London Cornish scaled the heights of the North Downs looking to continue their reign at the top of London Two South West, only to find themselves toppled by last minute, last kick of the game heartbreak reports Mark Digby.

The league leaders were in confident mood, facing a Warlingham side yet to experience home success this season. Cornish started off like an express train, determined to make their mark, and from the kick off, they spent the first twenty minutes of the game camped in opposition territory, and the majority of this around a small portion of the field in the far corner on Warl’s five metre line.

Despite numerous attempts to expand play across the width of the pitch, the Black and Gold were sucked back into the same corner time after time. Three significant factors to consider for this apparent vacuum of territory – 1. Weather – swirling wind and rain. 2. Sir’s management of the scrum and ensuing breakdown. 3. Warlingham’s excellent defence.

Following this long period of skulduggery and pitch wearing, the home side finally breached the half way line, only for Cornish to regain possession and return back to the far corner within around fifteen seconds. Constant pressure from the Black and Gold’s traditional Cornish bossing of the packs led to a Warlingham forward being sent to the sin bin for ten.

Just as the home side thought they had successfully rode the storm of being short handed, Cornish would finally gain the score their superior possession and territory deserved. In a rare spell of play on the opposite side of the field, Ciaran Acford collected the ball from yet another scrum, and squeezed his way through the seemingly impenetrable home defence to score his third try of the season. Unfortunately Luke Spells’ conversion attempt went wide of the posts. 0-5.

Photo Ciaran Acford squeezes in

The visitors would go into the break with their lead increased further. Black and Gold pressure saw them awarded a penalty which was kicked across the pitch, taking play back into the home twenty two on the now well worn far side. A wonderfully executed catch and drive move from the line out, saw the Cornish pack advance fifteen metres. Mark Osei-Tutu found a rare gap and crossed the line, but with the ball adjudged to have been held up, a chink in Warl’s armour was found following a five metre scrum. Sam Williams received the ball to surge across the line, and this time the score would count to open the scrum half’s account for the season. Spells was this time successful in adding the extras to make the score 0-12.

Photo – lineout action

The wind would seek to work in Warlingham’s favour in the second half. As Cornish did in the opening period of the game, the hosts found greater possession and territory, and a reshuffle in their pack appeared to galvanise their resolve and confidence. As they gained the upper hand, Cornish would begin to concede what became a series of penalties to the opposition. Home full back Joe McEvoy had an opportunity to reduce the lead from the boot. His attempt missed the goal, but he would make no mistake shortly after. The ball was struck from the wing with accuracy and aplomb to make the score 3-12.

With growing confidence, ‘The Mighty Warl’ gave a fine display of attacking rugby. Following a scrum in the centre of the park, Dave Thornton went on a powerful, mazy run surging 30 metres before a Black and Gold tackle at the five metre mark. However, quick ball saw Jack Atkinson fed to score a deserved try for the hosts. With McEvoy again successful with the conversion, the score was now 10-12, and the game on a knife edge.

Photo – Mark Osei-Tutu sets off on another run

London Cornish responded positively, with a ten minute spell of sustained pressure, with around half of that period spent camped on the home try line. Again Osei-Tutu crossed the line only for the ball to be held up by the stubborn Warl defence. Despite some calls for a penalty try from Cornish following numerous infractions at the breakdown. Warl eventually regained possession and territory, and on 66 minutes, earned a penalty to take the lead for the first time in the game. McEvoy’s boot turned the score around to 13-12.

Three minutes later, McEvoy spurned a chance to extend the home lead. Following much prevarication by the referee and some of the players following a possible knock on and a bout of hangbags in the Cornish half, a penalty was awarded, but the full back could not find the posts.

With the clock running down and four minutes left to play, It was Cornish’s time to create pressure to earn themselves a penalty, after a Warlingham player was adjudged to be not rolling away, and Spells made no mistake from his boot to regain the lead 15-13. Tension rose to match the altitude level. Could the spirit of Trelawny carry the Black and Gold to a fifth successive league win? Alas, no.

The reliable boot of McEvoy would put paid to ambitions, as Cornish were penalised for holding on. From 37 metres, the ball was despatched perfectly to send Cornish home with their first defeat, but with at least a losing bonus point as reward for their endeavours.

Photos by Ben Gilby.

The Cornish Pirates came out on top in a cracking opening pool game in this season’s British & Irish Cup against old foes Bedford Blues 35-34 at the Mennaye on Sunday.

As the score-line suggests it’s was a classic ding-dong affair with the lead changing hands no less than six times!

The Cornish Pirates pack put in an awesome performance with Jamal Ford-Robinson, Tom Channon and Tyler Gendall immense in the front row and Will Carrick-Smith matching St. Michael’s Mount for sheer physical presence in the line-outs. As for flanker Alex Cheesman, an absolute animal at the breakdown – along with skipper Chris Morgan- and scorer of two tries.

Picture by Simon Bryant Iktis photo – Tyler Gendall Cornish Pirates

Out wide the pace of Kieran Goss and the implacable kicking of Kieran Hallett were in part key to the win, whilst replacement Bertie Hopkin took his try well. Tom Kessell buzzed at scrum-half looking to boss the game.

