Pirates Expect A Massive Challenge Versus ‘Cov’

Rightfully pleased to have won their 2018/19 Greene King IPA Championship opener 31-24 at home against Doncaster Knights last weekend, next up for the Cornish Pirates is another game at the Mennaye Field this Sunday (ko 2.30pm).

In opposition this week will be a Coventry side making a welcome return to the Championship following their relegation at the end of the competition’s inaugural 2009-10 season.

The challenge posed by ‘Cov’ is clearly one the Pirates cannot take lightly, noting that they won their opener 20-15 at home to Jersey Reds last Saturday, and this following an impressive 55-14 pre-season win against Wasps ‘A’. They also have a squad littered with gifted players, the range including International, Premiership and Championship performers. Former ‘Pirate’ Tom Kessell featured against Jersey Reds, as did Tongan internationals David Halaifonua, Latu Makaafi and Jack Ram, plus former ‘All Black’ Sam Tuitupou.

The Cornish Pirates starting XV for Sunday shows just one change from the line-up that ran out against ‘Donny’, with Harry Strong selected on the left wing.

Speaking ahead of Sunday, coach Gavin Cattle has commented:

Last Sunday was a typical opening game with the pressure of the Championship and although we weren’t at our best we stuck to it and earned the result.

As for this weekend against Coventry, added to the considerable momentum after being promoted at the end of last season and them having also recruited strongly we are aware that a massive challenge faces us.

Gavin added:

Our supporters played their part against the Knights, which is always appreciated. It helped us finish the game strongly so hopefully we’ll have another great turn out on Sunday for what promises to be a terrific contest.

Tickets for the game will be available at the gates on the day (open 12.30pm), whilst in the meantime they can also be purchased on-line. For further information please visit www.cornish-pirates.com/tickets