Top Scrum-half Greg Goodfellow gets the ball away v Herts. Bottom Left Fly-half Paul Thirlby claims Cornwall’s final try. Bottom right Lock Damian Cook on the charge against Hertfordshire – Photos Simon Bryant/Iktisphoto. Mobile: 07990592945.

CORNWALL will contest the final of the Bill Beaumont Cup next Sunday against old rivals Lancashire at Twickenham.
It follows Cornwall’s magnificent win on Saturday against reigning County Champions Hertfordshire by 41-29 at Camborne.

It was a game and occasion that matched the heady days of the late 80′s and early 90′s when Cornwall graced HQ’s hallowed turf.
Not since 1999 have Cornwall played in a County Championship Final and that famous win against Gloucestershire.

Cornwall took to the field to the strains of “Trelawny”, and huge cheers from a packed West Bank and around the ground.

However, it didn’t begin too brightly, as Cornwall fell behind to an early try scored by Hert’s centre Sam Winter who made the most of some poor defending by Cornwall. The centre picked his way through the Cornwall line to score near the posts. Full-back Richard Gregg added the conversion.

Cornwall hit back almost immediately as flanker Sam Hocking picked the ball up from a ruck as Hertfordshire hesitated before galloping in from 35 meters to score in the Park Gate corner. It was his third try in as many matches for Cornwall this season in the Championship. Thirlby couldn’t add the difficult conversion.

Gregg increased the visitor’s lead with a penalty, before Cornwall’s scrum-half Greg Goodfellow snipped from a ruck to run in Cornwall’s second try after 17 minutes under the posts, Thirlby’s conversion putting Cornwall 12-10 ahead.

Despite Herfordshire being reduced to fourteen men when Gregg was sin-binned for a professional foul, Cornwall couldn’t take advantage. Two Thirlby penalty attempts sailed wide as Stefan Liebenberg got the first of his three tries from a quick tap. Jimmy Speirs adding the extras.

Cornwall laid siege to the Hertfordshire line as the half came to an end but couldn’t force their way over, it remained 17-12 to Herts at the break.
The Black & Gold’s got off to a great START at the beginning of the second half with a penalty from Thirlby being just what was required early doors.

Cornwall then launched a great attack in which Chris Fuca, Darren Jacques and Hocking were involved, the ball was moved right with centre Nielson Webber putting winger Richard Bright away to finish in style in the scoreboard corner for 20-17.

Cornwall then came again, a great run from centre Steve Johns was taken on by skipper Ben Hilton and Goodfellow before full back Jake Murphy rounded off the move with the all-important fourth try for Cornwall. Thirlby having missed with his previous attempt struck the conversion sweetly for a ten point lead 27-17.
Back came Herts as we knew they would with Liebenberg grabbing his second and Gregg the conversion.

Cornwall piled on the pressure near the Hertfordshire line with the Cornwall scrum utterly dominant referee Shane Lewis awarded the home side a penalty-try, which Thirlby converted to stretch Cornwall’s lead to 34-24.

Liebenberg completed his personal tally of tries with another short-range snip from a penalty, however Gregg crucially missed the conversion to leave Cornwall still five points to the good.

Despite missing with a drop-goal attempt, Thirlby was on-hand to score Cornwall’s sixth and final try as the forwards notably Darren Jacques and Richard Brown, drove up to the Hertfordshire line, his conversion sealed a great win and a day at Twickenham next Sunday.

At the final whistle Cornwall’s head coach Dave “Benji” Thomas paid tribute to his team and the magnificent Cornish support. “It was an emotional day, the ground was packed! I haven’t seen a crowd like this at a Cornwall game for many years. They were fantastic and lifted the boys at crucial times to secure the win. All credit to them, but also the boys who played, they really played out of their skins.

Thomas felt that the early scores at the beginning of the second half was key to the win. “We had our tails up in the second half and getting those early scores was vital. We put them under tremendous pressure, it’s very hard playing out of the West Bank corner and we came away with the ball which made a huge difference.
“It’s Lancashire once again in the final, memories of our narrow defeat to them in 1992. What a day out for all the boys, this is what they aspire to, to play on the Twickenham pitch in front of hopefully a good Cornish crowd.

Sam Hocking who scored Cornwall’s opening try was equally thrilled at the prospect of a Twickenham trip. “Absolutely thrilled to be going to Twickenham next Sunday with Cornwall. I was pleased with my try, the longest one of the year, I was struggling to recover from that run in.”
Hocking also paid tribute to the Cornish support. “The crowd was massive for us today, we defended will for the first half to keep them to just 17-12 and then we were able to get the early scores in the second half to dictate play.”

