The Cornish Pirates have virtually guaranteed themselves a home quarter-final in this season’s BRITISH & IRISH CUP following their 28-21 win against Scottish Premiership side Ayr at a wet and muddy Mennaye on Sunday.

It was certainly a tighter affair than the Pirates 53-10 win at Millbrae back in October as Ayr included a few more players from Glasgow Warriors, both sides travelled down to the Westcountry together staying at Exeter with Ayr arriving at the Mennaye in the Exeter Chiefs’ team bus!

Eight of the Ayr side were named on Monday in trimmed squad of 27 for the Scottish Club XV’s Internationals against Irish Clubs XV and France Fédérale, among them try-scorer at the Mennaye Craig Gossman and skipper Dean Kelbrick.

It was good to see Tom Duncan back from injury featuring for the first time this season; he had a run out last week for Camborne 2nds and got twenty minutes game time against Ayr.

Pirates will wrap up their pool program next Friday when they play Ulster Ravens at Belfast Harlequins Deramore Park Ground kick-off 7:30 pm.

Bill Sobey’s ’s match report can be found in the link from the Morning News here.

With post match reaction from Ian Davies in the link here.

In National League 2 South a disappointing double defeat for both our Cornish sides.

The Cornish All Blacks were always going to be up against it at leaders Hartpury College, and so it proved with the students running out winners 40-13.

You can read Nigel Walrond’s match report in the link from today’s Morning News.

Whilst at the Recreation Ground, Redruth let slip a thirteen point lead in the final eight minutes of the game to lose 26-25 to Chinnor.

My match report in the link from today’s Morning News here.

The battle continues at the top of Tribute South west 1 West, St. Austell remain in third place just three points behind leaders Cleve with an important game in-hand. Saints enjoyed a fine 46-15 win over Sidmouth at Tregorrick Park. Hugh Noot (2), Ashley Taylor (2), Matt Shepherd, Ian Venner, Darren Pellow and Steve Howorth all crossed for the Saints with Shepherd adding three conversions.

Camborne remain just about in touch a further eight points behind Saints following their 17-6 win at Cullompton. Wingers Alex Ducker (2) and Rob Floyd scored the Cherry and Whites tries with Dave Mankee kicking a conversion.

Wadebridge Camels remain perilously close to the drop zone following another disappointing defeat this time at Clevedon 25-0.

Next Saturday’s round of matches will go a long way in deciding who will remain in the promotion mix. Top-of-the-table Cleve travel to Camborne, a game that the Cherry and Whites will need to win to stay in the mix.

Whilst St. Austell travel to second placed Hornets, whom I saw defeat Camborne impressively at the end of November at the Rec 34 – 17. St. Austell will need to get something from this match depending on the result at Camborne!

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro made it six wins in a row with their 36-17 win at Paignton.

Darren Jacques made his debut for Truro and this week another former Red, Lewis Vinnicombe, announced that he too is signing for Truro.

Mark Lea (2), Carl Ranscombe, Tom Hatfield and the Gayton brothers Theo and Adam all scored tries for Truro with Ashley Riches adding three conversions.

Penryn and Torquay Athletic shared the spoils at the Memorial Ground 33 – all!

Matt Horton’s conversion of his own try tied the scores in the final moments. Horton added a second try to his haul with other tries coming from Mitch Vague, Phil Hinchley and Matt Williams with Horton adding a couple of penalties.

This Saturday a cracking local derby at St. Clements Hill as Truro entertain Penryn. With both sides scoring plenty of points it promises to be a very entertaining game as Truro look to keep in contact with the sides above them.

St. Ives lost at home to Teignmouth 30-12. Tom Chandler and Neil Stanlick scored tries for the Hakes with “Eggy” Williams adding a conversion.

Bude remain in the bottom two following defeat away to Wellington 30-8. Ben Hancock with their try and Andy Yates with a penalty.

Frustration in London 2 SW as London Cornish slipped to a late defeat at leaders Gosport & Fareham 20-17. Despite tries from Ciaran Acford, Rich Skinnard and Andrew Eustice a late penalty-try sank the exiles.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, Hayle defeated Falmouth 41-11. Rob Cutter (2), Talan Daniels (2), Doug Arnull and Scott Harvey all crossed for the Lions with Dan Magee kicking four conversions and a penalty.

For the defeated Eagles, Ollie Church claimed a try with Justin Irons kicking a couple of penalties.

Pirates Amateurs enjoyed a good win over Exeter Saracens 37-31. Ben Eddy, Dexter Ross-Nicholl, Jack Vosper and Ryan Forrester all scored tries for the Ams with Rhys Brownfield kicking the rest of the points.

Saltash lost at Moorlands to Withycombe 24-19. Whilst Crediton won at Wheal Gerry against Veor 25-10. Steve Arthur converted a penalty-try and kicked a penalty for the home side.

Many congratulations to Liskeard-Looe who have wrapped up the Tribute Cornwall 1 title after defeating Helston 17-0. The Lions bounce back up to the Cornwall & Devon League after just one season back in Cornwall 1.

Bodmin maintain their grip on a play-off spot after defeating bottom-of-the-table St. Agnes 49-0.

Camborne School of Mines remain third following their win over Roseland 10-7.

Stithians won at Perranporth 20-19.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, Illogan Park defeated St. Just 15-9, whilst St. Day won at Redruth Albany 10-3.

The game between Camelford and Lankelly-Fowey was postponed.

Fantastic news this week that Exeter Chief’s Jack Nowell is in England’s RBS 6 Nations squad.
Those of us that watched him play at Redruth as a sixteen year old will have a broad smile, not forgetting that he is product of Penzance & Newlyn mini & juniors and came through at Truro College.

Closest shave this week must be for Tom Parker who was on his way with his Vannes team to play Montluçon when the team coach caught fire.
Happily Tom and the rest of the team got out safely but the coach was burnt out.
Vannes not surprisingly lost the game played the following day but only by 21-20!

A Happy New Year to One and All. As ever I wish all Cornish Clubs every success for 2014 and as I do each year hope that we may get a trip to Twickenham with Cornwall. We shall see!

It’s not been the happiest of festive periods at Redruth. After the euphoria of the pre-Christmas win over Launceston, came Boxing Day defeat at Camborne.

Then on Friday evening came the bombshell. Prop Darren Jacques who has been with the Reds for ten years announced his immediate departure from the club following a Players Meeting held the previous evening.

In a statement posted on his twitter feed Jacques wrote. “After our club meeting last night I decided it was time to leave the reds this is due to club changes and personally having a young family.

