cornwall rugby – Page 11

Cornwall U.20 announce team to face Somerset on Sunday

April 19, 2023 by Bill Hooper

CORNWALL RFU UNDER 20 COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP 2023 The Jason Leonard Cup.

Cornwall Rugby Football Union (CRFU) Under 20 County Championship home campaign 2023 continues with their third fixture in the Jason Leonard Cup. The team host Somerset U20’s in the final pool game of this year’s competition on Sunday 23rd April. The game will be played at Camborne RFC with a 1400 kick off time.

CRFU President John Sumnall said. “Irrespective of the result on Sunday, this will be the last home game that the U20’s plays this season, so it would be fantastic to get a great crowd there to support and cheer them on. We thank Camborne RFC for hosting us once again along with their volunteers who make playing the game possible. The thanks must also go to our fabulous sponsors, kit suppliers O’Neills, Kelsall Steele Investment Services LTD, Booths Print of Penryn, and of course Trelawny’s Army Supporters Club for the match ball sponsorship and their attendance at all the games”.

Cornwall narrowly lost their first game away to Devon 35 – 29 but came away with 2 losing bonus points. The second game Cornwall earned maximum points with a 38 – 28 victory over Gloucestershire whilst denying them a losing bonus point. Cornwall have been forced to make 2 changes in the back row due to injuries, and of course the County finals, colts finals and Papa John cup games all take place on the Saturday prior to our game.

The team sees skipper Joss Pascoe switch back from fly-half to outside centre, with Nat Dart returning at fly-half.

In the pack, there are enforced changes in the back row. Wes Eddy comes in for the injured Gideon Blacklock, whilst Ben Jones, who came off the bench against Gloucestershire, starts for the unavailable Freddy Trewin.

Coach Rich Kevern said. “We know Somerset have lost their first two games; we must not be complacent as they will be fighting all the way to avenge those defeats. We put in a far better performance against Gloucestershire but there are still many areas where we need to tighten up and improve are game management. It is and all to play for in this next round with Devon, Gloucestershire, and Cornwall all in contention to top the pool and earn a quarter-final place”.

Entry on the day will be £5 which includes a programme with U16 gaining free admission.

Cornwall Captain Joss Pascoe said. “After the Devon game we came away and did a lot of soul searching, licked our wounds and needed to put in a performance against Gloucestershire. I’m proud to say the boys did just that and stood up to a very physical team and came out on top. We now not only have to match but improve that performance to give us every chance of progressing in this year’s competition. I know how the guys have trained, and what they are capable of, and we need that performance on Sunday”.

This season’s competition has changed and only the pool winners go through to the quarter-finals. The winner of our group will travel to play Dorset and Wilts Under 20s at a venue yet to be confirmed on Sunday May 7th.

The CRFU Chair Dave Saunter said. “This will be the last home game for some of these guys in an U20 shirt and I know they will want to go out in style. 12 of last week’s 22 will not be eligible for next season’s competition however that means 10 guys will carry forward a massive amount of experience next season. A big thank you to the coaches, medics, and backroom staff for all the effort and time they put into developing these players for not only the County but their home clubs as well”.

Cornwall U20 v Somerset U20

Sunday 23^rd April @ Camborne RFC 1400 kick off.

1	MAX CARDWELL	PIRATE AMS
2	MATT PRITCHARD	FALMOUTH
3	MATT BOOTHBY	ST AUSTELL
4	JOE MAUNDER	ST AUSTELL
5	WILL PERKIN	ST IVES
6	WES EDDY	PIRATES AMS
7	BEN JONES	PERRANPORTH
8	CONNOR TRIGGS	TRURO
9	JOE WALKER	FALMOUTH
10	NAT DART	CAMBORNE
11	LACHLAN SURRIDGE	CAMBORNE
12	JAMIE STANLAKE	ST AUSTELL
13	JOSS PASCOE (CAPTAIN)	TRURO
14	LEWIS BOSTOCK	TRURO
15	HARVEY PENHALLURICK	FALMOUTH
16	PETER HARRIS	ST AUSTELL
18	ARCHIE HARRIS	ST JUST
19	ROWAN LAWRENCE	FALMOUTH
20	JOWAN PECK	FALMOUTH
21	BEN ROSEVEAR	FALMOUTH
22	FIN DEAVIN	FALMOUTH
26	JACK STATTON	LAUNCESTON
	TRAVELLING RESERVES
	JACK COUNTER	WADEBRIDGE CAMELS
	HARRY WALSH-NEWTON	FALMOUTH
	ANGUS WILLIAMS	PENRYN
	ROWAN O’REGAN	FALMOUTH
	TOM HOLLYMAN	SALTASH
	FINN LISTER	PENRYN
	MAGNUS BUSHBY	TRURO
	ARCHIE BEES	ST AUSTELL

