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.

I along with TASC Hon.Sec Ian Gordon were present at the Memorial Ground in Penryn on Saturday for the Tribute Cornwall 1 clash between the two promoted sides from Cornwall 2 last season, Camborne School of Mines and Bodmin.

We were delighted to present both clubs with a couple of rugby balls in recognition of their successes. A small token but one which I know clubs are appreciative of.

We will be making further presentations to clubs that achieved promotion last season during the course of the season.

We are also pleased to announce that we will once again be involved with the County U.7’s tournament at Penryn RFC in April.

This is how we use the funds we raise to plough back into grassroots rugby locally with help and support.

With Christmas in mind why not give some black and gold this year! Visit our club shop via the link here

As the coach of School of Mines told us. “Only one or two of our players had ever heard of Trelawny’s Army before today, but they all know about you now and what you are doing to help Cornish rugby and they are most appreciative.”

Photo – L-R TASC Hon. Sec Ian Gordon presents a ball to Bodmin skipper Lee Taylor with CSM captain Iain Miller receiving a ball from Bill Hooper (TASC Press Officer) – Photo Ian Hamilton

The game itself was a great advert for rugby at this level, both sides scored a couple of unconverted tries but it was the two penalties kicked by the students that got them the win 16-10.

In the other games in Cornwall 1, leaders Liskeard-Looe won at Roseland 36-3. Perranporth beat Helston at Ponsemere 29-8, whilst Stithians defeated St. Agnes 10-3 at Enys Parc.

In Tribute Cornwall 2 a tough battle for leaders Illogan Park who eventually won 29-23 at St. Day. St. Just defeated Camelford at Tregeseal 24-0. Redruth Albany got the better of Lankelly-Fowey at Trewirgie 31-29.

In the Greene King IPA Championship, the Cornish Pirates lost out to a last-gasp penalty at Jersey 27-25!

Read Phil Westren’s match report in the link here.

In National League 2 South, Launceston followed up their win last week at Southend with a 22-20 win at Polson against Chinnor.

Sam Chapman and Kyle Moyle scored the All Blacks’ tries with Kieron Lewitt kicking three penalties and Jake Murphy kicking the winning points with Lewitt in the bin.

Redruth are still looking for the elusive first win on the road after losing 46-22 at Canterbury.

They were well in contention for 60 minutes but sadly fell away in the final quarter as injuries and no doubt the travelling caught up with them.

Chris Fuca, Greg Goodfellow and Nick Simmons all scored for the Reds with Murray Westren kicking to conversions and a penalty.

The Quarter-Finals of the Tribute Cornwall RFU Knock out Cup produced two keenly contested ties.

In a repeat of last season’s final Camborne again got the better of Wadebridge Camels 19-18 at the Molesworth Field.

Grant Thirlby kicked the winning penalty to put the Cherry and Whites through and a semi-final tie against Penryn, who had a walkover against Newquay Hornets, at the Rec.

Adam Notman and James Goldsworthy scored Camborne’s tries with Thirlby adding three penalties.

Camels scored three tries through Matt Ballard, Jack Scott and Richard Treleaven. Josh Taylor kicking a penalty.

St. Austell came through a tough battle with Truro 34-27 at Tregorrick. Matt Shepherd bagged a couple of tries and kicked nine points. Other tries came from Hugh Noot, Miles Davey and Dan Pearce.

Truro grabbed tries from Carl Ranscombe (2), Jamie Moore and Luke Tidball with Ranscombe adding a couple of conversions and Tom Hadfield kicking a penalty.

St. Austell will play Saltash in the other semi-final. The Ashes enjoyed a big win over Hayle at Moorlands 94-10.

Up in London it was RFU Intermediate Cup rugby for London Cornish who sadly bowed out after putting up a strong showing at Essex side Rochford Hundred 21-11.

Truro born Ben Devonport, on his debut, scored a good try with Sam Williams kicking a couple of penalties.

Eleven Cornish lads from the Cornwall 18 Group were involved in the SW Trials yesterday for the Divisional side to represent the South West.

Cornwall U.16’s put up a good fight against Somerset yesterday before going down 31-17. However our U.16’s B had a good win over Somerset 42-14

Well done to all the boys involved.

Cornish Pirates’ Matt Evans was again involved with the Canadian squad that played in Bucharest against Romania. Despite great play from Matt the Canucks lost to the Oaks 21-20. The Canadian perspective in the link

Photo by John Beach – Sam Matavesi on the charge for Cornwall

Congratulations to Sam Matavesi (Plymouth Albion) who has been called up to the Fiji squad for their final two games on tour against Romania in Bucharest this Saturday and then the Barbarians at Twickenham on the 30th November. Up Cambern!!