“I appreciate all the support it’s been 10 great years. I’ll still be playing local rugby but less time demanding.”

On Thursday evening the players were informed that the club was not in a position to continue paying the players.

In a statement from the club released by club treasurer Jerry Penna the following was stated. “Despite extensive efforts to maintain a players’ fund, the Club is not in a position to offer remuneration payments to players and this message was conveyed to the playing squad on Thursday evening. I trust members will acknowledge that although it may or may not result in changes to playing personnel, the Club will continue to strive to provide the highest standard of league rugby at the Recreation Ground in the future. In terms of rugby costs, it should be noted that recent away fixture travel costs have been paid in total by various individuals supporting the Club and my sincere thanks go to them for their very generous contributions to the cause.”

On Saturday following Redruth’s defeat to Southend 22-0, head coach Ashley Morcom confirmed that both Jacques and back Lewis Vinnicombe had left the club.

I was at Truro on Saturday covering their game Tribute Western Counties West match against Okehampton where delighted coaches Josh Lord and Mark Richards confirmed that Jacques was set to sign for the city club.

I also spoke to Jacques who was present at St. Clements Hill and he confirmed that he was set to sign. He also added that he was sad to leave Redruth after ten fabulous years at the Recreation Ground but he felt following the players meeting that the time was right for him to move on and he was looking forward to teaming up with Josh Lord and Mark Richards.

With a young family growing up he feels, and rightly so, that he needs to spend more time with them, which is quite understandable.
He also confirmed that he would still be available to play for Cornwall this season in the Bill Beaumont Cup campaign.

On the playing front, Redruth travelled up on Saturday morning to Southend, and yes players in the far west of the county were up by 5 am!
In the end Redruth lost 22-0 thus maintaining their poor away form, which is hardly surprising in the circumstances and unlikely to change in the short term.

By all accounts the team acquitted themselves remarkably well led by Owen Hambly in skipper Chris Fuca’s absence. Read Ed Bawdwen’s match report from the WMN in the link

Hopefully the club will be able to take a step forward on Saturday when they entertain Chinnor. The Redruth crowd will have a part to play in lifting the team.

The Cornish All Blacks maintained their fine record at Polson this season with an 18-6 win over Canterbury. Tim Mathias and Ryan Westren scored Lanson’s tries along with eight points from the boot of Kieron Lewitt.

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

In the RFU Championship, the Cornish Pirates made the trip to Clifton Lane and let slip a 21- point lead to finally lose 35-20.
Tries from Craig Holland, Tom Kessell and Tom Riley all converted by Holland who also had kicked a penalty saw the Pirates 24-3 up after 27 minutes.
Titans came back strongly, though there was a hint of controversy about their fourth try, in which there appeared to be a forward pass in the build up, though perhaps not as blatant as Yohan Huget’s pass for Toulouse against Clermont that led to Maxime Medard’s try last night.
Holland kicked a couple more penalties to at least give the Pirates a losing bonus point. Some cheer after the awful news of the fire in the hospitality marquee at the Mennaye on Friday night.

Dick Straughan’s match report in the link from the WMN

Ian Davies’ reaction post match WMN

Next week the Pirates will switch to British and Irish Cup action with Ayr being the visitors at the Mennaye on Sunday with kick-off at 3 pm.
The bad weather put paid to much of the Tribute league program in the sou’west.

In South West 1 West, Cleve climbed back to the top of the table with a 29-5 win at Wadebridge Camels. Prop Jack Scott with the Camel’s only score.
Both games involving St. Austell and Camborne were postponed.

In Western Counties West, I saw an entertaining game at St. Clements Hill where in form Truro made it five wins on the bounce with a 29-14 win against Okehampton.

Such was Truro’s dominance in the first half that the winning margin could have been much greater. Tries by Adam Gayton, Luke Tidball and Ashley Riches with a conversion from by Jake Champion gave Truro a 17-0 half-time lead.

In the second half hooker Ben Teasdale made sure of the bonus point with his side’s fourth try, whilst Champion snaffled the ball from the base of an Oke’s scrum near their line to poach try number five to which he added the extras.

Leading 29-0, Truro let the foot of the gas in the closing stages allowing Okehampton to score a couple of consolation tries one of which was a penalty-try. A fuller report from the WMN site in the link

Leaders Ivybridge had too much pace for Bude as they won 46-19 at Bencoolen. Olly Denford, Freddie Saxton and Jake Watts scored tries for the Seasiders’, with Denford adding a couple of conversions.

Of note for Cornwall is the good form of Lewis Paterson who is playing at Ivybridge at the moment and who got a couple of tries in the game.
The matches involving Penryn and St. Ives were called off.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish’s match against Tottonians was another victim of the weather, allowing Director of Rugby Dickon Moon the chance of a trip to Southend to see Redruth.

In the Cornwall & Devon League, there was just one game played as Crediton defeated Hayle 37-16. Rob Goodman scored a couple of tries for the Lions with Dan McGee kicking two penalties.

In Cornwall 1 Roseland defeated St. Agnes 27-3 at Enys Parc to leap-frog them in the table and send Aggie to the foot of the table.

In Cornwall 2, Illogan Park maintained their fine run defeating Redruth Albany at Trewergie 45-8, whilst in the only other game played St. Day defeated Camelford 22-5.

Finally this week bad luck to Pirates Amateurs who played their re-arranged Senior Vase tie at OPM’s. The Amateurs went down 20-13 to the Plymouth based side.

Camborne regained the Rodda’s Milk Cup with a hard fought win 35-26 over Redruth at the Recreation Ground in front of a sizeable Boxing Day crowd.
The win was a great fillip to the Cherry and Whites as they look to build their promotion challenge for the New Year, whilst for the Reds yet another frustrating defeat this season away from home.

Camborne’s skipper Steve Kenward was delighted with his side’s performance. He said. “We’ve felt that the gap between the two sides has been drawing closer, Redruth have got a good group of players with great talent, but we wanted to go out today and build on our result against Bridgwater and set ourselves up for the trip to Bideford in January. I think we achieved that today.

“We worked hard playing up the slope first half against the wind and turned around 14 all. Second half we upped the tempo to nudge ahead, Dave Mankee was in great form today his goal kicking was a key factor. You need a little bit of luck and we got that with Ducker’s interception try when we were under the cosh in our own twenty-two and that put us more than two scores ahead. Credit where it’s due we deserved today’s win and we will enjoy it tonight.”