You can read Bill Sobey’s match report from the WMN in the link here.

In National League 2 South mixed fortunes for our two Cornish sides. A welcome win for Redruth after three successive defeats. The Reds put in their best performance of the season thus far in defeating Canterbury 38-15 in front of county coach Graham Dawe who was present along with fellow selectors Julian Wilce and Trevor Spargo.

There were some good performances for the Reds notably from man-of-the-match hooker Ben Priddey and winger Jack Kessell who was a constant threat with the ball in-hand going forward.

Picture Simon Bryant Iktis photo – Rhodri McAtee in action for Redruth

It was a win that pleased head coach Steve Larkins who felt that the side were beginning to play to the patterns that the coaching staff had laid down for the season.

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

The Cornish All Blacks brought home a losing bonus point from their trip to Dorking where they lost 20-17, having trailed 20-3 after 24 minutes.

Head coach Neil Bayliss felt that the poor start left them with a mountain to climb having to play catch up for the rest of the match.

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

In Tribute South West 1 West; disappointment for both Cornish sides on the road.

Camborne travelled to league leaders Ivybridge and put up a tremendous fight before finally going down 39-34. The Cherry and Whites brought a couple of bonus points back from their trip which will be of some comfort.

Dave Mankee, Sam Bartle Rob Floyd and Stuart Milliner all crossed for tries whilst the boot of Mankee added a further fourteen points.

St. Austell’s disappointing season continues despite picking up a losing bonus point from their defeat 23-20 at Drybrook. Ben Chenoweth, Konnor Ewudzi and Jack Grigg scored the Saints’ tries with Andy Ashwin kicking a conversion and penalty.

In Tribute Western Counties West; match of the day for the Cornish was at the Memorial Ground when Penryn entertained Truro.

It was a classic tale of two halves with yellow cards and missed penalties all thrown into the mix of a cracker.

Truro raced into a 18 point lead thanks to tries from Carl Ranscombe (2) with Eggy Williams kicking a couple of penalties and a conversion.

Ben Birkett got a try back for the Borough early in the second half. Both sides had men in the bin as Borough edged closer thanks to a try from Dan Kirk that Jake Seviour converted. Ben Jordan scored a third try for Penryn at the end but the conversion, which could of won the game, was missed to leave Truro winners 18-17.

Wadebridge Camels lost at Sidmouth 20-15 with Matt Ballard scoring Camels only try.

Struggling St. Ives lost at Teignmouth 72-21, Jamie Prisk (2) and Tom Nicholas scored tries for the Hakes.

Another storming win for London Cornish 53-23 over Portsmouth in London 2 SW. Read the report in the previous blog entry.

In Tribute Cornwall and Devon League; Pirates Amateurs maintained their good run with a 41-3 win at Old Plymouthian and Mannamedian. Danny Toolan (2), Trev Dugdale, Rhys Brownfield, Sam Skinner Ryan Stanley and Jack Nicholas all crossed for the Ams tries with Brownfield also kicking three conversions.

Saltash came out on top of the East Cornwall derby defeating strugglers Liskeard-Looe at Lux Park 66-11.

Match report from the Plymouth Herald in the link

Falmouth defeated Bude in a mid-table battle 20-10 at the Rec. Josh Semmens, Andy Monroe-Lott and Tom Spiller all scored tries for the Eagles with Justyn Irons kicking the other points.

Freddy Sexton and Adam Williams scored un-converted tries for Bude.

Hayle defeated Bodmin 33-32 to leave the visitors still seeking their first win.

Freddie Carter, Scott Harvey and Doug Arnull acored the Lions’ tries with Dan Magee kicking the rest of Hayle’s points.

Bodmin crossed the Hayle lin four times thanks to Cody Armstrong, Luke Richard, Jamie Taylor and Oliver Wendon, with Taylor kicking the other points.

In Tribute Cornwall League 1, Newquay Hornets maintained their fine start with a win against Roseland 45-8. Perry Hughes scoring three tries.

Illogan Park defeated Stithians 58-9, Nick Prout scoring three of the “Rats” nine tries.

Helston and Camborne School of Mines drew 7-7.

Veor got back to winning ways defeating Perranporth at Ponsemere Valley 24-7.

In Tribute Cornwall League 2; it was a big day for Lanner as they played their first ever league fixture. The Falcons defeated St. Just 69-0 in front of big crowd with Ben Hocking and Adam Harris scoring three tries each.

Camelford won at Lankelly-Fowey 27-18, Ben Palmer scoring three tries for the North Cornwall side.

Commiserations to Cornwall Under 18’s who lost at Wadebridge to Devon 25-22 on Sunday.

Watch out for news of Trelawny’s Army Player of the Year Awards to be presented this Wednesday.

London Cornish 53-23 Portsmouth

Report and Pictures by Ben Gilby

London Cornish recorded their fourth straight bonus point victory as they swept aside Portsmouth 53-23 at The REMPF.