Coaches – Rich Kevern, Tyler Gendall, Brad Howe

Team Manager Colin Hatch, Assistant Terry Williams

Medical cover – Neville Curnow + Graham Ashton

Kit – Paul Hurrell, Photographer Simon Bryant, Match Day filming David Burrows, Multimedia – Kevin Bishop

Cornwall President’s XV take on Falmouth President’s XV to celebrate 150th Anniversary

April 18, 2023 by Bill Hooper

A Cornwall President’s XV will travel to the Recreation Ground, Falmouth tomorrow evening, Wednesday 19th April kick-off 6:45 pm, to take on a Falmouth President’s XV a game to mark Falmouth RFC 150th Anniversary.

The Cornwall President’s XV is as follows;

15. Ollie Roots, 14. Kris Evans, 13.Tommy Job, 12. Ben Jones (all Perranporth), 11. Jay Moriarty (Saltash), 10. Justyn Irons (Perranporth), 9. Jack Pritchard (Saltash); 1. Akiva Eaton (Veor-Holman), 2. Axel Nicks (Saltash), 3. Matt Penrose (Camborne), 4. Aaron McPherson (Newquay Hornets), 5. James Harrison-Evans (Camborne), 6. Sam Hodge (Wadebridge Camels), 7. Sam Bartle (Capt), 8. Brogan O’Keefe (both Veor Holman).

Replacements: 16. Dan Coleman, 17. Daubroy Delahunty, 18. Oliver Simmonds (all Wadebridge Camels), 19. Ashley Lawton (Perranporth), 20. Sam Snell (Saltash), 21. Oakley Smithham, 22. Steve Trenoweth (both Camborne).

RESULT;

Falmouth President’s XV, 24 – 15 Cornwall President’s XV

Cornwall announce squad for Bill Beaumont Cup campaign

April 17, 2023 by Bill Hooper

CORNWALL SQUAD FOR THE BILL BEAUMONT CUP

Cornwall Championship Squad 2023

Coaches and selectors have announced a thirty-five man squad for this season’s Bill Beaumont Cup campaign, which will kick-off on Saturday May 6^th against Somerset at Redruth RFC, kick-off 3 pm.

The squad is comprised of twenty forwards and fifteen backs. This season Redruth’s fly-half Fraser Honey has been appointed to captain the side.

It should be noted that Plymouth Albion did not release their players to play in this season’s competition.

As expected a number of Redruth players form the majority of the squad. However, both Camborne and St. Austell see a number of their players selected following promotion winning seasons. The squad also has a number of players who have in the past played for the Cornish Pirates and bring that level of experience to the table.

As always there are always one or two players who are surprise selections, with Bude’s lock Freddie Stevenson and Pirates Amateurs centre Josh Semmens, who had a fine game in the Tamar Cup against Devon. Back rowers Adam Blackmore (Wadebridge Camels) and Brandon Rowley (Launceston) also get deserved call ups.

There is also place for players from last season’s successful Under 20s with Declan Prowse (Camborne), Sam Walker (Exeter Uni), Charlie Levick (Penryn) & Joe Tanswell (Redruth) all included.

Chairman of Selectors Kevin Thomas was pleased with the balance of the squad. He said. “I’d like to thank my fellow selectors for the hard work they have done since the beginning of the season in looking at players all around Cornwall. The breadth of the squad shows that, no matter where you play, you are in with a chance if good enough.

“Our first training session is on the 26^th April at Redruth and we will look to select our match day 23 for the first game on May 6^th from that session. The players are excited to be a part of the squad and looking forward to putting on the black and gold shirt.”

“I am sure the Cornish fans will turn out a support the lads, that first game is so important as it will set the tone for the campaign, so please do come along on May 6^th and get behind the lads.”