Hocking had a final plea to the Cornish support. “Please come along next week at Twickenham your support will make a huge difference to the team. You were all magnificent today.”

CORNWALL 41 pts
Tries – Hocking, Goodfellow, Bright, Murphy, Penalty-try, Thirlby, Penalty – Thirlby, Conversions- Thirlby (4)

HERTFORDSHIRE 29 pts
Tries – Winter, Liebenberg (3), Penalty – Gregg, Conversions – Gregg (2), Speirs
Yellow Card- Gregg (32)

Cornwall: Jake Murphy; Richard Bright (both Cornish All Blacks), Steve Johns (Coventry), Neilson Webber (Cornish All Blacks), Rhodri McAtee (Plymouth Albion); Paul Thirlby; Greg Goodfellow; Darren Jacques, Richard Brown, Craig Williams, Damian Cook (all Redruth), Ben Hilton, Capt, (Cornish All Blacks), Chris Fuca (Redruth), Sam Hocking (unattached), Barrie Chapman (Cornish All Blacks)

Replacements (used):Tom Rawlings (Cornish All Blacks), Ashley Lawton (Camborne), Matt Shepherd (St Austell), Lewis Paterson (Cornish All Blacks), Tom Notman (Redruth).

Replacements (not used): Ben Priddey (Redruth & Royal Navy), Jon Drew (Redruth)

Hertfordshire: Richard Gregg (Old Albanian), Tom Newton (Tring), Sam Winter (Bishop’s Stortford), Dom Regan, Jimmy Spiers, James Shanhan, Stefan Liebenberg (all Old Albanian); Jim Remfry (Barnes), Jared Saunders (Saracens), Sam Staff, Ross Hamilton (both Old Albanian), Craig South (Hertford), Brett McNamee, Capt, Rob Fahrenheim, Matt Chambers (all Old Albanian)

Replacements (used): Aaran MacDougal,Andrew Abraham, Rob Schillaci (all Old Albanian), Liam Chennals (Tring)

Replacements (not used): Tom Mowbray (Chinnor), Charlie Hughes (Old Albanian), Laurence Tausaosi (Tring)

Referee: Shane Lewis (RFU)

Crowd: 3,500

Cornwall man-of-the-match: Sam Hocking

Trelawny’s Army will be in full cry on Saturday – Photo John Beach

Cornwall’s head coach Dave “Benji” Thomas ponders Hertfordshire’s downfall – Photo John Beach

Cornwall’s build up to their winner takes all pool decider against Hertfordshire at Camborne this Saturday has been dealt a blow with the withdrawal from the squad of flanker Sam Matavesi.

Matavesi 21, who plays for Plymouth Albion but hails from Camborne, has been called up to the Fiji squad for their summer series of matches against Canada, Tonga, Japan, USA and the Classic All Blacks, which forms part of the Fiji RFU centenary celebrations.

Naturally, Matavesi – who qualifies for Fiji by his father Sireli who settled in Camborne following touring with the Fijian Barbarians – has been one of the standout players for Cornwall during their opening two Bill Beaumont Cup matches, is over the moon by the call up.

“I had an email from them asking if I was able to play for them and would I,” said Matavesi. “It just went from there.

“It is such a massive thing. It is crazy, absolutely crazy. I am still shocked now.

“I fly out Saturday evening.

Sam’s elder brother Josh has already played for Fiji on six occasions the last being at Twickenham against England last November.

Whilst everyone is delighted for Sam, his call up leaves Cornwall’s coach Dave “Benji” Thomas with a selection dilemma for Saturday’s big game and looking to plug the gap left by Matavesi’s absence.

In that connection, Sam Hocking moves from No.8 to openside with BJ Chapman starting at No.8.

In another change former Cornish Pirate Rhodri McAtee will start Saturday’s game in place of Redruth’s Tom Notman who drops to the bench. Otherwise the team will be very much the same as took on both Gloucestershire and Kent.

Cornish All Blacks’ Tom Rawlings makes a welcome return to the Cornwall side and will look to make his usual impact on the game from the bench.

There are injury concerns regarding both Craig Williams and Paul Thirlby, however both have declared themselves fit and raring to go for Cornwall.
A big crowd at Camborne bedecked in the black and gold is just what the boys have asked for, to get behind them and support them for a full 80!!

