Fred Penfound in Australia.
Camborne regained the Rodda’s Milk Cup with a hard-fought win over Redruth at the Recreation Ground, reports Luke Tregoning.
Visitors Redruth got off to the best possible start with an opening try scored by scrum-half Luke Hosking with less than sixty seconds on the clock.
The scrum-half intercepted the ball as Camborne looked to play the ball out of their twenty-two. He then added the conversion to his own score.
Camborne’s reply was not long in coming: after winger Rob Floyd was brought down short, a touchline break by full back Joe Parma saw flanker Cameron Bone take the scoring pass.
Camborne scrum-half Dave Mankee, Camborne’s man-of-the-match, kicked his first conversion in a personal points haul of twelve points from the boot.
Dave Roberts once again was having a big game in the Camborne pack, whilst for Redruth flanker Ben Priddey constantly caught the eye.
Centre James Briant was felled short of the Redruth line as Camborne kept the pressure up.
Mankee was involved again on the half-hour mark in the build up to Bone’s and Camborne’s second try, the scrum-half’s conversion putting the Cherry and Whites 14-7 up.
Redruth came back with fly-half Murray Westren kicking a penalty to the West Bank corner. Luke Collins soared to claim the lineout ball. The Redruth pack rumbled towards the Camborne line, with Priddey breaking to feed fellow back rower Richard Brown, who crossed in the corner. Hosking’s conversion tied the scores and that’s how it remained up to half-time.
It was Camborne’s turn to start a half well. With less than two minutes played, full back Joe Parma took the scoring pass from Floyd to skittle in to the scoreboard corner. On this occasion Mankee couldn’t add the extras.
However, he was bang on target with two crucial penalty attempts to stretch the Cherry and Whites’ lead to 25-14 going into the final quarter.
Redruth were chasing the game, being more than two scores adrift. As the Reds pressurized the Camborne line, a pass from Hosking was snaffled by Camborne’s flyer Alex Ducker near his own line. Ducker lit the after burners to run in the pivotal score. Mankee’s conversion put Camborne 32-14 up and the Camborne crowd in dreamland.
Redruth weren’t going to let the Cup slip away without a fight. Back they came with a third try scored by Priddey from a catch-and-drive, with Hosking kicking the conversion.
Priddey looked to have got over again shortly after but was deemed to have been held up by referee Williams.
From the scrum Redruth moved the ball wide, with replacement back Craig “Eggy” Williams scoring out wide for an unconverted try.
The Camborne faithful held their breath at 32-26. Could Redruth stage a remarkable comeback?
No, would be the answer. With the clock ticking away, Redruth’s festering frustrations with some of the officiating finally erupted as both Rhodri McAtee and Hosking were dispatched to the sin-bin in quick succession for dissent. Reduced to thirteen men, Redruth could only watch as young Joel Matavesi, on as a replacement for Parma, stepped up to nail the final nail into Redruth’s coffin with a penalty that put his side more than a score ahead at 35-26.
The final whistle brought a huge cheer from the Camborne crowd, with skipper Steve Kenward stepping up to reclaim the Rodda’s Milk Cup.
Camborne: J Parma, R Floyd, J Briant, S Kenward (Capt), A Ducker, G Thirlby, D Mankee; N Endean, S Bartle, W Webster, J Griffiths, B Kemp, G Hall, C Bone, D Roberts
Replacements (all used): R Kevern, L Manna, L Hocking, J Jackson, J Moore, O Reynolds, M Goldsworthy, J Matavesi
Camborne scorers: tries Bone (2), Parma, Ducker; conversions Mankee (3); penalties Mankee (2), Matavesi
Redruth: B Rule, T Notman, B Drew, S Parsons, D Bonds, M Westren, A Hosking; D Jacques, N Turner, A Strick, D Cook, L Collins, R Brown, B Priddey, M O’Leary
Replacements (all used): M Bowden, M Bolwell, R McAtee, L Vinnicombe, C Williams, R Kessell, D Rutter, J Simmons, W Whitworth
Yellow Cards – McAtee (79), Hosking (80)
Redruth scorers: tries Hosking, Brown, Priddey, Williams; conversions Hosking (3)
Referee: Kevin Williams (Cornwall RRS)
Crowd 1.050
Camborne-man-of-the-match & Trelawny’s Army Supporters Club Tony Pill Memorial Cup – Dave Mankee (Camborne)
Posted 22nd December 2013
Cornwall Under 20’s are in full preparation for the forthcoming U.20’s County Championship, which kicks-off away to Dorset & Wilts on Sunday 2nd February at North Dorset RFC.
Coach Tom Rawlings is pleased with the way the squad are shaping up for the Championship. He said. “We have got a big month during January to build for our opening fixture. We have training sessions booked during the month in the build up to our opening game. A squad is in place but if there are any players from clubs out there that want to be part of the set-up then please get your coaches to put your names forward by contacting our team secretary, Chris Lea, so that we can further strengthen the squad. Our first session is at Truro College on Sunday January 12th.”
“Myself, Ian Morgan, Bryn Jenkins and my brother Mike are heading up the coaching this season.”
“We had a good season last year, despite two away losses to Dorset & Wilts and Devon. We enjoyed a fine win over Somerset at home, and in our final game away to Devon were in with a chance of progressing to the knock-out stages until late in the game.”
“Last year Dorset & Wilts were little bit of an unknown quantity as we hadn’t played them previously, but this year we know what to expect. I think we need to be a little bit sharper going into the first game. We have got quite a few of last season’s squad still eligible for this year and I am looking to those players to step up and lead the team.”
“Our second game against Devon is always a very tough game. Last season we ran them close, whilst two seasons ago we beat them down at Hayle and I am looking for a repeat performance from our boys.”
“It’s going to be a big ask, but I am very confident that we have the players in Cornwall to do well this season.”
Sunday 2nd February v Dorset & Wilts at North Dorset RFC, KO 2 pm.
Sunday 23rd February v Devon (Home venue TBC), KO 2 pm.
Posted 16th December 2013
A bonus-point win in the Channel Islands saw the Cornish Pirates become the first team to qualify for this season's British and Irish Cup quarter-finals as they took an unassailable place at the top of Pool Six.
It was quite a feat for the Cornish team, who won the competition in 2010, as they did it with two pool fixtures still to play.
An expected win over Scottish Premiership champions Ayr at the Mennaye Field next month should be enough to secure a home tie in the draw for the next stage of the competition.
The Pirates travelled to St Peter keen to right the wrongs of a difficult reverse fixture in Cornwall just seven days before, when the Jersey pack had put them under huge pressure.
After a tight opening quarter to this game, which remained scoreless, the home side finally cracked, losing prop Nick Selway to the sin bin for a swinging arm offence at the breakdown.
Within minutes the Pirates struck as a poor clearance kick downfield from former Exeter Chiefs wing Mark Foster found full-back Kieran Goss with time and space.
The South African wing launched a rapid counter-attack from deep and Jersey were caught out by the suddenness and pace of the move. Goss offloaded to Kyle Moyle and the youngster raced home to score his second try in two games, duly converting his touchdown to make it 7-0.
No sooner was Selway back on the field for Jersey than they went back down to fourteen again, this time with skipper Alex Rae blocking off Gavin Cattle as the Pirates threatened to increase their lead.
From the resulting penalty – and a powerful driving line-out – the Pirates pack forced Jersey into a full retreat and piled over the line, with prop Jack Andrew claiming his third try of the season.
With the Jersey pack in disarray the Pirates kept the heat on up front and were rewarded with a third try as the game moved into stoppage time at the end of the first half.