Pompey arrived in South-West London with a weakened pack, and they didn’t make the best of starts when their kick-off failed to go ten metres. From the resulting scrum, the ball was fed to winger Robin Heymann on the right, who blazed past the visiting defence to score within the opening minute. Luke Spells‘ conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

The visitors then settled, and gained a penalty. They opted to tap and go, with Rob Giquel feeding Daniel Gates, but just as the Hampshire side began to make ground, they knocked on. The game went through a period of successive penalties, awarded by Argentinian referee Alvaro Delbarco, officiating at his first game in England. Only one of these led to any points, and it was Portsmouth full-back Chris Morgan who bisected the posts successfully.

Cornish responded powerfully, and shortly after the re-start, were awarded a penalty which was kicked to the corner. From the resulting line-out, the pack’s power was far too great for the visitors makeshift affair, and Mike Bond was driven across the whitewash after 10 minutes. Spells converted from just in from touch, and the Black & Golds were 12-3 ahead. The Exiles now had the bit between their teeth, and Spells fed Hakes who went on a trademark run up the left, which was finally ended when he was tackled into touch. Shortly afterwards, ‘The Exiles’ were awarded a penalty and Spells kicked the conversion to extend the lead to twelve points.

Just three minutes later, one of the more unusual episodes of the season so far took place. Portsmouth winger Dave Jones received a pass in the centre, around 20 metres out. To the vast majority of the spectators, Jones appeared to knock-on as the ball looked to have fallen to the ground. However, there was no whistle. Jones picked up the ball and plunged over the line between the posts. Morgan converted and the visitors were right back into it at 15-10.

This shock score clearly galvanized the Hampshire men, who had a period of concerted pressure. With ‘The Exiles’ on the back foot, referee Delbarco awarded Portsmouth a penalty, which Morgan kicked. The score was now at 15-13, and it was very much game on.

With seventeen minutes to the break, Cornish showed the grit and determination that got them over the line at Winchester last time out – they stole line-out ball, Williams fed Spells who drifted past Portsmouth’s defence to plunge over for a vital score. He got up and kicked the conversion, and things looked rosy again, with the score-line now beginning to reflect the balance of play once more at 22-10. Just three minutes later, the try scoring bonus point was secured for the fourth time in four games this season with half an hour gone. Matt Hakes went on another powerful run, he fed Anstey, who in turn played in Joe Skinnard. Skinnard beat his man and passed to Spells who went over for his second try in five minutes. The conversion was good.

Pic – Harry Somers competes in the lineout

Portsmouth had the final chance of the half when they were awarded a penalty at the scrum. Cornish appeared to have control of Pompey’s put-in and had begun driving the visitors back – however the visitors were awarded a penalty as the referee adjudged the ‘Black & Golds’ pulled it down. Morgan’s kick missed, and Cornish went in at the break 29-13 ahead.

The visitors came into the second half strongly and became far more competitive at the scrum. On 49 minutes, with momentum from one such scrum, Pompey won a penalty which Morgan kicked. Cornish replied well, and within three minutes extended their lead. They worked the rolling maul superbly – Will Carew-Gibbs made the yards, before handing over to Oli Low, who put in a great shift in the front row. The maul advanced further before coming out to Robin Heymann who danced round the Pompey tackles to claim his second try of the afternoon. Spells’ conversion missed.

The next quarter of an hour became a bit of an arm wrestle, with play based in the middle third of the pitch. Mark Osei-Tutu got things moving again with some eye catching runs. From one such attack, Cornish were awarded a penalty which was kicked to touch. Unfortunately, the following line-out was not straight, but the ‘Black & Golds’ gained instant turn-over ball, and Craig Chatley could only be halted illegally. With the penalty in the centre, ten metres out, Cornish opted for the scrum. When the ball came out, it was fed to Osei-Tutu who drove across the line, with Spells adding the extras, which took Cornish’s lead out to 41-16.

There is no doubt that, as the game went on, Portsmouth’s makeshift pack began to gel, and this basis led to their second score of the game. The ball went out to replacement Robert Paterson who ran through to dot down. Morgan’s conversion was good.

The last ten minutes largely belonged to Cornish – another monster rolling maul saw Bond drive the ball forward over 25 metres. When Portsmouth finally did stop it, Cornish merely re-set, went again, and Will Carew-Gibbs grounded the ball. Spells converted. With five minutes left, Matt Hakes scored ‘The Exiles’ eighth try of the afternoon after some great build-up play from Ciaran Acford.

Photo – Ciaran Acford on the break

So, a fourth successive bonus point cemented Cornish’s place at the top of London Two South-West. One of the major positives to come of this game was the feeling that the Exiles players clearly felt they had more in them and could improve further. The stats are impressive – this was London Cornish’s 14th win in their last 16 league matches – and over the last twelve months, the ‘Black & Golds’ have suffered only five losses in twenty-three games. Whatever way you look at it, this is highly impressive.

The Cornish Pirates backed up last Sunday’s first Championship win of the season against Moseley with another win this time at Doncaster Knights 24-22.

Trailing 10-3 at half-time the Pirates turned the game round with tries from Tom Kessell, Matt Evans and Kieran Hallett all converted by Hallett who also kicked a penalty.

