Cornish Pirates

CORNISH Pirates coach Jim McKay hailed his side as they bounced back to winning ways with a 29-20 victory over Nottingham at Kenwyn on Sunday.

A sterling second half display - in which they scored four tries - ensured the Pirates maintained their 100 per cent record at their new home, whilst at the same time banishing their defeat at Bedford the week previous to the back of their minds.

Despite a lively opening from Nottingham in which they led 13-0, Chris Morgan's try on the stroke of half-time offered the first glimpse of what was to follow in the second period from the Pirates.

Further tries from Richard Welding, Morgan, Simon Hockings and Joe Bearman, two of which were converted by fly-half Tom Barlow, ensured it was maximum points for McKay's men, who remain third behind league leaders Harlequins and second-placed Bedford .

Afterwards, a happy McKay remarked: "In reflection to go in at half-time 13-5 down was probably not too bad. Nottingham really came out firing at us, which we expected, plus we were up against a very strong wind, which was very difficult to play ourselves out of.

"They scored 13 points in 13 minutes so it didn't look real good, but we regrouped very well and hung in there for the remainder of the half and got that all-important score just before the break."

The Australian added: "Even at half-time, despite the scoreline, we were still pretty confident that if we stuck to our plan and dominated field position like they had done, then we do alright. We responded very well to the situation in the second half and we took our opportunities, which was very pleasing. Our shape and our play was much better than at Bedford , so in that respect we learnt a few things from that game.

"To bounce back with a win straight away was massive for the boys. We played some very positive rugby at times, so it's another step forward as far as we're concerned."

McKay even reserved praise for Nottingham , stating: "They're a very good side. We knew that before they came down here, but full credit to them for the way they stuck at it today and for the part they played in the game."