Cornish Pirates v Worcester Warriors Preview for Saturday 28th March

Pirates Face Crucial Test Against Worcester This Saturday

The Cornish Pirates return to the Mennaye Field this Saturday 28th March for a key Elior Championship Rugby clash against Worcester Warriors, with kick-off scheduled for 2.30pm.

The fixture sees fifth-placed Pirates take on second-placed Worcester in Round 21, with both sides coming into the match off the back of high-scoring wins last weekend.

Pirates recorded a 66-13 victory away to Richmond, while Worcester secured a 76-10 win at home against Cambridge.

Changes to the Starting Line-Up

There are four changes to the Cornish Pirates starting XV from the side that played at the Richmond Athletic Ground.

In the backs, Joe Elderkin comes into the centre to partner Chester Ribbons, while Matty Ward is selected on the wing.

In the pack, Sol Moody starts at hooker and Josh King is brought into the second row.

A Test of Progress

Speaking ahead of the match, joint head coach Gavin Cattle said:

“We are in a good run of form and at this stage of the season have been a bit more like a Pirates’ team. Energy and application levels last Saturday were commendable and there has been some real progress, though having said that we are also aware there are some real challenges ahead.

“In the away game against Worcester, despite playing some good rugby we were well beaten, so Saturday should provide a good marker as to how far we have come since.”

A Milestone Moment

Gavin also highlighted a significant personal milestone for one of the squad:

“The Mennaye has seen many great games and players over the years, and ahead of this weekend we will all wish to congratulate prop Alfie Petch who is set to make his 50th appearance for the club. A real character and a proud Cornishman, who has really applied himself during his time here, a big crowd is expected to cheer him and the team on.”

Full Squad for Saturday

Cornish Pirates starting XV:
15 Angus Mawson
14 Arthur Relton
13 Chester Ribbons
12 Joe Elderkin
11 Matty Ward
10 Arwel Robson
9 Dan Hiscocks
1 James French
2 Sol Moody
3 Alfie Petch
4 Matt Cannon
5 Josh King
6 Alex Everett
7 Luke Ratcliff
8 Tomi Agbongbon

Replacements:
16 Morgan Nelson
17 Billy Young
18 Ben Woodmansey
19 Rory Suttor
20 John Stevens
21 Will Becconsall
22 Louie Sinclair
23 Harry Yates

Match officials:
Referee Jamie Parr
Assistants Mike Lamb and James Milliner-Woodcock
Official 4 Kevin Williams

Match day details:
Match Day Sponsor AndyLoos
Match Ball Sponsor DA Giles
Match Day Collection MND Association Cornwall Branch

A big crowd is expected at the Mennaye Field, with both teams looking to build on last weekend’s performances in what promises to be a competitive encounter.