Pirates Face Tough Test: Can They Stop Bedford Blues at The Mennaye?

The Cornish Pirates return to The Mennaye Field this Friday evening as preparations continue with a tough pre-season clash against Bedford Blues.

Strong Start Against Redruth

The Pirates enjoyed a powerful opening to their pre-season campaign with a dominant 7-64 victory over Redruth, running in 10 tries. However, Bedford Blues, who finished as Championship Rugby runners-up last season behind Ealing Trailfinders, are expected to provide a far sterner test under the lights.

Team News and Key Changes

Two changes have been made to the starting line-up. Matt Cannon comes in at lock to replace Charlie Rice, while Jack Forsythe returns from Exeter Chiefs to start at openside flanker.

On the bench, Sol Moody and Will Becconsall also make their return from the Premiership side.

Friday will be a milestone moment for Morgan Nelson, who celebrates 50 appearances for the Cornish Pirates. Having re-joined the club this summer from Gloucester Rugby, he will lead the team out at The Mennaye.

Coach’s Thoughts

Reflecting on last week’s performance and looking ahead, joint head coach Alan Paver said:

“These games are so important to get out there and get a run out, bedding in combinations and allowing the players to get a feel for the contact again is invaluable. This week is a different proposition against a Champ side and a very good one at that, who had a particularly good season last year. We’ll continue to go through the gears and aim towards that first Championship game against Hartpury in a few weeks time.”

Cornish Pirates Team to Face Bedford Blues

Starting XV
15 Iwan Price-Thomas, 14 Ben Cambriani, 13 Chester Ribbons, 12 Harry Yates, 11 Arthur Relton, 10 Arwel Robson, 9 Dan Hiscocks (captain); 1 Billy Young, 2 Morgan Nelson, 3 Alfie Petch, 4 Josh King, 5 Matt Cannon, 6 Barnaby Elderkin, 7 Jack Forsythe, 8 Tomiwa Agbongbon.

Replacements
Sol Moody, Alessandro Heaney, Ollie Andrews, Milo Hallam, Will Rigelsford, Will Becconsall, Louie Sinclair, Joe Elderkin, Matty Ward.

What’s Next?

The Pirates continue their pre-season schedule with a fixture against Exeter Chiefs on Friday 12th September at 7:30pm, with GWR providing a 10:30pm last train from Penzance.

The first Championship Rugby fixture of the season will be at home against Hartpury on Saturday 4th October, kicking off at 2:30pm.