Pirates are not taking Scottish for granted

up for the Cornish Pirates is a Round 18 fixture in the RFU Championship at home against London Scottish today (kick-off 2.30pm.)

Although the Pirates are presently fourth in the league, and Scottish lie at the foot of the table, the Cornish side will remember they only won narrowly in the away fixture played last November.

Indeed, emerging with a 19-17 points victory was evidence of a stern test, and one too close to call.

Having such awareness also means that the team is expected to be fully focused this weekend.

As for team changes this week, alongside Matt Bolwell and nominated skipper Tom Duncan, the make-up of the back row is completed this week with the inclusion of openside flanker Antonio Kiri Kiri.

Last week’s replacement scrum-half Alex Schwarz will partner a fit again Arwel Robson, whilst wing Alex O’Meara makes a return to the starting line-up.

One person named on the bench and keen to make his debut for the club is former Wales Under-20s prop forward Garyn Phillips, who is on loan from Welsh Pro 14 side Ospreys.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s encounter, coach Louie Tonkin said: “We were disappointed with the outcome of last Saturday’s game at Richmond, despite coming away with three league points.

“As for this Saturday, we have some work to do and not taking London Scottish lightly need to be fully focused.

“They are considered a tough side to play, as was experienced against them at the RAG (Richmond Athletic Ground) earlier in the season, however we are not hiding the fact that we need wins and must aim for five points every week to be in contention at the top come the end of the season.”

The Pirates are five points off Ealing in top spot, while they have two games in hand on Doncaster in second and Jersey in third.

Cornish Pirates: Carwyn Penny, Alex O’Meara, Tommy Wyatt, Shae Tucker, Callum Sirker, Arwel Robson, Alex Schwarz, Jack Andrew, Tom Channon, Alfie Petch, Josh Caulfield, Danny Cutmore, Matt Bolwell, Antonio Kiri Kiri, Tom Duncan (captain). Replacements: Tom Cowan-Dickie, Garyn Phillips, Sam Rodman, Cory Teague, Will Gibson, Ruaridh Dawson, Nicolas De Battista, Robin Wedlake.