For Redruth, head coach Ashley Morcom was left feeling very frustrated with some of the decisions that the Reds felt didn’t go their way. He said. “I feel there was a degree of inconsistency with some of the decisions in certain aspects of the game, especially in the rucks and mauls. Having said that we conceded thirty-five points which we need to address but with players playing out of position and a few key players away it was always going to be a difficult task against a useful Camborne side. Our back chat to the ref was disappointing and we were marched back six or seven times and then had two players sin-binned near the end. At any level this is not acceptable”

“There are some positives from today, we had Matt Bolwell from the Cornish Pirates with us and also some of the colts stepped up. Martin Strick has come back to help us in the front row and did a good job, focus now is on the trip to Southend.”

Visitors Redruth got off to the best possible start with an opening try scored by scrum-half Ashley Hosking with less than sixty seconds on the clock.

The scrum-half intercepted the ball as Camborne looked to play the ball out of their twenty-two. He then added the conversion to his own score.
Camborne’s reply was not long in coming after winger Rob Floyd was brought down short a touchline break by full back Joe Parma saw flanker Cameron Bone take the scoring pass.

Camborne scrum-half Dave Mankee, Camborne’s man-of-the-match, kicked his first conversion in a personal points haul of twelve points from the boot.
Dave Roberts once again was having a big game in the Camborne pack, whilst for Redruth flanker Ben Priddey constantly caught the eye.
Centre James Briant was felled short of the Redruth line as Camborne kept the pressure up.

Mankee was involved again on the half-hour mark in the build up to Bone’s and Camborne’s second try, the scrum-half’s conversion putting the Cherry and Whites 14-7 up.

Redruth came back with fly-half Murray Westren kicking a penalty to the West Bank corner. Luke Collins soared to claim the lineout ball. The Redruth pack rumbled towards the Camborne line, with Priddey breaking to feed fellow back rower Richard Brown who crossed in the corner. Hosking’s conversion tying the scores and that’s how it remained up to half-time.

It was Camborne’s turn to start a half well. With less than two minutes played full back Joe Parma took the scoring pass from Floyd to skittle in to the scoreboard corner. On this occasion Mankee couldn’t add the extras.

However, he was bang on target with two crucial penalty attempts to stretch the Cherry and White’s lead to 25-14 going into the final quarter.
Redruth were chasing the game being more than two scores adrift. As the Reds pressurized the Camborne line as pass from Hosking was snaffled by Camborne’s flyer Alex Ducker near his own line. Ducker lit the after burners to run in the pivotal score. Mankee’s conversion putting Camborne 32-14 up and the Camborne crowd in dreamland.

Redruth weren’t going to let the Cup slip away without a fight. Back they came with a third try scored by Priddey from a catch-and-drive with Hosking kicking the conversion.

Priddey looked to have got over again shortly after but was deemed to have been held up by referee Williams.

From the scrum Redruth moved the ball wide with replacement back Craig “Eggy” Williams scoring out wide for an unconverted try.
The Camborne faithful held their breath at 32-26, could Redruth stage a remarkable comeback?

No, would be the answer. With the clock ticking away, Redruth’s festering frustrations with some of the officiating finally erupted as both Rhodri McAtee and Hosking were dispatched to the sin-bin in quick succession for dissent. Reduced to thirteen men Redruth could only watch as young Joel Matavesi, on as a replacement for Parma, stepped up to nail the final nail into Redruth’s coffin with a penalty that put his side more than a score ahead.

The final whistle brought a huge cheer from the Camborne crowd with skipper Steve Kenward stepping up to reclaim the Rodda’s Milk Cup.

Camborne 35 pts
Tries – Bone (2), Parma, Ducker, Conversions – Mankee (3), Penalties – Mankee (2), Matavesi

Redruth 26 pts
Tries – Hosking, Brown, Priddey, Williams, Conversions- Hosking (3)
Yellow Cards – McAtee (79), Hosking (80)

Camborne: J Parma, R Floyd, J Briant, S Kenward (Capt), A Ducker, G Thirlby, D Mankee; N Endean, S Bartle, W Webster, J Griffiths, B Kemp, G Hall, C Bone, D Roberts.
Replacements (all used): R Kevern, L Manna, L Hocking, J Jackson, J Moore, O Reynolds, M Goldsworthy, J Matavesi

Redruth: B Rule, T Notman, B Drew, S Parsons, D Bonds, M Westren, A Hosking; D Jacques, N Turner, A Strick, D Cook (Capt), L Collins, R Brown, B Priddey, M O’Leary.
Replacements (all used): M Bowden, M Bolwell, R McAtee, L Vinnicombe, C Williams, R Kessell, D Rutter, J Simmons, W Whitworth

Referee: Kevin Williams (Cornwall RRS)

Crowd 1.050

Camborne-man-of-the-match & Trelawny’s Army Supporters Club Tony Pill Memorial Cup – Dave Mankee (Camborne)

Thanks to Phil Westren

Forget the leftover turkey and pud, as a true rugby feast surely awaits at the Mennaye Field, Penzance, on Boxing Day when the Cornish Pirates face Plymouth Albion in Round 11 of this season’s Greene King IPA Championship. The kick-off is at 3pm

The Pirates are always delighted to extend a welcome to their cross-Tamar rivals, as the history between the two clubs stretches back a long time, and for this latest encounter two gifted and important members of the Cornish Pirates squad, Junior Fatialofa and Matt Evans, are set to reach the 50 games milestone for the club. Indeed, the pair will have the honour of leading their team out onto the field, and in front of what should be the biggest crowd of the season at the Mennaye.

There are a number of changes in the Cornish Pirates line-up from the one that started against Jersey last time out. Craig Holland is named at full-back, with Kieran Goss moving to the wing, Junior Fatialofa makes a return at centre, and in the second-row Darren Barry is named to partner Will Graulich.

The full selection is as follows:-

Cornish Pirates: 15 Craig Holland, 14 Mike Pope, 13 Tom Riley, 12 Junior Fatialofa, 11 Kieran Goss, 10 Matt Evans, 9 Gavin Cattle (capt); 1 Jack Andrew, Rob Elloway, 3 Ben Prescott, 4 Will Graulich, 5 Darren Barry, 6 Chris Morgan, 7 Alex Cheesman, 8 James Phillips.

Replacements: 16 Tom Channon, 17 Shane Cahill, 18 Neale Patrick, 19 Joel Conlon, 20 Tom Kessell, 21 Angus Sinclair, 22 Alex Dancer.

Referee: Darren Gamage (RFU) Assistants: Fergus Kirby & Clare Daniels

Match Day Sponsor: Jewson

* * * * *

Wozzon!

‘Rattler’ Strongman Challenge – This competition returns at half-time, compered by ‘Kernow King’ who will also be interviewing in the marquee post match. The strongman challenge should hopefully provide a little extra Cornwall versus Devon rivalry, with supporters from both teams taking part to win half price vouchers for pints of Rattler.