It makes for a more comfortable position for the Cornish Pirates prior to three successive weekends of British and Irish Cup action starting with the Bedford Blues at the Mennaye next Sunday.

You can read Nigel Walrond’s match report from the Sunday WMN in the link.

Not such good news for both our sides in National League 2 South as both recorded defeats.

The Cornish All Blacks entertained promotion favourites Henley Hawks at Polson but went down in the last ten minutes to a 22-32 defeat.

Jake Murphy, Sam Chapman and Jamie Salter all scored tries for the All Blacks with Kieron Lewitt kicking the other points.

They will look to bounce back on the road at Dorking next week.

Redruth will also be disappointed as they lost by just a point at Old Elthamians 13-12. Ashley Hosking kicked four penalties for the Reds but a last gasp try converted by the home side left the Reds with just a losing bonus point to show for their long day trip to South London.

Read Ed Bawden’s match report from Redruth RFC website the link.

In Tribute South West 1 West, it was a day of frustration for both Cornish sides but for differing reasons.

St. Austell’s game at Tregorrick Park against Cullompton was abandoned after 28 minutes with the saints leading 12-3 when referee Simon Lord sustained an injury. The game will be replayed at a later date.

Camborne despite winning 21-13 against Drybrook were left disappointed by the number of missed opportunities not take to secure the try-scoring bonus point.

The Cherry and Whites scored tries through flanker Cameron Bone, No.8 Dave Roberts and hooker Sam Bartle with fly-half Dave Mankee adding all three conversions.

Next up for Town a trip to leaders Ivybridge who have taken maximum points from their five games thus far.

My West Briton web report in the link with apologies to Dave Mankee who ended up as Rob!!

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro are up to second following another fine home win this time against Sidmouth 55-26.

Truro scored nine tries with Luke Tidball and Rikki Brandham each scoring a brace whilst Ollie Dell, Luke Trescothick, Jake Champion, Josh Heath and a penalty-try award made up the rest of the tries. Champion kicked two conversions with Craig Williams adding a further three.

Penryn, who face Truro next Saturday at the Memorial Ground, lost by a single point at Torquay Athletic 22-21. Matt Williams and Tom Hoban (2) scored the Borough’s tries with Matt Horton adding all three conversions.

Wadebridge Camels defeated Wellington 15-12 at home thanks to a try from Matt Ballard and a penalty-try award. Mark Kempthorne kicking the rest of the points.

St. Ives’ difficult season continues as they lost 55-5 at Kingsbridge, Jamie Prisk with their only points.

There was no league game for London Cornish as they were due to play in the 1^st round of the London and SE Intermediate Cup, however their opponents Old Cooperians forfeited the tie to allow Cornish to progress.

In Tribute Cornwall and Devon League, Pirates Amateurs maintained their good run with a sixteen try demolition of Liskeard-Looe at the Mennaye. Rhys Brownfield scored four tries and twelve conversions for a personal tally of forty-four points in a 104-7 win.

Saltash are just behind the Ams in third place following their 49-5 win at Moorlands against Honiton. Max Venables leading the way with three tries three conversions and a penalty.

Bude got back to winning ways with a 24-14 win at home to Exeter Saracens. Billy Roberts, Adam Black, Joe Wilson and Matt Williams scored the tries to make it a bonus point win with Olly Denford adding two conversions.

Falmouth won at Bodmin 12-3.

Hayle won at South Molton 41-7. Scott Harvey (2), Phil Tonkin (2), Doug Arnold and Talan Daniels all scored tries for the Lions with McGee kicking the other points.

It was the opening day in both Tribute Cornwall 1 and 2. In Cornwall 1, Newquay Hornets won at Perranporth 68-0 to go top. Illogan Park defeated Roseland at Philleigh 26-15, Helston won at Stithians 34-14 and finally Camborne School of Mines caused an upset winning at Veor 26-20.

In Cornwall 2, there was sadly only one game played as St. Agnes defeated Redruth Albany 65-7. Lankelly – Fowey conceded the points to St. Just, whilst St. Day have given notice that they are to quit the league due to a shortage of players. They hope to continue as a veteran’s side and will play friendly games where possible during the season. We wish the club, formed back in 1894, well for the future.

Plymouth Albion are set to host England Under 20’s Six Nations match against Italy Under 20’s at the Brickfields on Friday 13^th February kick-off 7-45pm.

Ticket details will be available via Albion’s website www.plymouthalbion.com or via the ticket office phone line on 01752 565064.

It turned out to be pretty satisfactory weekend for all Cornish Pirates supporters.

Results, both on and off the pitch. Friday’s decision by Cornwall Council’s Strategic Planning Committee to defer hearing the three planning proposals on the agenda until such time that the Inox plan was ready was a shot in the arm for everyone battling for the Stadium for Cornwall at Threemilestone.

The on Sunday a morale boosting first win of the season as the Pirates powered to a bonus point win over a brave Moseley side 29-19.

It all looked plain sailing at half-time the Pirates led 19-0 and then 22-0 early on during the second half. Moseley’s late rally made it a bit of a squeaky bum time until Tom Kessell’s second try made by a powerfully strong run almost to the line by replacement No.8 Matt Bolwell calmed everyone’s blood pressure.

