ST AUSTELL RFC are through to thre national semi-finals of the Papa Johns Cup after this Saturday’s final pool game opponents Chippenham conceded the game.

Saints chair Paul Hayes said: “After defeats in their first two pool matches, the Wiltshire club have decided to focus their efforts on the Bath Combination Cup, where they face Trowbridge RFC in the semi-final. 

“We thank Chippenham RFC for their early decision, allowing us to cancel travel arrangements well in advance and wish them well in their cup competition.”

The five points received for the away walkover mean the Saints have an unassailable 14 points in Pool 1 so will now progress to the semi-final on April 29.

While it is perhaps a shame that our progression has been confirmed by a walkover, there can be no doubt the Saints earned the opportunity by their two fantastic wins in the first two rounds of matches, against Matson (25-20) and Marlborough (25-22).

Hayes added: “We do not know yet who our semi-final opponent will be but with one round of matches still to play, it is looking most likely to be against Horsham RFC – fingers crossed for a home draw.”

Progression to the semi-final does mean St Austell RFC cannot now play in the Cornwall Knockout Cup scheduled for April 29 at Launceston.

Truro and Wadebridge Camels are still to play their county semi-final to confirm the other finalist, and with both progressing to Regional 2 South Plate round three scheduled for Saturday 22 April, there is still no date set.

The Papa Johns Community Cup final is scheduled for Sunday May 7 at Twickenham, which is the King’s Coronation weekend.