Cornwall: Jake Murphy; Richard Bright (both Cornish All Blacks), Steve Johns (Coventry), Neilson Webber (Cornish All Blacks), Rhodri McAtee (Plymouth Albion); Paul Thirlby; Greg Goodfellow; Darren Jacques, Richard Brown, Craig Williams, Damian Cook (all Redruth), Ben Hilton, Capt, (Cornish All Blacks), Chris Fuca (Redruth), Sam Hocking (unattached), Barrie Chapman (Cornish All Blacks)

Replacements: Ben Priddey (Redruth & Royal Navy), Jon Drew (Redruth), Tom Rawlings (Cornish All Blacks), Ashley Lawton (Camborne), Matt Shepherd (St Austell), Lewis Paterson (Cornish All Blacks), Tom Notman (Redruth).

SAM MATAVESI ON THE CHARGE AGAINST KENT WITH JAKE MURPHY, TOM NOTMAN & SAM HOCKING ALL IN SUPPORT – PHOTO JOHN BEACH

“CORNWALL RFU PARTICIPATION IN THE COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP, PART 2 COMPLETE, NOW FOR HERTFORDSHIRE AT HOME!!!”

Cornwall Rugby Football Union (CRFU) participation in the 2013 Bill Beaumont County Championship continued on Saturday with a fine but hard win away to Kent.

CRFU President Ken Plummer said “Another difficult away game which was played with passion and determination by the men in Black and Gold. A well-deserved but hard fought victory, winning 17 -23”.

Cornwall faces 1 final game at home to the reigning County Champions Hertfordshire, before the final is held at Twickenham on Sunday 26th May.

Cornwall head coach Dave “Benji” Thomas said – “The match against Kent was as difficult, a long drive up on Friday evening and then facing windy conditions with heavy squally showers was all test’s this squad had to pass. Kent was trying to avenge a defeat of two years ago and the determination of these lads was outstanding. They played with heart and pride to ensure a climax to the pool stage next week at Camborne”.

Cornwall’s only home game is against Hertfordshire, this Saturday 18th May at Camborne RFC with a 3PM kick off.

Cornwall Captain Ben Hilton said; – “This game proved that we have an excellent squad and team ethos, with players wanting to pull on the jersey and win!!! The new playing kit maintaining the traditional colours has certainly stood up to two extremely hard games. It looks good and displays our main sponsor St Austell brewery with its “Tribute” logo”. He further commented “The boys really appreciated the very loyal & vocal number of supporters who had travelled up to support the team.” He further commented “The players really respond to this support, and urged everyone to come and support the team and the County on Saturday. This is a massive game for us, win it and we go to Twickenham, be noisy and let Hertfordshire feel a true Cornish rugby welcome”.

CRFU Hon Secretary Alan Mitchell said; – “It was fantastic to witness the effort put in by everyone involved in the team and to come away with a win away at Kent was superb!!” He went on to say;- “2 tries for Cornwall scored by Richard Brown and Sam Hocking, converted by Jake Murphy and Paul Thirlby, who also added three penalties securing a great win for the Cornwall”.

The home game at Camborne RFC on May the 18th kicks off at 3pm; a schools “tag rugby” event takes place in the morning with the winning teams playing for a new cup during the half time interval. The tag teams will also be invited to form a tunnel for the teams to run onto the pitch at 3pm. This is an “all pay” game with entry price to the Ground being £10, under 16’s are free.

Both sets of players

Josh Lewsey in action for Aggie Baa Baa’s

Tony Cook lines up Serge Betsen

Craig Bonds scores for Aggie

The culmination of a great day’s festival of rugby at St. Agnes’ Enys Parc saw the game between St. Agnes Barbarians and the Wasps Legends.
There were some great stars of yesteryear on show for both sides.

Cornwall’s most capped player Tony Cook, along with former Redruth Director of Rugby David Penberthy, on his 57th Birthday, current Redruth player Craig Bonds, recently retired (again!) Ian Morgan, Neil Douch Nigel Hambly and Brian Andrew were just some of the players to turn out for the Baa Baa’s.

For Wasps Legends, Josh Lewsey (also played for the Baa Baas), Tom Rees, Cornish Pirates’ coach Harvey Biljon, Cornwall’s own Trevor Woodman and former French International Serge Betsen were just some of the stars who turned out for the Legends.

A great day with Kernow King doing the commentary and entertainment from Aberfal Oggy Men and Land of the Giants.