They turned down a kickable penalty, opting to keep the ball in hand and, after several powerful drives from the Cornish pack, No.8 James Phillips smashed his way over the line for his second touchdown in Pirates' colours. Moyle converted with the final kick of the half to make it 19-0.
Jersey changed their entire front row at the interval and started the second half brightly, with Foster going close to scoring as he raced after a kick ahead.
But as they chased the game they were forced into errors by a resilient Pirates defence and when Rae spilt the ball close to the Pirates' line, Mike Pope seized possession and fed Goss, who raced the length of the field to kill the tie with try number four.
Pope came close to adding a fifth try for the Pirates after another stunning burst of speed threatened to unlock the Jersey defence. The only blemish on their afternoon’s work as they closed out the game effectively was a late yellow card for Phillips.
The Pirates can now re-focus on the Championship and a massive south-west derby at home to Plymouth Albion on Boxing Day, whereas Jersey, with eight defeats in their last nine games, are in trouble.
Jersey: Locke (Burroughs 65), Pointer, McCrea, Bishop, Foster, O'Connor, Dudley (Williams 54); Fidler (McCarthy h-t), Felton (Taione h-t), Selway (Young h-t), Markham, Rae (Campbell 54), Makaafi (Young 20-30), Silcock (Voss 54), Maidment
Yellow cards: Selway, Rae
Cornish Pirates: Goss, Pope, Riley, James (Dancer 75), Moyle (Sinclair 65), Evans, Cattle (capt) (Kessell 79); Andrew (Davies 79), Elloway (Channon 51), Prescott (Davies 13-24), Graulich, Sandford (Barry 35), Morgan, Cheesman (Atkinson 75), Phillips
Yellow card: Phillips
Pirates' scorers: tries Moyle, Andrew, Goss, Phillips; conversions Moyle (2)
Attendance: 1,863
Posted 8th December 2013
Late drama at the Mennaye Field saw the Cornish Pirates snatch victory from the jaws of defeat and sensationally grab a winning bonus point with two tries in second-half injury time.
This third win out of three games played in Pool 6 of this season's British & Irish Cup sees the Pirates now in pole position to qualify ahead of next weekend's rematch in Jersey. But they were pushed all the way on a cool Penzance evening by a physical Jersey outfit.
The Islanders travelled as an unknown quantity, following the departure this week of Director of Rugby Ben Harvey, but they maintained their abrasive style of play throughout this tie.
After a high tempo start they fell behind to two Pirates' tries in two minutes inside the first quarter. On-loan Number 8 James Phillips scored the first from close range, with wing Kyle Moyle then running in a gem of a score under the posts from halfway as he collected Niall O'Connor's wayward downfield kick.
Moyle converted both but an O'Connor penalty on 21 minutes rekindled their interest and they won a penalty try ten minutes later as their pack destroyed the Pirates' scrum just 5 metres from their own line.
O'Connor converted before adding a late first half penalty as the home lead was cut to 14-13 at the break.
Moyle landed the opening points of the second half with a routine penalty after excellent work by Darren Barry, before Jersey roared back, threatening to steal the show.
An epic spell of 12 successive scrums in 11 minutes, again just 5 metres from the Pirates' line, finally forced the home pack into submission and won a second penalty try. O'Connor`s boot made it 20-17 to Jersey.
Then, as the clock hit the 80 minute mark, Gavin Cattle's excellent inside pass released Matt Evans, who raced in under the posts for his third try in two games. Angus Sinclair added the extras.
From the final play of the game Darren Barry piled over the Jersey line from a driving maul and Sinclair ended the game by slotting a tough touchline conversion.
Cornish Pirates: Holland, Jones, Riley, James, Moyle, Evans, Cattle (capt); Cahill, Elloway, Joyce, Graulich, Sandford, Morgan, Conlon, Phillips
Replacements (all used): Channon, Andrew, Barry, Cheesman, Pope, Sinclair, Dancer
Pirates’ scorers: tries Moyle, Phillips, Evans, Barry; cons Moyle (2), Sinclair (2); pen Moyle
Jersey: Locke, Copsey, McCrea, Foster, Burroughs, O`Connor, Dudley; Fidler, Felton, Selway, Campbell, Markham, Voss, Silcock, Brown (capt)
Replacements (all used): Taione, Stratford, Brennan, Rae, Buckle, Williams, Makaafi
Jersey scorers: tries Penalty (2); cons O'Connor (2); pens O`Connor (2)
Referee D.Richards (RFU)
Attendance 1,223
Posted 5th December 2013
I am pleased to report that one of our Perran Bears has emigrated to Australia. Fred Penfound flew out to Perth with owners John and Jane on a recent trip to visit their daughter. Fred enjoyed his visit so much he has decided to remain in Perth with Dr. Carly Penfound, John’s & Jane’s daughter and her partner Dr Matt Thomas.
Fred has decided to stay, largely due to the chance of a better lifestyle and employment opportunities. He hopes to meet some of the local Koalas and learn to surf before finding a full time job. Australia has some of the slackest Teddy immigration rules in the world – all you have to do to get there is hide in a suitcase and Bob's your Uncle, you’re in. Fred will not be forgetting his Cornish roots, though, and you never know we may hear from him from time to time.
So Fred have a great new life and don’t forget to put sun block on your nose.
Fred Penfound in Australia.
Posted 17th November 2013
London Cornish’s dreams of Twickenham are over for another year as Rochford Hundred ran out winners in an extremely tight game in Essex, which could be best described as "stop start".
Rochford, unbeaten on their Magnolia Road ground all season, had the first opportunity to open the scoring on 2 minutes, but Bracknell's penalty attempt missed. Cornish responded strongly, and fielding three debutants (Ed Drewett, Ben Devonport and Joe Welch, who all put in strong performances), they hit back. Matt Hakes created a great chance which brought the Exiles to within 5 metres of the Rochford line. However, the final pass was intercepted and the chance went.
Matt Hakes tackles a Rochford attacker. Photo by Ben Gilby.
The home side had another period of pressure, and fly half Ashton received the ball on the 22, and broke though attempted tackles to score in the left hand corner. Bracknell's conversion attempt was wide. Cornish replied immediately with a powerful rolling maul, which sent Rochford hurtling backwards. The ball broke to Truro born Ben Devonport, who scored in the right hand corner. Sam Williams' conversion attempt missed. With a quarter of an hour gone, it was level at 5-5.
The game then degenerated for a period into an arm wrestle, but Cornish managed to create a chance to take the lead when Hakes put Joe Welch, who looked to feed Tom Wapshott, who was making his first start since 'The Exiles' only previous visit to Rochford some three years ago! Unfortunately, the ball could not be gathered. As the half entered its final ten minutes, Rochford Hundred began to grasp the nettle and, aided by a number of penalties, advanced towards the Cornish line. Superb defence kept the hosts at bay. Eventually, the pressure told and, from another penalty, Bracknell kicked Rochford ahead. Once more, Cornish responded, and from a promising attack, they won a penalty of their own, which Sam Williams kicked for 8-8.
Right on half time, a super chip through saw Rochford camped in the Cornish 22, and a quick pass saw Baker break through. The referee ruled that the move was halted illegaly and sent a Cornish forward to the sin-bin. The resulting penalty was kicked to touch, and a rolling maul drove Cornish back until a try was scored. With the conversion missed, 'The Exiles' trailed 13-8 at the break.
Cornish started the second half well, with Mark Osei-Tutu starting to get plenty of ball and space to run in. From one such attack, he offloaded to Adam Rae who sprinted through, but good defence snuffed out the attack. Another fine move from Rae could only be halted illegally, and the Rochford back was sin-binned. Sam Williams kicked the penalty and 'The Exiles' were right back in it at 13-11.
