Cornish Pirates Travel to Bedford Blues in Round 22 Clash

Pirates Face Big Test as Stevens Hits 150th Milestone

The Cornish Pirates are back on the road this Easter Saturday, 4th April, as they prepare to take on Bedford Blues in Round 22 of the Elior Championship. With a 3pm kick-off at Goldington Road, a large crowd is expected for what is a third versus sixth clash.

Changes to the Starting Line-Up

The Pirates have made three changes to the side that featured against Worcester Warriors last weekend.

Flanker John Stevens returns fully fit and is set to make his 150th appearance for the club. In the second row, Milo Hallam comes back into the starting line-up in place of the injured Josh King, partnering Matt Cannon. The final change sees Harry Yates named in the centre alongside Chester Ribbons.

Focus on the Challenge Ahead

Speaking ahead of the match, coach Joe Walsh reflected on last weekend’s result and what lies ahead:

“We were disappointed not to get anything out of the game at home to Worcester last weekend, but they were strong and physical and the better team on the day.

“Now looking forward to remaining games, it is a big task ahead of us and a pity we didn’t capitalise on certain games earlier in the season. However, we are still in with a chance, it is what it is, and we know what we need to do.

“As for Bedford, they are solid in the set piece, have a good kicking game, and with the grounds having firmed up they always like to move the ball, so it should be entertaining.”

A Milestone Moment for John Stevens

John Stevens’ 150th appearance is a key moment for the team this weekend. Joe Walsh added:

“It is a massive achievement to make 150 appearances for a team, and it has been great to get him back in the environment. John himself will be keen to put in a good performance, as will the whole team to put their best foot forward on what will be a big day for him.”

Cornish Pirates Team News

The full Cornish Pirates line-up for Saturday is:

15 Angus Mawson
14 Arthur Relton
13 Chester Ribbons
12 Harry Yates
11 Matty Ward
10 Arwel Robson
9 Dan Hiscocks

1 James French
2 Sol Moody
3 Alfie Petch
4 Milo Hallam
5 Matt Cannon
6 Alex Everett (captain)
7 John Stevens
8 Tomi Agbongbon

Replacements:
16 Matt Pritchard
17 Billy Young
18 Ollie Andrews
19 Rory Suttor
20 Luke Ratcliff
21 Will Becconsall
22 Louie Sinclair
23 Joe Elderkin

With the season entering a crucial stage, the Pirates know what is required as they head into what promises to be a competitive and entertaining contest.