By Bill Hooper at the Brickfields

Combined Services and the Barbarians served up a veritable feast of rugby in front of a good crowd on a chilly Plymothian evening in this Remembrance Day encounter.

With the band of the Royal Marines on hand to play the last post and the National Anthem prior to kick-off, the scene was set with Services resplendent in their poppy designed shirts and the famous Baa Baa’s black and white hoops and club socks adorning the green Albion pitch.

Combined Services lock Marsh McCormack (Royal Navy) was granted a week’s leave from his tour in Afghanistan to take part in last night’s fixture.

However, it was Army winger Sam Speight who enjoyed a profitable evening and claimed the man-of-the-match plaudits running in three excellent tries.

His first opened the scoring after 13 minutes with a 60 metre run following an interception near his own line.

Combined Services skipper Dave Pascoe kicks for goal in last night’s match (Photo Simon Bryant iktisphoto)

Services skipper Dave Pascoe (Penryn) was unable to add the extras from out wide.

The Barbarians, coached on this occasion by Cornish Pirates head coach Ian Davies, hit back soon after as London Welsh winger Alex Davies got in amongst a powerful forward drive to claim his side’s first try. Pontypridd fly-half Dai Flanagan kicking the first of four successful conversions.

Services regained the lead in this ding dong encounter as good work from former Exeter Chief’s prop Chris Budgen saw him put in flanker Sam Laird for their second try for a 10-7 lead.

Barbarians then hit the Services with a double salvo as Loughborough Students winger Alex Davis, who caught the eye all evening with his silky running and was surely one name noted in Davies’ note book, scored the Baa Baas second try and then prop Laurence Ovens crashed over for try number three, both scores again converted by Flanagan for a 21-10 lead.

Danger man Speight cut the deficit for Services just prior to half-time with his second try following some fine play, Pascoe added the extras to leave Services trailing 21-17 at the break.

Cornish Pirates’ Tom Riley looks to make a break for the Barbarians against Combined Services (photo Simon Bryant iktisphoto)

Cornish Pirates’ centre Tom Riley came on at the start of the second half for Chief’s Ceri Sweeney. whilst another player with Cornish connections Kye Beasley who is also playing his rugby at Penryn came on during the second half for the Services.

Speight was again involved as another mazy run deep into Barbarian territory set up a try for replacement flanker Maku Koroyadi, Pascoe’s second successful conversion nudging Services back into the lead.

Barbarians hit back with a fourth try as Flanagan’s deft kick over the defence was taken by Sale Shark’s centre Chris Mayor for a simple score. Flanagan’s fourth conversion giving his side a 28-24 lead going into the final quarter.

Proud Pirates. Baa Baa’s coach for the evening Ian Davies along with Tom Riley (photo Simon Bryant iktisphoto)

In the final ten minutes Services ran in another two tries to seal the game. Speight completed his hat-trick with another exhilarating run in, then at the death replacement Jack Foster made the game safe with his side’s sixth try.

The crowd had certainly had their monies’ worth with the ten tries scored.

Combined Services 34 pts
Tries – Speight (3), Laird, Koroyadi, Foster, Conversions – Pascoe (2)

Barbarians 28 pts
Tries – Davies, Davis, Ovens, Mayor, Conversions – Flanagan (4)

Combined Services : J Humphreys (RN), A Gillespie (RAF), M Tichias (RN), D Sleeman (RN), S Speight (Army), J Prasad (Army), D Pascoe (RN, Capt); T Coghlan (Army), G Evans (RN), C Bugden (Army), M Cormack (RN), D Ball (Army), A Satala (Army), S Laird (RN), L Jope (Army)

Replacements (all used): S Philpott (Army), K Beasley (RN), N Titchard-Jones (Army), R Cooke (Army), M Koroyadi (Army), J Foster (RN), P Nacamavuto (Army), N Huntley (RN)

Barbarians: B Davies (Coventry & Wales), C Goudie (Heriot’s & Scotland U.20), C Mayor (Sale), C Sweeney (Exeter Chiefs & Wales), A Davis (Loughborough Students), D Flanagan (Ponypridd & Wales U.21), A Davies (London Welsh & Wales U.21); L Ovens (Rosslyn Park), C Hawkins (Llanelli & Wales U.21), L Niven (Edinburgh & Scotland U.20), H Pugh (Carmarthen Quins & Wales U.20), C McGowan (Worthing), J Freeman (Loughborough Students), S Harding (Bedford Blues), R Oakley (Plymouth Albion & Wales).

Replacements (all used): G Turner (Edinburgh & Scotland U.20), T. Harrison (Plymouth Albion), D. Bell (Lydney & England), C Dicomidis (Pontypridd & Cyprus), D Eager (Llanelli), R Cushion (Plymouth Albion & Irish Clubs XV), T Riley (Cornish Pirates & Wales U.21), C Ferguson (Heriot’s & Scotland U.20).