The match then broke down and with numerous penalties being awarded, which badly affected the flow of the game. Crucially, Rochford had the next successful kick at goal to extend their advantage to 16-11. Try as Cornish might, and some sensational moves from Robin Heymann caused mayhem in the Rochford defence at times, they just couldn't get that all important second try.
Entering the final five minutes, it was anyone's game and even extra time looked a possibility. However, it was not to be, as what looked to be an innocuous incident with Rochford throwing the ball into touch, was perceived completely differently by the referee who sinbinned a Cornish back, and in the immediate aftermath a forward was dispatched to the bin for questioning the decision. Down to thirteen men, Cornish had their backs against the wall. From the resulting penalty, Rochford recycled and eventually drove over to score, and gain a place in the Quarter-Finals of the competition.
Posted 13th November 2013
Combined Services and the Barbarians served up a veritable feast of rugby in front of a good crowd on a chilly Plymothian evening in this Remembrance Day encounter.
With the band of the Royal Marines on hand to play the last post and the National anthem prior to kick-off the scene was set, with Services resplendent in their poppy designed shirts and the famous Baa Baa’s black and white hoops and club socks adorning the green Albion pitch.
Cornish Pirates’ Ian Davies and Tom Riley. Photo by Simon Bryant iktisphoto.
Combined Services lock Marsh McCormack (Royal Navy) was granted a week’s leave from his tour in Afghanistan to take part in last night’s fixture.
Army winger Sam Speight enjoyed a profitable evening, running in three excellent tries.
His first try opened the scoring after 13 minutes with a 60 metre run following an interception near his own line.
Services skipper Dave Pascoe (Penryn) was unable to add the extras from out wide.
The Barbarians, coached on this occasion by Cornish Pirates’ head coach Ian Davies, hit back soon after as London Welsh winger Alex Davies got in amongst a powerful forward drive to claim his side’s first try. Pontypridd fly-half Dai Flanagan kicked the first of four successful conversions.
Services regained the lead in this ding-dong encounter as good work from former Exeter Chief’s prop Chris Budgen saw him put in flanker Sam Laird for their second try for a 10-7 lead.
Barbarians then hit the Services with a double salvo as Loughborough Students winger Alex Davis, who caught the eye all evening with his silky running, scored the Baa Baas’ second try and the prop Laurence Ovens crashed over for try number three, both scores again converted by Flanagan for a 21-10 lead.
Danger man Speight cut the deficit for Services just prior to half-time with his second try following some fine play. Pascoe added the extras to leave Services trailing 21-17 at the break.
Cornish Pirates’ centre Tom Riley came on at the start of the second half for Chief’s Ceri Sweeney. Whilst another player with Cornish connections, Kye Beasley, who is also playing his rugby at Penryn, came on during the second half for the Services.
Speight was again involved as another mazy run deep into Barbarian territory to set up a try for replacement flanker Maku Koroyadi, Pascoe’s second successful conversion nudging Services back into the lead.
Barbarians hit back with a fourth try as Flanagan’s deft kick over the defence was taken by Sale Shark’s centre Chris Mayor for a simple score. Flanagan’s fourth conversion gave his side a 28-24 lead going into the final quarter.
In the final ten minutes Services ran in another two tries to seal the game. Speight completed his hat-trick with another exhilarating run in, then at the death replacement Jack Foster made the game safe with his side’s sixth try.
The crowd had certainly had their money’s worth with the ten tries scored.
Combined Services 34 pts: tries Speight (3), Laird, Koroyadi, Foster; conversions Pascoe (2)
Barbarians 28 pts: tries Davies, Davis, Ovens, Mayor; conversions Flanagan (4)
Combined Services: J Humphreys (RN), A Gillespie (RAF), M Tichias (RN), D Sleeman (RN), S Speight (Army), J Prasad (Army), D Pascoe (RN, Capt); T Coghlan (Army), G Evans (RN), C Bugden (Army), M Cormack (RN), D Ball (Army), A Satala (Army), S Laird (RN), L Jope (Army)
Replacements (all used): S Philpott (Army), K Beasley (RN), N Titchard-Jones (Army), R Cooke (Army), M Koroyadi (Army), J Foster (RN), P Nacamavuto (Army), N Huntley (RN)
Barbarians: B Davies (Coventry & Wales), C Goudie (Heriot’s & Scotland U.20), C Mayor (Sale), C Sweeney (Exeter Chiefs & Wales), A Davis (Loughborough Students), D Flanagan (Ponypridd & Wales U.21), A Davies (London Welsh & Wales U.21); L Ovens (Rosslyn Park), C Hawkins (Llanelli & Wales U.21), L Niven (Edinburgh & Scotland U.20), H Pugh (Carmarthen Quins & Wales U.20), C McGowan (Worthing), J Freeman (Loughborough Students), S Harding (Bedford Blues), R Oakley (Plymouth Albion & Wales)
Replacements (all used): G Turner (Edinburgh & Scotland U.20), T. Harrison (Plymouth Albion), D. Bell (Lydney & England), C Dicomidis (Pontypridd & Cyprus), D Eager (Llanelli), R Cushion (Plymouth Albion & Irish Clubs XV), T Riley (Cornish Pirates & Wales U.21), C Ferguson (Heriot’s & Scotland U.20)
Referee: Luke Pearce (RFU)
Posted 11th November 2013
Trelawny’s Army Annual bowling competition was held at Truro Bowl on Sunday 10th November. Here are some pictures: TASC ANNUAL BOWLING COMPETITION 2013
Posted 4th November 2013
Cornwall clinched the group title with a 19-8 win over Buckinghamshire at Bristol Grammar School on Sunday.
The win followed up their previous successes against Somerset 34-0, Devon 26-18 and Dorset & Wilts 10-3.
On behalf of Trelawny’s Army we wish to extend our congratulations to the Cornwall squad on their outstanding success.
Posted 20th October 2013
The Cornish Pirates sit on top of Pool 6 in the British & Irish Cup after their second successive bonus point victory and an eight-try demolition of Scottish Premiership champions Ayr at Millbrae.
In perfect conditions for running rugby the Scottish side started brightly and dominated the opening eight minutes as they forced the Pirates into errors and ran in ten points.
An early Ross Curle penalty was added to two minutes later as Ayr swarmed on the Pirates' line and eventually found space down the right hand flank for wing Craig Gossman to score. Curle converted for a 10-0 lead.
The response from the Pirates was swift, however, and decisive with fly-half Angus Sinclair forcing his way under the home posts to score. Sinclair converted and with his opposite number Curle yellow-carded for a deliberate knock on the Pirates made their numerical advantage count.
Huge pressure from an attacking five-metre scrum brought a penalty try and then Aaron Carpenter cropped up on the wing for a third score. With Ayr threatening less and less, Sinclair ended the half with a penalty to make it 22-10.
Ayr were rejuvenated at the start of the second half, penning the Pirates back in their own 22, but again could not turn their good field position into points. The Pirates weathered a difficult 15 minutes and then scored a bonus-point-clinching try with their first attack of the half.
No8 Joel Conlon raced in from 25 metres and three minutes later, after Matt Evans had gone close for the Pirates, they struck again with Darren Barry barging home from short distance.
Evans then found space to score his second try in two games before Barry's fine break down the flank set up Kieran Goss for an easy run-in.
The scoring was completed in stoppage time as Shane Cahill stole an interception in his own half and made the break which led to Tom Hendrickson's first try in Pirates' colours. Hallett converted with the final kick of an entertaining cup tie.