FORWARDS (20)

Adam Blackmore (Wadebridge Camels),Ben Fox (Redruth), Ben Hilton (Barnstaple), Ben Priddey (Camborne), Brandon Rowley (Launceston), Craig Williams (Redruth), Declan Prowse (Camborne), Edd Pascoe (Redruth), Freddie Stevenson (Bude), Jack Hazelton (Camborne), Jess Tompsett (Redruth), Jordan Nicholls (Camborne), Luke Barnes (Redruth), Mackenzie Oliver (Redruth), Richard Brown (Redruth), Sam Stevens (Redruth), Toby Freeman (Tonbridge Juddians), Tom Duncan (Truro),Tommy Phillips (Redruth), Tommy Lee Southworth (Camborne).

BACKS (15)

Charlie Levick (Penryn), CJ Boyce (St. Austell), Duncan Tout (Tonbridge Juddians), Fraser Honey (Redruth), Jack Kessell (Camborne),Jack Simmons (Redruth), Joe Tanswell (Redruth), Josh Semmens (Pirates Ams), Konnor Ewudzi (St. Austell), Lewis Thomas (Redruth), Matt Shepherd (St. Austell), Mike Austin (Cinderford), Nicolas De Battista (Camborne), Sam Parsons (St. Austell), Sam Walker (Exeter Uni)

Cornwall’s matches all kick-off at 3 pm;

May 6^th v Somerset (Redruth)

May 13^th v Hampshire (Havant)

May 20^th v Kent (Camborne)

Entry on gate £10 to ground. Under 16s free.

Cornwall keep title defence hopes alive

April 10, 2023 by Bill Hooper

JASON LEONARD CUP

CORNWALL U.20, 38 – 28 GLOUCESTERSHIRE U.20

By Bill Hooper at the Recreation Ground Camborne

In front of a good size crowd Cornwall put in a much better display in defeating Gloucestershire to give them a chance of making the knockout stage of this year’s Jason Leonard Cup competition.

When the visitors lost their back row forward Ben Kindred to a yellow card on 31minutes Cornwall took advantage scoring three tries before half-time.

Gloucestershire kicked off with a stiff breeze at their backs, however they failed to make proper use of the elements, which also cost them dearly.

Connor Triggs (Truro) of Cornwall U20s dives over for a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo

A couple of early penalties from their fly-half Will Hammonds gave the visitors a 6-0 lead. But when Kindred was sent to the sin-bin Cornwall turned on the pressure.

Truro No.8 Connor Triggs scored the opening try following some good play from the forwards, Falmouth full-back Harvey Penhallurick added the extras, the first of his five successful conversions, in a faultless kicking display.

Penhallurick then bamboozled the Gloucestershire defence with a dazzling run to score by the posts.

Moments later hooker Matt Pritchard seized on an interception to gallop in under the posts.

Harvey Penhallurick (Falmouth) of Cornwall U20s runs in a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo

Penryn’s Freddie Trewin had another big game for Cornwall, always a handful at the breakdown and putting in some big tackles on the heavy Gloucestershire forwards.

Just before half-time Gloucestershire scored from a catch-and-drive with hooker Harry Legg credited with the score. Hammonds adding the conversion for a score of 21-13 to Cornwall at the break.

Almost immediately after half-time Cornwall secured the bonus point score following further good forward play with Pritchard showing good strength to bag his second try.

Kindred made up for his earlier misdemeanour when he scored for the visitors from a catch and drive.

It was Cornwall’s turn to find themselves down to fourteen men when the excellent Pritchard was shown a yellow card.

Will Perkin (St Ives) of Cornwall U20s catching the throw in at the line-out. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo

Wing Owen Notley went in at the corner to cut the deficit to just five points, but that was as close as Gloucestershire would get.

Fresh off the bench St. Austell’s Peter Harris scored Cornwall’s fifth try and when Penhallurick kicked a penalty late on, Cornwall led by 15 points.

Gloucestershire had the final say scoring a 4^th try at the death through skipper Lloyd Thomas to secure a try-scoring bonus point, which may prove useful in the final shake up.

Cornwall had the win they needed to have a chance of qualifying when they play Somerset in two weeks time, but they will also require Gloucestershire to beat Devon.

