Cornish Pirates Announce Two More New Signings

By Dick Straughan
May 10 2007

The Cornish Pirates today brought their list of new signings up to ten when they today announced the capture of Samoan International Wing, Ali Koko, from French side Montpellier and Canadian Internatiuonal scrum-half, Ed Fairhurst, from Cardiff Blues. The Pirates are wasting no time in building for their next league campaign.

Pirates Announce 2 New Signings

Despite success in the EDF Trophy Pirates Head Coach, Jim McKay, was disappointed with his team`s fifth place finish in Division One. The addition of Koko and Fairhurst brings a wealth of experience to his squad as well as different attacking options.

McKay told the Western Morning News, "These are two very good signings for us and I’m sure they will bring a lot to the team. They are both very experienced and have played some excellent rugby in their careers."

Fairhurst becomes the second Canadian International at the Pirates following Stan McKeen, who has become a popular figure at the club during his first season in Cornwall. Capped 34 times by his Country he also appeared in the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

Ed Fairhurst

Ali Koko is a close friend of Pirates flanker Iva Motusaga, and is keen to get his first taste of English club rugby. Having played for Wellington Lions in New Zealand, Viadana in Italy, and most recently Montpellier in France, he brings a wealth of experience to match his imposing physique.

Ali Koko

Clearly delighted with the results of his most recent shopping trip Jim McKay added, “Ed is a current Canadian international and he comes highly recommended by Stan. He has a very good work culture, has good skills and he wants to develop his game further. As for Ali, he has been a professional rugby player for some time and has great experienced within the game. He will offer us a real physical presence on the wing, as well as another potential scoring option.”

For the Pirates faithful, September cannot come quickly enough.