Post match entertainment – With Cadgwith Singers present we can expect some excellent carol singing to take place in the clubhouse after the game, whilst in the marquee there will be live band music to enjoy.

Tickets – Tickets for the match will be available at the gates on the day, which open at 1pm, and to avoid congestion the obvious advice is to arrive early.

Other games

RODDAS’ MILK CUP

CAMBORNE V REDRUTH KO 2-30 PM

PENRYN V FALMOUTH KO 2-30 PM

BAY SHIELD

ST. IVES V HAYLE KO 2-30 PM

There are many other games around the county, some kicking off at 11 am check clubs websites for details.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE & ALL – NADELIK LOWEN ONEN HAG OLL!

Report from today’s game by LUKE TREGONING.

Redruth gave the home crowd the Christmas present they were hoping for, a revenge win 18 – 8 against old foes Launceston and four valuable league points to lift them up the table and set them up for the New Year campaign.

Once again it was the Redruth forwards that laid the foundations for the win with a late penalty-try award sealing the win.
Despite the loss, the Cornish All Blacks had the satisfaction of pinching the Tribute CRFU Cornwall Super Cup off the Reds decided by points scored and conceded over the two league games this season 39 – 28 on aggregate.

Photo by Simon Bryant Ikisphoto – Redruth’s Darren Jacques powers on despite the combined tackle of Launceston’s Lewis Webb & Jake Murphy,

For Redruth head coach Ashley Morcom the result was just the fillip his side needed to round off 2013. He said. “I am really pleased with the win, but hats off to Launceston who at times played some great rugby, but I feel we had the edge up front today and that’s where the game was won.
“Games against Launceston are always tight affairs, we targeted areas of the field against Launceston and I think we played some good rugby. We had a period just before half-time when were under pressure and we fell off some tackles which led to Tim Mathias’ try.

“In a tight game you are always at the mercy of a turnover or a swift counter-attack and with big ball carriers like BJ Chapman Launceston were always a threat. Having got some breathing space with Tom Notman’s well worked try our forwards worked hard to get us the win, the penalty-try award in the final ten minutes was the icing on the cake for the boy’s great effort.”

Whilst disappointed Launceston’s head coach “Spike” Rainford was philosophical about his side’s performance. He said. “It was a game that just didn’t go our way we were on the wrong end of most of the fifty/fifty balls we looked to combat the Redruth forwards as well as the weather but we came off second best today. We will take stock of season so far and look to take the positives into the second half of the season.”

Playing up the slope with the stiff breeze Redruth opened the scoring after 10 minutes with a Murray Westren penalty.
Westren doubled his side’s advantage just four minutes later with his second successful penalty as the Cornish All Blacks came in at the side of a ruck.

The upright prevented Westren making it three out of three before the end of the opening quarter.

The Cornish All Blacks slowly began to come back into the game and on the half-hour mark a good break from fly-half Lewis Webb was carried on by winger Martin Kneebone, his inside pass found prop Tim Mathias who powered over for an un-converted try.

Pictures by Simon Bryant Iktisphoto – Tim Mathias scores Launceston’s try

Spurred on the All Blacks bossed the game until half-time and could have gone into the break leading if a Jake Murphy drop-goal attempt had been on target. Redruth held the advantage 6-5 at the turn.

Redruth began the second half in great style. With referee Fergus Kirby playing an advantage to the Reds, fly-half Rhodri McAtee put in a well-judged cross-field kick for winger Tom Notman to score an un-converted try in the Piggy Lane corner after 47 minutes.

Photo Simon Bryant Iktisphoto – Tom Notman dives into Piggy Lane Corner for Redruth’s opening try

Redruth’s backrow were in great form with man-of-the-match Owen Hambly grafting away tirelessly.

Whilst for Launceston, No. 8 Barrie John Chapman carried a tremendous amount of ball for the visitors and was a constant thorn in Redruth’s side.

Despite losing hooker Richard Brown to the sin bin Redruth conceded just three points to the boot of Kieron Lewitt whilst down to fourteen men.
As the game entered the final ten minutes it was poised at 11-8 to Redruth.

Photo Simon Bryant Iktisphoto – Redruth’s Damien Cook tackles Launceston’s Sam Chapman

The All Blacks found themselves down to fourteen men as lock Bryn Jenkins was invited to spend ten minutes in the bin by referee Kirby. Redruth sensed the moment and piled on the pressure. A scrum in the Piggy Lane corner saw the All Black pack pushed back at a rate of knots and the referee awarding Redruth a penalty try, Westren’s conversion sealing the win for the Reds.

Redruth 18 pts
Scores, Tries – Notman, Penalty-try, Conversion – Westren, Penalties – Westren (2)
Yellow Card – Brown (51)

Cornish All Blacks 8 pts
Try – Mathias, Penalty – Lewitt
Yellow Card: Jenkins (71)

Redruth: M Westren (A Hosking 78), T Notman, C Bonds, S Parsons, L Vinnicombe, R McAtee (B Rule 70), G Goodfellow; D Jacques (J Tompsett 78), R Brown, C Williams, D Cook, L Collins (J Rayment 78), C Fuca (capt), O Hambly, M O’Leary (B Priddey 55).

Cornish All Blacks: K Lewitt, M Kneebone, R Westren, J Murphy (N Webber 61), S Chapman, L Webb, A Collings (R Friend 66); T Mathias (S Naqasima 78), J Salter, B Pow, B Jenkins, B Hilton (capt), J Tripcony (L Duke 78), M Rawlings, BJ Chapman.

Replacement (not used): F Bulut

Referee: Fergus Kirby (RFU)

Crowd: 1,350

Redruth-man-of-the-match: Owen Hambly

Launceston-man-of-the-match: Barrie John Chapman

Mission accomplished for the Cornish Pirates in the British and Irish Cup with a quarter-final berth booked following their fourth bonus point win in pool 6.

There was no repeat of their reversal in Jersey in the Championship fixture played in November when they lost to a last gasp penalty by Niall O’Connor 27-25.

Having defeated the islanders last week at the Mennaye the Pirates made it back-to-back wins with a 24-0 win at St. Peter’s.

Kyle Moyle continued on the comeback trail with the Pirates’ opening try with further tries coming from Jack Andre, James Phillips and Kieran Goss with Moyle adding a couple of conversions.

So with a trip to Ulster and then the visit of Ayr to look forward to in the New Year the Pirates can concentrate on making sure their record is good enough for a home tie in the last eight.

