Pirates pick up the bonus at Caldy

CORNISH Pirates’ joint head coach Alan Paver could not hide his delight after watching his side pick up a superb bonus-point win at Caldy on Saturday, writes Phil Westren.

Following on from their comfortable 62-7 opening Championship Cup win away to Richmond the previous weekend, this was another fine away day for the Cornishmen who sit seventh in the Championship table.

“We know what Caldy are all about, being a gritty and passionate outfit, and it was a long way to go,” Paver said. “But it was a decent win and to get the bonus point we are over the moon.

“As part of our development and performance structure and giving players opportunities, it was also pleasing for instance that Will Trewin took his chance and excelled today.

“The elements were in our favour in the first half, and we were a little disappointed not to score more points. That said, they burnt up a lot of fuel and looking in control we eventually won the game with a bit to spare.”

After wing Arthur Relton threatened for the Pirates early on, only to be penalised, it was approaching midway through the first period that the Pirates, through Relton, deservedly opened their account. This time, making sure of getting his name on the scoresheet, he intercepted and sprinted in from near halfway, for fly-half Harry Bazalgette to then add the extras in what was the only score of the first half.

Caldy’s Rhys Hayes made a telling kick out of hand and from a penalty award, he posted the ball perfectly to within five metres of the Pirates line and, in short time, hooker Ethan Caine duly celebrated with a try that was converted by wing Ben Jones.

Then, from a line-out, the Pirates backs were clinically into action, and it was Wyatt who showed power and pace to crash over for an unconverted score.

An importantly powerful scrum won the Pirates a penalty and a chance to kick to the corner and get their driving maul into action. This resulted in a number of pick and goes that suitably dented the opposition defence, and when the ball was given width it was Relton who duly delivered as, for the second week running, he scored a brace. Bazalgette also converted to make it 7-19

Caldy introduced a handful of replacements in an effort to stem the flow. However, it was to no avail, because seeking a bonus point providing fourth try Seb Nagle-Taylor quick-tapped following another penalty award and brushing off two defenders scored. Replacement Carwyn Penny then stepped forward to add the final two points of a satisfactory afternoon.