A very busy weekend in the local rugby world with results going along way towards settling issues.

The Cornish Pirates crossed the Tamar to take on Plymouth Albion at the Brickfields and returned back across the river with the points following a 26-20 win in Devon.

These games have had a habit of being dull affairs of late, but not this one. The Cornish side scored tries through Max Bodilly, Tom Riley – on the ground he made his Barbarians debut last November – and Tom Kessell, with former Albion favourite Kieran Hallett kicking eleven points.

You can read Bill Sobey’s Western Morning News report in the link

With Ian Davies’ post-match reaction in this link

Next Sunday at 2 pm the Cornish Pirates take on Welsh Premiership leaders Pontypridd in the Quarter-finals of the British & Irish Cup at the Mennaye.

In National League 2 South, Redruth took another step towards maintain their status with a well-deserved win over high-flying Ampthill & District 41-35.

Two late tries for the visitors gave the score-line respectability and two bonus points to take back home, but for the Reds who this week confirmed that former player Steve Larkins will take over as head-coach next season in the place of Ashley Morcom who had already stated his intentions to stand down at the end of the current campaign.

You can read my Western Morning News report in the link

Launceston on the other hand are right back in the relegation zone with just four games left. They really should have won at Bournemouth on Saturday who are as good as relegated, especially when they led 21-7 at one stage but the Dorset side struck back to claim a 25-21 win which will probably be academic to them but could be of serious consequences to the Cornish All Blacks bid for survival at this level!

You can read Nigel Walrond’s report and reaction from Bryn Jenkins in the link

In the Tribute South West 1 West, matters are a little clearer, but not much, following the latest round of matches. Hornets are the new leaders following their 35-24 win over Camborne, who with just three games left and having played a game more, find themselves now seven points behind the leaders in sixth place.

Cameron Bone, Sam Bartle and Dave Roberts scored Town’s tries with Dave Mankee kicking nine points.
The best the Cherry & Whites can hope for is the runners-up spot and the lottery of another play-off game against the runners-up in the Eastern division Towercestrians.

St. Austell were knocked off top spot due to their inability to secure the try-scoring bonus point in their home win over Clevedon 22-18. Saints scored just the three tries through Hugh Noot, Ben Chenoweth and Ashley Taylor with Dan Pearce adding a couple of conversions and Matt Shepherd a penalty.

Saints are level on points with Hornets but have played two games more, with just a trip to Coney Hill and a home game against North Petherton to come they may have to settle for the play-offs but even that is not guaranteed as Chard could still pip them as could Cleve, North Petherton and of course Camborne!

Wadebridge Camels kept their slim hopes of avoiding the drop alive with a home win against Bideford 17-5. Matt Ballard and Will Pengelly scored the Camel’s tries with James Grubb kicking the other points.

Camels have away trips to Bridgwater and Chard with a home game sandwiched in-between against Camborne for the final run-in.

In Tribute Western Counties West, champions-elect Ivybridge brushed aside second placed Teignmouth 44-19.

Truro closed the gap on Teigns but know that either Burnham are likely to overhaul them with their two games in-hand. Truro did the business over Bude 33-13 at St. Clements Hill. Jake Champion scored eighteen points with two tries and four conversions for the city side with Luke Trescothick, Adam Gayton and Rikki Brandham also crossing the try-line.

For Bude, Adam Black and Joe Wilson scored tries with Duncan Tout kicking a penalty, but it looks more than likely that it will be Cornwall & Devon league rugby for the North Cornwall side next season.

St. Ives battled back from 21-0 down at home to finally defeat Okehampton 39-35 and ease their relegation fears for the moment. Neil Corin scored three tries for the Hakes with Ben Drew, Ben Taylor, Neil Stanleick and Josh Semmens also scoring tries. Kelvin Jones added a couple of conversions.

Penryn had an easy and satisfying win over basement side Paignton at the Memorial Ground 37-3. The game saw the return of scrum-half Taron Peacock who suffered a bad injury when the sides last met. Mitch Vague (2), Lewis Vague, Andrew Seviour, Matt Williams and Phil Hinchley (2) all crossed for the Borough with Jake Seviour adding just the one conversion.

London Cornish maintained their good run in London 2 SW with a 24-13 win at Trojans. David Soar, Mark Osei-Tutu, Mike Bond and Rich Skinnard scored the exiles tries with Luke Spells kicking a couple of conversions. That’s six on the trot for Cornish as they look for their best-ever finish in this league.

In the Tribute Cornwall & Devon League, leaders Exeter University beat Newquay Hornets 139-0.

Saltash defeated Veor 89-7.

Falmouth won at Exeter Saracens 37-24 to maintain fifth spot. Nick Carne, AJ Geach (2), and Tom Edmonds (2) scored the Eagle’s tries with Justyn Irons kicking the rest of the points.

Pirates Amateurs enjoyed a good home win over OPM’s 34-24. Rhys Brownfield, Stefan Osborne (2), Leigh Edwards, and Danny Toolan scored the Ams tries with Brownfield three conversions and a penalty.

Hayle staged a strong comeback at the end of the game at Honiton but were denied by a single point 20-19.

Cornwall Under 20’s lost their quarter-final match against Gloucestershire at Camborne yesterday 50-19.

Jack Innard who was due to play for Cornwall at hooker yesterday was withdrawn from the side as he has been called up by England U.19’s. Well done to Jack.

You can read my report on the game in my previous blog entry.

Both Tribute Cornwall Cup Semi-finals will be played on Wednesday 9th April. Camborne v Penryn will kick-off at 6pm whilst St. Austell v Saltash will start at 7-30 pm.

The final to be played over May Bank Holiday weekend will be held at Redruth RFC.

Don’t forget the Testimonial game at Redruth on Good Friday 18th April when a Redruth Invitational XV will take on a Cornwall XV in recognition of Damien Cook, Craig Bonds and Paul Thirlby’s long service to the club.

Finally, Redruth Town Council have submitted the names of famous Redruth players of the past to Cornwall Council for the naming of roads in the Wheal Harmony development, the names submitted are James “Maffer” Davey, Bert Solomon, Roy Jennings, Fred Rule, Bill Phillips, Les Semmens and Bill Bishop.

The names of Henry Grylls and William Willmott the founders of the club will be used for the naming of streets in the eventual planned development at The Brewery Leats, which is of course the site of the original pitch.

