Cornwall start ESL title defence with Bristol six-goal thriller

Cornwall Shinty Club enjoyed a positive start to their first ESL title defence after they hit Bristol for six.

The Cornish Bees defeated a strong Bristol senior team 6-1 away from home at Ashton Park School on Saturday, March 23 at 2pm.

Bristol bolstered its ranks with England's vice captain Jamie Cranston and Calum Robertson's commanding presence, showcasing an impressive debut at half-back.

Adding Davie Brown and Ellie Kemp to the mix, Bristol appeared to have an impenetrable defence.

However, Cornwall fielded an equally formidable team with Jack Fitt, Jamie Goodship, and Ed Russell returning, supported by a dynamic Molly Shaw in their defence.

Mr Johnson's ground-covering performance helped Amos and Mossop dominate the centre field.

Numerous Cornwall players, fresh from the ESA Scotland tour, displayed peak form, offering an exciting array of attacking potential.

Their cohesive and evidence-based training showed ten minutes in when Cornwall drilled their first goal from 25 yards into the top right corner.

Bristol attempted to hinder their offence by crowding their 'D', but Mossop and Amos capitalised on the space farther out.

After Bristol's Robertson managed to even the score, Cornwall regained control.

When Amos had to leave the pitch due to an injury, Bristol attempted a comeback, but Cornwall's experience in the backline held them at bay.

A well-placed corner from Walters set up Mossop's hat trick, leaving the half-time score at 3-1 in Cornwall's favour.

Cornwall achieved an increased margin in the second half, with Goodship scoring from wing-back, and Hopkins and Davis each securing a goal.

In the end, Cornwall's captain Amos led the team to a landslide 6-1 victory over Bristol.

Robinson, Bristol's second premiership signing, made a considerable impression.

However, Bristol could not counter the onslaught from Cornwall, led by captain Amos.

Despite the loss, the Bristol squad expressed their warm host spirit and are looking forward to their next match.

Fans and newcomers interested in experiencing the thrill of one of our mature sports are encouraged to get in touch with the Finn M’Couls Cornwall Shinty Club at www.facebook.com/Cornwallshintyclub.