Williams urges improvement ahead of Pirates clash

Rhodri Williams has backed Bristol Rugby to build on last week’s opening day victory over Hartpury when they make the trip to Penzance to take on Cornish Pirates on Sunday.

The scrum half admits there are plenty of improvements to be made from Sunday’s 26-15 victory over the newly promoted side - and Williams knows Bristol face another tough test this weekend at the Mennaye Field.

“It was a good starting point for us and was great to get the result,” he said.

“There were plenty of positives from the game and also plenty of things we can learn from."

“Credit to Hartpury and how they came down and put pressure on us, especially in the first half, so we were glad to come out on top.

“We’ve gone back and reviewed the game and looked at all of the small details and tried to put them right. It’s small margins, we didn’t play the conditions very well in the first half but we adapted well in the second half.

“It’s a tough league with quality sides and these sides are good up front, so we need to get things right there and I’m sure we’ll improve this week.

“We know Pirates are a good side - every team we’re going to play is going to be tough, but we’ve got to make sure everything on our side is in check and if we can do that, we can hopefully get the result.”

The Welshman, who made 14 appearances in the Aviva Premiership last season, started in the number nine shirt at Ashton Gate last weekend and was named man of the match by the Sky Sports commentary team.

But Williams insists the competition for places in the scrum half ranks is very high:

“Ryan was on the bench last week and he’s got plenty of experience and played for some quality clubs; Andy has come back from injury and he’s a very good player; and Reiss has got some great attributes as well, so there’s plenty of competition and I definitely don’t feel comfortable.

“I know I’ve got to keep performing and keep my own game up to scratch.”

You can follow Bristol Rugby's GKIPA Championship clash with Cornish Pirates at Mennaye Field on Twitter (@Bristol_RFC), Facebook or here on the website.