Supporters Will Relish League Opener for The Pirates

With two worthy pre-season friendlies behind them, the Cornish Pirates will start their RFU Championship league campaign this weekend with a home game versus Richmond.

Supporters should note that the match at the Mennaye Field kicks off at the earlier than usual time of 1.30pm.

The challenge of Richmond is, of course, one that cannot be taken lightly, as they have recruited well and at the end of pre-season recently recorded warm-up victories over Ampthill (26-7) and London Scottish 17-13).

For the Pirates, to be captained by No. 8 Tom Duncan, about to make their first league appearances in a Pirates shirt are prop James Kenny, flanker Will Gibson, wing Callum Sirker, and full-back Carwyn Penny, whilst waiting on the bench for his call is prop Alfie Petch.

Speaking ahead of the game, Cornish Pirates’ joint head Gavin Cattle has said:

“Richmond have clearly recruited well and in players such as Mark Bright, Will Carrick Smith, and Will Homer they have a core of experienced players.

“We are expecting an entertaining and hard-fought encounter which supporters now back at the Mennaye will relish.

“Although the average age of our squad is down considerably, we have exciting new players who are all keen to impress. Their enthusiasm is good for the team and the club. Such cycles come and go but what I think is important is that we maintain our identity, which is very much still a strong one.”

Tickets:   Tickets for the game will be available at the gates on the day (open 11.30am), whilst in the meantime they can also be purchased on-line. For further information please visit www.cornish-pirates.com/tickets

For general interest, following the match the Pirates Amateurs also have a Tribute Cornwall & Devon League fixture versus Tavistock on the (ko 3.30pm).