Referee: Luke Pearce (RFU)

Despite the attraction of the autumn internationals either live or on the box, there was still plenty of local rugby to enjoy over the weekend.

I took in a couple of games, Saturday at Redruth and then on Sunday down at the Mennaye for the Cornish Pirates match against the Bedford Blues.

Let’s start at the Mennaye in the Greene King IPA Championship, this being the first match to be held on a Sunday, though it has to be said that the original fixture list always had this as a Sunday afternoon kick-off.

It was always going to be interesting to compare the attendance with that of a Friday night, which so many had vehemently opposed. I for one am not too bothered, though Sunday’s are slightly preferable to me re work.

Naturally the jury will be out for a while yet, but the official attendance of 1,609 is only marginally better than that of a Friday night.

What it tends to confirm is that the continued economic squeeze is still having an effect, despite what the politicians try to tell us, and is likely to do so for some time yet especially in Cornwall where wages are sadly low and everyone is feeling the pinch!

On the field what more could you ask for, a tremendous game played in difficult conditions with the Pirates squeezing home by a score 16-13. Scrum-half Tom Kessell snipped another try with Kieran Hallett adding the conversion and three penalties. Bill Sobey’s report from the WMN in the link.

The only downside were the injuries picked up by lock James Sandford and prop Alan Paver, who it reported has a broken arm which will keep him out of tomorrow night’s Remembrance Day fixture at the Brickfields for the Barbarians against Combined Services kick-off 7-15 pm.

Thursday evening is date of the Emergency General Meeting to be held at Redruth’s club house for all paid up members. Membership cards will need to be produced on the door to gain entry.

On the field Redruth gave another Jekyll and Hyde performance, woeful in the first half, simply outstanding in the second to overturn a half-time deficit of 25-10 into a 38-28 win at full-time.

It was the third time this season that Phil Watters has refereed at the Rec this season and as on the previous two occasions it was a mixed performance on his part, which again left seasoned players in disbelief with certain interpretations of the rules!

My match report from today’s Western Morning News can be found in the link here.

Special mention for Sam Matavesi, who is on a four week loan period from Plymouth Albion with the Reds, the former Camborne player scored two tries on his debut in a red shirt!

The other game in National League 2 South saw a welcome win on the road for the Cornish All Blacks at Southend 17-14. It sounds like it was a tempestuous affair with cards being flourished left, right and centre! Poor old skipper Ben Hilton copped a red for a second yellow card offence! Tom Rawlings & Jamie Salter scored the tries with Kieron Lewitt kicking the rest of the points. Read Nigel Walrond’s match report from today’s WMN in the link.

In Tribute South West 1West, Camborne defeated Chard 23-17. Joe Parma, Alex Ducker and Rob Floyd scored the Cherry and White’s tries with Grant Thirlby kicking a conversion and two penalties.

St. Austell ran riot at Cullompton winning 50-18! Darren Pellow and Matt Shepherd each scored two tries with Hugh Noot, Ashley Taylor, Adam Kellow and Dan Pearce also crossing for scores. Shepherd converted five scores.

Defeat at home to Weston Hornets 19-15 capped a miserable week for Wadebridge Camels who have been deducted five points by the Cornwall RFU disciplinary panel. Mark Grubb scored their only try with Josh Taylor kicking three penalties for a losing bonus point.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Penryn were the only Cornish side to taste success as they won 26-8 at Wellington. Colin Campbell and Dan Booth scored the Borough’s tries with Rob Banks kicking four penalties and two conversions.

Truro lost at high-flyers Burnham-on-Sea 20-10. Carl Ranscombe and Ashley Lawton scored unconverted tries for the City side.

St. Ives lost at leaders Ivybridge 27-11. Sam Heath got a try for the Hakes with Jacob Ninnes kicking a couple of penalties.

Bude lost at home to Teignmouth 30-20. James Comber (2) and Freddie Saxton scored the seasiders’ tries with Ollie Denford kicking a conversion and penalty.

Up in London 2 SW, London Cornish notched up another good win this time at Effingham & Leatherhead 28-22. Simon Brading (2), Tom Lloyd and Ciaran Acford scored the exiles’ tries with Tom Carter kicking two penalties and a conversion.

In Tribute Cornwall and Devon League; Saltash had a fine win against Falmouth at the Rec 33-28. Steve Hillman, Sean Crawford, Jason Carroll and Max Venables all scored tries for the Ashes, whilst Venables’ boot accounted for the rest of the points.

For the defeated Eagles, Justin Irons, Tony Whittle and Ollie Church all crossed the whitewash with Irons kicking thirteen points.

Veor beat Pirates Amateurs at Wheal Gerry 29-10. Try scorers were Shovel (2), Stone, Lancaster and a Penalty-try, whilst Mankee kicked a couple of conversions. At present no details of the Ams point scorers.

