Reynolds: Pirates test a 'building block' for season

In preparation for their forthcoming Greene King IPA Championship campaign, the Pirates have held a training camp in the island throughout this week which culminates in this evening's fixture and their director of rugby, Ian Davies, outlined the specifics his side have been working on that he wants to put into action.

'We are trying to work on a couple of things, mauling being one because we have not done much of that so far, and also our kicking game – that's an ongoing thing with us at the moment.

'We will look as well at the contact and collision area. From last year we know that Guernsey bring a lot of energy and physicality to that area.'

Meanwhile, GRFC director of rugby Jordan Reynolds said that while he 'tried a few guys out' in the opening two pre-season fixtures against Jersey Athletic and Colchester, tonight's game is more specifically for his first team squad.

'In the first two games, Jersey Athletic was a good introduction for the season and Colchester was that little bit tougher, which is what we were after.

'We will have a squad of around 22/23 for the match, but it is not about getting everyone on the park. This is a building block for our season.'

Guernsey v. Cornish Pirates kicks off at 7pm tonight at Footes Lane.

TEAMS

Guernsey: Alan Paver (guest), Tom Ceillam, Layton Batiste, Lewis Hillier, Dale Martin, Dom Rice, Robin Le Cocq, Matt Thomas, Malcolm Barnes, Glen Walters, Ben Challinor, Blair Campbell, Ned Brown, Dave Davison, Luke Sayer. Bench: Alex Miller, Gus Brayah, Bradley Choules, Harry Finch, Matt Armstrong, Adam Nixon, Jim Elliott, Anthony Armstrong.

Cornish Pirates: Marlen Walker, Tom Channon, Francisco Deformes, Will Graulich, Marcus Garrett, Alex Cheesman, Joe Atkinson, Matt Bolwell, Alex Day, Will Cargill, Craig Holland, Alex Dancer, Toby May, Kyle Moyle, Bertie Hopkin. Bench: Adam Jamieson, Jack Andrew, Robert Elloway, Chris Morgan, Laurie McGlone, Jack Oulton, Keiran Hallett, Rheon James, Tom Hendrickson, Mike Pope.