Match reports and Ian Davies interview can be found in the following links. WMN Match report by Dick Straughan

Ian Davies’ thoughts

In National League 2 South Redruth and Launceston shape up to next Saturday’s eagerly awaited re-match with contrasting results.

Redruth made the relatively short trip to Clifton but sadly headed back down the M5/A30 with a familiar story to tell, a slow start and in the end another defeat with nothing to show. It finished 35-21 to Clifton. The Reds found themselves trailing 21-0 early on and were having to play catch up. Brett Rule pulled back a try which Murray Westren converted as he did a penalty-try to bring the Reds back to 21-14.

Sadly, Clifton scored a fourth converted try on half-time to re-establish a two score advantage 28-14.
Clifton scored a fifth try soon after half-time and all Redruth could muster in reply was a third try scored by Greg Goodfellow with Westren adding the extras and that was as close as they could get.

Launceston looked set to run up a big win against visitors Dings Crusaders as they led 31-13 at the break thanks to tries from Ryan Westren (2), Barrie Chapman and Jamie Salter all converted by Kieron Lewitt who also kicked a penalty.

However, Dings rallied during the second half to score a couple of converted tries to make the final moments of the game interesting it finished 31-27 to Launceston.

So all roads lead to the Recreation Ground this Saturday for the Cornish derby REDRUTH VS. LAUNCESTON. Redruth will be desperate to land a home win for the home faithful, but Launceston will have other ideas and will be targeting the double over their Cornish rivals.

Kick-off for the game is 2 pm, with £5 entrance for members of Cornish rugby clubs on production of their club membership book on the gate.

The final round of matches were played in the Tribute leagues prior to the Christmas/New Year break.

In Tribute South West 1 West, I witnessed Camborne get back to winning ways with a fine 35-0 win over Bridgwater & Albion at the Rec.
Playing into the teeth of a gale first half, Camborne were delighted to turn around 6-0 up thanks to a couple of penalties from Dave Mankee.
Second half they maintained the pressure to run in five tries through Joe Parma, Dave Roberts (2) and Rob Floyd (2) with Mankee slotting a couple of conversions.

Camborne will host Redruth on Boxing Day in the first of this season’s Rodda’s Milk Cup matches with kick-off set for 2-30 pm on the 26th.

St. Austell will end the year proudly at the top of the Tribute South West 1 West league table following their win against Bideford at Tregorrick 24-18 coupled with previous leaders Cleve defeat at home to Thornbury 18-17!

Saints had to come back from trailing 15-8 at half-time. Ashley Taylor’s try and a Matt Shepherd penalty accounted for their first half scores.
Shepherd then kicked two further penalties to cut Bideford’s lead to just one point before adding the conversion to Callum Wilson’s try. Shepherd’s third penalty made the game safe before Bideford scored a penalty to snatch a losing bonus point, which could prove vital in their battle to avoid the drop.

Wadebridge Camels are in the relegation dog-fight going into the New Year following another defeat this time at Cullompton 28-6. Josh Taylor kicked both their penalties.

Camels are just three points ahead of Bideford and the drop zone.

In Tribute Western Counties West; Truro enjoyed a good win at Wellington 13-10. Gareth Dodson and Matt Cross scored the tries with Tom Hadfield kicking a penalty.

Penryn made up for their loss against Burnham-on-Sea at the Memorial Ground last week with a much improved result against Tavistock winning 42-24.
Veteran Sam Harrison came back to lend a hand at the Borough. Jake Seviour, Phil Hinchley (2), Will Payne, Mitch Vague, Adam Hughes, Matt Williamson and Andrew Seviour all scored tries for Penryn with Jake Seviour adding a conversion.

Burnham-on-Sea made it successive wins in the Duchy winning 24-9 at St. Ives. Craig “Eggy” Williams kicking all the Hakes points with three penalties.

Bude lost at Devonport Services 23-8. Andy Yates with a try and Ollie Denford penalty were the seasiders point’s scorers.

A fine end to the year for London Cornish in London 2 SW, as they culled Teddington Antlers at Bushy Park 53-0, scoring nine tries. There were hat-trick try hauls for both Tim Homan and Rich Skinnard with Mark Osei-Tutu grabbing a brace and Phil Francis also crossing.
Luke Spells chipped in with four conversions.

In Tribute Cornwall and Devon League, a late penalty from Justin Irons gave Falmouth an 8-5 win over visitors Crediton. Sam Burke scoring the Eagles try.

Pirates Amateurs defeated Saltash at the Mennaye 13-6. Danny Toolan with the only try of the game and Rhys Brownfield’s boot accounted for the home sides’s points, whilst Max Venables slotted a couple of penalties for the visitors.

Newquay Hornets lost at home to Exeter Saracens 17-5. Tim Eustice with their only try.

Veor lost at home to Tiverton 48-14. Rapson and Stone with their tries both converted by Arthur.

There was just the one game in Tribute Cornwall 1; leaders Liskeard/Looe re-enforced their position at the top of the table with a 21-0 win at Stithians.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, we already know our champion, it’s Illogan Park who defeated Camelford 44-0.
St. Just remain in second place following their 39-5 win over Redruth Albany, whilst at the foot of the table St. Day closed the gap after defeating Lankelly-Fowey 31-10.

Apart from the Cornish derby next Saturday there are two other Cup games in the county.
Penryn play Ivybridge in the RFU Intermediate Cup and Liskeard/Looe play Topsham in the RFU Junior Vase. Both games kick-off at 2 pm.

Two late tries from Matt Evans and Darren Barry were enough to give the Cornish Pirates maximum points in their British & Irish Cup Pool 6 tie at the Mennaye against Jersey 31-20.

Other tries were scored by Kyle Moyle,great to see him back after his injury, and loanee from Exeter Chiefs No.8 James Phillips.

Moyle banged over a couple of conversions and a penalty for a twelve point haul, with Angus Sinclair kicking the other two conversions.

It puts the Cornish Pirates in a strong position going into the return next Saturday against the islanders especially as Ulster Ravens slipped up at Ayr 41-22!Read Bill Sobey’s match report from the Morning News in the link

In National League 2 South, Redruth staged another late show with Rhodri McAtee’s try with the final play of the game giving the Reds a 29-25 win in a game in which they trailed their visitors Bishop’s Stortford throughout! Bill Sobey’s take on the game in the link

Whilst at Exmouth the Cornish All Blacks picked up their second win away from fortress Polson this season winning 32-25 at the Imperial Recreation Ground. Nigel Walrond’s report on the action from the Morning News in the link.