AYR: Anderson (capt), C Gossman, Fergusson, Kelbrick (McCluskie 31-40, 71), Dalgleish (K Gossman 71), Curle (sin-bin 17-27), Jerecevich (McConnell 55); Mutamangira (Cox 42), Young (Fenwick 63), Hunter (Rae 55), Williamson, Sutherland (Fisken 63), Eddie, McCallum, Templeton
Yellow Card – Curle
Ayr scorers: try C Gossman; con Curle; pen Curle
CORNISH PIRATES: Holland, Pope, Dancer, Hendrickson, Evans, Sinclair (Hallett 60), Cattle (capt) (Goss h/t); Davies (Joyce 53), Carpenter (Channon 55), Prescott (Cahill 53), Patrick (Barry h/t), Graulich, Parker, Cheesman, Conlon (Atkinson 60)
Pirates scorers: tries penalty, Hendrickson, Evans, Sinclair, Carpenter, Conlon, Barry, Goss; cons Sinclair (3), Hallett (2); pen Sinclair
Referee: C Maxwell-Keys
Posted 20th October 2013
A performance of full of determination, aided by scrum and line-out dominance, propelled London Cornish into the second round of the R.F.U. Intermediate Cup following a 15-3 win at Tunbridge Wells.
This match was always going to be a tight affair, given both teams had identical records in their respective leagues this season, and with heavy rain leading up to the game the glue pot pitch at St. Marks' was hardly conducive for running rugby.
Ben Ievers goes over for Cornish's 2nd try. Photo by Ben Gilby.
The early exchanges were very much in the vein of two unknown quantities feeling each other out. The first chance fell to Cornish after three minutes when scrum-half Sam Williams lined up a kick at goal, which missed. Tunbridge Wells took advantage of this to build their first major attack of the game, and gained a penalty which was kicked into touch, just five metres from the Cornish line. Harry Somers did superbly to steal the ball and the forwards launched a ferocious rolling maul which drove the Kent side back over fifteen metres.
This line-out steal and rolling maul were a perfect microcosm of the match. Just four minutes later, 'The Exiles' were at it again with more metres made with the maul. Tunbridge could only halt the Cornish tide by pulling it down illegally. The ball was kicked to touch and on went the forwards' shove. A multi-phase attack followed and the hosts scrambled to stop Cornish. In the end it took another penalty concession to halt the black and gold tide. Sam Williams stepped up to give Cornish a 3-0 lead after 11 minutes.
Just three minutes later, it looked like the visitors were about to extend their lead as the ball found its way to Matt Hakes, who sprinted down the left flank, but unfortunately he was halted for putting a foot in touch. Despite the sun making an appearance, the ball remained very wet, and handling became difficult. However, this did not prevent Cornish launching a super move as Adam Rae fed Matt Hakes, who went on another trademark marauding run which drew the Tunbridge defence. An offload to Tom Dorse gained further ground. One final pass was delivered to Sam Williams, who eased through to ground the ball. Williams' conversion attempt missed.
Tunbridge Wells rallied briefly, and hauled back the visitors' lead slightly with a successful penalty by fly-half Luke Giles. However, it wasn't long before Cornish were on the front foot once more.
On the half hour mark, Matt Hakes broke through the home defence once more; sadly his pass to Rich Skinnard was knocked on. Skinnard was involved once more shortly after as Dorse and Rae combined to put in the Cornish winger. Desperate Tunbridge defence managed to turn over the ball and the Kent side escaped once more. As the half drew to an end, the only way Tunbridge Wells could stop Cornish's powerful forwards was to concede a number of penalties. Eventually, referee Matt Taylor's patience snapped and a home forward was yellow carded. Shortly after, Cornish's dominance was rewarded with a second try as Ben Ievers dived over. Williams' kick was successful and 'The Exiles' led 15-3 at the break.
The second half was almost entirely played in the London Cornish half as Tunbridge Wells threw the kitchen sink at their visitors in a bid to stay in the Intermediate Cup. Tunbridge were hampered by their line-out continuing to mis-fire as Harry Somers and the Cornish forwards had a field day. Time after time, the Kent team put together phase after phase which pinned Cornish in their own 22, but outstanding defence and brute force kept Tunbridge out. Eventually, after almost ten minutes of stoppage time, the final whistle went. Cornish had done it tough, and deservedly ran out winners 15-3.
Posted 12th October 2013
The Cornish Pirates successfully came through an entertaining first British and Irish Cup game against Ulster Ravens at Mennaye Field.
The Pirates have been going well in the Championship so far this season but have made it clear they want to challenge again for the cup they were the first to win in 2010.
And while Ulster's first team were fully focused on a Heineken Cup clash with Leicester Tigers, they still brought a team, led by lock Lewis Stevenson, with plenty of skill and experience.
The Cornishmen edged a keenly fought encounter 34-17 with tries from Aaron Carpenter, Mike Pope, Kieran Goss and Matt Evans doing the bulk of the damage.
It took both sides some time to find their feet under the Friday night lights. Pirates, arguably, started the brighter but some early handling errors stopped them making it count.
A catch-and-drive move deep in the Ulster 22 was fumbled frustratingly in the seventh minute but it only took Pirates little over a minute more to make a proper breakthrough.
It was No.8 Carpenter running from deep, bouncing off some rather soft Ulster tackles, who ran in the first try in the right corner.
Home fly-half Angus Sinclair, who had a luckless night with the boot the previous week against Moseley, saw his conversion attempt from an acute angle fall just short.
That setback for the Irish side seemed to spur them into action. A sustained attack could, and perhaps should, have brought their first touchdown of the night through Ricky Andrew.
However, the centre was adjudged to have gone into touch on his run down the left wing to the Pirates' tryline.
The home side then regained a little control. But they will have been disappointed to give away a penalty after surviving that spell and the assured nature of fly-half James McKiney's kick from long range was an early warning that discipline would be crucial for Pirates.
Indeed, Ulster were causing problems for Pirates with the ball in hand and drew another penalty for offside, which McKiney slotted through the posts to give his side the lead.
Their single-point advantage didn't last long. Pirates' scrum was faring well and they applied serious pressure inside the Ulster 22 before eventually opting to kick a penalty through the posts from point-blank range.
A second try soon followed for the home side. The ball spilled loose to Cattle during an Ulster attack, he then found Pope who accelerated to the try line from 65 metres out, despite the best efforts of opposite number Peter Nelson chasing him down.
Nelson got his own back just before the half-time break, taking a fantastic pass from the impressive McKiney to score an unconverted try.
The visiting side continued their offensive into the second half, taking the lead once more through another McKiney penalty.
Sinclair had a chance to kick Pirates back ahead just short of the hour mark, but again, he missed the target by the narrowest of margins.
Fortunately, full-back Goss ran in Pirates' third try soon after with a powerful run down the right touchline.
A yellow card for Michael McComish and a successful penalty kick from Sinclair enhanced Pirates' position further still.
McKiney and Sinclair traded penalties as the game entered the final ten minutes. But the fourth and final try then came from Pirates.
Just as their hopes of a score seemed to have diminished, Evans burst to the line, with Sinclair adding a simple conversion. Replacement Kieran Hallett added a late penalty just before the final whistle.
