Pirates Return to The Madejski – In the Cup

The second Pool 3 game in the Championship Cup for the Pirates is a tough one away to London Irish on Sunday (ko 3pm). ‘Irish’ won 35-7 away to Hartpury RFC in their Cup opener played on Saturday and recently beat the Pirates 38-29 at the Madejski Stadium in the league.

There are five changes in the Cornish Pirates starting line up from the team that ran out and ultimately won 22-20 at home to Bedford Blues last Sunday. Rory Parata and Harry Strong will form the centre partnership, AJ Cant comes in the wing, Jake Clemson at lock and Matt Bolwell on the blindside flank. Named on the bench is Tom Concu who will be keen to make his first appearance for the Cornish Pirates in a competitive match.

Reflecting briefly on their opening game in the Championship Cup and now looking forward to this week’s Round 2 game, player-coach Chris Morgan has commented:

It was pleasing to get off to a good start in the new competition with a win against Bedford Blues last Sunday. It was a good game to watch and we put in a fairly good performance although both sides left a few try-scoring opportunities out on the pitch.

Selection-wise we are bit light on our feet this week with international calls and dual-registered players being back at Exeter, however this once again provides a great opportunity for some of the younger guys to step in, gain game time and show what they are about, which is exciting itself.