UNDER 20’S COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP QUARTER-FINAL

By Bill Hooper at the Recreation Ground

Gloucestershire ended Cornwall’s hopes of progressing to the semi-finals scoring seven tries in a comprehensive win at Camborne on Sunday afternoon.

The Cornish lads battled manfully throughout, but they had no answer to the pace and power of the visitors backline, especially Thornbury winger Ed Sheldon who scored three of his side’s tries and could well feature next Saturday for his club when they travel to play Camborne.

Cornwall coach Mike Rawlings acknowledged that his side had been second best on the day. “Fair-play to Gloucestershire they were the better side on the day, their finishing was clinical. We had early pressure but just couldn’t turn it into points they had a big lumpy pack who made life difficult for us, but hats off to our boys who stuck at it till the end. I think we can take a lot of positives from the game and the campaign as a whole.

“Hopefully next season we will keep the bulk of this squad and they will be able to build on their experience from this season

Cornwall began the game promisingly with the wind at their backs, they were camped in the Gloucestershire twenty-two for long periods but couldn’t find a way through their defence.

With almost their first incursion into the Cornwall twenty two on 23 minutes Gloucestershire came away with points as Dan Spencer-Tonks crossed for an un-converted try.

Photo – Phil Trevarton – Cornwall’s scrum-half Connor Swan looks to get Cornwall moving

Three minutes later Cornwall were undone again as Sheldon ran in the first of his tries from sixty meters out with Jack Skelton adding the extras.

Cornwall needed a score and it came after a good period of pressure when full-back Jack Kessell crossed the whitewash. Ryan Brownsfield saw his conversion attempt come back off the post.

Sadly for Cornwall it was Gloucestershire who scored next as Spencer-Tonks exploited a gap to score his second try with Skelton again on the money with the extras for a 19-5 half-time advantage to the visitors.

Early second half pressure from Gloucestershire resulted in a drop-goal from fly-half Ollie Lock to increase their lead.

Cornwall looked for a way back but as they pressed in the Gloucestershire twenty-two the ball was turned over by flanker Max Woodward and the ball was moved wide to Sheldon who again ran in from distance for his second try, Skelton’s conversion putting Gloucestershire 29-5 up.

Cornwall salvaged a score when prop Tyler Gendall, who had another fine game for Cornwall despite the score-line, powered over from close in after hooker Joe Martin was brought down short of the line.

Photo – Phil Trevarton Cornish prop Tyler Gendall scores Cornwall’s second try

Connor Swan added the conversion to lift Cornwall into double figures

Both sides looked to their bench to bring on fresh players, however Gloucestershire increased their advantage when replacement scrum-half Ollie Young scored their fifth try with Skelton again adding the extras to put them further ahead at 36-12.

Cornish heads never dropped and it was fitting that skipper Todd Prisk should finish off the move for Cornwall’s third try under the posts with Swan again adding the extras.

Photo- Phil Trevarton Cornwall skipper Todd Prisk burrows over for Cornwall’s 3rd try

Gloucestershire still had time to add further scores through centre Sam Hanks and Gloucestershire’s man-of-the-match Sheldon with Locke having assumed the kicking duties when Skelton left the field injured adding both conversions to complete the scoring.

For Cornwall the campaign is over for this season but with only four players too old for next season from the current squad hopes are high for further success next year.

Cornwall 19 pts

Tries – J Kessell, Gendall, Prisk, Conversions – Swan (2)

Gloucestershire 50 pts

Tries – Spencer-Tonks (2), Sheldon (3), Young, Hanks, Conversions – Skelton (4), Locke (2), Drop-goal – Locke

Cornwall : J Kessell (St. Ives), A Taylor (St. Austell), T Holdsworth (Truro College), S Chapman (Cornish All Blacks), L Tidball (Truro), R Brownfield (Pirates Amateurs &Bath Uni), C Swan (Truro College); T Phillips (Truro College), J Martin (Truro), T Gendall (St Ives), T Prisk (St. Ives) (Capt), L Hattam (Redruth & Truro College), N Stenleick (St. Ives), J Haines (Cornish All Blacks), B Howe (Cornish All Blacks &Truro College).

Replacements (all used): S. Rodda (Newquay Hornets), R Kessell (Redruth), D Marsh (Truro & Marjons), T Pellow (Truro College & Penryn), J Duke (Cornish All Blacks), J Willey (Truro College & Penryn), B Janes (Truro College)

Gloucestershire: J Skelton (Weston-Super-Mare); J Unwin (Hartpury College), S Hanks (Cinderford), D Spencer-Tonks (Old Centralians), ), E Sheldon (Thornbury); O Locke (Old Centralians), S Watkins (Cinderford); R Chase (Barton Hill), F Sinclair (Cinderford), L Kent (Gordon League), L Randall (Cinderford) (capt), E Bulger (Hartpury College), K Frowen (Hartpury College) M Woodward (Old Redcliffians), W Hodgetts (Cinderford).

Replacements (all used): R Roach (Cleve), L Panting (Thornbury), A Hodges (Uni of Gloucs), J Westren (Thornbury), B Large (Drybrook), R Woodhouse (Matson); O Young (Cheltenham)

Referee: Simon Lane (Devon RRS)

Briton’s Cornwall -man-of-the-match Cornwall skipper Todd Prisk led by example never took a step back can be proud of his side’s campaign

CORNWALL V GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Cornwall make just two changes to the side that defeated Devon at Penryn for this Sunday’s County Championship Under 20’s quarter-final against Gloucestershire at Camborne kick-off 2-30 pm.

Both changes are in the backs where Tom Holdsworth (Truro College) comes in at centre, whilst Connor Swan (Truro College) who played against Dorset & Wilts but missed the Devon game steps back in at scrum-half in place of the injured Sam Fox.

The pack is unchanged from the Devon game with Todd Prisk (St. Ives) again leading the side in the second row.

Pic – Action from Cornwall’s recent win over Devon

On the bench last season’s skipper Neil Broadbank has seen his season ended with an Achilles injury, so there are call ups for Robbie Kessell (Redruth) and Tony Pellow (Penryn), whilst prop Tommy Phillips (Truro College) also returns after South West 18 group duties.

CRFU President Ken Plummer said “This will be a tough test for these youngsters who fought bravely to record 2 wins in their pool stage.” He went on to say “I am sure Captain Todd Prisk and his team will be striving for a win to take us further in this competition.”

The quarter-final place was earned following an away victory against Dorset and Wilts by 37 – 35 and then a hard fought win against local rivals Devon 18 – 15. The Devon victory was helped by tries from Brad Janes and Rhys Brownfield who also added a conversion and two penalties.