Photos from St.Agnes by Simon Bryant

Sam Hocking gets the plaudits from the team versus Kent – Photo John Beach

Cornwall’s skipper Ben Hilton on the charge against Kent – Photo John Beach

Cornwall staged a remarkable comeback to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat against a spirited Kent side at Medway RFC.

The win sets up Cornwall for a tilt at reaching Twickenham for the first time in a county championship final in fourteen years against reigning champions Hertfordshire next Saturday at Camborne. It promises to be a titanic struggle with the prize a final at rugby HQ on Sunday 26th May against in all probability Lancashire who triumphed today in the Roses match against Yorkshire at Fylde.

Cornwall enjoyed the use of the stiff breeze first half though they had to wait until the quarter-of-an-hour mark before registering their first points, a try scored by hooker Richard Brown with fly-half Paul Thirlby adding the extras.

Thirlby then added a couple of penalties as Cornwall established a useful 13-0 lead and looked well set to take command of the match.
However, Kent got back into it when they scored a try through Blackheath winger Richard Lankshear, which was converted by fly-half Rory Teague.
Thirlby kicked a third penalty just prior to half-time to put Cornwall 16-7 up at half-time.

The second half was a different affair with Kent putting Cornwall under the cosh for long periods.

Cornwall lost prop Craig Williams to injury, however young teammate from Redruth John Drew stepped off the bench for a Championship debut.

Further disruption came with the loss of Paul Thirlby, as Teague whittled away at Cornwall’s advantage before a Cornish error gifted Lankshear a second try, Teague’s conversion giving the hosts a 17-16 lead.

It looked like Cornwall were going to throw it all away, but they rallied and from a penalty they mauled towards the Kent line with No.8 Sam Hocking claiming the all-important try that full back Jake Murphy converted to put Cornwall ahead once more 23-17.

Ashley Lawton came on and made an important contribution with a try-saving tackle, the Camborne player is sure of a huge reception on his home turf next Saturday.

Kent laid siege to the Cornwall line in the closing moments and despite losing Barrie Chapman to the bin Cornwall saw the game out to set up next Saturday’s mouth-watering tie against Hertfordshire.

Kent 17 pts
Tries-Lankshear (2), Conversions- Teague (2),Penalty – Teague
Yellow Card – Lindfield (63)

Cornwall 23 pts
Tries – Brown, Hocking, Penalties – Thilby (3), Conversions – Thirlby, Murphy
Yellow Card – Chapman (80)

Kent: A Gallagher (Old Colfeians), R Lankshear (Blackheath), T May (Westcombe Park), D Bonner (Blackheath), B Summers (Loughborough University), R Teague (Blackheath), J Hosken (Old Elthamians), J Cleverley (Blackheath), J Bonner (Blackheath), S Goode (Canterbury), T Stradwick (Blackheath, capt), A Vanner (Old Elthamians), H Barton (Westcombe Park), J Lindfield (Blackheath), J Catt (Blackheath).

Replacements: H Fry (Westcombe Park), B McKinnell (Sheppey), J Green (Canterbury), B Johnson (Medway), T Chapman (Blackheath), C Kingsman (Canterbury), J Crust (Blackheath).

Cornwall: Jake Murphy; Richard Bright (both Cornish All Blacks), Steve Johns (Coventry), Neilson Webber (Cornish All Blacks), Tom Notman; Paul Thirlby; Greg Goodfellow; Darren Jacques, Richard Brown, Craig Williams, Damian Cook (all Redruth), Ben Hilton, Capt, (Cornish All Blacks), Chris Fuca (Redruth), Sam Matavesi (Plymouth Albion), Sam Hocking (unattached).

Replacements: Neal Turner, Jon Drew (both Redruth), Barry Chapman, (both Cornish All Blacks), Ashley Lawton (Camborne), Matt Shepherd (St Austell), Lewis Paterson (Cornish All Blacks), Steve Perry (Barnstaple).

Referee: Tom Davis (RFU)

Crowd: 500

Try scorer at Cinderford Craig Williams on the charge with Chris Fuca in support – Photo John Beach

Cornwall’s selectors have named an unchanged team for Saturday’s Bill Beaumont Cup match against Kent at Medway RFC kick-off 3 pm.
The only addition is on the bench with last season’s TASC Player of the Year Lewis Paterson (Cornish All Blacks) named as a replacement.

Further good news was the RFU hearing against both captain Ben Hilton and Barrie Chapman both of the Cornish All Blacks raised by Worthing was quashed leaving both players free to play.