Coach Richie Kevern was pleased with his side’s performance. He said. “I thought that was a controlled performance from us, and we took our opportunities well. We kept our discipline during the first half but in the second we were guilty of giving away too many penalties. But all credit to the boys they deserved the win and know they have a chance in two weeks time to progress if results go our way.”

Replacements: P Harris (St. Austell), A Harris (St. Just), R Lawrence (Falmouth), B Jones (Perranporth), B Rosevear, F Deavin (both Falmouth), W Eddy (Pirates Ams).

Cornwall scores: Tries, Triggs, Penhallurick, Pritchard 2, Harris, Cons, Penhallurick 5, Pen, Penhallurick

Cornwall Under 20 v Gloucestershire Under 20

April 5, 2023 by Bill Hooper

Cornwall Rugby Football Union (CRFU) Under 20 County Championship home campaign 2023 gets underway with their second fixture in the Jason Leonard Cup. The team host Gloucestershire U20’s for their second pool game of the competition on Sunday 9th April. The game will be played at Camborne RFC with a 1400 kick off time.

Cornwall narrowly lost their first game away to Devon 35 – 29 but came away with 2 losing bonus points. Gloucestershire had an emphatic win away to Somerset 17 – 61 to top the table. Entry on the day will be £5 which includes a programme with U16 gaining free admission.

This Sunday Cornwall will be looking for the win that will keep their chances of progressing to the knockout stages of this season’s competition alive.

The coaches have made a number of changes to the side to face Gloucestershire.

In the pack, there is one change with Connor Triggs of Truro starting at No.8 in place of Jowan Peck.

There is a shake up in the backline, whilst the back three remain unchanged, skipper Joss Pascoe moves from centre to fly-half with Joe Walker at scrum-half to forming a new half-back partnership. The mid-field combination sees Launceston’s Jack Statton step up from the bench to pair up with Jamie Stanlake, who started against Devon last time out.

Onto the bench come Peter Harris (St. Austell), Rowan Lawrence (Falmouth) and Ben Jones (Perranporth).

Coach Rich Kevern said. “We know that any Gloucestershire side will be a strong test, and after their result against Somerset they will be full of confidence. We did not play to our strengths on the last outing and have had to come away licking our wounds. It is now up to the guys to go out and perform against Gloucestershire if they want to proceed in this year’s competition”.

Cornwall Captain Joss Pascoe said, – “After the Devon game we came away and did a lot of soul searching! That was not the way we had trained, or been expected to play, and we owe it to the travelling supporters of Trelawny’s Army to put that right. The players know what is expected, what is needed, and we must as a group perform to progress within this year’s competition. For some guys this is their second year and have previously tasted success, for others this is their first and only year of being eligible and we need to put in a performance”.

Cornwall’s last pool game will be against Somerset at Camborne RFC on Sunday April 23rd with a 1400 kick off time. This season only the winners of the pool go through to the quarter-final which is another change from last season.

The CRFU Chair Dave Saunter said. “The team need to learn from their mistakes and move forward. We as a county know that they have trained hard and as last year proved Cornwall guys can and will give 110% to wear that Black and Gold shirt, this year’s set of players are no different.”

Cornwall U.20: H Penhallurick (Falmouth), L Bostock (Truro), J Statton (Launceston), J Stanlake (St. Austell), L Surridge (Camborne), J Pascoe (Truro,Capt), J Walker (Falmouth); M Cardwell (Pirates Ams), M Pritchard (Falmouth), M Boothby, J Maunder (both St. Austell), W Perkin (St. Ives), G Blacklock (Newquay Hornets), F Trewin (Penryn), C Triggs (Truro). Replacements: P Harris (St. Austell), A Harris (St. Just), R Lawrence (Falmouth), B Jones (Perranporth), B Rosevear, F Deavin (both Falmouth), W Eddy (Pirates Ams).

Fraser Honey announced as Cornwall’s new Captain

March 28, 2023 by Bill Hooper

Redruth’s fly-half Fraser Honey has been appointed Cornwall Captain for this season’s Bill Beaumont Cup campaign which kicks off at Redruth on Saturday May 6^th against Somerset.

Honey, who played for Launceston at one stage in his career, made his first County Championship appearance for Cornwall in 2018 in the 15-all draw against Surrey at Camborne. He became a permanent fixture in the Cornwall side the following season and has twice won the Bill Beaumont Cup with Cornwall at Twickenham in 2019 and 2022.