Sam Chapman, Tim Mathias and Ryan Westren scored tries for the All Blacks with Kieron Lewitt kicking four penalties and a conversion and Jake Murphy dropping a goal.

It all points to an absolute cracker when Redruth and Launceston meet at the Recreation Ground on Saturday 21st December kick-off 2 pm.

In Tribute South West 1 West, St. Austell having received a couple of match balls prior to the match from TASC Chairman Phil Trevarton and Merchandising Secretary Marina Trevarton, duly put on a storming display to defeat visitors Coney Hill 79-13.

Twelve tries for the Saints with skipper Matt Shepherd bagging three as well as nine conversions and a penalty for a personal haul of thirty-six points.

Adam Kellow (2), Darren Pellow (2), Steve Howorth, Ashley Taylor (2), Alex Welland and Sam Tank crossed for the remaining tries.
The big win keeps St. Austell in second spot just a point behind leaders Cleve.

Camborne will feel that they let two points slip as Thornbury scored a converted try to take a share of the spoils in an eleven try thriller 38-38!
Dave Roberts, Alex Ducker (2), skipper Steve Kenward, Joel Matavesi and James Goldsworthy all crossed for the Cherry and Whites with Dave Mankee kicking four conversions.

Wadebridge Camels poor run continues as they slipped up at home to Bridgwater & Albion 20-8. Mark Grubb got the Camels’ try with Josh Taylor kicking a penalty.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro’s 48-18 win over Devonport Services was the highlight from a Cornish perspective.
Tom Excel, Luke Trescothick, Ashley Riches, Luke Tidball (2), Carl Ranscombe (2) and Jake Champion all scored tries for Truro with Champion adding four conversions.

Penryn were downed at home by high-flying Burnham-on-Sea 36-15. Andy Seviour and Andy Hughes scored a couple of tries for the beaten Borough with Jake Seviour adding a conversion and penalty.

St. Ives did their prospects some good near the foot of the table defeating fellow strugglers Paignton 46-7. Former Red Craig “Eggy” Williams scored their first try with other five pointers coming from Arron Bennett, Jack Lonsdale, Sam Heath, Tom Nicholson, Tyler Gendall and Jack Kessell. Williams kicked four conversions and a penalty.

Bude’s defeat at Kingsbridge 48-15 leaves them in the bottom two.Silas Keeling scored both of Bude’s tries with Olly Denford kicking a penalty and conversion.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish enjoyed a good win at home over Old Alleynians 34-12. Luke Spells (2), Rob Healey (2) and Mark Osei-Tutu all crossed for the exiles with Spells kicking a further nine points.

In the Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, Saltash won an exciting Cornish derby over visiting Newquay Hornets 47-20. Will Morton (3), Skinnard, Max Venables (2) and James Moriarty all scored tries for the Ashes.

Pirates Amateurs had a good win at the Mennaye over Withycombe 34-25.

Aaron Hall, Ryan Forrester, Charlie Goldsworthy and Jack Nicholas scored the Amateurs four tries with Rhys Brownfield kicking two penalties and four conversions.

Falmouth lost at second placed Tiverton 21-3. Justin Irons with a penalty for the Eagles.

Hayle lost 27-8 at Exeter Saracens Neil Maxwell with a try and a Dan McGee penalty making up the Lions’ scores.
Veor also lost at Honiton 36-3. Arthur with a penalty for Veor.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Liskeard/Looe got back to winning ways with a comprehensive 53-0 win at Lux Park against Stithians.
Bodmin had just enough to see off a plucky challenge from visitors Roseland 27-19.

Camborne School of Mines won at tight affair at Helston 22-21.

The surfer’s derby went the way of Perranporth as they won at St. Agnes 30-10.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, Illogan Park demolished St. Day 81-0.

Camelford had a good win at home to St. Just 25-6 and Lankelly-Fowey took the spoils at home to Redruth Albany 47-17.

I’ve finally done it!

I have tasted the Sandy Park experience travelling into Devon to watch the Exeter Chiefs take on the reigning Heineken Cup holders Toulon.

Whilst we continue to wait in Cornwall for the Stadium to be built it is understandable that for some the “here and now” is Sandy Park and the Exeter Chiefs.

Well what a cracking game and what a cracking atmosphere!

The game flew by and by the end I was totally exhausted with the drama of it all with Toulon’s experience prevailing, just, 14-9.

From the minute’s silence in respect of Nelson Mandela, and what a privilege to share such a moment with some great Springbok players, to Toulon lock Ali Williams outrageous flick pass to prop Florian Fresia to set up what proved to be the only try of the game, Chief’s Jack Nowell’s lunge for the corner along with an impressive performance for Toulon from Mathieu Bastareaud, replacement fly-half for Chiefs Henry Slade’s mature performance against his idol at fly-half, the crowd’s chorus of “We want Jonny” as Matt Giteau lined up a vital kick for the visitors………I could go on and on!

After the game I was able to listen in to Jonny Wilkinson’s post match comments to the press pack and he was full of praise for the Exeter’s side performance. He said. “”It was a tough game, but we expected that,” said the 34-year-old playmaker. “It’s fabulous to see the way Exeter are playing the game and the strength that they are able to compete and beat so many teams.

“I think last year a lot of people mentioned when they played Clermont what a battle they put up, but it’s no longer about that for them. These guys are beating teams day in, day out and playing great rugby in doing that. It’s a magic thing for English rugby and an example for people to follow. What they are showing for 1 to 15, they’ve guys with skills and playing in that manner, it’s just great and something to learn from.

“As a team I know we will learn from what they are doing and we grow stronger because the way they play is hard to play against. It’s great for us, great for Europe and great for what they are doing down here. Coming here today, it’s a fabulous place, fabulous support and long may it continue.”

And with the two teams set to resume Heineken Cup battle again this weekend, Wilkinson is expecting another stiff examination from Rob Baxter’s side on home soil.

“We know we have to prepare damn well to play against them,” said Wilkinson, who was named European Player of the Year last season. “We’ve seen first hand today what the Chiefs are capable of and maybe if a few ball didn’t go down or the rub of the green went slightly different, we know we would have been in a very different situation right now.

“Right now we’ll take each game as it comes, but these guys will be incredibly tough next week. Then whoever they face after that, it’s impossible to say who is going to qualify from this group. Like I said, today could easily have been a different story, so I wouldn’t like to be doing this again.

And Wilkinson confirmed that it was his decision to asked Matt Giteau to take the vital penalty kick which nudged Toulon back into the lead. “A good one I thought! The way I was kicking I had to make that call, despite the fact that I had prepared well all week and I felt fabulous coming in to the game, it just didn’t happen for me today. The decision to carry on (kicking) would have been totally selfish. Matt and other players were itching to get involved so a good call.”