Training took place at Redruth RFC last night with the forwards under the watchful eye of Cornish Pirates head coach Ian Davies along with Tom Rawlings, who is sadly still not fit to play.

Lineout drills were top of the agenda following Saturday’s performance at Cinderford and following Davies’ input looked much sharper.
The backs were put through their paces by Steve Perry, all under the watchful gaze of Dave “Benji” Thomas and the Cornwall selectors. Rhodri McAtee was in contention for a place but the selectors opted for the status quo with just Paterson coming in.

Said “Benji” Thomas we are travelling with our strongest squad, we are aware of the dangers Kent will pose us, with luck we will be able to match them and dent their confidence”.

“Hopefully we will once again enjoy some fine Cornish support, the boys responded to the backing at Cinderford, looking forward to more of the same at Medway”.

Cornwall: Jake Murphy; Richard Bright (both Cornish All Blacks), Steve Johns (Coventry), Neilson Webber (Cornish All Blacks), Tom Notman; Paul Thirlby; Greg Goodfellow; Darren Jacques, Richard Brown, Craig Williams, Damian Cook (all Redruth), Ben Hilton, Capt, (Cornish All Blacks), Chris Fuca (Redruth), Sam Matavesi (Plymouth Albion), Sam Hocking (unattached).

Replacements: Ben Priddey (Redruth & Royal Navy), Tom Hurdwell, Barry Chapman, (both Cornish All Blacks), Ashley Lawton (Camborne), Matt Shepherd (St Austell) Lewis Paterson (Cornish All Blacks), Lewis Vinnicombe (Redruth).

Big hit from BJ Chapman Photo – John Beach

Craig Williams scores Cornwall’s second try – Photo John Beach

Cornwall made an almost perfect start to their Bill Beaumont Cup campaign with a hard-fought win over old rivals Gloucestershire at Cinderford’s Dockham Road ground.

A fourth try would have secured the Duchy a try-scoring bonus point, however this was a win to savour and it sets Cornwall up for another trip on the road when they travel next Saturday to Medway RFC to take on Kent, who were defeated in their opening match by reigning county champions Hertfordshire 50 – 26.
Cornwall had a couple of late changes as Martin Rice (flu) and Darren Semmens had to pull out on the eve of the game. Cornish All Blacks Tom Hurdwell was drafted into a six man bench.

Despite a crowd made up mostly of Cornish supporters, Cornwall got off to the worst possible start as some slack tackling allowed Gloucestershire’s captain lock Will Warden to gallop in for an opening try, which fly-half Mike Wilcox converted.

This set-back gave Cornwall a jolt and they soon roared back to level the scores when flanker Sam Matavesi claimed Cornwall’s first try following a powerful drive from the black and gold forwards. Paul Thirlby kicked the conversion.

Gloucestershire continued to dominate proceedings; however Cornwall’s defence had stiffened up following their early lapse, eventually Gloucestershire found a breach as winger Lloyd Stapleton kicked over the cover to gather and score in the corner for an unconverted try to lead 12 – 7.

Thirlby reduced the deficit with a well-struck penalty. Cornwall then enjoyed a period of domination leading up to half-time. Accidental off-side denied Cornwall a certain try, then Thirlby missed a penalty attempt to leave Cornwall trailing just 12-10 at the break.

Cornwall made a perfect start to the second half scoring a second try as prop Craig Williams powered over with Thirlby again on cue with the extras.
Trelawny’s Army was now in full cry sensing a famous win could be on the cards.

Cornwall then lost skipper Ben Hilton to the sin-bin and this gave Gloucestershire an advantage that they exploited following a drive from a line-out the ball was moved wide for centre Barney Pascall to score and Wilcox to convert for a 19-17 lead.

Again roared on by the marvellous travelling support Cornwall piled on the pressure near the Gloucestershire line. Winger Nev Codlin was shown a yellow card for a professional foul and Cornwall took full-advantage. From a scrum No.8 Sam Hocking picked and drove over for Cornwall’s third try. Thirlby once again kicked a fine conversion for a five point lead.

Gloucestershire looked to come again as Mr Kitt played almost 10 minutes of time added on, but Cornwall held on despite losing Ben Priddey to the sin-bin in the dying moments.

The Cinderford clubhouse echoed to the strains of “Trelawny” after the final whistle.

After the game Cornwall coach Dave “Benji” Thomas gave his reaction. “I think that was an awesome performance, everyone who came on the field today gave their all, they played with fantastic pride and passion and that made all the difference”.