Photo – Simon Bryant Iktis photo, Ian Davies Pirates’ head coach happy with Sunday’s 5 points against Moseley

Onwards and upwards must be the motto going forward. I know Director of Rugby Ian Davies does not like place any greater importance on a particular game, but I am sure he was happy with five points and a win on Sunday.

Read Martin Woollatt’s report from the Western Morning News

The Cornish All Blacks had a great 35-22 win at Ding’s Crusaders to make it back-to-back wins for the first time this season. Matt Shepherd and Sam Chapman scored the All Blacks’ tries with the boot of Kieron Lewitt landing seven penalties and both conversions for a twenty-five point haul.

You can read head- coach Neil Bayliss’s reaction from the game in the Western Morning News link.

In the other game in National League 2 South there was disappointment at the death for Redruth in their game at home to Clifton when Callum Sheedy’s drop-goal won the game with the final kick for the visitors 23-20.

Photo – Phil Richards, Robin Wedlake (Redruth) about to set off on a storming run that led to Reds’ second try

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

In Tribute South West 1 West, Camborne’s win at Cullompton 31-23 will have delighted head-coach Liam Chapple. The Cherry and Whites were awarded a couple of penalty-tries as well as touchdowns from Dave Roberts, Cameron Bone and Sam Bartle. Dave Mankee kicking three conversions. Next up Drybrook at the Rec.

Martin Symons report on the Camborne game in the link

St. Austell’s difficult start to the season as they slipped to a third defeat in four games going down at Clevedon 11-5. Konnor Ewudzi with the Saint’s sole points.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro backed up their big win last Saturday at home to Tavistock with another win at Wellington 39-23. Truro’s tries were scored by Carl Ranscombe (2), Ben Teasdale, Darren Jacques, Matt Cross and Daryl Riches. Jake Champion kicked three conversions and a penalty.

Penryn got back to winning ways defeating highly fancied Teignmouth 23-22 at the Memorial Ground. The visitors could have won with a last minute kick but sadly for them it was missed!

Grant Randlesome and Josh Chambers crossed for Penryn’s two tries with the boot of Matt Horton adding thirteen points.

Fuller report via Ross Hancock from the Packet site

Wadebridge Camels also made it back-to-back wins with a 15-11 success at Tavistock. Sam Stone and Dan Lumb scored the Camel’s tries with Mark Kempthorne kicking a conversion and penalty.

St. Ives are sadly propping up the table following a fourth defeat this time at leaders Tiverton 53-0.

See the previous blog entry for news on London Cornish’s fine win in London 2 SW at Winchester.

In Tribute Cornwall and Devon League, Pirates Amateurs are up to second following their fourth win at Honiton 34-30. Dan Toolan, Jack Nicholas, Steve Evans, Josh Stevens and Harrison Peters all crossed for tries with Rhys Brownfield kicked the rest of the points.

Saltash won at Hayle 48-17 with Ryan Cruickshank (3), Shaun Crawford (2), Max Veneables (2) and Will Morton all crossing for the Ashes. Veneables also added four conversions.

For the Lions, Scott Harvey, Mark Lea, and Talan Daniels all scored tries with Harvey kicking a conversion.

Falmouth finally got a win defeating South Molton 43-3 at the Rec

Read George Thorpe’s report from the Falmouth Packet in the link.

Bodmin lost by a point at Exeter Saracens 36-35, whilst Liskeard-Looe slipped to another defeat at Lux Park 12-27 to Paignton.

Following a good start to the season Bude have become a little unstuck as they lost again at Crediton 49-0.

Next weekend sees the start of both Tribute Cornwall 1 & 2.

A link to the Plymouth Herald site which has a round up of various games including some involving Cornish sides.

Match Report: Winchester 26 London Cornish 27

By Mark Digby, photos by Ben Gilby

Cornish travelled down to Hampshire looking to continue the one hundred per cent start to their 2014/15 campaign against a Winchester side looking to improve on their fifty per cent opening with a home win. The Black and Gold arrived at the home of King Arthur’s round table with their entire regular front row missing, so the pressure was on before the team set foot on the dry, dusty pitch. What ensued was a tight battle of cat and mouse, where a spirited and resilient London Cornish would eventually triumph and take a third bonus point win in a row back up the M3 to the capital, to see them once again topping London Two South West.

The home side started the stronger of the two, with Cornish acquainting themselves following some changes to the starting line up, and in particular amongst the pack. Winchester soon reaped the benefits of their early pressure by scoring the first try of the game after five minutes. Successive Cornish infringements led to Winchester earning a scrum in the visitor’s twenty two, from which a space was created for Jack Hiscock to burst through the centre and over the line. The extras were added by Johnny Morris to opening the scoring at 7-0. Far from denting Cornish confidence, going behind appeared to galvanise the team, and cohesion appeared almost immediately.

