News

Cornwall RLFC can confirm that Joe Purcell has left the club and has joined fellow Betfred League 1 side Rochdale Hornets for 2023.

The Widnes born half back joined Cornwall after taking part in the club’s open player trial at the Treviglas Sports Hub in January.

Purcell, who before the covid-19 pandemic had been part of the academy set up at Super League giants Wigan Warriors, began his rugby career with local amateur side Farnworth Hornets.

He made his Cornwall debut in the club’s first ever professional match which resulted in a 62-22 defeat at North Wales Crusaders in April.

Purcell was a virtual ever-present for Cornwall during the 2022 season. He made 18 appearances in total and missed just two games – at home to West Wales Raiders and away to Midlands Hurricanes on the final day of the regular season.

The 22-year-old leaves the club as Cornwall’s leading appearance maker and point scorer with forty-six after he scored five tries and kicked thirteen goals during our maiden campaign.

Everyone at the club wishes Joe well at Rochdale and thank him for his time in a Cornwall shirt.