Hayle were defeated at home by Exeter Uni 34-17. Alex Thornton and Scott Harvey scored tries for the Lions with Dan Magee kicking the other points.

Injury strapped Newquay Hornets were no match for OPM’s as they lost 32-10 at the Sportscentre. Connor Riley and Nick Parnell scored the Hornets’ tries.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Liskeard-Looe kept their un-beaten record with a 38-8 win at Lux Park against Helston.

Bodmin were held to a 17 all draw at St. Agnes, whilst Perranporth won 30-17 at Stithians.

School of Mines won at home against Roseland 33-0.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, Illogan Park continue to lead the way after a 74-5 win over Lankelly-Fowey.

Second place St. Just defeated Redruth Albany 29-10 and third place Camelford beat St. Day 26-3.

Congratulations to all the Cornwall 18 group lads who have been selected for the initial group of players for the SW Division. My understanding is eleven players are in the thirty-five man squad. The squad will eventually be trimmed to twenty-two in a couple of weeks time.

There was one Cornish based player involved in this weekend’s internationals; Cornish Pirates’ Matt Evans played full back for Canada in their 19-15 defeat to Georgia in Tbilisi.

Top of the bill this week must be our Cornwall 18 group who in defeating Buckinghamshire 19-8 in Bristol on Sunday have clinched the south west group title.

The win against Bucks made it a clean sweep for our boys following their wins against Somerset 34-0, Devon at Okehampton 26-18 and Dorset & Wilts again in Bristol last weekend 10-3.

Dan Rutter, Tommy Phillips and Locryn Williams are just three of the youngsters who have featured in the side this season.

Congratulations and Proper Job to the whole squad who are coached by Andy Hawken, Stewart Whitworth and Mark Pullen.

Hopefully a good number of our boys will be in the frame when the South west divisional squad is picked.

Friday night saw the final evening floodlight game at the Mennaye before home games for the Cornish Pirates revert back to Sunday afternoons, subject of course to any demands from SKY TV as head coach Ian Davies dryly remarked in the match day program!

London Scottish were the visitors on Friday night and 1,449 people turned out to witness a close game which the Cornish Pirates won 16-8.
Two tries for scrum half Tom Kessell helped the Pirates to their win along with a brace of penalties from fly-half Kieran Hallett. Kieran Goss almost got a third try only to be hauled down just short.

There was a good number of Redruth supporters at the game keen to catch up with two of their former stars at the Reds; PJ Gidlow and Mark Bright.

Bedford Blues will be at the Mennaye next Sunday, Remembrance Sunday, when hopefully the crowd will be higher than the gates experienced on a Friday night. If it is not, then the head scratching will intensify!

A disappointing weekend for our two National League 2 South sides. Redruth were held to a 12 all draw at the Recreation Ground by visitors Shelford.

Trailing 7-0 at the break the Reds clawed their way into a 12-7 lead thanks to a converted penalty-try from Brett Rule and a poacher’s try from Rhodri McAtee.

However, the Reds looked off colour all afternoon and they were forced to concede the draw as Shelford scored an un-converted try in time added on.

Of equal concern for the Reds with all the speculation going on about off the field affairs, was the official figure for the gate, just 461!

The Cornish All Blacks suffered another big defeat on the road, this time at bottom of the table London Irish Wild Geese 45-22!
At half-time the All Blacks had just a Kieron Lewitt penalty to show as they trailed 40-3.

There was a reaction after the break but the game was already long gone. Tries were scored by Kyle Moyle, Lewis Webb and Mike Rawlings with Lewitt and Moyle each adding a conversion.

Tribute South West 1 West saw a fantastic Cornish Derby between St. Austell and Camborne played in front of a crowd nearing 800 at Tregorrick Park. Saints edged the game 34-27 with centre Darren Pellow scoring a hat-trick of tries, Ian Venner bagging a brace and Paul Winterbottom also crossing. Matt Shepherd chipped in with a couple of conversions.

Camborne came away with a couple of points with tries from Sam Bartle James Goldsworthy (2) and Joe Parma ensuring a try-scoring point to go along with a losing one. Dave Mankee kicked a couple of conversions and a penalty.

Wadebridge Camels picked up a good win at Sidmouth 23-16. Dom Hawkey (2) and Matt Ballard scored the Camels’ tries whilst Josh Taylor kicked a conversion and two penalties.

In Tribute Western Counties West, there was three wins from the four games involving Cornish sides.

Truro travelled to Torquay Athletic and travelled back to Cornwall with a 36-19 win.

Tries for Truro were scored by Carl Ranscombe (2), Ben Teasdale (2), Brett Johnson and Luke Tidball. Daryl Riches and Jake Champion (2) added conversions.

