THE Pirates’ superb run in the Papa John’s Cup came to an end in London on Saturday as Brunel University ran out comfortable 47-15 winners in Uxbridge.

The hosts, coached by former Cornish Pirates prop Marlen Walker cruised to the Counties One Herfordshire/Middlesex League this term, and also have strong links with Championship leaders Ealing Trailfinders.

Brunel led 14-5 at the break but it was a sin-bin early in the second half which paved the way for the home side to make hay as the Cornishmen toiled.

The Pirates scored three tries in the game through skipper Stan Somers, hooker Eli Williams, and full-back Ben Wragg, and No.8 Archie Pilcher was their adjudged man-of-the-match.

Despite this defeat, Pirates Amateurs’ head coach Murray Westren has been mightily pleased with the squad overall this season. He commented:

“Playing a team of Brunel University’s quality was always going to be a tough ask, and ultimately a step too far, as proved to be the case.

“Looking back on the season overall, both John (coach John Stevens) and I have been mightily pleased with what our squad have managed to achieve. They have been a credit to themselves and the club, and they fully deserve thanks for their efforts, as do all the unsung heroes in the background.

“Gaining promotion as champions of Counties One Tribute Western West was a highlight, as we will together soon look forward to the challenges that next season will inevitably bring.”

PIRATES AMATEURS: Ben Wragg, Sam Coogan, Josh Semmens, Harris Eddy, Callum Gardner, Rhodri McAtee, Jake Hole; James Lambourn, Eli Williams, Joe Best, Toby Osborne, Ben Martin, Stan Somers (capt), Sam Carroll, Archie Pilcher. Replacements: Dave Penrose, Dylan Arthur, Jude Hardy, Dec Marshall, Morgan Holman.