Could This Be the Cornish Pirates’ Turning Point? Cambridge Test Awaits

The Cornish Pirates head into Saturday’s home game with a chance to extend their run to four Championship wins in a row. Cambridge arrive at the Mennaye Field for a 1pm kick off, and while the visitors are bottom of the table in 14th and still searching for their first league win, the Pirates are making no assumptions.

Changes Across the Line-Up

A handful of changes have been made to the Pirates side, many due to injury.
Harry Yates comes in for Chester Ribbons in the centre, while Ben Cambriani takes the wing spot from Arthur Relton. Fly half Louie Sinclair makes his first start for the Pirates after Arwel Robson picked up an injury last week.

In the forwards, James French replaces Alfie Petch at prop.

There is interest on the bench too. Zack Wimbush, dual registered with Exeter Chiefs, is set for his first Pirates appearance, as is recent signing Angus Mawson.

Coach Expects a Tough Test

Cornish Pirates coach Joe Walsh said the away win at Nottingham last Friday brought real satisfaction, especially returning home with five league points. He added that three wins in a row give the team a chance to push on again this weekend.

However, he warned that nothing is guaranteed, reminding supporters that Cambridge beat the Pirates at their place last season. He noted that Cambridge will likely be carrying hurt from recent rounds, which could make them difficult to face.

Joe said Cambridge have a good pack and clear threats in the backline. He highlighted improvements in the Pirates line-out, defence and kicking game, saying that continuing to build on these areas will help them put together a stronger all-round performance.

Team to Face Cambridge

Cornish Pirates:
15 Iwan Price Thomas, 14 Matty Ward, 13 Harry Yates, 12 Joe Elderkin, 11 Ben Cambriani, 10 Louie Sinclair, 9 Dan Hiscocks (captain);
1 Billy Young, 2 Morgan Nelson, 3 James French, 4 Charlie Rice, 5 Alfie Bell, 6 Josh King, 7 Luke Ratcliff, 8 Tomi Agbongbon.

Replacements:
16 Matt Pritchard, 17 Alessandro Heaney, 18 Ollie Andrews, 19 Milo Hallam, 20 Barnaby Elderkin, 21 Orson James, 22 Angus Mawson, 23 Zack Wimbush.

Match Officials:
Referee: Matt Sharpe
Assistants: Holly Wood and Kevin Williams
Official 4: Tobias Whinney

Match Day Sponsor: Kernow Model Rail Centre
Match Day Collection: The Chestnut Appeal

Saturday’s game kicks off at the earlier time of 1pm at the Mennaye Field.