A GREAT start to the season was secured by the Cornish Rebels as they triumphed in the South West 9s tournament.

Played at Duckes Meadow in Exeter, the Redruth-based side retained the crown after defeating the host club 18-16 in the final.

Earlier in the day, the teams had clashed in their opening fixture and on this occasion the Centurions had come out on top by the same score.

The Rebels then went on to beat Devon Sharks 24-0 before upending the West of England League's Somerset Vikings 26-8 to make the semi finals.

Bristol Sonics awaited them there and after a tense battle, the Cornishmen edged through with a 24-16 victory, setting up a chance to get revenge over the Centurions, an opportunity they took well.

Leading the scoring on the day were Martyn Lawrance and James Martin with five tries each while Darren Pellow dotted down three times, with the full-back kicking eight goals as well.

Next up for the Rebels is a visit to Torquay where they face the Sharks in their opening South West Premier League clash of the season on May 16.