I hope that Premiership Rugby know what they are doing when they turn their back on the Heineken Cup next season. This has been, and continues to be a fantastic tournament, as witnessed by some of the results this weekend. What price Connacht’s 16-14 win at Toulouse?

European weekends have become such a part of the rugby calendar and the thought of losing them fills a mere supporter like myself with utter depression and despair of those “running the game”!

I spent time on Saturday talking to supporters and members of the press who had travelled over from France and they were extremely complimentary of the way they had been looked after by Exeter for the game.

Supporters were taken on tours of the city, etc…etc…and had a wonderful stay.

The press, expertly looked after by the media and communications manager at Exeter Chiefs, Mark Stevens, spoke highly of the way the club accommodated their requirements, something not always found at other clubs!

All part and parcel of extending the hand of rugby friendship. In short how it should be and just a small example of how Exeter Chiefs are getting things right not just on the pitch but off it too.

Needless to say I look forward to my next trip to Sandy Park and seeing more of Jack Nowell Matt Jess et al.

My third trip of the season to watch the Cherry and Whites as Camborne looked to close the gap on the top two Cleve and St. Austell in Tribute South West 1 West.

Sadly, Town couldn’t make home advantage count against a very useful Hornets’ side whom thanks to their 34-17 win leapfrogged Camborne in the table.
Hornets’ win took away Camborne’s unbeaten run at the Rec stretching back some twenty months encompassing twenty-one games.

With both the top two sides also losing Camborne lost the chance to make up ground and have now slipped back to fifth in the table eight points behind leaders Cleve and six points behind St. Austell. North Petherton are up to third with Hornets now fourth two points ahead of the Cherry and Whites.

Camborne were always second best on the day as they struggled to impose their game. Hornets powerful pack gave them the perfect platform, whilst in the backs they had some powerful runners who were able to break the gain-line.

Sam Bartle worked tirelessly for Camborne and he got my vote as their man-of-the-match.

Dave Mankee chipped away at the lead with four penalties, whilst replacement back Joe Parma finished off a good try in the scoreboard corner.

The game also marked winger Rob Floyd’s 100th game for the club.

One thing I can say and that’s the pasties at Camborne supplied in house by Scrummages Catering were “bleddy ansum!”

This Saturday’s trip to Thornbury will now take on even greater importance as Town look to bounce back and maintain their challenge.

St. Austell fought back to earn a losing bonus point from their 25-18 defeat at Clevedon. Matt Shepherd scored all the Saints’ points with a couple of converted tries and two penalties.

Wadebridge Camels suffered a heavy defeat at Bideford 56-6 to complete a bleak day for Cornish sides at this level with just a couple of Jamie Taylor penalties to show for their efforts.

In National League 2 South, as you were, one home win, one away defeat. The Cornish All Blacks scored four tries in their 32-5 win at home to Bournemouth with Bryn Jenkins, Liam Yeo and Kieron Lewitt (2) all crossing the Polson whitewash. Lewitt also kicked three conversions and two penalties.

Bournemouth’s try was scored by a Cornishman, Dan Pollard!

A long day on the minibus was broken by a game of rugby at Ampthill for the Reds, but once again it was the away day blues for Redruth as they succumbed 38-17.

Redruth were well in contention at half-time trailing just 21-17. Murray Westren and Darren Jacques (yet again) scored tries for the Reds with Ashley Hosking kicking both conversions and a penalty.

Redruth will look to get back to winning ways when they take on Bishop’s Stortford this Saturday at the Rec. Kick-off for this game is 2 pm.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro recorded a good win at Bude 51-7. Tries for Truro were scored by Luke Tidball (3), Jake Champion (2), Tom Hatfield and a Penalty-try. Champion also kicked five conversions and two penalties. For Bude Silas Keeling scored a try with Olly Denford kicking the conversion.

Penryn drew 7-7 at Paignton. The abandoned after 55 minutes following a serious injury to Penryn’s Taron Peacock. It remains to be seen if the result will stand.

St. Ives lost at Okehampton 32-19 and remain third from bottom just two points above Bude. Craig Williams, Tyler Gendall and Arron Bennett scored tries for the Hakes with Williams kicking a couple of conversions.

In Tribute Cornwall and Devon League; Falmouth remain our best placed side following their 50-5 win at the Rec against Exeter Saracens. Sam Burke (2), Josh Symons, Matt Biggins, Justin Irons, Ollie Church, Tony Whittle and Tom David all scored tries for the Eagles with Irons adding five conversions. Falmouth are fourth but eighteen points behind both Exeter Uni and Tiverton.

Hayle are the next best placed Cornish side in sixth and they had a good win against Honiton 35-8. Dan Magee, Scott Harvey, Rob Goodman and Danny Clackworthy scored the Lions’ tries. Magee added 15 points with the boot.

Newquay Hornets had no answer to the students from Exeter Uni as they won at the Sportscentre 62-7. Harry Penderich scored Newquay’s only try with Sam Cullen adding the extras.

Saltash won at Veor 44-14. Will Morton (2), Max Venables (2), James Moriarty and Ollie Mulberry scored the tries for Ashes, Venables kicking the rest of his side’s points.

Mankee and Laity scored tries for Veor with Mankee adding both conversions.

Pirates Amateurs won at OPM’s 18-13. Danny Tooland and Dan O’Hanlan scored tries for the Ams with Rhys Brownfield kicking the rest of the points.

In Tribute Cornwall 1; Liskeard-Looe dropped points for the first time this season as they were held 24-24 at Penryn by Camborne School of Mines.

Bodmin picked up a losing bonus point from their 23-19 defeat at Stithians.

Perranporth won 23-16 at Phileigh against Roseland, whilst Helston won at St. Agnes 14-0.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, another big win for leaders Illogan Park, 67-10 at Camelford. Second place St. Just defeated Lankelly-Fowey 36-12. Whilst the Mining Division derby saw St. Day defeat Redruth Albany 35-31.

Well done to Sam Matavesi who came on twice during the Centenary match at Twickenham for the Fijian RFU against the Barbarians. The Baa Baas ran out winners by 43-19 in a game full of running rugby.

Finally Sunday saw the Cornish Pirates take on Nottingham at Meadow Lane with a last-gasp penalty snatching a draw for the home side 27-27.
Good to see Matt Evans back from his exploits with Canada during the autumn.

Read Dick Straughan’s match report for the WMN in the link.