With the black and gold’s pack at the epicentre of their attack, Winchester were pushed back as the ball was worked from side to side. The visitors’ maul pushed their way forward, earning a penalty, which was kicked to the corner. Traditional Cornish grunt and power creaked open a gap for the so solid Mark Osei-Tutu, to force a way through to the line. With Luke Spells’ first conversion attempt missing the target, they were still behind, but for how long? Alas it would seem a little longer, as a Cornish forward was dispatched to the bin, and the resulting penalty kick for Morris edged Winchester ahead to 10-5.

As ‘The Exiles’ returned to the full compliment, Spells would weave his magic from the boot with a penalty at goal to close the gap to 10-8, but then within ten minutes, the home side would increase the gap again to five points, as following an exchange of forays down each other’s wings, Somers was adjudged to be offside, and Morris yet again stroked the ball between the big sticks.

Photo – Rob Healey tackled by Winchester’s Rob Rees

An exchange of converted scores before half time would see Winchester go into their dressing room ahead. Ben Ievers would push Cornish in front for three minutes, following a wonderful jinking, twenty five metre dash that any centre would be proud of, but Winchester’s pack earned a well worked try born of forward guile, as the visitors were driven back over their own line, for Sullivan to touch the ball down, with Morris proving infallible with the boot. 20-15.

The visitors started the second half with their tails up. Consistent pressure would force Sir to reach for his yellow card yet again. This time, a Winchester forward was sent to the naughty corner, with which Cornish grasped the opportunity with both hands. The third try was almost a copy of their first, as they opted to kick to the corner, and allow the pack to do what they do best. The pack found an opening for Ciaran Acford to cross the line, and with Spells converting, Cornish were ahead on 47 minutes 20-22.

Photo – LCRFC’s Ciaran Acford poised to dart for the line

For much of the second half, both defences held firm, as wave after wave of attackf rom either side were repelled. The tension rose as either side knew that it would come down to errors, as whoever made less mistakes would likely triumph in this battle for Arthurian pride. Would those from the city of the round table edge it, or those with roots firmly entrenched in the land of the King’s birthplace triumph to see Excalibur rise from Loe Pool? Winchester took back the lead through two penalties from Morris’ trusty boot on 53 and 64 minutes, with the first of the two dispatched expertly from around 45 metres, but with the score   at 26-22, Cornish were not prepared to go home with a losing bonus point. More pressure led to a second home yellow card – as a forward went for coming in from the side.

Photo Cornish’s  Will Carew-Gibbs powers on

With only twelve minutes left on the clock, the black and gold took advantage to go ahead once more with less than five minutes remaining. Hamish Cuming took the honours, as the Cornish pack turned over the ball from a home line out. Spells could not convert, so at 26-27, the game was sitting on the edge of Excalibur. On the stroke of eighty, Cornish were pinged for crossing, and so although Winchester’s penalty kick was just over the half way line, Morris had kicked from a similar distance earlier, and with six successful attempts from six, Winchester could surely smell victory. A deathly silence fell over the ground, and with baited breath the ball was struck. It fell short. Sir called time less than a minute later. Excalibur belonged still to Cornwall.

A delighted Dickon Moon spoke after the game. ‘A particularly gratifying win, after losing our starting front row. We fielded an untried front row who were excellent today. This (Winchester) is a particularly difficult place to come to, and this is possibly our first win here. It is particularly good to earn the bonus point, which shows we have great spirit. We had so much travelling support today, with some making the trip over from the Isle of Wight, so it was good for them to see us win. The bandwagon keeps rolling – We have a cup match next week and then Portsmouth at home (league), so we hope to have a few (players) back for that. It was a big win for us today.’

Cornish Pirates v Moseley

An ‘as expected’ tough September for the Cornish Pirates will see their playing month end with the visit of Moseley to the Mennaye Field on Sunday (ko 3pm).

Three games into this season’s Greene King IPA Championship and the Pirates presently prop up the 12-team league table, with zero points to their name. As for Moseley who finished seventh in the league last season, they are presently ninth, having also experienced an almost equally tough start as the Pirates. A 22-all home draw opener against Jersey chalked up two league points to start their season, but they followed that result with two losses. Going down 23-7 to Worcester Warriors, however, was no disgrace, and nor was a 28-32 result against Yorkshire Carnegie last weekend, when they at least earned a bonus point.

Despite never having never lost a league fixture against them in Cornwall, the Pirates will be aware that the famous Moseley club poses a threat. Their team is seemingly on the up again, and seen as dangerous opponents the Cornish Pirates will hope that a big crowd gathers at the Mennaye Field on Sunday to provide support needed as the Pirates go in search of points.

Tickets for Sunday’s game will be available at the gates on the day, but in advance they can also be purchased on-line at www.cornish-pirates.com and from the club’s ticket office 01736-331961, which is open Monday – Friday from 9am – 12 noon. Also, as recently announced, Cornish Pirates’ Advance Adult & Concession Tickets are now on sale at the following Rowe’s Cornish Bakers shops: Camborne -Commercial Square, Falmouth – Market Street, Helston – Meneage Street, Penzance – Causewayhead & Market Jew Street, Redruth – Fore Street, Truro – Victoria Square & Piazza, Back Quay.