Bude did their chances of avoiding relegation a power of good winning 15-12 at Tavistock. Adam Black (2) and James Comber scored un-converted tries.

St. Ives also helped their cause at the wrong end of the table defeating Devonport Services 17-14 at Alexandra Road. Neil Stanlieck and Graham Corin scored the Hakes’ tries which were both converted by Jacob Ninnis who also kicked a penalty.

Ivybridge won at Penryn 29 – 10 to go to the top of the table. Taron Peacock and Dave Pascoe scored tries for the Borough.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish trailed 14-10 at Weybridge Vandals at half-time before scoring 25 unanswered second half points to win 35-14.
Sam Rae (2), Matthew Hakes, Richard Skinnard and Sam Williams all scored tries, whilst Tom Carter kicked a further ten points. The win lifts the exiles up to fourth.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, Falmouth will feel a touch unlucky losing at Exeter University 24-23 having led 23-12!
Ashley Searle (2) and Sam Burke scored tries whilst Justin Irons kicked the other points.

Pirates Amateurs got their first league win of the season at the Mennaye against Hayle 21-13.
Rhys Brownfield, Josh Oliver and Matt Nicholas scored tries for the Ams with Brownfield adding all three conversions.

For Hayle, Doug Arnell and Rob Cutter scored tries with Scott Harvey kicking a penalty.

Saltash played out an exciting draw with Crediton 38 all. Max Veneables late penalty earned the Ashes a draw. Venables, Morton, Cruikshanks, Hillman and Moriarty all scored tries with Venables kicking the remainder of his side’s points.

Newquay Hornets were well beaten at the Sportscentre by Withycombe 48-8. Brad Rossborough scored the Hornets only try with Sam Cullen kicking a penalty.

Old Plymothian & Mannamedian defeated Veor at Elburton 42-12. Ed Maddern got one of Veor’s two tries.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Liskeard Looe took the honours in the top of the table clash at Bodmin’s Clifden Park winning 37-13.

St. Agnes won at Phileigh defeating Roseland 18-5, whilst Perranporth beat School of Mines 17-5 at Ponsmere. Stithians won a tight affair at Helston 8-0.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, Illogan Park won at Redruth Albany 75-0, Camelford beat Lankelly-Fowey 17-0 and St. Just won the battle of the Saints at St. Day 20-13.

London Welsh again showed why they are everyone’s favourites for a swift return to the Aviva Premiership with a comfortable defeat of the Cornish Pirates 41 – 6 at their Oxford base the Kassam Stadium.

All the Pirates had to show for the long trip were a couple of Kieran Hallett penalties.

They will look to bounce back to winning ways this Friday evening when they tackle visitors London Scottish at the Mennaye with a 7-45 pm kick-off.
Good news for former Cornish Pirate Blair Cowan – now with London Irish- who has been called up to the Scotland squad for the autumn internationals.

In National League 2 South it was normal service as the home side won and the away side lost!

The Cornish All Blacks did what Redruth couldn’t manage on the opening weekend of the season beat Cambridge.

Launceston came from behind to defeat their visitors 23-17 with a brace of tries from Sam Chapman and a third score from Lloyd Duke. Kieron Lewitt added eight points with the boot.

Redruth lost narrowly by just one point at Ding’s Crusaders 14-13, despite tries from Dean Bonds and Luke Jones along with a penalty kicked by Ashley Hosking.

Redruth now have back-to-back home games starting with Shelford this Saturday before entertaining London Irish Wild Geese on Saturday week.
In Tribute South West 1 West, Camborne defeated visitors North Petherton 24-10 to move up the table.

There was of course a minute’s silence prior to kick-off in memory of Bobby Tonkin who sadly passed away last week.

First half tries from Sam Bartle and a brace from lock Ben Kemp with a conversion from Dave Mankee saw the Cherry and Whites lead 17-3 having played into the wind.

Second half they pinned the visitors back in their own 22 for long periods before Dave Roberts finished off good work from Jason Jackson to secure the bonus point with Mankee adding his second conversion.

St. Austell enjoyed a good win on the road at Bridgwater & Albion 22-17. Ian Venner, Alex Welland and Jamie Holloway all scored tries with Andy Ashwin kicking the rest of the points.

This Saturday the mouth-watering Cornish Derby takes place at Tregorrick Park as St. Austell entertain Camborne, not one for the faint hearted!! Kick-off 2-30 pm.

Wadebridge Camels slumped to defeat at the Molesworth Field to Chard 21-17. A second penalty-try undid them two minutes from time.
Dan Lumb and Tom Rowe got tries for the Camels with Danny Thomas adding both conversions to Josh Taylor’s first half penalty.