Kevin Thomas, the Chairman of Selectors, and a former Twickenham winner himself with Cornwall in 1991, was pleased to announce the appointment of Honey. He said. “I am delighted that Fraser has accepted the invitation to Captain the Cornwall Senior squad for 2023 Championship season. Fraser has a fantastic rugby pedigree and a heap of Championship experience. He will set high standards throughout the squad and he will lead by example. I look forward to working with him over the coming weeks and wish him and his squad the very best for the Championship matches.”

Honey spoke of his appointment. “I’m truly honoured and extremely proud to have been appointed Cornwall captain for the 2023 County Championship Campaign. Playing for Cornwall means a huge amount to me and to get the opportunity to captain Cornwall in such a prestigious competition is a huge privilege. I’m itching to get started with this group of boys and to be back playing in front of Trelawny’s Army once again in our quest to keep the Bill Beaumont Trophy in Cornwall for another year’

Cornwall RFU Chairman Dave Saunter had this to say about Honey. “This is great news, I have followed Fraser’s career from his colts days. He is a quality player who leads off the front foot. This appointment is the next step on his rugby journey which I know he will relish. I wish both Fraser and all the players pulling on the Black and Gold this season every success and hopefully we can look forward to another trip to Twickenham at the end of May”.

Cornwall’s Bill Beaumont Cup games;

May 6^th Cornwall v Somerset @ Redruth RFC 3 pm

May 13^th Hampshire v Cornwall @ Havant RFC 3 pm

May 20^th Cornwall v Kent @ Camborne RFC 3 pm

Cornwall Women announce squad for 2023 campaign

March 28, 2023 by Bill Hooper

The selectors and coaches have announced their squad for this season’s Gill Burns Cup Division 2 campaign.

Last season Cornwall Women won the Division 3 title defeating Notts, Lincs & Derbyshire in a thrilling final at the Richmond Athletic Ground 36-17.

Twelve players from that side are in the squad for this season’s campaign.

Last season’s captain Verity Holden has retired from playing but is now part of the coaching squad. This season’s captain is yet to be named.

Cornwall RFU Chairman Dave Saunter in congratulating the selected players said. “Exciting times ahead for our Ladies XV, who have been promoted to the Gill Burns Div 2 Cup after winning the Division 3 at the first time of asking.

“The coaches have been casting an eye over the potential squad on Friday nights at Bodmin RFC and now have selected the 30 who will carry the hopes of Cornish Ladies rugby.

“The squad have 2 qualifying matches one at home at Launceston so it’s a short intense program with a potential final at the end of the journey.

“I wish Ronan O’Neil, Jo and new coach Verity best luck, knowing the way they work I know our ladies will be prepared to face the challenge”.

Whilst coach Jo Holden added. “Open training sessions were amazing this year, we had 30/40 women for each session, lots of new faces making selection super competitive. We are also fortunate to be able to add our Cornish Winning Captain Verity Holden to the coaching team this year. She has added a new dimension and whole lot more passion about putting Cornwall on the map. Ronan and I are more determined than ever to continue the good work from last year and keep the momentum going”.

The Cornwall Women squad of 30 is as follows;

Amy Bunt (Ivybridge), Amy Warman (Launceston), Annie McKelvey (Penryn), Bobby Smith-Scotland (Plymstock), Bryher Freight (Truro), Caitlin Milliken (Camborne), Claire Thompson (Truro), Faith Rowe (Camborne), Georgia Hall (Penryn), Jenna Arnold (Launceston), Jo Roberts (Plymstock), Joey Sandercock (Launceston), Josie Ninnis (Penryn), Katherine Wherry (Ivybridge), Kim Upcott (Launceston), Laura Outten (Camborne), Lisa Allin (Bude), Lydia Hawkins (Falmouth), Makindi Carter (Helston), Megan Arnold (Launceston), Megan Okey (Ivybridge), Mel Ruby (Launceston), Nicola Rowland (Ivybridge), Oz Brazier (Truro), Rebecca Bennett (Truro), Rhiannon Thomas (Launceston), Rosie Ninnis (Penryn), Sam Whitefield (Truro), Shannon Foster (Plymstock), Sian Westgarth (Truro).