Coach Ian Morgan said – “This squad has come through two very tough tests to rightly earn their place in the quarter-finals. This is a relatively young squad which bodes well for the future with twenty players earning their first ever under 20’s tie in our first two games. Our opponents are runners up in a very tough pool, but now face the long journey to face us at Camborne.”

A victory for Cornwall will see them earn a semi-final against an unknown opposition at present but a home venue!!

Cornwall team Manager Chris Lea said; – “These guys have worked their socks off for the team, many of them playing for their clubs on the Saturday and then either training or playing for us on the Sunday. They know they have a difficult task but do have home advantage and hopefully a large and supportive crowd to cheer on the young Black and Gold’s.”
CRFU Chair Denis Preece said “The lads, coaches, back room staff and everybody involved have done a fantastic job so far this season but now need to concentrate on a very tough match. The game being at Camborne we hope to get a very vocal and enthusiastic crowd to support the lads in this vital game!!”
Entry is via programme at a cost of £2, which will be sold on the gate on match day. The CRFU also thank our hosts Camborne RFC and the match officials who all represent the South West Group.

Cornwall U.20: J Kessell (St. Ives), L Tidball (Truro), T Holdsworth (Truro College), S Chapman (Cornish All Blacks), A Taylor (St. Austell), R Brownfield (Pirates Amateurs &Bath Uni), C Swan (Truro College); J Martin (Truro) J Innard, (Truro College), T Gendall (St Ives), T Prisk (St. Ives) (Capt), H Baker (Wadebridge Camels), N Stenleick (St. Ives), J Haines (Cornish All Blacks), B Howe (Cornish All Blacks &Truro College).

Replacements: T. Phillips (Truro College), R Kessell (Redruth), L Hattam (Redruth & Truro College), T Pellow (Truro College & Penryn), J Duke (Cornish All Blacks), J Willey (Truro College & Penryn), B Janes (Truro College)

Reserves (to attend): S Rodda (Newquay Hornets), D Marsh (Truro)

Below is the Gloucestershire squad that faced Berkshire in their last game. Their line up to face Cornwall is yet to be finalized.

Gloucestershire: Jack Skelton (Weston-Super-Mare); Jacob Unwin (Hartpury College), Sam Hanks (Cinderford), Daniel Spencer-Tonks (Old Centralians), Ryan Woodhouse (Matson); Ollie Locke (Old Centralians), Sam Watkins (Cinderford); Dean Brooker (Ealing), Finlay Sinclair (Cinderford), Lyon Kent (Gordon League), Lance Randall (Cinderford) (capt), Jake Holcombe (Dings Crusaders), Joe Dancer (Dings Crusaders), Max Woodward (Old Redcliffians), Will Hodgetts (Cinderford).

Replacements: Ryan Roach (Cleve), Luke Panting (Thornbury), Ewan Bulger (Hartpury College), Ben Charlton-Hibbert (Filton College), Ben Large (Drybrook), Ed Sheldon (Thornbury), Ollie Young (Cheltenham)

If you wanted tries then Camborne Rec was the place to be last Saturday as twenty tries were scored with the Cherry and Whites bagging nineteen of them!

Camborne’s 123-7 win over Sidmouth in Tribute South West 1 West was just the tonic they needed following the previous week’s loss at Bideford.
The whole back line got on the score-sheet with wingers Rob Floyd (4) & Alex Ducker (3) accounting for seven of the tries, Dave Mankee bagged a brace & fourteen conversions for a personal haul of 38 points.

Other try scores in the backs were Joel Matavesi, Joe Parma, Dean Pascoe & Richie Kevern, whilst amongst the forwards the back row of George Hall Cameron Bone and skipper Dave Roberts all got on the score-sheet as did locks Ben Kemp and replacement lock Olly Reynolds, whilst hooker Sam Bartle made sure the front row weren’t forgotten.

With Cleve and leaders St. Austell drawing 25-25 just three points cover the top four. The Saints picked up an extra point at Cleve scoring four tries through Matt Shepherd, Callum Wilson and a brace from winger Ben Chenoweth, Dan Pearce kicked a penalty and a conversion.

St. Austell who have just three league fixtures left are back in action this Saturday when they entertain Clevedon with five points an absolute must.

Camborne have four games left but only one more at home now travel to second place Hornets this Saturday needing to reverse the result at the Rec last November when the visitors brought the Cherry and Whites fine home run to an end winning 34-17.

Wadebridge Camels lost at home to Thornbury 17-5 and our now 11 points behind Clevedon and safety with four games left! Richard Treleaven got the Camels sole try.

In National League 2 South, Launceston finally put a stop to their poor run with a welcome win over Taunton at Polson Bridge. Centres Ryan Westren and Neilson Webber scored the Cornish All Black’s tries with Kerion Lewitt adding a conversion and Jake Murphy a penalty.

The win takes Launceston out of the danger zone for now!

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

Redruth despite a brave performance were well-beaten at leaders Hartpury College 48-12. The students scored seven tries to the Reds two. Redruth try scorers were Sam Parsons and John Stevens with Ashley Hosking adding a conversion.

The result sees the Reds slip closer to the relegation battle beneath them and know that they will need a win this Saturday at home to third place Ampthill & District to keep their heads above water.

Read Ed Bawden’s WMN match report in the link

In Tribute Western Counties West, Truro’s 30-5 defeat at Kingsbridge has probably seen the end of their hopes of a play-off spot for this season. Tom Hatfield scored their only try.

Coaches Josh Lord and Mark Richards can be justly pleased with Truro’s efforts this season and know that they should again be able to mount a serious bid for promotion next term.

Bude helped their cause in the relegation scrap with a welcome 24-15 win at home against Torquay Athletic. Ryan Butler, Joe Wilson, Matt Williams and Ben Hancock all scored tries with Olly Denford kicking a couple of conversions.

St. Ives currently sit in one of the two relegation berths along with already relegated Paignton. Saturday saw them travel with just 16 players to Wellington which resulted in a 37-8 loss. Craig “Eggy” Williams kicked a penalty and Jack Kessell scored a try for the Hakes.

Penryn’s match at Okehampton was called off due to water-logged pitch.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish recorded another good win against Winchester 40-5. The exiles ran in six tries with Luke Spells notching up fifteen points. The result puts London Cornish 4th level on points with third placed Trojans with a game in-hand.

