PRIDE saw Cornwall through their tough winner-takes-all County Championship battle with Hertfordshire on Saturday – according to Lewis Webb.

The former Penryn half-back was part of Duchy side who overturned a 12 point deficit at the break to win 25-18 and book their third trip to Twickenham in as many years.

Just like the previous two finals, Cornwall will face Lancashire on Sunday, with the Northerners looking to bag a hat-trick of titles after winning 35-26 in 2013 and 36-26 last year.

Webb, who now plays for National League Two South club Taunton, admitted at half time against Herts things were looking bleak, but wearing the famous Black and Gold jersey played a big part in their fight back.

He also believes the pride will be a massive factor for the final, along with a change in attitude on the pitch.

Webb said: “I love playing or Cornwall, just like the other guys, and although you’re tired from a long season, you always find a way of digging deep because we’re all proud to be wearing the jersey.

“That is what got us through half time as we had strong characters in the dressing room telling us not to panic and that we are Cornwall and we a good team, so I knew we had it in our locker to go back out and win.

“I think compared to the last time I went to Twickenham two years ago, the team spirit is stronger as there are a lot of players who have played club and youth rugby together, so we get on very well.

“It does seem like a few egos have been pushed out as obviously that can have a detrimental effect on the team and we know if we keep our character and stick to our systems on the day at Twickenham, we will have a chance.”

In this year’s group stage, Cornwall’s measly defence played a big part in booking their return to headquarters.

Over the three pool games, the Duchy conceded just 42 points, a whopping 27 less than Herts.

Victory on Saturday came courtesy of a fine defensive display from across the line-up and Webb feels they need to keep it going against Lancashire.

“Every week there has been a strong defensive performance from us,” the 26-year-old said.

“Robin [Wedlake] and Nelly [Nielson Webber] have been so strong in that area and when Sam Parsons came on, he was great stopping things out on the wing.

“George Jones has made a real impact in the back row and Kyle Marriott put in a skipper’s performance in the second half against Hertfordshire, winning a couple of turnovers.

“We’re a real tight unit and if we get the right mix between our powerful forwards and creative backs, then we’ll be a difficult team to beat at Twickenham.”