In Tribute Western Counties West, there was only one Cornish side successful and that was Bude, who earned only their second win of the current campaign 17-12 against fellow strugglers St. Ives. James Comber, Silas Keeling and Ben Hancock scored tries with Harry Goodrun slotting a conversion.

For the defeated Hakes, Jamie Prisk and Aaron Bennett scored tries with Prisk adding a conversion.

Penryn lost 33-12 to Devonport Services. Despite a good start with a try from Alex Ducker, Services had too much pace outside for Borough to deal with. Jake Seviour grabbed a second try for Penryn which he also converted but by now Services were well in command.

Truro will be disappointed to have lost at St. Clements to Teignmouth 16-14.

Rikki Brandham scored one of Truro’s two tries with the second a penalty-try award. Both scores were converted by Ashley Richies.

Up in London 2 SW, London Cornish defeated Trojans 38-16, thanks in part to four tries from former Saltash player Richard Skinnard.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, Falmouth condemned Pirates Amateurs to a seventh straight loss winning 18-13 at the Rec. Jacob Stephens and Sam Burke scored the Eagle’s tries with Justin Irons adding a conversion and two penalties.

For the Ams, Rhys Brownfield and Jack Nicholas scored tries with Brownfield kicking a penalty.

Newquay Hornets won the other derby defeating Veor 36-28 at Wheal Gerry. Tim Eustice (3), Harry Pendreich and Brad Rossbrough all scored tries with Sam Cullen adding four conversions and Connor Riley a drop-goal.

Hayle won 29-27 at home to OPM’s thanks to a last minute Martin Strick penalty. Scott Murray (3) and Rob Goodman bagged the Lions’ tries with Strick kicking three conversions before his penalty exploit.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, Bodmin maintain top spot with their fifth win from five games after defeating Roseland at Phileigh 38-7.
Liskeard & Looe had their game at Stithians postponed and are still unbeaten with four from four.

Both sides meet this Saturday at Clifden Park in an East Cornwall derby.

Perranporth won the battle of the surf cities defeating St. Agnes 34-21 at Ponsmere.

School of Mines had a good win over Helston at the Memorial Ground 24-5.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, leaders Illogan Park won 19-12 at nearest rivals St. Just.

Camelford won at Trewirgie against Redruth Albany 50-5, whilst St. Day defeated Lankelly-Fowey 41-10 to wipe out their minus league points deficit from not fulfilling their opening two fixtures.

Further congratulations to Cornwall 18 group who beat Dorset & Wilts in Bristol last Sunday to make it 3/3 wins this season.
They are back in Bristol this Sunday coming against Berkshire with South West selections in the offing!

Everyone is saying that it’s going to be even more important to win your home games in National League 2 South this season such is the tightness in playing abilities.

So it was good to see Redruth build on their good 2 points they got a Bournemouth last Saturday with a 26-14 win against Exmouth at the Rec.
The “Cockles” were making their first league visit to Redruth and they had plenty of familiar faces in their side, John Fabian, Richard Bolt and of course Richard Bright part of Cornwall’s side that got to Twickenham and all former Launceston players. Jon Hill on the bench who knows a thing or two about winning at Redruth.

Young Cornish prospect Luke Chapman, a star from last season’s England u.18’s and who has been part of the set up at Truro College now with Exeter Chiefs and on loan at Exmouth.

Once again it was the Redruth pack that laid the foundations of the win 26-14 and with tries from McAtee, Fuca, Penalty-try and the last gasp effort from Goodfellow the bonus point was collected too. Man-of-the-match Murray Westren kicked three excellent conversions and had a fine game.

Good to see Lewis Vinnicombe back and Owen Hambly as well. Whilst Westren continues to improve with each game, youngsters like Jake Rayment and Harry Baker are developing all the time.

Cracking try from Bright for the visitors showing us he hasn’t lost his try-scoring touch with the move back to his home town.
After a narrow win at home last week a 2 point loss for the Cornish All Blacks at Clifton 22-20.

Ben Hilton and Kieron Lewitt scored tries for the All Blacks with Lewitt kicking ten points.

In Tribute South West 1 West, game of the day had to be at Tregorrick as St. Austell took on Wadebridge Camels in an eagerly awaited derby in front of a crowd of 550.

There were nine tries in the game with the Saints helping themselves to six in a 38-15 win.

Scorers for the Saints were Ashley Taylor (2), Ian Venner, Alex Welland, Curtis Newberry and Matt Shepherd, with skipper Shepherd kicking four conversions.

For Wadebridge Harry Woodward (2) and Dan Lumb scored un-converted tries.

Camborne made the trip to bottom side Coney Hill and came away with a 27-15 win.

Despite scoring a first half try through Ryan Spargo and a penalty from Dave Mankee Camborne trailed at the break 12-8.