“Gloucestershire had a lot of possession but our defence was good, the boys tackled their hearts out, I know we conceded a couple of soft tries, but our defence won the game today”.

“Despite conceding that early try the boys picked up their game and showed character in the end our picking and driving game wore down Gloucestershire and in the end our fitness told. Sam Matavesi is a very strong young man and when he’s got the ball and he’s on the charge he takes some stopping. However it was a fantastic team performance and the boys can go away with a lot of pride today”.

“We have got some work to do, the line out never really functioned and no doubt Alan Paver (forwards coach) will look at that this week before we travel to Kent”.

Trelawny’s Army are running a coach to Medway RFC next Saturday for the game against Kent. Contact Bryan Llewellyn on 01209 213959.
For those travelling be aware of major road works on the M 25 near Gatwick, allow extra time for travelling.

Gloucestershire 19 pts
Tries – Warden, Stapleton, Pascall, Conversions – Wilcox (2)
Yellow Card – Codlin (67)
Cornwall 24 pts
Tries – Matavesi, Williams, Hocking, Penalty – Thirlby, Conversions (3) Thirlby
Yellow Cards Hilton (55), Ben Priddey (80)

Gloucestershire (Cinderford unless stated): Chris Hawkins, Nevaro Codlin, Barney Pascall (Richmond), Kai Done, Lloyd Stapleton, Mike Wilcox, Sam Arnott (Southend); Chris Bundy, Sam Wilkes (Moseley), Mark George (Stourbridge), Will Warden, Capt (Richmond), Joe Joyce (Bristol/Dings Crusaders), Will Foden, George Evans.

Replacements: Joe Smart, Nick Selway, Dale Critchley, Luke Allen, Danny Pointon, Liam Hemming (Old Centralians), Spencer Sutherland (Esher)

Cornwall: Jake Murphy; Richard Bright (both Cornish All Blacks), Steve Johns (Coventry), Neilson Webber (Cornish All Blacks), Tom Notman; Paul Thirlby; Greg Goodfellow; Darren Jacques, Richard Brown, Craig Williams, Damian Cook (all Redruth), Ben Hilton, Capt, (Cornish All Blacks), Chris Fuca (Redruth), Sam Matavesi (Plymouth Albion), Sam Hocking (unattached).

Replacements: Ben Priddey (Redruth & Royal Navy), Tom Hurdwell, Barry Chapman, (both Cornish All Blacks), Ashley Lawton (Camborne), Matt Shepherd (St Austell) Lewis Vinnicombe (Redruth).

Referee: Rowan Kitt (RFU)

Crowd: 350

Cornwall’s man-of-the-match: Sam Matavesi

Sam Hocking scores Cornwall’s third try – Photo John Beach

Sam Matavesi scores Cornwall’s first try against Gloucestershire – Photo by John Beach

CORNWALL got their Bill Beaumont Cup campaign off to the best possible start with a hard fought 24 – 19 win over old rivals Gloucestershire at Cinderford’s Dockham Road ground.

Despite going behind to an early try from Gloucestershire’s skipper Will Warden which fly-half Mike Wilcox converted, Cornwall struck back in kind with a try scored by flanker Sam Matavesi with Paul Thirlby adding the extras.

Cinderford winger Lloyd Stapleton scored a second try for Gloucestershire, which remained unconverted.

Before half-time Thirlby reduced the arrears with a well-stuck penalty to leave Cornwall trailing by two points 12-10 at half-time.

Cornwall upped the pace in the second half taking the lead with a try scored by Redruth’s Craig Williams with Thirlby once again on cue with the conversion.

Cornwall lost skipper to the sin bin before Barney Pascall put the homeside ahead with a well-taken try that Wilcox converted for a 19-17 lead.

As the game reached it’s climax Cornwall put the pressure on. Gloucestershire lost a man to the bin, the Cornwall forawrds upped the anti. From a scrum near the Gloucestershire line No.8 Sam Hocking broke to score the match winning try, Thirlby slotted the conversion and Cornwall lead 24-19.

Despite 6-7 minutes of time added on and Cornwall again reduced to fourteen men the black and golds saw the game out to secure a vital first win.

In the other game in the group Hertfordshire defeated Kent 50 – 26.