Cornwall Women’s games this season in the Gill Burns Cup are;

Sunday 7^th May Cornwall Women v Oxfordshire Women @ Launceston RC 2 pm

Sunday 21^st May Somerset Women v Cornwall @ Taunton RFC 3 pm

Semi-final fixtures will be advised at a later date.

Entry to the game at Launceston is £5 on gate, Under 16s free.

Devon pip Cornwall in Brickfields thriller

March 20, 2023 by Bill Hooper

JASON LEONARD CUP

DEVON U20, 35 – 29 CORNWALL U20

By Bill Hooper at Brickfields

Cornwall came up just short in their opening Under 20 County Championship game against Devon, despite outscoring the hosts on the try front.

The win also saw the Brunel Cup wrested from Cornish hands, Cornwall having been inaugural winners last season at Camborne.

Matt Pritchard (Falmouth) of Cornwall U20s skips out of the tackle. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 19/03/23, Cornwall U20s, Devon U20s, Jason Leonard Cup, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Plymouth, Brickfields, Cornwall, England

Ideal playing conditions saw Devon kick-off and earn an immediate penalty on the twenty-two which fly-half Giles Clarke pushed wide of the sticks.

Cornwall got into the game, good lineout ball from Lock Joe Maunder set up a good Cornish move culminating in scrum-half Ben Rosevear scoring. Nat Dart added the extras.

A loose kick from Cornwall gave Devon full-back Fraser Felton the chance to run from deep, Cornwall dropped off the tackles allowing the play to be carried on by the Devon backs before flanker Jacob Gaskin finished off the move for an unconverted try.

Lewis Bostock (Truro) of Cornwall U20s runs in for a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 19/03/23, Cornwall U20s, Devon U20s, Jason Leonard Cup, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Plymouth, Brickfields, Cornwall, England

Gaskin was catching the eye for Devon and proved a handful at the breakdown, whilst for Cornwall Falmouth’s Matt Pritchard at hooker had a fine game notably in the loose.

A penalty by Clarke on the half-hour mark nudged Devon ahead, before a strong finish to the half saw Devon go through the phases before lock Liam Bayley crashed over. Clarke’s conversion giving the hosts a 15-7 half-time lead.

Spectators had barely time to take their seats after the break when Cornwall wing Lewis Bostock seized on a ball and hared down the touchline to score in the corner for an unconverted try.

Cornwall continued their purple patch Pritchard, charged forward before slipping a pass to wing Lachlan Surridge to dive in at the corner.

Lacklan Surridge (Camborne) of Cornwall U20s dives over in the corer for a try. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 19/03/23, Cornwall U20s, Devon U20s, Jason Leonard Cup, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, Plymouth, Brickfields, Cornwall, England

The seesaw nature of the game continued, another penalty from Clarke regained the lead for Devon, before Cornwall’s skipper Joss Pascoe sliced through to dot down a score converted by Dart.

Cornwall should have looked to control the game, instead they allowed Devon back when Elliot Fielding scored with Clarke again on the money with the extras.

Surridge went over for Cornwall’s fifth try to snatch back the lead, it proved short-lived as Devon prop Harvey Courtis powered over from short-range for their fourth try.

Clarke added the conversion and then a final penalty near the end to confirm Devon’s win.

After the match coach Richie Kevern said. “We left too many chances out there today. I thought we should have been ahead at half-time on the balance of play. Unfortunately we didn’t take them and we were punished for that.

“I cannot fault our effort, in the second half we fought back and showed spirit, today was a big learning lesson on taking chances and then controlling the game.

“A couple of poor kick chases from us and Devon have run them back and scored, that is a coach killer, but we will learn and look to make amends against Gloucestershire”

Cornwall will look to re-group against Gloucestershire at Camborne, on Sunday 9^th April.

Cornwall U.20: (Falmouth, unless stated): H Penhallurick, L Bostock (Truro), J Pascoe (Truro), J Stanlake (St. Austell), L Surridge (Camborne), N Dart (Camborne), B Rosevear; M Cardwell (Pirate Ams) M Pritchard, M Boothby (St. Austell), J Maunder (St. Austell), W Perkin (St. Ives), G Blacklock (Newquay Hornets), F Trewin (Penryn), J Peck.