Despite the atrocious conditions Town ran in three further tries in the second half from Rob Floyd, Dave Roberts and Will Webster with Mankee adding a couple of conversions.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Penryn defeated Bude 41-18 at the Memorial Ground despite trailing 13-5 at the break. Winger Alex Ducker helped himself to three tries with other scores coming from Ollie Evans, Andrew Seviour and George Jones with Jake Seviour kicking four conversions and a penalty.

For Bude Adam Black and Richie Herzog scored tries with Harry Goodrun kicking two penalties and a conversion.
Truro had a good win at Tavistock 34-14. Theo Gayton (2), Chizz Gilbert, Matt Cross and Ashley Riches all scored tries for Truro with Riches adding a penalty and three conversions.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, the local derby at the Sports centre went the way of the home side as Newquay Hornets defeated Hayle 20-17 despite trailing 17-7 at the break.

The Lions scored three first half tries through Rob Goodman, Martin Strick and Talan Daniels with Strick nudging over one conversion. Hornets got a first half try from Tim Eustice which Sam Cullen converted.

Second half Cullen kicked a penalty and then converted Connor Riley’s try to tie up the scores before stepping up to kick the winning penalty two minutes from time.

Falmouth drew 18 all at OPM’s. Toby Mears and Simon Bailey scored tries for the Eagles whilst the boot of Jeremy Irons kicked the rest of the points.

Pirates Amateurs are still without a win, though they came close, losing at home to Crediton 21-20. Aaron Hall, Ben Noyce and Kieron Brownfield all scored tries with Kelvin James kicking a conversion and a penalty.

Tiverton won at Moorlands against Saltash 40-14. Hillman and Horton got the Ashes tries with Max Venables adding both conversions.
Veor lost at home to Withycombe 62-10 with Stone and Arthur getting tries for the home side.

In Tribute Cornwall 1 leaders Liskeard & Looe defeated School of Mines 17-12, Bodmin thrashed Stithians 62-7, Helston defeated St. Agnes 22-17 and Perranporth won at Ponsmere Valley 32-12 against Roseland.

In Tribute Cornwall 2 leaders Illogan Park won 75-7 against St. Day, Lankelly-Fowey defeated Redruth Albany 28-15 and Camelford beat St. Just 19-12.

The Cornish Pirates had a big win in the British and Irish Cup winning 53-10 on the west coast of Scotland at Ayr.

That gives the Cornish side a maximum ten points from their opening two fixtures.

Next week it’s back to Championship rugby and a trip to Oxford to face London Welsh.

Congratulations to Cornish Pirates head coach Ian Davies who has been asked to coach the Barbarians squad for their Remembrance Day fixture against Combined Services at the Brickfields Plymouth on Tuesday November 12th kick-off 7-15 pm.

It was Cup weekend for London Cornish in the SE area of the Intermediate Cup and they won at Tunbridge Wells 15-3.

Like many I was both shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Bobby Tonkin, part of that great Camborne side from the mid 70’s through to the early 80’s. He played for Cornwall on 27 occasions, playing in prestigious friendlies against South African Barbarians, United States of America, Canada and Capt. Crawshay’s.

A prop who could also hook Bobby went on to enjoy a fine career as a coach after his playing days with Camborne, Hayle, St. Ives and with Penzance & Newlyn as they began their climb through the leagues towards professional rugby.

I am sure all Cornish rugby supporters would wish to send their condolences to Bobby’s family at this sad time.

Congratulations to Cornwall 18 Group on their win in Devon last weekend and the best of luck up in Bristol when they take on Dorset & Wilts and Buckinghamshire.

What a great game of rugby between the Cornish Pirates and Ulster Ravens in the British & Irish Cup on Friday night down at the Mennaye.

The atmosphere was great just a shame that there was not more than around 1,350 to witness such a great advert for the B&I Cup.

Aaron Carpenter picked up from a scrum to run in the Pirates opening try after just 8 minutes.

Ulster Ravens showed they could play a bit, stringing together some fine phases of play resulting in fly-half James McKinney putting the Ulstermen ahead with a couple of penalties.

Pirates re-took the lead with a penalty from fly-half Angus Sinclair, then scored a second try from turnover ball, a strong tackle on an Ulster player saw the ball go loose with skipper Gavin Gattle – playing his 200th game for the Pirates – reacting the first to gather and pass to winger Mike Pope who went all the way to score.

Ravens’ skipper lock Lewis Stevenson put in a big drive towards the Pirates’ line and when the ball was worked back the ball went wide for winger Peter Nelson to score in the Old Western National Corner, to leave the Pirates 13-11 up at the break.

McKinney made up for his missed conversion before half-time to give the visitors the lead with an early second half penalty.

Pirates full-back Kieran Goss showed a fine turn of speed as he flew into the Newlyn Gate Corner for the Pirates’ third try.
With Ravens’ flanker Mike McCornish sin-binned for a professional foul, Sinclair kicked a further two penalties either side of a penalty for Ulster by McKinney to nudge the Pirates into a 24-17 lead.

