RUGBY REPORT WEEKLY . . . from PembrokeshireSport.co.uk

Rugby Reports

14th November 2009

Feature Match

Division Four (West):

Mariners so strong in second half

Pembroke 8 points -

Milford Haven 32 points

29 unanswered second half points gave Milford Haven a superb win in their local derby at Pembroke, with a vital bonus point secured as their reward for scoring four tries after they had restricted the Scarlets to an 8-3 interval lead.

The Crickmarren pitch was in splendid condition after so much bad weather but the home side weren’t able to claim enough first half points, despite having the advantage of wind and slope, as the Mariners soaked up early pressure and actually finished the half the stronger. It was a warning sign for the home fans and Milford used the elements far better in the second period as they took control.

Phil Williams missed an early penalty chance for Pembroke but the outside half made amends when he slotted a three-pointer before an excellent forward drive involving Richards Morris and Mason, Mark Boswell and Rob Weston saw flanker Luke Hansford driven over for an unconverted try. The Scarlets had other chances but Leigh Broome and especially Jonathan Whitticombe on the right wing, covered well as the back row of Mark Wonnacott, Michael Ryder and Ben Johnson covered and tackled like demons.

The Mariners spurned two penalty chances in front of the posts in their quest for tries as Pembroke had skipper Steve Dyde and ten mark Boswell yellow-carded – but then Broome landed a more difficult penalty from the last touch of the half to but his team on the points sheet.

Broome opened the second period with another penalty and Milford looked to have scored via Whitticombe but he was recalled for a forward pass. The Mariners built a platform, however, on the back of possession won by Gareth Fawcett and Aidan Laxton so that half backs Tom Arnold and skipper Paul Evans could bring their backs into play. Quick hands from Jim Farr and Ian Rusinek set up two good tries for effervescent winger Craig Thomas and lock Fawcett from an interception, two converted by Broome as Milford made sure of victory.

They grabbed the extra point when hooker Craig Smith ploughed through and Broome’s conversion set the seal on a big win for the Mariners against a Pembroke side which deserves every credit because they never once gave up trying in an entertaining clash.

Pembroke: Scott Bowen: Matthew Lewis; Mark Williams; Rhys Marchant; Mark Roach: Phil Williams; Ryan Hayward: Richard Morris; Tom Jones; Richard Mason: Mark Boswell; Tom Surtees: Steve Dyde (Capt); Luke Hansford; Rob Weston. Replacements: Chris Phillips; Nicky James; Ross McNally; Josh Taylor.

Milford Haven: Leigh Broome: Jonathan Whitticombe; Jim Farr; Ian Rusinek; Craig Thomas: Paul Evans (Capt); Tom Arnold: Mike Cockburn; Craig Smith; James Passmore: Gareth Fawcett; Aidan Laxton: Ben Johnson; Mike Ryder; Mark Wonnacott. Replacements: Scott Walters; Joe Bradford; Tom Bullivant; Darren Potter.

Action pictures by Bill Carne.

Division One (West): 

Davies last-gasp drop goal goes wide

Llangennech 14 points - Whitland 12 points

Whitland came within a whisker of snatching victory from the jaws of defeat despite being down to 13 men, when a last-gasp drop goal attempt by outside half Aled Davies flew just the wrong side of the post and Llangennech were able to claim victory on the back of two early converted tries.

Skipper Lee Glanville was shown the red card for something that he said to the referee whilst Randall Williams suffered a dead leg after all the replacements had been used and so the Borderers were forced to play with 13 men in the final quarter, but still managed to show their usual committed approach.

Whitland were rocked back on their heels as winger Ollie Rowlands and then flanker Rob Foley scored Llangennech tries, both converted by outside half Jonathan Griffiths, before the visitors could get into their stride – and their only score of the first period was a James Stephenson penalty after 16 minutes.

Whitland showed plenty of initiative as Will and Aled Davies put in promising runs which came to nothing but two more Stephenson penalties, one from half way, helped claw them back into contention. Celt Thomas, Richard Smith, Raff Williams and Luke Kendall as replacement, all played well up front and a late dropped goal by Aled Davies set the scene for a frantic finale – but a similar attempt was marginally off-target and the home supporters heaved a sigh of relief, and Whitland lost their second match of the season in this their tenth fixture.

It was a disappointing final result for the Borderers but at least they could take satisfaction from the bonus point they picked up, never an easy thing to do at Llangennech.

Whitland: James Stephenson:  Dion Thomas; Lee Glanville (Capt); Gary Evans; Will Davies: Aled Davies; Huw Rees: Andrew Howell; Trystan Griffiths; Richard Smith: Raff Williams; Carl Smith: Celt Thomas; Jack mason; Randall Williams. Replacements: Alan Proctor; Mark Jones; Ryan Michael; Luke Kendall; Aled Jones.