Replacements: W Eddy (Pirate Ams), A Williams (Penryn), A Harris (St. Just), R O’Regan, J Statton (Launceston), J Walker, F Deavin.

Cornwall scores: Tries, Rosevear 6, Bostock 41, Surridge 48, 67, Pascoe 54, Cons, Dart 7, 55.

Shep try hat-trick helps Cornwall retain Tamar Cup

March 16, 2023 by Bill Hooper

CORNWALL 45 – 0 DEVON

By Bill Hooper at Tregorrick Park.

Cornwall defended the Tamar Cup in style last night at a wet and windy Tregrorrick Park in front of a four figure crowd who braved the elements.

Star of the show was unquestionably St. Austell’s Matt Shepherd who captained Cornwall on the night scoring three tries and kicking five conversions not only that his kicking from hand was top draw as were his line breaks.

Cornwall were forced into a late change as Tom Duncan had to withdraw. Andy Inch moved to No.8, whilst Cameron Taylor stepped up from the bench into the backrow. James Lambourn coming in on the bench.

Cornwall kicked off and immediately set about their task with some strong carries by forwards and backs.

Play was at times scrappy in the conditions; slowly Cornwall began to get the upper hand.

Shepherd slipped through the Devon cover to score the opening try after 11 minutes to get the scoreboard ticking over.

Good work by wing Jack Kessell helped set up Shepherd’s second try which he finished off in the corner for an unconverted try.

Cornwall’s forward drove hard with both props Dan Job and Declan Prowse making hard yards whilst both Inch and Camel’s lock Rupert Edwards worked hard all night.

Devon came more into it has half-time approached. Cornwall lost lock Mark Vian to the sin-bin. Centre Jake Smith almost got in for Devon but Cornwall’s defence held firm. Cornwall got to half-time with a 12-0 advantage.

Josh Semmens for Cornwall seemed to be in thick of the action as was fellow centre Sam Parsons. Eventually Cornwall got the third try when fly-half Aaron Simmonds squeezed over.

Soon after Pirate Amateur’s Rhys Brownfield, who had been busy since coming on, spied a gap to cut through for Cornwall’s fourth try of the night.

Despite both sides emptying their benches, Cornwall maintained the tempo with Shepherd completing his hat-trick of tries, having again cut through the defence.

The biggest cheer of the night was for St. Austell’s replacement wing Dan Tyrrell who bolted into the corner off a Semmens pass to score with aplomb.

Matt Shepherd Captain of Cornwall (St Austell) presented the Tamar Cup by Cornwall RFU President, John Sumnall. – Photo mandatory by-line: ©Simon Bryant/Iktis Photo – 15/03/23, Cornwall, Devon, Tamar Cup, Friendly, CRFU, Sport, Rugby Union, St Austell, Tregorrick Park, England

The final try for Cornwall came from one of Camborne’s heroes of the season, flanker Jordan Nicholls to score under the posts.

Skipper Shepherd stepped up after the final whistle to receive the Tamar Cup from Cornwall RFU President John Sumnall.

Cornwall (St. Austell, unless stated): Shepherd (Capt), Kessell (Camborne), Parsons, Semmens (Pirate Ams), Levick (Penryn), Simmonds (Camborne), Boyce; Job, Davey, Prowse (Camborne), Vian, Edwards (Wadebridge Camels), Taylor, Nicholls (Camborne), Inch.

Replacements: Bentham (Devonport Services), Southworth (Camborne), Heazelton (Camborne), Lambourn (Pirate Ams), Jolly (Camborne), Brownfield (Pirate Ams), Sidwell (Camborne), Tyrrell.

Cornwall scores: Tries, Shepherd 11, 25, 62, Simmonds 52, Brownfield 59, Tyrrell 76, Nicholls 79, Cons: Shepherd 12, 53, 60, 77, 80.