CORNISH PIRATES: Goss, Pope (Holland h/t), Fatialofa (Hallett 77), James, Evans, Sinclair, Cattle (capt); Davies (Cahill 66), Channon, Prescott (Joyce 77), Graulich, Barry (Cheesman 46), Morgan (Atkinson 79), Conlon (Parker 59), Carpenter
Pirates’ scorers: tries Carpenter, Pope, Goss, Evans; con Sinclair; pens Sinclair (3), Hallett
ULSTER RAVENS: McIlwaine, Cochrane (Busby 77), Andrew, Farrell, Nelson (McCloskey 62), McKinney, Heaney (Porter 73); McAllister (Cromie 50), Annett (Murphy 77), Ross, Stevenson, O`Connor (Taggart 73), C.Joyce (Doyle h/t), McComish (sin bin 62-72), McComb
Yellow Card: McComish
Ravens’ scorers: try Nelson; pens McKinney (4)
Referee: T Foley (RFU)
Attendance: 1,326
Posted 10th October 2013
Trelawny’s Army Supporters’ Club held their A.G.M. on Wednesday 9th October at the St. Austell Brewery Visitor Centre.
The Army were delighted to have as guests for the evening officials from the Cornwall R.F.U., including President Ken Plummer, Chairman Denis Preece and Cornwall Team Secretary Ewart White.
There was also a very special welcome for the newly appointed Cornwall coaches, Graham Dawe and Ian Morgan.
Club Chairman Phil Trevarton reported on a very successful year for the club, the highlight of which was Cornwall getting to Twickenham.
The highlight of the evening were the player awards; with Redruth prop forward Darren Jacques receiving the “Bill Osborne” Memorial Shield as Cornwall Player of the Year as voted for by the club members. He said. “This award tops off a great year for me, especially with the year Cornwall have had. The only thing that’s missing is not having won at Twickenham and that really is going to spur the boys on again this year as we strive to go one better.”
Player of the Year Darren Jacques and Under 20s Player of the Year Neil Broadbank with their awards.
The “Tony Mead” Memorial Shield went to Cornwall U.20s skipper from last season, flanker Neil Broadbank, who will still be eligible to play at this level again this season. He said. “It’s a great honour to be voted for this award. There are some fine former winners of this shield who have gone on to do well in the game and I am sure this will inspire me to progress further in my rugby career.”
There were further presentations made to Alan Mitchell, who stood down as Hon. Sec of the Cornwall R.F.U. last June and who is a past Chairman of the Army, and to long-serving Membership Secretary Thelma Sweet, who has also stood down.
There was also the presentation to St. Austell Brewery of two match balls, which hopefully in time will be displayed in their visitor centre, one from this season’s match against Hertfordshire and the second a 1991 signed ball from the county final against Yorkshire at Twickenham. Fittingly, Graham Dawe was on hand to make the presentation, along with CRFU President Ken Plummer, to St. Austell Brewery’s John Treglown, who also happens to be TASC’s President and a former Cornwall player in his own right.
Fundraiser for Sarah Cloke's trek to Nepal in support of Wateraid (see below).
Posted 6th October 2013
Following the fantastic run by the Cornwall team in this season’s Bill Beaumont Cup in reaching the Twickenham final, it was always going to be a very difficult decision as to whom to vote for as our Cornwall Player of the Year.
There were so many candidates throughout the team who put their hands up as potential winners.
In the end a close poll saw REDRUTH PROP FORWARD DARREN JACQUES emerge as the player with the most votes, narrowly defeating two former winners of the award, skipper Ben Hilton in second place and Sam Hocking, third.
Darren Jacques. Photo by Simon Bryant.
The cornerstone for any side is its pack, the front row is where it all begins. “Jacqusey” excels not only in the tight but also in the loose as a fine all round player.
He has for many seasons been one of the crowd’s favourites and this award fully justifies his commitment and service to the Cornwall team.
Jacques has been a stalwart of the Redruth pack for many seasons and captained the Reds from 2009-11.
He previously played for Penryn before moving to the Reds. Jacques has also represented the Barbarians and played for England Counties.
This season saw him notch his 25th county appearance.
The winner of the TONY MEAD MEMORIAL SHIELD CORNWALL U.20 PLAYER goes to last season’s Cornwall U.20’s skipper, NEIL BROADBANK, who also plays for REDRUTH.
Broadbank, a fine flanker, made a few appearances for the Reds during their National League 2 South campaign last season.
He also made the final trials for England Counties U.20 squad, narrowly missing out on selection for the tour to Georgia.
Broadbank is currently at university in Exeter.
16th September 2013
The 22nd March 2014 will be my 40th birthday and UN World Water Day! I am going to mark it by taking on the greatest challenge and experience of my life. I am going to travel to Nepal with WaterAid on 20th March, visiting a WaterAid project before trekking approximately 100km around the Annapurna circuit of the Himalayas up to 3,000m. I am determined to be fitter, slimmer, healthier and hopefully happier than ever by the time I hit 40! Rather than a party and presents I would like to raise as much money as possible please, whether you know me or not I would be very grateful if you would help WaterAid change lives across the world.
Sarah Cloke
Safe, clean water is essential for life, but one in ten of the world's population does not have access to it. Just £15 can enable one person to access a lasting supply of safe water, improved hygiene and sanitation. Last year, WaterAid helped 1.5 m of the world’s poorest people gain access to safe water and sanitation. Together with improved hygiene, these basic human rights underpin health, education and livelihoods, forming the first, essential step in overcoming poverty.
Any help would be greatly appreciated, I am also collecting raffle prizes and things for car boot, etc.
I have my first fundraising event on 28th September, a coffee morning 10.00-13.00 at 2 Bay View Park, St. Austell, PL25 3TR. Cake and Jam stall, raffle, bring and buy! If you would be able to come along that would be fantastic... I will be shooting up to Polson for the CAB v Hartpury College game straight after!
If you would like to sponsor me please visit my fundraising page: http://my.wateraidfundraising.org.uk/SarahLCloke
If you are unable to sponsor online and/or have any fundraising ideas, suggestions to assist my training or are able to donate raffle prizes etc please contact me at sarah_cloke@hotmail.com I would love to hear from individuals and businesses.
Also after I have completed my trek if any schools, clubs etc would like to hear about my efforts or wish to use this as education on WaterAid and/or geography I would be keen to donate my time and experiences.
Many thanks, Sarah Cloke
12th September 2013
London Cornish head coach Tom Sincock is hopeful for a bright season, as ‘The Exiles’ prepare for the new London Two South-West campaign.
Sincock spent his playing career at Redruth, Clifton, and Civil Service. He also represented Cornwall at colts, U21 and senior level, so is well experienced to develop the present playing squad.
“Our main strength is our ability to attract very talented players albeit without the incentive of money. South West London is very competitive with many National League teams a stones throw away spending vast sums of money.” Indeed, it is, and this group of talented players were pushed to their limits at times last season as Cornish were hit by a raft of injuries, some rather freakish in nature. “It was very tough. Due to injuries and absentees we used 66 players in the first team alone, which did not help continuity. Along side this we had massive issues with training facility availability. As we only trained once a week last season, when our training facility is unavailable or bad weather stops training missing one session puts you a fortnight behind your competitors. In the end, our attitude was if we can get through this we can get through anything and these problems in the end really brought the team and club together which was a massive positive.”
The outcome of the run of losses around the turn of the year left the club facing the danger of relegation. It all came down to the final two matches of the campaign – away at Old Alleynians and home to Guildford. To guarantee safety, two victories with bonus points for scoring four tries were needed – and that was exactly what Cornish achieved. Sincock points to the importance of these games for the club’s immediate future: “The last two results of the season were defining for us as a team. We played the game plan and patterns we had been working on all season and executed them superbly. It was an eye opener for many on just how well we could play with the right attitude and application.”