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League with Exeter University and Tiverton having long ago tied up the promotion berths for this season, principal Cornish interest is centred at the wrong end of the table.

With Veor, defiantly and Newquay Hornets, probably, set to return to Cornwall 1 next season, Pirates Amateurs are not clear of battle for the third relegation spot.

Still they helped their cause winning at the Sportscentre against the Hornets 43-10.

Falmouth remain the best placed Cornish side currently 5th defeating Honiton 29-20at the Rec with AJ Geech scoring a hat-trick of tries.

Saltash won the derby at Hayle 22-16. Will Morton, Max Veneables and Steve Kelly scored tries for the Ashes with Veneables kicking the other points, whilst for Hayle Joel Cameron scored a try with Dan McGee kicking the rest of the points.

Veor gave Exeter University a good run going down 36-21 at Wheal Gerry.

In the Cornwall Clubs Cup Illogan Park defeated St. Day 84-0.

On Sunday in the RFU Greene King Championship the Cornish Pirates defeated Nottingham 17-11. Kyle Moyle scored a couple of tries with Craig Holland also getting on the score-sheet.

Bill Sobey’s WMN report in the link

Ian Davies’ match reaction in the link

Next Saturday the Pirates travel to the Brickfields to take on Plymouth Albion.

Congratulations to Pirates’ hooker and German International Rob Elloway who has been invited to play for the Barbarians in their fixture against Clontarf FC on April 24th in Dublin.

Whilst still with the Pirates good news for skipper Gavin Cattle who this week signed a two year deal with Pirates as a player/coach.

Cornwall have eight players who have been invited to take part in the South West Under 20 trial at Keynsham RFC on Sunday April 6th. They are prop Tyler Gendall, hooker Jack Innard, lock and Cornwall captain Todd Prisk, flanker Neil Stanleick, scrum-half Connor Swan, full-back Jack Kessell, winger Luke Tidball and centre Ashley Taylor.

Note flanker Neil Broadbank was also selected but sadly an Achilles injury has ended his season.

England did the business in Rome against Italy on the final day of this season’s RBS 6 Nations winning 52-11 with Newlyn’s favourite son Jack Nowell getting his first try for England to cap a fine tournament.

England’s big win wasn’t enough as Ireland defied the odds to defeat France in Paris 22-20 to take the title and crown a fitting send-off for Brian O’Driscoll.

St. Parick’s Day celebrations will be a little sweeter this year in the emerald isle!

On Sunday what a day for Exeter Chiefs winning a major final for the first time.

Their 15-8 defeat of Northampton Saints saw them lift the LV Cup at Sandy Park.

On the local club front it was another catch up weekend and not a particularly successful one from a Cornish point of view with just Truro in Tribute Western Counties West getting a win, though our exiles London Cornish also won in London 2 SW.

On Sunday London Welsh proved too good for the Cornish Pirates winning 20-5 at the Mennaye with Craig Holland scoring a consolation try for the Pirates with just eight minutes remaining and Welsh already 20 points to the good.

Pirates will look to get back to winning ways next Sunday when strugglers Nottingham are the visitors.

Further disappointing results for both our National League 2 sides as both Redruth and Launceston slipped to big defeats in Cambridge.

Redruth lost 37-15 at Shelford. Paul Thirlby scored a try for the Reds, whilst Murray Westren kicked penalty and converted a second half penalty-try.

Next week Redruth face the daunting prospect of taking on league leaders Hartpury College again on the road!

Launceston lost at Cambridge 36-13. Cornish prop Jamal Ford-Robinson scored one of Cambridge’s six tries!

Bryn Jenkins, back at his former club, scored a try for the All Blacks with Kieron Lewitt kicking the other points, but the result leaves Launceston in the drop zone, with next Saturday’s home again against Taunton now a vital five-pointer.

The promotion battle in Tribute South West 1 West took yet another twist on Saturday, leaders St. Austell lost at Chard 34-24. Ian Venner, Dan Pearce and Miles Davey scored the Saints’ tries with Pearce adding all three conversions and a penalty.

Camborne picked up a losing bonus point at Bideford as they lost 20-17, they rallied well having initially trailed 14-0 to their hosts, but a late Bideford penalty denied them another share of the spoils or even more as lock Ben Kemp was denied a last-gasp try to the consternation of the Cherry and Whites!

Rob Floyd, Alex Ducker and Dean Pascoe did score tries with Dave Mankee adding a conversion.

Camborne will be looking for a big win next Saturday when they take on Sidmouth at the Rec.

Truro kept their hopes of a play-off place alive with a 31-10 win over Tavistock at St. Clements Hill.

Luke Trescothick (2), Ieuan boon, Rikki Brandham and Ben Teasdale all scored tries with Jake Champion adding three conversions.
At Penryn the Borough went down 10-8 to Kingsbridge. Jake Seviour scored all the Boroughs’ points with a try and a penalty.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish defeated Portsmouth 42 – 24 with winger Matt Hakes bagging four tries!

In the Tribute Cornwall & Devon League Tiverton made sure of a promotion place when they defeated Cornwall 1 bound Newquay Hornets 48-8. Liam Freeman scoring all Hornets’ points.

Pirates Amateurs are still in the danger zone after losing 35-10 at Honiton, Nick Hitchens and Jack Vosper scored tries for the Ams.

Transfer news, sees Sam Matavesi putting to an end rumours of a move to France (understand Stade Rochelais in Pro 2 was an option), by signing a one year extension to keep him at Plymouth Albion next season.

Sam Hocking is set to quit Ealing Trailfinders at the end of the season and move to Hong Kong.

Former county No.8 Ashley Lawton is heading out to play rugby in Australia at Lismore in New South Wales.

Cornwall Under 20’s quarter-final opponents in their National County Championship has been confirmed as old foes Gloucestershire. The match is scheduled for Sunday March 30th at Camborne RFC with a 2-30 pm kick-off.

Gloucs made sure of the runner-up spot in Pool 4 with a 56-3 win over Hertfordshire at Cinderford on Sunday. Kent will host Devon in the other southern tie.

Slight change of scene for me last weekend as I flew up to Edinburgh for the Scotland v France game.

The weekend started off with a trip down to the Borders to watch the Under 20’s game between Scotland and France at Netherdale, Gala.

With three wins already under the belt the French were looking to make it four as they seek a Grand Slam at this level.

On the bench for Scotland was scrum-half Ben Vellacott who has been in sparkling form for Hartpury College this season and featured in their game at Redruth earlier in the season, whilst at fly-half young Ben Chalmers showed he has inherited his father (Craig’s) prowess with the boot.

