Bill Beaumont Cup

Hertfordshire 15

Cornwall 23

CORNWALL are on the verge of a fourth successive appearance at Twickenham after a thrilling victory 23-15 victory over Hertfordshire at Bishops Stortford.

Flanker Sam Matavesi repeated last week’s heroics by twice going over, leaving Graham Dawe’s men knowing victory over winless Surrey at Camborne on Saturday will see them get to defend the County Championship crown they won last Spring.

Having made four changes from last week’s victory over Gloucestershire, The Black and Gold roared into a 17-0 lead as Matavesi and Herbie Stupple went over within 20 minutes. However, by half-time, Herfordshire led 15-12 through hooker Brett McNamee and a penalty try.

Two Matt Shepherd penalties gave Cornwall some impetus and despite coming under sustained pressure throughout the second-half, Matavesi crashed over from a maul to get Cornish fans dreaming again.