Pirates On Loan

It was last week announced that a small number of players in the Cornish Pirates squad will be going on short term loan to various clubs. This has a benefit of giving certain players important game time, which in some cases is especially beneficial as as they return to full fitness.

The following is a list of the players concerned and the clubs they are going/have gone on loan to:-

John Stevens – Redruth
Rob Elloway – Bournemouth
Craig Holland – Worthing
Jake Parker – Chinnor

Commenting with reference to these helpful loan arrangements, the Director of Rugby at the Cornish Pirates, Ian Davies, said:

“It is a win win situation for us really. We build up strong relationships with National League clubs and also our players get a chance to get valuable game time as they continue to return back from injury.”

Three games into the season and clubs and supporters alike are beginning to get inkling as to how their season is likely to pan out.

Many will say too early to call but the gut feeling isn’t too far wrong even at this early stage.

The Cornish Pirates difficult start to the campaign continued on Sunday when they travelled to Ashton Gate to take on Bristol and came away with a 45-17 defeat.

It’s been a tough start for a predominantly young squad facing three sides who will figure in the top half of the table this season.

The current campaign is all about survival at this level while hoping that matters off the pitch concerning the STADIUM can finally take a decisive step forward.

This Sunday’s game against Moseley, the first against a side likely to finish in the bottom third of the table, is the first of the Pirates’ BIG games this season in their bid to maintain Championship rugby in the Duchy.

It’s not quite “backs to the wall” but it will require a certain buccaneering spirit to get the campaign up and running and give the coaches, players and supporters something tangible to build on going forward.

It’s going to be their results against sides like Moseley, Plymouth Albion, Jersey, Nottingham and Bedford Blues plus their ability to pick up bonus points where they can that will determine their season.

Support is a key to their success, so getting as many down to the Mennaye to get behind the boys and shout like mad is the part we can ALL play.

You can read Nigel Walrond’s account in the link.

In National League 2 South on Saturday; a loss on the road for the Reds but a welcome first win at Polson for the All Blacks.

Redruth lost for the first time this season 27-20 at Cambridge, not a ground that holds many happy memories for the Reds!

Despite the loss a late rally saw Redruth pick up a losing bonus point with a performance that left head-coach Steve Larkins happier than the win over Launceston the previous week.

They will look to get back to winning ways this Saturday at home to Clifton.

Ed Bawden’s report in the link

The Cornish All Blacks got the win that Director of Rugby Neil Bayliss was looking for as they defeated Shelford 23-15 at Polson despite not playing to their full potential.

Read Suzanne Cleave’s report in the link

In Tribute South West 1West, I took in the game at the Recreation Ground as Camborne got back to winning ways following last week’s loss at Cleve. Clevedon were dogged opponents before three tries in the last ten minutes saw Town complete another bonus point home win 34-23.

Head-coach Liam Chapple is still waiting for his side to deliver an eighty- minute performance and conceded that their defence needs tightening up at times. Another good performance from scrum-half Taron Peacock who scored a couple of tries as did full-back Grant Thirlby with another former Red Ben Drew scoring their other try.

My report in the link

St. Austell slipped to a first home defeat of the season losing 13-30 to Cleve. Trailing 15-6 at the break with just a couple of Andy Ashwin penalties to show for their efforts they shipped further tries in the second half which just a try and conversion from Dan Pearce as consolation.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Penryn after two home wins were defeated in their first trip over the border going down 29-7 at Tiverton. Tom Hoban got their try which Callum Hinchley converted.

Truro got back to winning ways after their loss at Okehampton the previous week with an emphatic 92-10 win at St. Clements against a hapless Tavistock.

Carl Ranscombe lead the try scoring bagging five of Truro’s fourteen tries, whilst Jake Champion added eleven conversions to his hat-trick of tries.

Wadebridge Camels got their first win of the season defeating Okehampton 15-15 at the Molesworth Field. Dan Briskham and Cam Lees scored the two Camels’ tries with James Grubb kicking a couple of penalties.

St. Ives’ difficult start to the season continues as they slumped to a third defeat this time at home to Exeter University by 7-77. Ben Jenkins got the Hakes only try which Jacob Ninnes converted just on half-time.

In London 2 SW London Cornish made it two wins from two with a 26-10 win over KCS Old Boys. See the previous blog entry for Ben Gilby’s report.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League Pirates Amateurs maintained their fine start to the season with a third win at home against old rivals Hayle 25-6. Nick Hitchens, Danny Toolan and Rhys Brownfield scored the Ams’ tries with Brownfield also kicking a couple of penalties and conversions. For the Lions Dan Magee kicked a couple of penalties.

Bude’s two match winning run came to an end as they were defeated by league leaders Withycombe 29-5. Adam Black with the North Cornwall side’s only try.

Saltash defeated Falmouth 32-17 at Moorlands thanks to tries from Will Morton (2), Steve Hillman and Max Venables with Venables also kicking three conversions and two penalties.

For the Eagles Tom Spiller & Andrew Munroe-Lott (2) scored tries with Spiller kicking a conversion. Falmouth will look to get their season up and running at home to South Molton on Saturday.