French fly-half Brandon Fajardo (Auch) showed he was handful as his try and conversion cancelled out Chalmers’ early penalty that gave the home side the lead.

The same player then kicked a penalty to leave France 10-3 to the good at the break.

Fajardo then departed the fray leaving kicking duties to Toulouse hopeful Anthony Meric who put France 13-3 up with a penalty.
Then when impressive prop Tommy Raynaud (Narbonne) powered over for an 18-3 lead the game looked as good as over.

However, changes on both sides seem to favour the Scots as they enjoyed more of the ball and scored two well-worked tries off the line-out through lock Andy Cramond (Aberdeen Grammar) and back Damien Hoyland (Melrose), much to the delight of the sizeable contingent from the Melrose club. Young Neil Irvine-Hess showed up well in the back row when coming off the bench. Scots couldn’t manufacture another score and France held out for an 18 – 13 win that keeps them on-track.

Saturday saw me at Murrayfield to see France gain a fortuitous 19-17 win against a plucky Scotland.

Philippe Saint-Andre’s selection of the giant Perpignan lock Sebastien Vahaamahina at 6 caused a raise eyebrow or two and it didn’t take long to see it was a big error.

I shan’t go into the detail of the game here suffice to say that a report from the Scotsman’s David Ferguson can be found in the link.

Enough of my gallivanting around Scotland back to local issues.

Sunday saw the Cornish Pirates travel to the Memorial Ground to take on the Championship leaders Bristol at the Memorial Ground.

It sounds like it was a cracker of a game with Bristol eventually outscoring the Pirates 7-4 on the try count to run out winners by 46-33!
It sounds as if young Max Bodilly had another fine game for the Pirates backing up his man-of-the-match performance from the previous week against Jersey at the Mennaye.

A detailed match report from the Western Morning News can be found in the link.

Mixed fortunes for our Cornish clubs once again in National League 2 South. Redruth recorded a vital win against second placed Canterbury at the Rec 21-17 to boost their hopes of avoiding the drop. Match report from the WMN can be found in the link.

Launceston’s defeat at Chinnor by 28-20 sees them in the drop zone as they grapple to re-organise following the departure of “Spike” Rainford. They will look to bounce back quickly after this reversal. Match report in the link.

A very brief look at the local leagues this week with the promotion battle at the top of Tribute South West 1 West taking another twist.
St. Austell’s big win at home against Cullompton 60-3, coupled with Cleve’s defeat at North Petherton sees the Cornish side back at the top of the league two points ahead of Hornets who have a game in hand.

Full back Dan Pearce scored a couple of tries and converted five tries for a personal haul of twenty points.

Camborne bounced back from the disappointment of only drawing at home to St. Austell to beat Chard in Somerset 22-18 thanks in part to a hat-trick of tries from winger Alex Ducker.

Wadebridge Camels found it tough going up in Somerset against Hornets losing 55-12. Matt Angwin and Matt Ballard scored tries for the Camels.
Congratulations to Jack Nowell who again featured strongly for England in the win over Wales at Twickenham on Sunday which saw the Red Rose claim a first Triple Crown since 2003.

His club mate flanker Tom Johnson came off the bench to make it a great day for the Chiefs who earlier on qualified for the final of the LV Cup defeating Bath 22-19 at the Rec, their first win over Bath since getting to the Premiership. Next Sunday they take on Northampton at Sandy Park in the Final!

Joel Conlon (Cornish Pirates/Exeter Chiefs) was part of the England U.20’s that defeated Wales 67-7! Rob Coote was part of the England Students side that defeated Welsh Students 26-16 at Oxford University.

Finally Jack Stanley played for England U.18’s in their win against Scotland U.18’s at Dalziel Park 28-6.

The dreadful conditions down at the Mennaye yesterday did not stop the players from both sides putting on a great performance in the mud.

The Cornish Pirates getting a first Championship win in 2014 against Jersey, 19-15, in front of RFU Chairman former England captain Bill Beaumont down in Penzance for the weekend.

Lots of local interest in the Jersey line up now coached by Harvey Biljon and with former Pirates’ players Grant Pointer, Drew Locke, Nicky Griffiths, Joe Buckle and Aaron Penberthy all in their match day twenty-two.

It was a first game back for former Redruth favourite Penberthy who played just past the forty minute mark and kicked a monster penalty from the half-way line to give the islanders an early lead. Biljon was happy with his fly-half comeback after a ten week layoff due to a broken leg. “I thought he did really well, this is a difficult place to come and get anything so to come away with a losing bonus point is well deserved by our boys for their performance today.”

It stayed 3-0 to Jersey for most of the first half until the Pirates bagged two quick tries just before the break, the first from centre Junior Fatialofa got in amongst the muddy forwards to power over the Jersey line in the Newlyn Gate Corner and then winger Kyle Moyle finishing off a break from scrum-half Tom Kessell in the Old Western National Corner, Hallett added the extras to the first try to leave the Pirates 12-3 up at half-time.

With the second half barely four minutes old a beautiful arcing run from full-back Max Bodilly saw him cap a fine Championship debut with a third Pirate’s try which again added the extras to.

It seemed the home side would kick on and seal the try-scoring bonus point, but to Jersey’s credit they dug in and got themselves back in the game with a try from skipper Alex Rae and then with the Pirates playing the final minutes with fourteen men following prop Shane Cahill’s yellow card, referee Greg Macdonald saw fit to award the visitors a penalty-try, which replacement fly-half Niall O’Connor converted with the final kick of the game.

Pirates head coach Ian Davies was pleased with the win. “I thought the boys played really well at one stage I was a little bit worried that I might have to do a Jurgen Klinsmann dive through the water if they scored four tries.

“I think we should have got the extra point and I was disappointed that Jersey picked up a losing bonus point as I felt we were the only side trying to play rugby out there today.

“Max Bodilly on his debut an absolute superstar, scored one great try could of had another one, fielded the ball really well we knew they would target him, a star in the making.”

Two interested spectators at the game were former prop Paul Andrew down from Worcester to see his brother Jack in action and England International winger Jack Nowell.

Photo – RFU

Jack had a busy afternoon dealing with the media whilst watching the game with his family. He kindly spoke to me after the game.

“I really enjoyed watching the game today, good to see my mate Kyle Moyle getting his chance today and scoring a good try in the corner.