Pirates’ grater fitness paid off during the final quarter, as the Pirates again made the most of turnover ball with winger Matt Evans racing in to secure the bonus point. Sinclair added the conversion and Kieran Hallett, on as a replacement, completed the scoring with a late penalty.

Next Saturday the Pirates make the trip to take on Scottish Premiership side Ayr who lost their opening game in the Cup at Jersey 28-16.
See the statement from Dicky Evans about his future commitment with regard to the management structure of the club in the link to WMN site.

In National League 2 South on Saturday, the Cornish All Blacks snatched a late win in stoppage time thanks to a last-gasp try from prop Tim Mathias, to win 34-33!

A seesaw game saw the other tries for Launceston scored by Lewis Paterson (2), Ryan Westren and Mike Rawlings with Kieron Lewitt’s reliable boot adding three conversions and a penalty.

Redruth secured try-scoring and losing bonus points in a 39-32 defeat at Bournemouth.

Redruth’s forwards bagged all four of their tries with Richard Brown, playing at flanker, getting the first. Prop Darren Jacques celebrated his Trelawny’s Army Player of the Year Award he received this week in fine style with a brace of tries, whilst lock Damien Cook got the Reds’ fourth try.

Fly-half Murray Westren kicked twelve points with his final penalty securing the losing bonus point.

In Tribute South West 1 West, St. Austell continued their fine start to the campaign with a well-earned draw at Thornbury 22-22. Adam Pellow, Dan Pearce and Mark Martin all crossed the whitewash for the Saints with Matt Shepherd adding a couple of conversions and a penalty.

Camborne had another hard-fought win, this time at home to Clevedon 33-20.

Tries for the Cherry & Whites were scored by wingers Adam Notman and Rob Floyd with fly-half Dave Mankee and replacement Aaron Hunt also bagging tries in a bonus point win.

Mankee’s boot added thirteen points.

Wadebridge Camels were undone at home by two late tries as North Petherton took the honours winning 27-19.

Matt Ballard, Jack Scott and Harry Woodward all scored tries for the Camels with Ryan Johns adding a couple of conversions.

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro defeated St. Ives in an entertaining Cornish Derby at St. Clements 39-20.

Jake Champion, Karl Ranscombe, Adam Gayton, James Murdoch and Tom Hatfield (2) all crossed the Hakes’ line with Champion kicking a conversion and penalty and Hatfield converting both his scores.

For St. Ives, Neil Corin bagged a couple of tries and Sean Stevens bagged his side’s third. Jamie Prisk kicked a conversion and a penalty.

In the battle a t the foot of the table, Bude got a first win 10-0 over Paignton at Bencoolen with a couple of un-converted tries scored by Adam Black and James Comber.

Penryn will be disappointed with their loss at Kingsbridge 22-3. Jake Seviour saved a whitewash with a late drop-goal.

In London 2 SW, a good win for London Cornish at Portsmouth 30-8. The exiles scored five tries with lock Harry Somers getting the final score.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, there were two Cornish Derbies; Hayle got the better of Veor 48-5.

Stefan Osborne (2), Scott Harvey (2), Rob Goodman (2) and Doug Arnull alls cored tries for the Lions with Martin Strick kicking five conversions and a penalty. For Veor Andrew Hitchens scored a first half try.

Falmouth edged a win over Newquay Hornets at the Rec 22-21. Sam Burke, James Dobson, and Tom Spiller scored tries for the Eagles with Jeremy Irons adding a couple of conversions and a penalty.

For the Hornets, Harry Pendrick and Ashley Mann scored tries with veteran Ian Morgan kicking a conversion and three penalties.
Saltash lost at Exeter Saracens 33-15.

In Tribute Cornwall 1, there was a big win for Liskeard & Looe over St. Agnes 94-0. The Lions ran in fourteen tries in their win over Aggie.
Bodmin won at Perranporth 41-17, Stithians defeated School of Mines at Penryn 20-18 and Helston won at home against Roseland 35-10.

In Tribute Cornwall 2, Illogan Park won at Lankelly-Fowey 53-17, whilst St. Just beat Redruth Albany at Trewergie 27-24. St. Day played their first game of the season, after being forced to concede their opening two fixtures, defeated Camelford 28-20.

As a footnote re the Pirates game against Ulster Ravens. Does anyone remember the last time Ulster visited Cornwall?
Well it was 1st September 1991 when they played Cornwall at Redruth with a side that included six Irish Internationals. For the record Ulster won 27-6 scoring two tries (worth four points then), five penalties and two conversions. For Cornwall Kevin Thomas kicked a couple of penalties. Cornwall’s captain that day Graham Dawe!