London Cornish are keen to build on their superb ending to the previous campaign and brought the positivity over into the pre-season preparations. “Recruitment has gone well,” Sincock explains, “but more importantly we have retained a very talented and loyal core of players who I see as the individuals who will move this club forward. Pre-season has seen a huge emphasis on fitness and improving basic skill levels. We have moved from training once a week to twice and the lads are reaping the benefits. We've added Marc Sweeney (ex Redruth, Launceston, Henley and Rosslyn Park) as our assistant head coach and backs specialist. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience from many years in the National Leagues. Ed Taylor has also come in to work with the forwards.
Tom believes there are clear favourites for promotion this season: “I think the team to beat this season will be Guildford. London Two South-West is a strong league and a lot of the teams are very evenly matched. In terms of ourselves, my hope for this season is to push for a top 4 finish. Long term I'd like to see the club competing in London One. I think like any other coach, committee member, player or supporter I'd like to see the club financially self sustaining.”
31st August 2013
Ben Gilby, the Press Officer of London Cornish RFC, has just published a book entitled: "The Game: Tales From A Season Travelling Around The Rugby Union Grounds of Southern England".
It is the story of a season visiting different clubs/grounds at all levels of the sport, from the Premiership to Step 7 of the league system. Each chapter focuses on a particular matchday at a club, the histories of the two teams in action on the day, observations of the ground, the characters met, plus a full match report and photos.
There is plenty of interest for Cornish rugby fans - Cornish Pirates are featured three times (once at home, twice away), London Cornish are featured twice (once home, once away), Redruth are featured four times (once home, three times away), Camborne once (at home) and also the Kent v Cornwall County Championship tie is featured.
The book costs £12, or £15 with P&P. To order a copy, email Ben Gilby at bgilby@blueyonder.co.uk.
The cover of Ben’s book - featuring London Cornish kicker Luke Spells.
28th August 2013
With Josh Lewsey's term as acting CEO of the Cornish Pirates almost up it was anticipated that an announcement would be made as to his future role.
So yesterday’s announcement from Pirates’ Chairman Dicky Evans came as no surprise.
The statement read: “It was announced back in March that British Lion and World Cup winner Josh Lewsey had been appointed as Acting CEO/Performance Director at the Cornish Pirates for a six month period.
“Everyone will be aware that since Josh's arrival it has been a very busy and productive time for the club, and with September fast approaching there is welcome news that his commitment to the club is for the longer term, staying on as an advisor to the board. As from October Josh will be working elsewhere but has agreed to help the club continue it’s new approach and hopefully achieve the long-term aim of becoming a Premiership club.
“From October Rebecca Daniell is upgrading her role from Business and Finance Controller to Acting CEO until the New Year. At that time we will have a much clearer idea of the impact on finances of the change to Friday night floodlit rugby, the new marketing initiatives, and the impact of Josh’s input on the team performances. We will then regroup again to look at the 2014-2015 horizons.
“On behalf of the Board I would formally like to express our appreciation for Josh’s huge impact on our Club and rugby in the Cornwall republic generally. It has been massive and from 4000 miles away like riding a Tiger by the Tail. He has always had the financial constraints of any player recruitment in his thinking processes and is well aware of the financial constraints surrounding a club in the Far West that doesn’t have the facilities or catchment area to generate funding for bigger squads/better facilities.
“Obviously those who have met him will know he is a driven man and a modern day Pied Piper.
“Let us hope all his hard work in the last six months results in top class rugby at a packed exciting venue. Josh certainly deserves this.
“I also feel sure he will be equally successful and innovative in his new role and we wish him the very best for the future.”
Speaking at Redruth R.F.C. last night at the conclusion of the third of the Cornish Pirates’ Road shows around the county, Lewsey was confident that the structures he had put in place over the summer would progress the Cornish Pirates.
“I don’t think today’s announcement is going to make a huge change. My tenure was for six months on a consultancy basis, we’ve made some big changes in the time and my commitment, not just to the club but also rugby in the county, is for the longer term.
“I am delighted to be asked to maintain commitment there and I hope to do so for the long term.
“It’s been a big challenge to put in place the framework within the six months, but this isn’t about me, it’s about the club and the whole county. This is very much a long game in putting in place these structures.
“Friday’s match (vs. Cornwall Clubs XV KO 7-30 pm) is symbolic of our new beginning of working with the Cornwall RFU and ALL the clubs in the county. This evening the Pirates are here training at Redruth RFC, one of the most iconic club grounds in Cornwall. Hopefully we will see the fruits of our hard work with people coming to see professional rugby on a Friday night when our League campaign gets under way.
“Cornwall is very much my home now, but as I have said from the outset the only people who will give Cornwall the chance of having a side competing at the top level of rugby are the Cornish people themselves.”
Josh has taken a keen interest in how the squad has been shaping up over the summer. “I feel that the squad are physically very well prepared and I feel that they are very well focused on the tasks ahead.
“There is a greater emphasis now on individual performance and progression along Premiership lines.
“We’ve recruited a lot of young guys, many with connections to Cornwall, and just as off the field we have put long-term plans in place, likewise on the field. This side is not going to win the Championship this season, but it will develop and be ready when the club is in a position to make that push. Hopefully the style of rugby we are going to endeavour to play will please the crowd, it’s about a progressive path for the longer term.”
The picture shows the shirts to be worn by the “Cornwall Clubs XV” when they play the Cornish Pirates on Friday 30th August, KO 7.30 pm.
Cornwall Clubs XV shirt launch. L-R: Acting CEO Cornish Pirates Josh Lewsey, Cornwall rep to the RFU Dave Martin, Ben Taylor (St. Ives), Harry Martin (Falmouth), Nathan Chapman (Roseland, capt), Daryl Harding (St. Agnes), CRFU President Kenny Plummer. Photo Simon Bryant.
27th August 2013
What a great evening was had by "One & All" at the Lostwithiel Golf & Country Club last Saturday.
The function room was packed with players, coaches, officials and supporters as they all came together to celebrate 20 years of the “Army” and Cornwall getting to Twickenham.
Cornwall players Nielson Webber, Craig Williams, Ben Hilton, Paul Thirlby, Richard Brown, Martin Rice, Darren Jacques and Steve Johnsat the TASC 20th birthday party. Photo by Richard Major.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of a framed certificate of thanks and appreciation, by club Chairman Phil Trevarton to outgoing head coach, Dave “Benji” Thomas for his outstanding contribution to rugby football in Cornwall over the years.
A visibly moved “Benji” paid a warm tribute to the supporters of Cornwall, whom he described as “the best in the land, the envy of every county in England, and Cornwall’s sixteenth man”.
Cornwall’s team secretary Ewart White was given a very special mention for all the hard work he does behind the scenes. Ewart is not one for the spotlight, quietly going about his business, but his job is vital to the success of the Cornwall team.
Ewart, along with the Cornwall players present, were each presented with a special medal to commemorate getting to Twickenham.
An excellent buffet was washed down with a barrel of St. Austell Brewery’s “Tribute” Ale generously provided by the brewery for the evening.
The raffle saw CRFU Chairman Denis Preece become the proud owner of one of Trelawny’s Army bears, dressed appropriately in black and gold.
The evening also saw the settling of a wager between Army Hon. Sec Ian Gordon and CRFU Hon. Treasurer Richard Simeons - Ian had wagered with Richard after Cornwall’s win against Kent that the crowd at Camborne when Cornwall played Hertfordshire would exceed 2,000 - with Ian savouring his double single malt paid for by Richard!
The evening concluded with a good old sing song enjoyed by “One and All”.
24th August 2013
London Cornish reached the Final of the Maximuscle Touch Rugby Event at Twickenham, and were only denied victory by a Ugo Monye-inspired Newcastle University side.
