Exeter Chiefs Duo Lilley and Coen Join Plymouth Albion on Loan
Plymouth Albion can confirm the arrival of two exciting young Exeter Chiefs players, with Nick Lilley and Ben Coen joining Ryan Lamb’s squad on loan.
The pair bring Premiership, European and international age-grade experience to Brickfields as we continue our 2026/27 National 1 campaign.
Their arrival further strengthens our relationship with Exeter Chiefs, which proved hugely successful last season, with Iwan Jenkins and Noah Fenton both making an impact during their loan spells before committing their futures to Albion.
Nick Lilley Returns to His Hometown Club
Plymouth-born centre Nick Lilley returns to Brickfields after previously featuring for Albion last season.
A product of Ivybridge College and Exeter College, Nick progressed into the Exeter Chiefs Academy while continuing his development with Exeter University, where he has produced a number of standout performances in BUCS Super Rugby.
His hard work was rewarded in May 2025 when he made his first-team debut for Exeter Chiefs against Northampton Saints at Sandy Park.
Nick marked the occasion by becoming the youngest professional try-scorer in Chiefs history, an impressive achievement for the young centre.
He also made his England Under-20 debut in 2025, further underlining his potential.
Now returning to his hometown club, Nick adds another exciting attacking option to our backline as he continues his development in senior rugby.
England U20 World Champion Ben Coen Arrives
Joining Nick is fly-half Ben Coen, who arrives at Brickfields on a short-term loan following an injury to Iwan Jenkins during our recent away victory over Camborne.
Ben brings considerable experience for a young player, having represented England Under-20s in their victorious 2024 World Rugby U20 Championship campaign.
A member of the Exeter Chiefs Academy since the age of 15, Ben has progressed through the club’s development pathway and earned his first professional contract.
He played an influential role in Exeter University’s BUCS Super Rugby final victory over Leeds Beckett, contributing two conversions and three penalties in a dramatic one-point win.
His performances earned recognition from Chiefs Director of Rugby Rob Baxter, who praised his character, determination and commitment to earning a professional contract.
Ben made his Exeter Chiefs debut in the PREM Rugby Cup in March 2025 and has since progressed to make appearances in both the Gallagher PREM and European competition.
His arrival provides an important option at fly-half while Iwan continues his recovery, adding further quality and competition to our squad.
Building on Our Relationship with Exeter Chiefs
The arrival of Nick and Ben continues a successful relationship between Plymouth Albion and Exeter Chiefs.
We look forward to welcoming Nick and Ben into the group as preparations continue for our next National 1 fixture.
Our next challenge takes us to London Scottish on Saturday 26 September, with a 1500 kick-off, before we return to Brickfields to face Cambridge on Saturday 3 October.
Our loan players for the 2026/27 season are proudly sponsored by HiQ Tyres & Autocare Plymouth. We thank them for their continued support.
Tickets for our upcoming home fixtures are available at plymouthalbion.com.
