Sold-Out Clash: Cornish Pirates to Host Exeter Chiefs in Exciting Premiership Cup Opener

The Cornish Pirates are set to welcome Exeter Chiefs on Friday evening in their opening match of this season’s Premiership Cup. Anticipation is at a peak as the game will be played in front of a sell-out crowd, promising an exciting and engaging contest. With fair weather forecasted, fans can expect an enjoyable evening at the Mennaye Field. The match kicks off at 7.30pm.

A Chance to Reignite Form

Both the Pirates and the Chiefs have faced challenges in their league campaigns so far, making this cup fixture a prime opportunity for both teams to reset and regain positive momentum. Cornish Pirates’ joint head coach, Alan Paver, expressed enthusiasm for the match:

“Over the last few years, we have had some fantastic attendances at matches between the Pirates and the Chiefs, and now with a sell-out crowd confirmed it should be another great occasion for supporters to enjoy. We don’t have too many opportunities to play such a quality side, so when it does arise everyone really needs to embrace it and get behind the lads.”

Paver acknowledged that both teams are eager to make their mark in the Premiership Cup. “Both sides will be looking to do well in the Cup, which we both regard as important. For us it is also important that we try to keep our young team up and running, in a continued effort to move forward, whilst I am sure that Rob (Baxter) will also want to see the same from his gifted set of guys,” he added.

Team Line-Up and Changes

The Cornish Pirates have made just two changes to their starting XV from their previous match against Cambridge. Harry Hocking is set to make his first start of the season at hooker following Morgan Nelson’s move to Gloucester. In the back row, Josh King steps in for Alex Everett, who is currently sidelined due to injury.

The full team selection for the Cornish Pirates is as follows:

Cornish Pirates:   15 Iwan Price-Thomas 14 Matt McNab 13 Tom Georgiou 12 Joe Elderkin 11 Arthur Relton 10 Bruce Houston 9 Dan Hiscocks; 1 Billy Keast 2 Harry Hocking 3 Jay Tyack 4 Charlie Rice 5 Eoin O’Connor 6 Josh King 7 Will Gibson 8 Hugh Bokenham (captain).

Replacements:   16 Sol Moody 17 Billy Young 18 Ollie Andrews 19 Matt Cannon 20 Tomi Agbongbon 21 Cam Jones 22 Iwan Jenkins 23 Will Trewin.

Officials and Match Details

The match will be officiated by Sara Cox, supported by assistants Iain Kiy and Kevin Williams. Will Williams will serve as the fourth official, with Paul Box as the timekeeper.

Supporting the Community

Friday’s event will feature BK Plus as the match day sponsor, with Yeomans sponsoring the match ball. The Royal British Legion will be the focus of the match day collection, providing an opportunity for the community to show their support.

As the Pirates prepare for this highly anticipated encounter with the Chiefs, the atmosphere at Mennaye Field promises to be electric, offering supporters an evening of thrilling rugby.