London Cornish Touch Rugby 7s side at Twickenham
The event, in which London Cornish represented Cornish Pirates, wearing the kit of the Championship side, saw eight sides take part in squads of ten, with each team fielding a British & Irish Lions or England international in seven-a-side play.
Cornish, featuring former Leicester and England star Harry Ellis, came through the group stage with three wins from three, seeing off Mavericks by seven tries to one, Newcastle University 6-4, and a 'Journalists' side who fielded Wasps, England and Lions speedster Christian Wade 4-1.
The Semi-Final saw Cornish up against Group A runners-up Beaconsfield, and a match of superb attacking play and intricate passing ensued. Cornish built a 3-1 lead, with tries from Tom Whelan, Luke Spells and Simon Lilley. The Buckinghamshire opposition came back to level, but further tries from Whelan (2) and Giles Humphries sealed a 6-4 win, and a place in the Final.
So, it was Newcastle University once more who would provide London Cornish's opposition in the Final. Cornish made a sensational start, building a 2-0 lead, thanks to tries from Luke Spells and Simon Lilley. However, Newcastle were finally able to call on their 'international guest' - Harlequins, England and Lions winger Ugo Monye. Receiving the ball in his own half, Monye sprinted away, offloading right on the try line, and Newcastle were back in the game. Newcastle built on this momentum to equalise just after half-time.
With Monye's cameo now over, it was a battle to the end, and in the final stages, the University side sealed victory to win the game 3-2.
London Cornish can be incredibly proud of their performance. They gave it everything they had on a day when temperatures were approaching 30C in the shade. Big thanks to Cornish Pirates for inviting us to represent them in the event.
LONDON CORNISH SQUAD: Giles Humphries, Ali Lindsay, Mark Osei-Tutu, Mike Bond, Simon Lilley, Tom Carter, Tom Whelan, Luke Spells, Rob Moore, Harry Ellis
21st August 2013
I'm pleased to report that our last scheduled sales trip for 2013 was a great success. It was also a pleasant change for us not having to set off at 5.30 am again, being that St. Ewe is only 3 miles away from where we live.
Collies in a Landover at St Ewe Country Fair.
We arrived on site at 7.45 and set up on a bright and sunny morning between a bouncy castle and a bric-a-brac stall. A steady stream of friends, family and neighbours strolled past the stand all day and although this is the smallest event we regularly attend in the summer we still take a similar amount of sales to an agricultural show.
It was nice to meet a number of ex-Roseland RFC players, including Paul Sloggett, who came over to introduce themselves and people who recognise the value of Trelawny’s Army as a supporters' club. One local cricketer lamented that the Cornwall Minors Counties team don’t have a “Trelawny’s Army” of their own.
So another great day out with plenty of sales, a big thank-you to those who stopped, spoke and smiled, and a bigger thank-you to those who bought merchandise. We hope to see you next year. All we have to do now is stock take before the AGM and get ready for the Christmas orders.
20th August 2013
The World's biggest coffee morning takes place on September 27th and is Macmillan Cancer Support's biggest fundraising event of the year.
Always willing to respond where they can, the Cornish Pirates called on the services of squad members Peter Joyce and Rob Elloway, along with the club's mascot Captain Benbow, who are all keen on a 'cuppa', to help promote the event.
Pirates Peter Joyce and Rob Elloway, with mascot Captain Benbow.
Last year's similar coffee morning raised £15m nationally for Macmillan, and in Cornwall alone the magnificent sum of £100,000 was raised..
Macmillan are hoping to break through that mark this year, and want to encourage people from all across the County to hold an event for them.
It doesn’t need to hold a traditional coffee morning, as maybe a quiz night, cocktail evening or a wear green at work day will help raise funds. It’s up to you! Events last year were held in factories, building sites, schools, pubs, and even aquariums!
Every day, nine people in Cornwall are told they have cancer - that’s over 3,400 people every year and by 2030 the number of people living with cancer in Cornwall will be double the current population of Penzance.
Macmillan's Cornwall and Isles of Scilly fundraising manager, Emma Wright, explained:
“Our aim is that no one should face cancer alone, and we rely on communities fundraising for us to help provide vital services. Every £27 raised at a coffee morning could provide an hour of a Macmillan nurse's time, so people really can make a difference by holding an event for us this September.”
Emma added:
“We are one again grateful to the Cornish Pirates for supporting the event, and for helping promote the work of Macmillan in the county.”
To register for a coffee morning, and to receive a free fundraising pack, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/coffee, or call 0845 6021426.
20th August 2013
The Cornish Pirates rugby team will be supporting the RNLI as their chosen charity for the 2013/14 season. The partnership will mean regular appearances by volunteers of the RNLI at home games and Cornish Pirates team members will also wear a ‘Proud to support’ RNLI logo on their shorts.
The Pirates, who play in the Green King IPA Championships, have close links to the RNLI, not least because there are four former players who are now part of the lifesaving team at the Penlee lifeboat station. They are Coxswain/Mechanic Patrick ‘Patch’ Harvey, Dave Pascoe, Wayne Davey and Adrian Bick. John Blewett, who tragically lost his life in the Penlee lifeboat disaster, was also a former player and popular captain of the 3rd XV.
What a XV! Photo by Simon Bryant.
Lifeboat crew volunteers and lifeguards from the RNLI met some of the Cornish Pirates players on the beach at Gwithian near Hayle on Friday, where they were supported by the club's CEO, Josh Lewsey MBE, community manager James Coles and media officer Phil Westren, plus their famous mascot Captain Benbow. Amongst the RNLI team was Patch Harvey who says he’s delighted to see the Cornish Pirates and the RNLI working together. He commented:
“We share so many values. The RNLI looks to its volunteers and its staff being selfless, dependable, trustworthy and courageous and the Cornish Pirates ask much the same of their players. We all work close to the sea too so there’s that link and I’m always amazed how many of the RNLI crew in West Cornwall have ties to the club that go back over many years. I hope this partnership will benefit our charity and help ensure people know more about us and our friends in the Cornish Pirates.”
Phil Westren from the Cornish Pirates said:
“Everyone in Cornwall will be aware of the importance of the RNLI and the role played by its crew members, for whom we have the utmost respect.”
He added:
“The players will be honoured to wear the ‘Proud to support' RNLI logo on their shorts and during the season we will naturally be keen to help raise funds for what is a much cherished charity.”
A positive RNLI presence will be seen at a number of Cornish Pirates games this coming season, starting with the match against the Cornish Clubs XV to be played on Friday 30th August (ko 7.30pm).
Besides the RNLI, it should also be noted that the Cornish Pirates expect to continue supporting other worthy charitable causes as they importantly have in the past, including the Children’s Hospice SW.
20th August 2013
Cornish Pirates at Land's End 'Pirates' Day'. Photo by Brian Tempest.
16th August 2013
Cornwall Rugby Football Union is delighted to announce that Graham Dawe has been appointed as coach with Ian Morgan working alongside him for the 2013/14 season.
CRFU President Ken Plummer said, “Graham and Ian will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the CRFU”. He went on to say, “Personally and on behalf of the rugby community of Cornwall, I offer a big warm welcome to both of them”.
The appointment follows the decision of long-standing Coach Dave “Benji” Thomas to stand down at the end of last season. The appointments have been made following an advertisement and a process to fill the position.
Graham Dawe said: “I am looking forward to coaching the Cornwall senior squad, and working with Ian Morgan in preparing the squad for the 2014 County Championship Campaign. Although I have other commitments in the game I feel it is a great honour to be asked to coach a County team that has so much Rugby history and passion for the County Championship”.