Liskeard-Looe slipped to a third defeat as they lost at OPMs 31-8, Pete Regan scored the Lions’ try with John Thompson adding a penalty.

St. Agnes will represent Cornwall in the RFU Junior Vase following their win against Veor 21-15 in the final of the county qualifying tournament.

Some County fixture news;

The Tamar Cup match against Devon will be held at Plymouth Albion’s Brickfields Ground on a date to be arranged in late April next year.

Cornwall’s Under 20 fixture against Devon has been scheduled for Sunday January 25^th at Ivybridge RFC

The other U.20 pool 3 fixture will be against Gloucestershire in Cornwall date and venue to be confirmed.

LONDON SW2

LONDON CORNISH 26-10 KCS OLD BOYS

REPORT & PHOTOS By Ben Gilby

‘The Exiles’ remain top of London Two South-West with a 100% record following a great win over an impressive KCS Old Boys outfit, reports Ben Gilby

Both teams came into this game with bonus point wins in their opening matches of the season. Cornish made four changes to their starting line-up from last week’s 36-0 win over Weybridge Vandals with Rob Healey, Tom Lloyd, Chris Anstey and Ben Ievers coming in. Will Carew-Gibbs also returned and was on the bench.

The opening points of the afternoon were scored pretty much immediately. Cornish were penalised after just 11 seconds, and KCS centre Tom Dugarin kicked the penalty for the visitors. Kings’ good start could have got even better when they were awarded another penalty three minutes later as Cornish went off their feet. The penalty was advanced ten metres after a Cornish forward shook his head at the decision. This made it kickable, but Dugarin’s attempt missed.

What was notable throughout the first half was KCS’ excellent ability in launching long clearance kicks to touch which not only relieved some of the pressure they were under, but put the ‘Black and Golds’ on the back foot simultaneously. However, from one of these clearing kicks, Rob Healey passed to Joe Skinnard who fed Mark Osei-Tutu and the Cornish number eight burrowed over for the opening try. Spells’ conversion attempt was good and, somewhat against the run of play, Cornish led 7-3 after 11 minutes.

Harry Somers gathered the re-start and passed to Healey who launched a superb kick from one ‘22’ to the other, with the bal bouncing out of play. KCS hit back, and ‘The Exiles’ had to be on their mettle defensively as the visitors’ Nelson fed Williams who was met by a huge Black and Gold brick wall, who gained a penalty for their efforts. Four minutes later the pacey Kings full-back Will Nelson made a searing break, but the Cornish defence was too strong again.

This determination by ‘The Exiles’ paid dividends when, soon after, from a great break from Mark Osei-Tutu, a rolling maul was set up, and Ben Devonport grounded the ball with Spells once more adding the extras. Despite KCS having much of the territory and ball in the opening half an hour, it was Cornish who were 14-3 ahead – which served to highlight the importance of taking your chances when you get them!

Photo – Luke Spells looking to offload vs KCS OB’s

Just before half-time, Kings were denied by a series of huge defensive efforts from Cornish. They were also awarded another penalty, which Dugarin missed. It was the big Black & Gold defensive effort that sealed the eleven point half-time lead which was probably harsh on KCS.

There was no further scoring until six minutes from the final whistle – but this does not mean the second half was dull and turgid – it was anything but. Two very good teams were going at it hammer and tongs, with Cornish gaining more of the ball and getting increasingly on top in the forward battle. This, plus some excellent passing movements saw KCS more on the back foot as the game developed.

Cornish had a series of scrums within five metres of the Kings line, a number of re-sets and penalties against the visitors ended with a visiting forward sin-binned. Try as the Black & Golds might, they could not score during this period; something which the visitors deserve real credit for. Shortly after KCS returned to their full compliment, it was Cornish’s turn to receive a sin-binning, with a forward shown the yellow card for a rucking infringement.

Photo – Harry Somers ready for the lineout

KCS began to assert a period of pressure, and it was no surprise when, with seven minutes left, their captain Jonny Kiddle made an impressive break and offloaded to George Taylor who grounded the ball with ease. Dugarin’s conversion was successful and KCS were back in it at 14-10. At this point, with Cornish down to fourteen men, KCS could have been forgiven for thinking the points were heading their way. But they reckoned without a quite stunning last five minutes from Cornish.

Still down to fourteen men, The Black & Golds showed a seriously impressive determination to win. Just three minutes later, Cornish stole line-out ball just five metres out. The pack launched an earth-shattering drive and Mark Osei-Tutu grounded the ball. Spells’ conversion missed, but the lead was now out to nine points.

Cornish were not finished yet, and continually pummelled away at the KCS defence, who were finding it difficult to stem the black and gold tide, despite having a man advantage. Into stoppage time, Cornish won a penalty fifteen metres out. It was in an eminently kickable position, but the kick was turned down – thoughts were on a bonus point try. From the resulting line-out, another astonishingly powerful drive from the pack saw Cornish over the line, with Tim Homan grounding the ball. Spells’ conversion was good, and ‘The Exiles’ celebrated an excellent win, with that ‘last play of the game try’ sealing top spot in the table for another week.