Cornish Pirates to Face Royal Navy in Anniversary Clash – Special Shirts to be Auctioned

Match Action Returns to The Mennaye!

After a four-week break, the Cornish Pirates are back in action this Friday evening, welcoming the Royal Navy to Mennaye Field for a highly anticipated friendly fixture (kick-off 7:30pm).

This special match forms part of the club’s 20th Anniversary celebrations, with the team wearing commemorative shirts and many former stars from the past two decades in attendance. Fans will also have the chance to own a piece of history, as these limited-edition shirts will be auctioned off in the marquee and online after the game.

Tickets and Timings

Gates open at 5:30pm, and tickets for the match are priced at just £10, available for purchase at the entrance this evening.

Team News

Backrower Alex Everett returns to fitness and will captain the Pirates, while the squad includes several guest players on the bench. These include Kiwi hooker Dylan Irvine, young Cornish prop Ben Woodmansey, UK-born lock/flanker Mike Etete, and Irish back Sam Cahill.

Speaking ahead of the match, Cornish Pirates coach Joe Walsh commented:

“Following our matches in the Premiership Cup we have indirectly treated the last few weeks as a mini pre-season, plus it has given the opportunity for certain of our players to get back on their feet to fitness.

“It has also given us the chance to revisit various components of our game and sharpen up, and in that regard having those extra bodies back in training does, and will, help enormously.

“Considering tonight’s game, if we can rotate the squad nicely to give everyone a few minutes, then it will give us a better idea as to where some of the guys are when we consider match fitness availability, and who is ready to go, especially in relation to the return of league action next Friday against London Scottish.”

A Night of Celebration and Competition

Joe also highlighted the strong relationship between the Cornish Pirates and the Royal Navy, expressing excitement for the home return:

“Back to this evening we are all looking forward to welcoming the Royal Navy, with whom we have good relations, and at the same time we are excited at the prospect of a return to action, and especially so at home.

“Also, with several of our former stars present on the night, hopefully the Cornish Pirates and the Navy will put on a fully committed show that everyone will enjoy.”

Match Officials and Sponsors

• Referee: Jamie Parr
• Assistants: Iain Kiy & Kevin Williams
• Official 4: Will Williams
• Match Day Sponsor: Yeomans
• Match Ball Sponsor: Crusty Juggler
• Match Day Collection: In support of ‘A Band of Brothers Cornwall’ charity

With the squad ready, former legends in attendance, and the return to Mennaye Field, the stage is set for an exciting evening of rugby. Fans can look forward to a fast-paced encounter and a chance to celebrate 20 years of Cornish Pirates history.