“Good to see Max Bodilly having a good game today he’s another who is coming through the system at Exeter Chiefs and been given good game time down here at the Pirates much as did, he is a top quality player with a bright future ahead of him.

Turning to thoughts of England Jack is looking forward to hopefully being selected for the Triple Crown decider against Wales next Sunday. “I’ve set goals for myself all the way through, playing for Exeter, the LV Cup, the Premiership and in Europe and now to play for England it’s happened quicker than I envisaged, but at Chiefs they have prepared me for the goals that I set myself.

“I still think back to my season at Redruth which gave me my first experience of senior rugby, playing at the Reds really prepared for joining Exeter after I finished at College.

“The feedback I’ve got from the coaching staff with England has been really positive, after the start against France , but they are happy that it hasn’t affected my performance, I have gone out there and done the job I’ve been asked to do, making the tackles making the yards, getting into contact and looking for the ball off my wing. They have given me that extra confidence to take into the next game hopefully with Wales next week, but I’ve got to show that in training this week and hopefully get that 14 shirt again.”

Saturday I took in the Tribute South West 1 West derby between Camborne and St. Austell at the Recreation Ground.

It ended honours even at 13 all. A result which probably suited both sides promotion/play-off rivals the most.

Camborne got off to a cracking start with two un-converted tries scored by full back Joe Parma and hooker Sam Bartle.

St. Austell reduced the arrears immediately after Town’s second try with a penalty from Matt Shepherd before Dave Mankee restored a ten point lead for the Cherry and Whites with a penalty on half-time.

In the second half playing down the slope, St. Austell made a perfect start with an early try scored by full back Dan Pearce.

There was a little bit of controversy when Camborne centre Richie Kevern was felled by a high tackle, which referee Ryan Cook missed.

With time fast running out St. Austell got good field position in the Camborne 22 with lock Adam Pearce winning the lineout to set up a forward drive which saw flanker Paul Winterbottom crash over, Shepherd had a conversion attempt from the 22 to win the game but his attempt went wide to leave it at 13-13.

Camborne are now awaiting the result of their appeal against the potential deduction of five league points over their abandoned game at Clevedon when a set of goal posts fell down and they declined to continue the game on the second team pitch when trailing 6-0.

Good to see Sam Matavesi at Camborne on Saturday along with his brother Josh there to not only cheer on younger brother Joel in the Camborne side as Sam presented the shirt he won with Fiji last summer against Canada to the club.

Also in the South West 1 West, Wadebridge Camels defeat Sidmouth 45-5. Camels welcomed back Cornwall U.20 lock Harry Baker who has resigned for the club following a spell at Redruth and scored Camels’ first try before hooker Matt Ballard helped himself to four scores! Mark Kempthorne and Julian Wilce also grabbed tries for the Camels and James Grubb landed five conversions. The result helps Camels in their battle to avoid the drop.
In National League 2 on Saturday both the Cornish All Blacks and Redruth lost.

The All Blacks lost at Polson Bridge for the second game running going down to mid-table Southend 32-17, it should have been a game that they would have expected to win!

Sisa Naqasima scored a couple of tries with Jamie Salter, playing in the back row, scoring a third try for the All Blacks. The result slips Launceston or than ever into the relegation mix.

It’s not much better for Redruth who lost 26-20 at London Irish Wild Geese, but at least salvaged a losing bonus point thanks to Murray Westren’s conversion of Greg Goodfellow’s try. Luke Jones bagged the other Redruth try with Westren kicking the rest of the points.
Having indicated that he wishes to relinquish the role of head coach at Redruth, Ashley Morcom hopes to continue in a coaching role at the Reds and does not envisage being anywhere else next season.

Redruth will hope to get a win next Saturday when they entertain second place Canterbury, whist Launceston travel to fellow strugglers Chinnor.
In Tribute Western Counties West, Ivybridge look more than ever certain to take the league title following a 67-15 win over Penryn at Cross-in-Hand. Brough scored three un-converted tries through Rob Trevaskis, Ross Hancock and Kirky Oldfield.

Truro made up some ground with a 22-15 win over Torquay Athletic at St. Clements. Full-back Tom Hatfield scored three tries for Truro with fly-half Jake Champion kicking the other points.

Bude’s situation near the foot of the table wasn’t improved with a 39-22 loss at home to Tavistock. Tries from Ben Hancock, Adam Black, Joe Wilson and James Comber gave them a try-scoring bonus point but little else.

St. Ives will feel unlucky having lost at Devonport Services by a single point 17-16.

Neil Corin and Josh Semmens scored tries for the Hakes with “Eggy” Williams kicking a couple of penalties.

In London 2 SW, London Cornish played their “home” game at the oppositions but it didn’t matter as they still ran out winners 36-19 against Effingham & Leatherhead with fly-half Luke Spells scoring 21 points. Harry Somers, Phil Dale and Matthew Hakes scoring the other exiles’ tries.

The Tribute Cornwall & Devon League saw a feisty local derby between Hayle and Pirates Amateurs with 2 red cards and 7 yellows!!
Hayle emerged winners 32-17.

Falmouth were defeated by Exeter University at the Rec 32-3, Saltash lost at Crediton 27-26, Withycombe defeated Newquay Hornets 72-0 and Veor lost at Wheal Gerry 52-24. It’s not been a great season for Cornish clubs at this level and Newquay Hornets look set to join Veor back in Cornwall 1 next season, whilst Pirates Amateurs are not safe yet either!

Tribute Cornwall League 1 was completed when Stithians defeated Roseland 33-5.

After the euphoria of Cornwall U.20’s win last week a two bits of unfortunate news this week. First last season’s skipper Neil Broadbank who was coming back from injury has torn his Achilles and is out for the rest of the season, whist scrum-half Sam Fox suffered partial torn knee ligaments playing in Cornwall U.17’s win over Somerset at Wadebridge yesterday.

I am sure everyone will join me in wishing the boys a speedy recovery.

News on the quarter-final which will be played on Sunday 30th March most likely at Camborne RFC but that still has to be confirmed. With the opponents likely to be one from Gloucestershire, Hertfordshire or Berkshire.

Just after Trelawny’s Army Annual Dinner & Dance thoughts turn towards springtime and Cornwall’s annual quest for it’s “Holy Grail”, winning the County Championship, or as it is now called the Bill Beaumont Cup.

Last Wednesday evening players, coaches and officials from the CRFU gathered at Kingsley Village to lay down the route map for this season’s campaign, the first for many years without Dave “Benji” Thomas at the helm.