Dave Burrows match footage can be viewed on Youtube

Cornwall name side for Jason Leonard Cup opener

March 15, 2023 by Bill Hooper

CORNWALL RFU UNDER 20 COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP

2020 The Jason Leonard Cup.

Cornwall Rugby Football Union (CRFU) Under 20 County Championship
campaign 2023 gets underway with their first fixture in the Jason
Leonard Cup. The team travel to neighbours Devon for their first pool
game of the competition on Sunday 19 March. The game will be played
at Plymouth Albion RFC with a 1400 kick off time.
CRFU President John Sumnall said “It is great to get this year’s
campaign off with a local tie against our neighbours Devon. We
thank all our sponsors for their support and assistance with this
group of players in this important game representing Cornwall. It is
fantastic to see so many different clubs represented, and we thank
them for their support to enable these fixtures to be played”.
Cornwall have named Joss Pascoe (Truro) as the captain for the
season, alongside him is another player from last season Penryn RFC
Freddie Trewin, who is the vice-captain.
Coach Rich Kevern said – “This will be a good test for this new set of
young players. Last season has been and gone, and we start a
fresh with a whole group of new players entering the competition.
Playing Devon is never easy, playing Devon on their home turf will
be an even bigger challenge for these guys”.
Cornwall has maintained the same coaching set with Tyler Gendall, Brad
Howe coaching the forwards and Richie Kevern coaching the backs.
Cornwall Captain Joss Pascoe said, – “It is an honour to be asked to
captain the side for this season. I know the guys are up for a tough
campaign as always and have trained well in preparation for this
game. This is my second season with the 20’s and I know that it is a
tough competition, and we will have to perform at our best in every
game. We have had great numbers at training, and I know some
guys will be disappointed not to be in the team, but this is a squad
for the season so keep pushing us for those places, nobody’s shirt
is fixed. For those who will run out with me on the 19th, we have a
big task ahead of us but I’m confident in our ability”.

Cornwall ‘s second pool game will be Gloucestershire at Camborne RFC
on Sunday April 9th with a 1400 kick off time. A third pool game will be
played on Sunday 23rd April again at Camborne RFC with a 1400 kick
off time where are opponents will be Somerset.
The CRFU Chair Dave Saunter said, -” The vagaries of U20 rugby
mean we can lose up to 50% of our squad every year through age
qualification. So, we start to build again with a mixture of players
transitioning from the U18’s, new players identified and nominated
from clubs around the county. There are a number of these players
who will be around for the next 2 seasons and the we are always on
the lookout at new talent who can come into the squad and join
them over the coming seasons”.

There will be marketing and sponsorship opportunities with the Under
20’s team and matches, any individuals or companies that may be
interested are asked to contact Colin Hatch in the first instance.

Email – hatch0348@btinternet.com
Mob – 07967725368

Bill Hooper
Cornwall RFU Assistant Hon Sec
13/03/2023

Cornwall U20 v Devon U20
Sunday 19th March @ Plymouth Albion RFC 1400 kick off.

Cornwall Squad

1 MAX CARDWELL PIRATE AMATEURS
2 MATT PRITCHARD FALMOUTH
3 MATT BOOTHBY ST. AUSTELL
4 JOE MAUNDER ST. AUSTELL
5 WILL PERKIN ST. IVES
6 GIDEON BLACKLOCK NEWQUAY HORNETS
7 FREDDIE TREWIN (V CAPT) PENRYN
8 JOWAN PECK FALMOUTH
9 BEN ROSEVEAR FALMOUTH
10 NAT DART CAMBORNE
11 LACHLAN SURRIDGE CAMBORNE
12 JAMIE STANLAKE ST. AUSTELL
13 JOSS PASCOE (CAPTAIN) TRURO
14 LEWIS BOSTOCK TRURO
15 HARVEY PENHALURICK FALMOUTH
16 WES EDDY PENZANCE & NEWLYN
17 ANGUS WILLIAMS PENRYN
18 ARCHIE HARRIS ST. JUST
19 ROWAN O’REGAN FALMOUTH
20 JACK STATTON LAUNCESTON
21 JOE WALKER FALMOUTH
22 FIN DEAVIN FALMOUTH
23 ROWAN LAWRENCE FALMOUTH
24 BEN JONES PERRANPORTH
25 HARRY WALSH-NEWTON FALMOUTH
26 ARCHIE DINNIS LAUNCESTON

Coaches – Rich Kevern, Tyler Gendall, Brad Howe
Team Manager Colin Hatch, Assistant Terry Williams
Medical cover – Neville Curnow + Graham Ashton
Kit – Paul Hurrell, Photographer Simon Bryant, Match Day filming
David Burrows, Multimedia – Kevin Bishop