The Cornish Pirates expected a tough challenge for their first home match of the season, and last season's Championship winners made sure it was.

It was Ealing’s fly-half Dan Jones who kicked the game off.

Playing towards the Penzance end of the ground the Trailfinders applied much early pressure.

Twice they went close to scoring before the Pirates took play up field.

The Pirates would though get an early reward when, following a penalty award in the 16th minute, it was fly-half Bruce Houston who stepped forward and coolly slotted a less than easy kick on offer.

After having no initial joy when a catch and drive opportunity was foiled, the visitors then opted to kick at goal after another penalty was signalled.

Jones’ effort sailed through the posts to make it 3-all.

(Image: Brian Tempest) The Pirates were under considerable pressure for a period, and it was ultimately slick movement of the ball that led to winger Tom Collins crossing for a converted try at the scoreboard corner.

Were the Trailfinders now about to take control?

The answer would be no, as just before halftime the Pirates levelled.

Arthur Relton somehow worked his way into space and put on the burners to run nearly 50 metres to the posts.

The ball was then snapped up by Robin Wedlake who scored wide out on the left - conversion converted by Houston.

After the break, the Trailfinders were quick out of the blocks, when hooker Matt Cornish scored a converted try, but the Pirates were quick to respond.

Full back Will Trewin kicked and chased to the clubhouse corner where it appeared defender Hampson deliberately tapped the ball into touch.

The Ealing side would then regain the lead with a converted try scored by full-back Tobi Wilson, but they would then lose another man to the sin bin.

(Image: Brian Tempest)

The Pirates were unable to take any significant advantage, but a converted try scored by Iwan Price-Thomas ensured an enthralling finale.

They could not hold for the draw and had to settle for a losing bonus point after Trailfinders flanker, Rob Farrar, scored a try in the last minute.

Speaking after the match, Cornish Pirates’ joint head coach Gavin Cattle said: “Looking back, we had our opportunities to win, so to lose right at the end was a sickener.

“Credit is due Ealing for creating the play to frustratingly sneak it right at the very end.”