However, in Graham Dawe, the Cornwall RFU have appointed a proven winner with a professional mindset when it comes to rugby. Ian Morgan is also on board, whilst London Cornish Director of Rugby Dickon Moon is once again part of this season’s coaching set up with no doubt “special duties” with his keen analytical eye for detail!

Photo Graham Dawe & Ian Morgan

Dawe has seen it all before and he is in no doubt especially after last season’s trip to Twickenham when Cornwall lost the final to Lancashire, that the Cornish supporters hope that under his guidance Cornwall can again bring the title back across the Tamar.

Asked about the reasons he took on the role he was quite unequivocal. “Cornwall gave me my first representative honours and that was very much a stepping stone for me to move on to have the career in the game I enjoyed, by playing for Cornwall that brought me into the spotlight and opened some doors for me. I was a very determined player and I had set goals of what I wanted to achieve, my first goal was to play for Cornwall and that led to me then going to Bath and the rest.

He knows only too well that the Cornish people crave success from their county side.

He said. “It’s the hardest thing, the massive expectations from the people in Cornwall, we’ve got to live with it, there is no point in trying to hide away from it. We’ve got to move forward and do the best with the players we have. The competition comes at the end of a hard long season and you have deal with that, but also it’s a change for the players something a little different to what they have been involved in during the season so hopefully they will respond to it as a fresh challenge.

“I have had some great days playing for Cornwall with wonderful support for the teams I played in, the Cornish people have always got behind their team and supported it through thick and thin. There is no other county quite the same.

“Pulling on the Cornish shirt is a great identity for players, it’s something all Cornish rugby players aspire to, we have picked a large squad, but it’s not just about this season it’s about developing the county side for future years, some players may not get a chance this year but they will have been groomed for the future and will feel part of the set up.

“I am really looking forward to the task, following on from “Benji” is a big ask but one I am relishing.”

Confirmed as Cornwall’s captain for another season Cornish All Blacks’ Ben Hilton fresh from his exploits with England Counties this winter against France Fédérale and Ireland Clubs XV with both games lost frustratingly by a single point.

Having first captained Cornwall when the county made a trip to Brittany to play Quimper in 2007 Hilton now looks forward to turning his attentions to another county campaign with hopefully another tilt at the title at rugby’s HQ.

Photo Cornwall’s skipper Ben Hilton

“I am both delighted and surprised to be confirmed as captain for another season, but it’s a role I relish and take great pride in.
“It’s great to be back in Cornwall mode, chatting to players from the other clubs tonight, I was just talking to Chris Fuca (Redruth) and bouncing ideas off him about how we are going to do things it’s just brilliant to have that buzz back again.

“Support is going to be crucial, let’s make no bones about it we got to Twickenham on the back of great support both at the away games and at Camborne, without the backing we wouldn’t have made it through.

“Speaking to Lancashire’s Chris Johnson last week he told me if they make the final again they want to play Cornwall because of the wonderful atmosphere created at Twickenham by our supporters.

“We definitely owe it to our supporters to go back and finish the job this year and that’s our aim.

Another player who is looking forward to donning the Cornwall shirt again is Truro prop Darren Jacques.

Photo Darren Jacques

“I didn’t think I’d be back playing for Cornwall this season but after losing that final I felt I had to give it another crack, it’s great to see everyone coming together tonight and getting that buzz about Cornwall, it’s very special.

“We have been really close the last two seasons I think the squad we have now has built up nicely over that period the core of the squad is still the same and we all desperately want to give the Cornish crowd something to cheer.

It was also good to see try-scorer at Twickenham last season Lewis Vinnicombe also hoping to help Cornwall go all the way this season.

Another player back in the mix is St. Austell’s Matt Shepherd who is once again enjoying a fine season with the Saints as they push for a place in the National Leagues.

“It’s a massive honour to be involved in any Cornwall representative side, it’s always been an objective to play for Cornwall and last season being involved with the County Championship squad was very exciting getting to Twickenham but this year we really want to go all the way and go one step higher.

“For me it would be wonderful to win promotion with St. Austell and go to Twickenham and win the County Championship with Cornwall a dream double.
“With Cornwall it’s refreshing to team up with other players I find that it pushes you into bringing the best out of yourself.

“I feel we have got the squad to go all the way and with someone of the calibre of Graham Dawe coaching us then I think we have a serious option going all the way.”

One of the new players to have made the squad this season and worthy recognition for his performances for the Reds is Murray Westren, younger brother of Cornish All Blacks centre Ryan. “I would love to have a chance to play it’s my first call up to the county squad. My brother has played all the age groups and for the senior side, myself as a latecomer to the game this is first time I have been involved in a county side at any level.

Photo Murray Westren

“It’s a big squad but I’ll just have to see how things pan out a lot can happen as the games are close together if a chance comes my way I will take it.

“I‘ve had a chance to prove my worth at Redruth this season moving from full back to the fly-half role has been a challenge but I feel that it’s now my preferred position on the park.

“It would be nice to play on the same side as my brother as we always seem to play against each other, I think Dad would be pretty chuffed too!

All photos courtesy of Simon Bryant Iktisphoto

The young black and golds put in a storming performance at Penryn’s Memorial Ground yesterday afternoon to book their place in the National Quarter-Finals of this season’s Under 20 County Championship.

They followed up their 37-35 win against Dorset & Wilts with an 18-15 win over Devon to finish top of their pool.

The whole side performed well; there was a big shift from prop Tyler Gendall whilst skipper Todd Prisk playing at lock lead the side with great maturity.

Scrum-half Sam Fox is going to be one to watch over the next few years as is hooker Jack Innard.

Good to see our U.20 Player of the Year from last season Neil Broadbank getting back into the game following a lengthy lay off through injury, he came off the bench putting in a good solid quarter.

Fly-half Rhys Brownfield scored thirteen of Cornwall’s points with a try, conversion and two penalties with winger Brad Janes getting Cornwall’s other try.

I spoke to coaches Ian Morgan and Mike Rawlings along with Team Secretary Chris Lea after the game and they were all delighted with the boy’s performance and the maturity they showed, also the pride and passion of wearing the black and gold hoops.

Photo by Phil Trevarton, Cornwall’ No.8 Brad Howe ready to pounce, whist Cornwall’s scrum-half Sam Fox nails Devon’s No.8 Chris Courtier

Cornwall must now wait to see who they will play at home in the Quarter-Finals.