Gloucestershire 19 pts

Tries – Warden, Stapleton, Pascall, Conversions – Wilcox (2)

Yellow Card – Codlin (75)

Cornwall 24 pts

Tries – Matavesi, Williams, Hocking, Penalty – Thirlby, Conversions (3) Thirlby

Yellow Cards Hilton (65), Ben Priddey (80)

Cornwall: Jake Murphy; Richard Bright (both Cornish All Blacks), Steve Johns (Coventry), Neilson Webber (Cornish All Blacks), Tom Notman; Paul Thirlby; Greg Goodfellow; Darren Jacques, Richard Brown, Craig Williams, Damian Cook (all Redruth), Ben Hilton, Capt, (Cornish All Blacks), Chris Fuca (Redruth), Sam Matavesi (Plymouth Albion), Sam Hocking (unattatched).

Replacements: Ben Priddey (Redruth & Royal Navy), Tom Hurdwell, Barry Chapman, (both Cornish All Blacks), Ashley Lawton (Camborne), Matt Shepherd (St Austell) Lewis Vinnicombe (Redruth).

Gloucestershire (Cinderford unless stated): Chris Hawkins, Nevaro Codlin, Barney Pascall (Richmond), Kai Done, Lloyd Stapleton, Mike Wilcox, Sam Arnott (Southend); Chris Bundy, Sam Wilkes (Moseley), Mark George (Stouurbridge), Will Warden, Capt (Richmond), Joe Joyce (Bristol/Dings Crusaders), Will Foden, George Evans.

Replacements: Joe Smart, Nick Selway, Dale Critchley, Luke Allen, Danny Pointon, Liam Hemming (Old Centralians), Spencer Sutherland (Esher)

Referee: Rowan Kitt (RFU)

l-r Tom Hendrickson, Mike Roach, Max Bodilly & Matt Bolwell photo by Simon Bryant/Iktisphoto. Mobile: 07990592945.

Following on from last week’s press call with the Cornish Pirates Acting CEO Josh Lewsey and his wish to strengthen links with educational establishments around the Duchy; the first tangible evidence of the Pirate’s renewed focus was shown this week at Truro College when it was announced that four gifted young Cornish rugby players are being given the opportunity to combine study and training as they look to develop their sporting careers.

The four lucky players to be picked for this new initiative are;

Matt Bolwell – A flanker from Wadebridge, Matt has played for England at under 18s level having recently helped England retain their FIRA-AER Justin Bridou Championship at that level with Bolwell scoring England’s first try in the final against France played in the Stade des Alps in Grenoble.

Tom Hendrickson – A product of the Pirates youth section, Tom is a New-Zealand born centre who has played for Cornwall under 20’s and for South West under 20s. Tom also attended the Divisional U.20 Festival at Welbeck College over Easter narrowly missing out on selection for the England Counties U.20 tour to Georgia later this month.

Mike Roach – Prop Mike comes from Penzance. His honours include representing Cornwall through the age groups up to under 20’s level. He has also played with the Cornish All Blacks.

Max Bodilly – Another product of the Pirates youth section, and a Newlyn lad, Max has also played for Cornwall under 20’s. He is a full-back and can also play at half-back as been playing for the St. Ives club this season under the guidance of Joff Rowe and former Pirate Ceiron Thomas.

Now post 18, Matt, Tom and Max will be progressing from their BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Performance and Excellence to continue their education by following the Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching at Truro College.

Mike will be following a vocational course at Penwith College.

Having played rugby for Truro College in the Rugby Football Union’s AASE (Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence) League for two years, the four players will become Exeter Chiefs Academy members, where they have already had an association, and they will potentially be on a two year loan to the Cornish Pirates. It is envisaged that this will not only allow them to gain experience in the Championship, or locally at National league level, but will also, as mentioned, enable them to importantly combine their studies with training and playing.

As you can imagine the youngsters are thrilled with the opportunity to continue both their studies and rugby apprenticeship in Cornwall.

Mike Roach. “It’s a great opportunity for me it’s ideal studying down at Penwith College and linking my rugby with the Pirates. I’ve had a bit of experience with the Cornish All Blacks but I have really focused the majority of my rugby with Truro College and the Exeter Academy games this season.

Roach is looking forward to learning new skills and improving his technique from the Pirates coaching team. “Ian Davies is a fantastic coach and along with senior players such as Alan Paver I am hoping to really improve my game and learn from these guys.

Max Bodilly is looking forward to sampling life at a Championship Club. “I am looking forward to progressing and gaining experience from amongst others Harvey Biljon and Gavin Cattle. I have played at half back for a while but Exeter wanted me to move to full back and I feel that has benefited my game. It’s a big step up from playing at St. Ives, hopefully I can get some game time because that is key to development.