A quick update on rugby in Brittany. Vannes are going well in Federale 1 as they head into their Christmas/New Year break. A 13-9 win at Bobigny sees them in a play-off spot. Tom Parker is still with them this season adding some Cornish beef in the boiler room!

Also a mention for two former Reds, Ed Carne and Luke Cozens both playing in Federale 2 with Rouen along with former Pirate Ben Mercer and having a good season under coach Richard Hill.

With the pantomime season fast approaching, I reckon it’s a sure bet that if Bristol’s Director of Rugby Andy Robinson, was a man who enjoyed a trip to the theatre he would not wish to see a laughing pirate in sight!

For the second time this season the Cornish Pirates got the better of Bristol in the Greene King IPA Championship, this time 21-15 to back up their opening day win at Sandy Park 23-21.

Bristol failed to make the most of their numerous chances and will rue the fact that they didn’t take the points on offer when they had the opportunity.

I have no doubt that come the business end of the season they will not be so profligate.

Still a win to savour with two great tries scored by Kieran Goss, this lad has gas to burn and is fast becoming a favourite at the Mennaye, and another poacher’s effort from scrum-half Tom Kessell in the Newlyn Gate Corner.

I thought former Red, prop Peter Joyce had a tremendous game some of his tackling was out of the top drawer.

Young Jake Parker is another who continues to impress in the back row.

One thing you can’t argue about is the quality of play down at the Mennaye this season with some great young players who are going to develop in time into a formidable unit.

It was good to see the Pirates owner Dicky Evans enjoying the game at the Mennaye and to see the boys get another good result against one of the fancied sides for promotion to the Aviva Premiership.

Read Bill Sobey’s match report from the Western Morning News in the link.

After a few uncomfortable weeks both on and off the park, Redruth served up the best possible result at the Rec on Saturday defeating leaders of National League 2 South Hartpury College 32-29 in a pulsating game.

Chapeau! To skipper Chris Fuca whose injury time try won the game for the Reds and earned five valuable league points in the bargain.

Read my match report from today’s Western Morning News in the link.

No such luck for the Cornish All Blacks as they lost the Westcountry derby at Taunton’s Hyde Park ground 30-18, despite 13 points from Kieron Lewitt, including a try, and another five-pointer from Sam Chapman, who has struck some good form of late.

Read Nigel Walrond’s match report from the Western Morning News in the link.

In Tribute South West 1 West, St. Austell defeated hitherto unbeaten leaders Cleve 20-15 at Tregorrick Park to move to within three points of the Somerset side.

Saints scored three tries through flanker Ian Venner, No.8 Adam Kellow and full-back Dan Pearce with Matt Shepherd kicking a conversion and a penalty.

Camborne are up to third following their spectacular win at Sidmouth 48-38.

Alex Ducker (2), Sam Bartle (2), Joe Parma, Cameron Bone and James Goldsworthy all crossed for the Cherry and Whites with Grant Thirlby kicking eleven points and David Mankee a conversion.

Wadebridge Camels picked up a losing bonus point at Thornbury were they lost 24-18. Will Pengelly, Jack Scott and Ian Burnard scored tries for the Camels with Jack Oulton kicking a penalty.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Penryn picked up five points with a 36-12 win at home to Okehampton. Ben Trevaskis, Kye Beasley, Jake Seviour, Dan Booth Colin Campbell and Taran Peacock all crossed for the Borough with Seviour adding three conversions.

Truro enjoyed a good win at St. Clements 41-12 over visiting Kingsbridge. Luke Tidball, Adam Gayton, Mark Carlyon, Carl Ranscombe, Brett Johnson, Chizz Gilbert and Ashley Riches scored Truro’s seven tries with Jake Champion kicking three conversions.

Battling St. Ives defeated Wellington 16-14 at Alexandra Road. Sam Heath scored the Hakes only try which Craig Williams converted as well as three penalties.

Bude lost at Torquay Athletic 31-19. James Comber, Mark Dennis and Duncan Tout scored for the seasiders with Ollie Denford adding a couple of conversions.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish lost at home to Old Reigatian 28-13. Tries were scored for the exiles by Mark Osei-Tutu and Simon Brading with Sam Williams kicking a penalty.

In the Tribute Cornwall and Devon League, Falmouth Eagles won at Honiton 23-12. Tom Spiller scored a couple of tries with prop Ethan Patterson getting a third try. Justin Irons kicked the rest of the points.

Newquay Hornets won a tense Cornish Derby at the Mennaye against Pirates Amateurs 16-10. Connor Riley scored the Hornets’ only try with the rest of the points coming from the boots of Sam Cullen and Ian Morgan.

Amateurs scored a couple of unconverted tries through Jack Nicholas and Leigh Edwards.

The other Cornish Derby in this league saw a repeat of the previous week’s Cornwall Cup tie between Saltash and Hayle with the Ashes again emerging the winners this time 35-10. Ollie Mulberry, Will Morton (2) and Max Veneables all crossed for the Ashes with Veneables’ boot accounting for the rest of the points.

Exeter University thumped Veor 72-0 in the other game involving a Cornish club at this level.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Liskeard-Looe made it eight win from eight with a 31-3 win at Enys Park against St. Agnes.

Bodmin recovered from last week’s loss to School of Mines to defeat Perranporth 29-19.

Camborne School of Mines travelled the relatively short distance to Stithians winning 14-12.

Roseland got the better of Helston at Phileigh 18-11.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, Illogan Park defeated second place St. Just 46-12, Redruth Albany won at Camelford 25-15 and Lankelly-Fowey beat St. Day 22-15.

Congratulations to Plymouth Albion and Camborne player Sam Matavesi who came on as a replacement for Fiji in their 26-7 win over Romania at the Stadionul National Arcul de Triumf in Bucharest.

Matavesi is set to feature for Fiji this Saturday coming in the centennial match for the Fiji RFU against the Barbarians at Twickenham.

Meanwhile all the best for a speedy recovery to Aaron Penberthy who is set to spend a few weeks on the sidelines after fracturing his fibula playing for Jersey against Leeds Carnegie at the weekend.

Well done to the seven Cornish lads who made it through to the SW 18 group squad; Oliver Hallworth (Bryanston School, Bath Academy), Tommy Phillips (Truro College), Dan Rutter (Truro School & Redruth RFC), Jack Simmons (Truro College & Redruth RFC), Jack Tyack (Bryanston School & Truro RFC), William Whitworth (Truro School & Redruth RFC) and Locryn Williams (Truro School & Redruth RFC).

The boys will be attending squad prep days at Hartpury College on January 26th and February 9th before going on to the National Development weekend at Loughborough University on February 21-23 from which England U.18’s Clubs and Schools XV will be picked.