Graham played for England, Bath, Sale, Plymouth Albion and Launceston. He was involved with the England Squad for ten years and played in the 1987 and 1995 World Cups. He won 14 major trophies during 12 years at Bath before moving on to Sale and also represented the Barbarians, South West, and Cornwall. Graham became player-coach of Plymouth Albion in 1999. He is believed to be the first 50-year-old to play professional rugby, turning out for Plymouth Albion in the Championship and British & Irish Cup. He guided Plymouth from the bottom of National League Three South to the RFU Championship.
Ian Morgan said: “I am really excited about coaching Cornwall; it is something I have wanted to do for a long time. It will be great to work with Dawesy, I have known Graham for a long time now and I think we will work well together". He went on to say: "There is a lot of exciting talent in Cornwall and hopefully we can put a team together and go one better this season!! The players will have learned from that experience and that will only help the squad, I can't wait to get started"
Ian has played for Cornwall, RAF, Combined Services, Camborne, Lydney, Redruth, St. Ives and Brixham and coached St Ives, Brixham, Cornwall 20’s, Cornwall Senior 15, RAF, & Combined Services.
Chair of the CRFU Denis Preece joined in the warm welcome for both men and went on to say: “These appointments will allow us to build on the good work of last few seasons. They will add to the set up that we currently operate, and I am sure will bring a new focus to everyone involved with the County squad”.
As the new season is about to commence the work on the County Championship 2014 is already well in hand within the CRFU. A debrief meeting with selectors and senior players has been held with a lessons learnt report being prepared. Coaches and selectors will be identifying potential players within and outside the County over the coming months to enable them to select an enlarged squad in the New Year.
Trelawny's Army is delighted to preview its latest item of merchandise. We are pleased to present on sale our tribute to Cornish Civil Engineering and Cornwall's long mining heritage -- our new T-Shirts in Black with a yellow engine-house design.
New TASC Tee shirt.
These are available from Marina Trevarton, TASC Merchandise Secretary, at £10.00 +pp in sizes M, L, XL, 2XL and 3XL.
We are indebted to member Mark Champion for the loan of the design.
To order, follow the instructions on the TASC Shop page.
We’re pleased to report that we had a very successful day at the Camelford Show on the 14th of August.
Sales were steady all day despite the poor weather. We arrived on site at 6.30am in fog and rain and set up. It seemed that the ‘weather gods’ were going to be unkind to Camelford Show again, after last years’ cancellation, but the conditions didn’t worsen and by 9 o’clock we were steadily making sales. The showers came and went. Each time it rained the marquee filled up with potential customers. Our new Cornish Erection T-Shirts raised a few smiles and, by the numbers of photos that were taken, have now found their way on to a number of ‘Facebook’ pages.
All set up and ready to sell.
It was nice to meet many regular customers who now recognise our stand. Many people at the show appreciate our participation as something different from the jewellery stands which dominate many shopping and craft marquees. I was really pleased to meet Keith Lovegrove, Camelford RFC Treasurer, who came over and said hello to us. Keith reports that Camelford have started training, their training sessions have been really well supported with new players, and that they are looking forward to the coming season
Camelford, I have to say, is a great small show and was well supported by its followers and is well worth a visit in the future. I have included a selection of photos so that you can get a flavour of this great local event.
So a big thank-you to those who stopped, spoke and smiled, and a bigger thank-you to those who bought merchandise. We hope to see you again next year.
On Saturday 20th July the TASC merchandise stand returned to Camborne for the third time this year, for the Camborne Show at Gwealavellan Farm, Gwithian.
On another hot and sunny day the sales team of Phil and Marina Trevarton were pleased to meet many old friends and customers of Trelawny's Army.
Our new T-Shirts proved very popular and raised many smiles. Our stand looked great again and we have received many invitations from other events who would like us to attend. Unfortunately our commitments to prior-booked events and work often mean that we can't extend our summer sales campaign any further, but we constantly review where we can take the stand.
Camborne Show main shopping Marquee.
The TASC Tradestand visited Liskeard Show on the 13th of July and was not only successful in selling merchandise but also in winning the Trophy for the Best Tradestand in the Shopping Arcade. The sales team of Phil and Marina Trevarton were awarded the Ernest Hawkins Trophy, going one better than last year's Second Prize. The display of Black & Gold shirts, off-set by garlands of black and gold artificial flowers and new TASC Banners, is really eye-catching and impressive.
Phil Trevarton receives the Cup for the Best Tradestand at the Liskeard Show. Photo by Ian Savigar/Colin Penwarden.
Yesterday saw the finale of this year’s County Championship and Lancashire emerge as worthy winners. It should not detract from the performance and the pride and passion demonstrated by our beloved Cornwall squad who took us to a Twickenham final once again. Ben and the Boys must be heartbroken; the look of the team as they walked down the steps at Twickenham says it all, the photo on the back page of this morning’s Western Morning News caused a tear to run down my face this morning. The disappointment in Ben’s face is there for all to see.
Lancashire may have won, but it’s a hollow victory when nobody cares if you won. Yesterday’s winners were Cornwall and the County Championship and I hope that Bill Beaumont and the RFU recognises it. The ‘Big game’ yesterday only packed in 60,000 supporters, the top tier of the Stadium being completely devoid of England support, and if Cornwall had not made the final there would have been pretty poor attendance for England v Baa Baas.
When the stewards emptied the middle tier Twickenham didn’t exactly empty out as they would have anticipated. Around 20,000 people remained behind to watch what has been, for years, a side show with an empty house. The pockets of Black and Gold now concentrated to nearly fill 3 of the lower tier stands. The remaining England neutral fans watched with fascination, as people from Cornwall carrying black and white flags and wearing black and gold took their seats and roared into life at the emergence of the Cornwall team, and sang and chanted for the next two hours. It wasn’t long before the England neutrals behind me were swept along with the euphoria of the occasion and singing in support as loudly as any Cornishman.
So we lost yesterday to a better squad, so what, it doesn’t end here. Before the legendary (no other superlative required) win of 1991 there was a loss in 1989, before the win in 1999 there was the loss in 1998. County Championships don’t come easy, Dean Shipton taught us that.
On Sunday 26th May the Cornwall Team and the massed ranks of Trelawny’s Army placed a down payment on our next final, because we shall return to Twickenham.
On Sunday 26th May, TASC Press Officer Bill Hooper presented Cornish sports' reporter Nigel Walrond with a special certificate, acknowledging his outstanding contribution in covering Cornish rugby in the local media.
The award was made in the press room at Twickenham, just prior to Cornwall's County Championship Cup Final against Lancashire.
Nigel Walrond with his award. Photo by Bill Hooper.
TASC Stand at Summer Shows.
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.
Craig Bonds scores for Aggie Baa Baas. Photo by Simon Bryant.
Josh Lewsey for Aggie BaaBaas. Photo by Simon Bryant.
Josh Lewsey for Wasps Legends. Photo by Simon Bryant.
Tony Cook lines up Serge Betsen. Photo by Simon Bryant.
Both sets of players Aggie BaaBaas v Wasps Legends. Photo by Simon Bryant.
Cornwall’s most capped player Tony Cook, along with former Redruth Director of Rugby David Penberthy, on his 57th Birthday and with brother-in-law Nigel Hambly, current Redruth player Craig Bonds, prop Neil Douch, hooker Brian Andrew and recently retired (again!) Ian Morgan were just some of the players to turn out for the Baa Baa’s.
For Wasps Legends, Josh Lewsey, 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.
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.
Left to Right: Tom Hendrickson, Mike Roach, Max Bodilly, Matt Bolwell. Photo by Simon Bryant/Iktisphoto. Mobile: 07990592945.
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.”