Head coach at the Cornish Pirates, Ian Davies, commented:

“We have had an excellent working relationship with the Exeter Chiefs over the last few seasons and this new venture is another part of that partnership. It is also fantastic that we can build a stronger foundation with Truro College which will be a key aspect for the Cornish Pirates moving forward.”

Robin Cowling, on behalf of Truro College, added:

“For the the last few years Exeter Chiefs and the Cornish Pirates have developed a close working partnership over dual-registered players, that are allowed under the rules of regional academies. It is a partnership that has created a win win situation for both the players and clubs.

“This new venture with the Cornish Pirates and Exeter Chiefs and Truro College will also be a win win situation for players and clubs and the player’s education at Truro College. One of our aims with academy players is to look after their development both on and off the field, and this is a great opportunity with the college tailoring their timetable to fit around their rugby training with the Cornish Pirates.”

Cornwall’s head coach Dave “Benji” Thomas, was having to overcome the loss of influential flanker Tom Rawlings for Saturday’s Bill Beaumont Cup opener against Gloucestershire at Cinderford kick-off 3 pm.

The Cornish All Black star has not recovered in time from injury and had to pull out.

In his place comes Redruth and Royal Navy backrower Ben Priddey. Priddey has been in excellent form for his club and featured last Saturday in the Inter-Services match between the Army and Royal Navy at Twickenham.

On to the bench comes experienced hooker Darren Semmens who has spent the past season with the Cornish Pirates.

Ashley Lawton (Camborne) has also been called up to the squad. Lawton has enjoyed a fine season with the Cherry and Whites and scored a try in their play-off defeat last Saturday against Old Centralians.

Gloucestershire as expected have named a side based mostly on the Cinderford side and will be captained by Richmond’s Will Warden.

CRFU President Ken Plummer said “We are now entering the business end of the season; no matches are easy and away to Gloucestershire will certainly not be easy!!!”.

Cornwall face 3 games in the opening group stages in May before the final that is held at Twickenham on Sunday 26th May.

Cornwall head coach Dave “Benji” Thomas said – “The 2013 season will be very challenging, and this first match has allowed us to include some players who were not available for the Tamar Cup squad. From an initial squad of 35 we have now selected our 22; other players will be available for the next game. No one’s place is guaranteed, and competition for squad places is still very much available to all”

Cornwall travel to face Gloucestershire on Friday evening before facing the opposition at Cinderford RFC on Saturday 4th May. The following week they travel to Kent to play at Medway RFC before the home match against Hertfordshire which will be played at Camborne RFC on Saturday 18th May.

Cornwall Captain Ben Hilton said; – “Player’s club seasons have now ended, and it is testament to the boys to extend their season to represent Cornwall” He further commented “The players really respond to the vocal and knowledgeable fans, and urged them to come along and support the team at all of the games”

LATE CHANGE: It looks like the selectors have finally plumped for Sam Matavesi (Plymouth Albion) to start Saturday’s game in place of Tom Rawlings in the back row. Ashley Lawton (Camborne) is confirmed as replacement in place of Josh Lord.

Cornwall: Jake Murphy; Richard Bright (both Cornish All Blacks), Steve Johns (Coventry), Neilson Webber (Cornish All Blacks), Tom Notman; Paul Thirlby; Greg Goodfellow; Darren Jacques, Richard Brown, Craig Williams, Damian Cook (all Redruth), Ben Hilton, Capt, (Cornish All Blacks), Chris Fuca (Redruth),Sam Matavesi (Plymouth Albion), Sam Hocking (unattatched).

Replacements: Darren Semmens (unattatched), Martin Rice, Barry Chapman, Ben Priddey (Redruth & Royal Navy), Matt Shepherd (St Austell) and Lewis Vinnicombe (Redruth), Ashley Lawton (Camborne).

Gloucestershire (Cinderford unless stated): Chris Hawkins, Nevaro Codlin, Barney Pascall (Richmond), Kai Done, Lloyd Stapleton, Mike Wilcox, Sam Arnott (Southend); Chris Bundy, Sam Wilkes (Moseley), Mark George (Stouurbridge), Will Warden, Capt (Richmond), Joe Joyce (Bristol/Dings Crusaders), Will Foden, George Evans.

Replacements: Joe Smart, Nick Selway, Dale Critchley, Luke Allen, Danny Pointon, Liam Hemming (Old Centralians), Spencer Sutherland (Esher)