Congratulations to Jack Nowell on winning his third England cap against Ireland on Saturday. England’s 13-10 win over the Irish means that no side can win the Grand Slam this season. England are two thirds of the way towards a first Triple Crown since 2003, a win against Wales at Twickenham will clinch it.

Cruel luck for Launceston’s Ben Hilton and Cambridge prop Jamal Ford-Robinson who of course hails from Cornwall as England Counties lost for the second time by a single point this time to Irish Clubs XV 23-22 at Darlington. A last minute penalty sealing the win.

Joel Conlon scored in England U.20’s 33-9 win over Ireland at Franklins Gardens.

Lauren Chenoweth played for England Women’s Under 20’s in their 28-0 loss to France at Esher.

On the club front it was another catch up Saturday……..and Friday for the Cornish Pirates.

Disappointment for the Pirates as they lost at Moseley 28-20. You can read Phil Westren’s match report in the link

News of the Cornish Pirates much anticipated British & Irish Quarter-final tie against Pontypridd at the Mennaye. The date has been set, Sunday 6th April kick off 2 pm

In National League 2 South, fortress Polson was breeched by the mob from Ampthill & District who won at Polson 38-23. You can read Bill Sobey’s match report from the Morning News in the link

Other news from Polson this week is that “Spike” Rainford will step down as head coach at the end of the season due to work commitments’ and player Mike Rawlings has sadly had to give up playing rugby having suffered a detached retina. I spoke to Mike on Sunday and I can sense that he is relishing a fresh challenge in rugby probably in a coaching role.

In Tribute South West 1 West, the promotion race is hotting up! Saturday saw St. Austell travel to rivals Hornets with the Somerset side winning 30-24, read Paul Hayes match report from the St. Austell club site in the link

Camborne were also in Somerset and they kept their promotion bid intact with a 40-16 win at North Petherton. Alex Ducker scored three of Town’s six tries. Read Martin Symons match report from the Camborne RFC website in the link

THIS SATURDAY CAMBORNE PLAY ST.AUSTELL AT THE REC KICK-OFF 3 PM!

In Tribute Western Counties West, Bude gave themselves a lifeline with 13-10 win over Penryn. Ryan Buttler and Ben Hancock scored the Seasiders’ tries and Olly Denford kicked a penalty. For the Borough, Andy Seviour scored a try also adding the conversion whilst brother Jake kicked an earlier penalty.

St. Ives lost at Torquay 38-26 but picked up a try-scoring bonus point with tries from Neil Corin (2), Jack Kessell and Tom Nicholas, “Eggy” Williams adding three conversions.

In London 2 SW. London Cornish beat Tottonians 22-17 at Imber Court. Read DoR Dickon Moon’s report from the club website

In Tribute Cornwall & Devon League Pirates Amateurs won the “derby” game against Falmouth 32-8. Ryan Forrester (2) Leigh Edwards and Aaron Hall all scored tries for the AMS with Rhys Brownfield (he had a busy weekend!) converting three and kicking two penalties.

For Falmouth Tom Edmonds scored a try and Justyn Irons a penalty.

Saltash lost at Honiton 31-15 as did Newquay Hornets at Crediton 68-16. Match report from the Hornet’s website in the link

In Tribute Cornwall 1 Helston won at Stithians 10-8 in a game that also counted towards the Tribute Cornwall Clubs Cup.

Cornwall go into next Sunday’s decisive group game against Devon at Penryn’s Memorial Ground knowing that a win against their opponents will land them a home quarter-final to be played towards the end of March.

The Cornish youngsters will hope to repeat the result the last time Cornwall played Devon on Cornish soil at Hayle in 2012 when the young black and golds ran out winners by 24 points to 23.

Action from Cornwall U.20’s v Devon U.20’s in 2012

The selectors have been forced to make a couple of changes to the side that won a thrilling match 37 – 35 against Dorset and Wilts last month due to unavailability.

Devon, for whom this is their opening fixture in the group, come into the game on the back of an encouraging warm up win against England Colleges 19-15 at the Brickfields last month and as ever will provide formidable opposition.

The Cornish players are due to meet at Penryn to complete important pre match formalities including presentations by Kenny Plummer Cornwall RFU President and the squad photo.

CRFU President Ken Plummer said “This will be a tough test for these youngsters who fought bravely to record a win in their first game.” He went on to say “I am sure Captain Todd Prisk and his team will be striving for a win to take us into the quarter-finals.”

Coaches Ian Morgan Mike Rawlings and Brynn Jenkins have built an excellent squad ethic and a pride in wearing the black and gold. A good result against Devon will define where this squad goes next.

Coach Ian Morgan said – “Huge credit has to go to the lads, they have really committed to what we are trying do, it’s such a young side, which showed last week by the issue of 16 ties to the squad, that’s an incredible amount of inexperience, but it didn’t show. They stuck to the task, right up to the last kick and full credit to Connor Swan for calmly slotting it. It was a great start to the campaign, but we have a very tough task ahead, Devon will always be up for it, so hopefully we take this confidence forward and get the win. The lads deserve to progress, they have worked really hard and shown some real pride in the badge.”

Colin Hatch and his back room team have ensured that the Cornish lads have all they need to set up this latest encounter between the two counties.

Players will also be hoping to catch the eye of South West Divisional selectors with a view to selection for the England Counties Under 20’s.

Support for the Cornish team would be much appreciated at Penryn on Sunday with kick-off at 2-30 pm. Entry is only £2-00 with program.

Cornwall U.20: Jack Kessell (St. Ives), Luke Tidball (Truro), Sam Chapman (Cornish All Blacks), Ashley Taylor (St. Austell), Bradley Janes (Truro College), Rhys Brownfield (Pirates Amateurs/Bath Uni), Sam Fox (Wadebridge Camels); Joe Martin (Truro) Jack Innard, (Truro College), Tyler Gendall (St Ives), Todd Prisk (St. Ives) (Capt), Harry Baker (Redruth), Neil Stenleick (St. Ives), Johnny Haines (Cornish All Blacks), Brad Howe (Helston/Truro College).

Replacements: Liam McFarland (Pirates Amateurs), Sam Rodda (Newquay Hornets), Luke Hattam (Redruth/Truro College), Neil Broadbank (Exeter Uni/Redruth), Jordan Duke (Cornish All Blacks) Ben Tharme (Cornish All Blacks), Jack Willey (Truro College/Penryn)

Reserves to attend: Oliver Reynolds (Camborne), Stefan Osborne (Pirates Amateurs)