitto and Regan scored tries with Noel -Johnson adding a conversion.

In Tribute Cornwall 1 Newquay Hornets made it four wins from four with a 52-14 win over School of Mines.

Illogan Park are also on four from four following a 67-13 win at home against Helston.

Stithians won at Ponsmere Valley against Perranporth 45-21, whilst Veor travelled to Roseland and won 32-3.

In Cornwall Tribute 2, Lanner top the table following a third win 52-5 against Lankelly-Fowey.

St. Agnes having played one game less are second after their 75-14 win against St. Just.

Camelford defeated Redruth Albany 29-16 at Trewergie.

Match Report: London Cornish 25 – 6 Effingham & Leatherhead

London Two South West by Mark Digby, photo Ben Gilby

Following last Saturday’s late heartbreak high upon the hills of the North Downs, London Cornish returned to the REMPF aiming not to crash down to earth with a second successive defeat. Any fears were abated as the Exiles fortress remained intact, with patience being the key to a 25-6 victory over visitors Effingham and Leatherhead.

A mild, crisp autumn afternoon provided the calm for Cornish to start on the front foot from the kick off, and in almost a repeat of seven days earlier, they would again dominate possession and territory for much of the first half. Early pressure would soon bear fruit when after just four minutes, Effingham and Leatherhead conceded a penalty for Luke Spells to despatch successfully from the boot to strike three upon the scoreboard in his side’s favour.

Within minutes, an exchange of kickable penalties for both sides attempted to define the game but to no avail. Cornish would, as in previous weeks, find themselves their own worst enemy by allowing the Eagles’ Brian Collins two chances to punish them. However, they were fortunate not to be behind, as Collins could only find success with just one from two between the half way and forty metre lines, and with Spells also replying from the boot at Sir’s behest, the Exiles would regain the lead at 6-3 after less than fifteen minutes.

The remainder of the half would see a familiar pattern. Cornish continued to dominate both possession and territory, but a resolute and very well organised defensive effort from the visitors firmly put up the ‘No Entry’ sign, as the Black and Gold attack could advance no further than 15 metres from the Eagles’ line. The visitors themselves offered infrequent charges into enemy territory, only to also be repelled by stubborn defence, as they failed to penetrate the opposition twenty two. Spells had a chance to further the lead from a penalty on the half hour, but was unsuccessful for the first time in the game.

Half time came with the score remaining 6-3 to Cornish. Was the ghost of Warlingham about to haunt the spirit of Trelawny?

In the early exchanges of the second half, the spectre seemed to be appearing, as Effingham and Leatherhead began to shake off the shackles of the first forty minutes. Either side of an enforced fifteen minute break, due to a knee dislocation suffered by the Eagles’ No.8, the visitors began to push Cornish back as far as five metres from the line. With Spells again unable to find his kicking boots with an early penalty attempt, and Collins despatching his second successful kick, the spirit of the Might Warl was becoming ever apparent, as the scores were level after 54 minutes.

However, the Black and Gold had other ideas, and hatched a plan to exorcise the ghost from the hills. Successive changes from the bench were made with Rich Fisher replacing Harry Somers, and Phil Dale making his comeback after injury, to swap places with Joe Skinnard at Fly Half. The alterations appeared to be what was required, as Cornish found renewed impetus following the re-start.

Patience was finally rewarded, as it would prove to be pretty much one way traffic for the final twenty five minutes. Continued pressure from the Exile’s pack would force errors from the visitor’s, as fatigue began to set into the Eagle’s previously resolute defensive wall. On the hour, a penalty was awarded that Dale opted to kick towards the corner. Mark Osei-Tutu attempted to peel off the back off the Cornish pack following the line out, but was thwarted yet again. However, Cornish regrouped and formed another rolling maul which, from twenty metres, could not be stopped. Chris Anstey touched the ball down for try number one, in a move that any great Cornish team of the past, and indeed future, would be proud of. Unfortunately, Spells could not convert, but at 11-6, a gap was appearing that would only grow.

Patience finally brought confidence, momentum, and finally just reward, as relentless Cornish pressure continued to wear down the visitors. With ten minutes to go, Anstey crossed the line again in a similar move to the first try, this time a huge shove from the Black and Gold from ten metres. Spells rediscovered his kicking compass to add the extras, 18-6.

However, Cornish were not finished, and on the stroke of full time, Osei-Tutu would add the cherry on the cake with a fine twenty metre dash, following more forward pressure to dive under the posts, and score his seventh try of the season. Spells again converted to make a final score of 25-6 to the Exiles. The ghost was vanquished as Cornish solidified second place in London Two South West.

London Cornish Director of Rugby, Dickon Moon gave his thoughts after the game:

“It was a very similar performance to recent weeks, but what I was really pleased about, was that we defended a lot better today. We had to stop giving away kickable penalties, and I was very pleased that we kept Effingham and Leatherhead down to a few long pots at goal. They are a tricky side, and will definitely be top four/five this year, and have improved and recruited very well, so we can be really pleased with 25-6, as last week’s defeat shook everyone, which Warlingham deserved (the win). Onward and upwards with 25 points from a possible 30 in the first six games, which we’ve got to be happy with.

Some lessons learnt from last week, as maybe we could have taken a few more shots at goal, but Warlingham defended superbly. It was the right result, and it gave us a good shake up. What was good for us, was that we had Phil Dale back today following his operation in the summer. We’ll have more depth at nine and ten, plus we have other players to come back in the forthcoming weeks. Given our position, and that historically we improve as the season goes on, this is very encouraging.

Farnham (away next week) had a great season last year, and gave Totton a tough game last week. We will look at selection, as I anticipate another tough day at the office, but we will certainly give them something to think about, and look forward to visiting their new ground.”

Photo Tyler Gendall receives the “Tony Mead” Memorial Shield as Cornwall U.20 Player of the Year from BBC Radio Cornwall’s Dick Straughan

Camborne maintained their push near the top of Tribute South West 1 West on Saturday with a 27-15 win over Gloucestershire side Matson.

You can read my match report in the link.

After the match head-coach Liam Chapple gave me his thoughts on the game. He said. “The conditions played a massive part in the game today; we won the toss and elected to play into the wind. We rode out the storm first half and then took control in the second period scoring four good tries in the second half.

“We were perhaps a little too impatient during the first half when we spurned chances to score, in the second half we were more patient and the scores came.

“We knew what to expect from Matson and some of our younger players will now understand what they are likely to face up there in the return, you have got to let the rugby do the talking and not fall in to the trap they want to set. I was proud that the boys kept their discipline and stuck to the game plan to get the five points.”

Matson were certainly a hard physical side and I thought local referee Nicholas Searle did well to keep the game under control, there were just a couple of bouts of handbags as the visitors looked to provoke Camborne.

Also disappointing was the fact that one of their “supporters” elected to boo Grant Thirlby’s kick at goal. There is no need for that sort of behaviour, after a good talking to I am pleased that he desisted from further boorish behaviour!

St. Austell showed improved form despite losing at home to leaders Ivybridge 14-12. Having gone down 14-0 early in the game Saints fought back with four penalties from Dan Pearce before Adam Kellow was deemed held up over the line in stoppage time, so close to a morale boosting win.

In the British & Irish Cup; Cornish Pirates almost repeated their league success at Castle Park but in the end lost their second pool game to Doncaster Knights 29-25.

Paul Jarvis did the damage against the Pirates with three tries.

You can read Martin Woollatt’s match report in the link. plus Ian Davies’s reaction here

Having been awarded the Cornwall Under 20 Player of the Year award this week it was disappointing to learn that young prop Tyler Gendall will miss the rest of the season due to an ACL injury.

He has been a sensation in the Pirates’ front-row seemingly improving with each game. I wish him all the best as he battles to get back to full fitness following surgery.

In National League 2 South; it was defeats for both Cornish clubs. Redruth travelled to Hyde Park to take on high-flyers Taunton. The Reds sensed a win at the break as they led 17-10 thanks to tries from hooker Richard Brown and No 8 Kyle Marriott both converted by scrum-half Ashley Hosking who also added a penalty.

Taunton stormed back in the second half, however Redruth had a chance to perhaps tie the game in the final moments but the chance went begging at Taunto held on for a 24-17 win. Still a losing bonus point for the Reds who continue to pick up points from all their games thus far this season. Report here

Photo – Greg Goodfellow receives the “Bill Osborne” Memorial Shield as Cornwall Player of the Year from BBC Radio Cornwall’s Dick Straughan

Disappointment for the Cornish All Blacks who let slip a 22-5 half-time lead to succumb at Polson Bridge 26-22 to Chinnor.

Director of Rugby Neil Bayliss, summed it up when he said that his side needs to play for 80 minutes not just 60!

When they did play they scored tries through forwards Ben Hilton (2) and Jamie Salter with Matt Shepherd kicking the rest of the points. Report here

In Tribute Western Counties West; frustration for Truro as their game at St. Clements was abandoned after 47 minutes when referee Al Denham picked up an injury. They were leading Tiverton 17-9 at the time but will have to do it all over again.

Wadebridge Camels spanked Penryn 32-0 at the Molesworth Field. Camels scored tries through Gary Gynn (2), Matt Ballard, Richard Treleaven and Ben Miskowicz with Mark Kempthorne adding a penalty and two conversions.

Struggling St. Ives lost at home to Okehampton 59-10 scoring tries through Tom Chandler and Mark Eager.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish lost for the first time this season at Warlingham 16-15. See Mark Digby’s match report in the previous blog entry.

In Tribute Cornwall and Devon League; Pirates Amateurs continue to hang on to the coat-tails of leaders Withycombe after defeating Paignton 33-10 at the Mennaye.

Steve Kent (2), Nick Hitchens, Rhys Brownfield and Jamie Semmens all crossed for the Amateurs with Brownfield kicking four conversions.

Saltash are in third following their 53-11 win against cross-Tamar foes OPM’s at Moorlands.

Whilst Liskeard Looe won the basement battle at South Molton 21-18.

Reports on both games from the Plymouth Herald in the link.

Bodmin got their first league win of the season defeating Honiton at Clifden Park 41-22, with Paul Carter scoring three tries and Wendon and Josh Taylor the other two. Tayloe added all five conversions plus a couple of penalties.

Bude defeated Hayle at Bencoolen 30-23. There was a brace of tries scored by both Harry Goodrun and Rick Herzog with Adam Williams also crossing. Goodrum also dropped a goal and Alex Rakhshami kicked a conversion.

For Hayle Scott Harvey and Neil Mitchell scored tries with Dan Magee kicking the rest of the points.

Falmouth lost at Crediton 22-3 with Justyn Irons kicking their sole points with a penalty.

In Tribute Cornwall 1; there were wins for Newquay Hornets 35-5 at home to Stithians, Illogan Park away to School of Mines 22-14, Veor defeated Helston 48-8 at Wheal Gerry and Perranporth who won at Roseland 5-3.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, Lanner travelled to Camelford and won 29-0, whilst St. Just defeated Redruth Albany 19-12.