Narberth v Cwmllynfell

Match postponed – unfit pitch

Division Three (West):

Cardigan v Crymych

Match postponed – Pitch unfit

Haverfordwest v Llanelli Wanderers

Match postponed – pitch unfit

Division Four (West): 

Tenby United v Betws

Match postponed – pitch unfit

Trimsaran v Pembroke Dock Quins

Match postponed – pitch unfit

Division Five (West):

Seagulls battle on in Bynea mud

Bynea 0 - Fishguard 19 points

Fishguard maintained their 100% record in a mud bath at Bynea where the home team did well to get the game played but the awful conditions were always going to count against the Seagulls in terms of the quality rugby they have been playing.

In this tussle they had to knuckle down and make sure that they kept a blank sheet in defence whilst picking up points at the other end and although player/coach Alan Phillips might have liked a few more tries he admitted that this was a good win nonetheless because his squad showed a willingness to commit themselves.

It was most evident in the first period, when  Bynea had the advantage of playing with the monsoon wind and heavy rain but found Gareth Adamson, Matthew Reynolds and Matthew George covering well at the back and with skipper Steve Jenkins and mark Lennard bottling up the middle. Gareth Owen played well after a late call to the No 9 shirt and half back partner Huw Evans landed two penalties which opened up a 6-0 lead for the Seagulls at the half way stage.

Good work by the tight five of Romeo Colella, Mark James, Gerwyn Davies, Nathan Jenkins and Gwilym Evans earned Fishguard a penalty try from a push-over attempt which Bynea collapsed and Huw Evans converted from in front of the posts.

Fishguard had other chances as Thomas Ilaisa, Mark George and especially Emyr Hughes were involved but the conditions were difficult and so they had to settle for two more Evans’ penalties – and another excellent win for the table-topping Seagulls!

Big bonus wins for rampant All Blacks

Neyland 29 points - St Clears 3 points

Neyland pressed their claims to be considered real challengers for promotion as they entertained fourth-placed St Clears and not only won well but claimed a vital bonus point as reward for scoring four tries in what team manager Martin Rees described as their best performance of the season so far.

Two of them came from block-buster centre Adam Collins, who has now scored ten times in the last four league matches, whilst skipper Mathew Williams played an influential role at scrum half as he linked well with talented young No 8 Calum Tree and scored the All Blacks’ first ten points as the front row of Ben Lloyd, Robert Codd and Mark Smith worked tirelessly alongside the rest of the home pack.

Yet it was St Clears who opened the scoring as outside half Simon John slotted a penalty as his team tried to build up an early advantage but Gregg Miller had a cracking game at full back for Neyland to earn the man of the Match tag on his 34th birthday, fielding high balls well and setting up counterattacks with his ability to run from deep positions.

Mathew Williams levelled matters with a Neyland penalty and then the burly scrum half took the scoring pass from Tree to score from a scrum five – and add the extra points with a well-judged conversion.

Adam Collins grabbed the second home try with a powerful surge to the left corner, after some strong running from co-centre Steve Hamer, which put the All Blacks 15-3 in front at the interval – and soon after the restart Neyland claimed the best try of the match when Williams broke up the blind side, half the team handled crisply and winger Martin Roberts put second row Matthew Doncaster through as reward for his support play, with Williams adding the extras.

Collins added try No 4, converted by Mark Riley, to set the seal on success and after resisting some strong Saints’ pressure the All Blacks might have had a fifth try when Martin Roberts crossed the line but he had the ball knocked out of his grasp as he tried to go nearer the posts.

Neyland were sponsored by The Rose and Willow, with the match ball sponsored by Mike Hughes, Fellars, Milford Haven.

Charles inspires Saints come-back

St Davids 15 points - Llangwm 8 points

Tries either side of half time by veteran No 8 Gareth Charles helped St Davids gain victory over a Llangwm side which opened up an eight-point advantage with the elements in their favour before he struck twice – and the Saints used the wind to their advantage afterwards to keep control on the game.

The Wasps took the lead with a well-struck penalty from young No 10 Luke Brock and it was Andrew Brock who scored the first try of the match when James Venables made the early running and supplied the scoring pass.

But when Saints’ outside half Phil Lamb put Llangwm under pressure in the corner they made an error at the ensuing line-out and Charles pounced for an unconverted try which restricted the visitors to an 8-5 interval lead and having to face the high winds.

Charles featured again after the oranges when he hacked a loose ball through and won the race for the touch-down – and the Wasps conceded a third try soon afterwards when a clever cross-field kick by Phil lamb bounced perfectly for Saints’ skipper Fraser Watson to benefit from a smashing bounce and speed to the line for yet another unconverted try.

The only consolation for the Wasps was the fact that they picked up a deserved bonus point for getting to within seven points of the opposition – and owed that to a last-ditch tackle by Andrew Brock which saved a certain try, which would have given the Saints a bonus point for four tries, as he brought down Craig Challoner just when the Saints winger seemed certain to score late on.

St Davids were clearly delighted by their second success of the season and in the final analysis both sides, and their supporters, deserve every credit for braving the elements and putting so much into making the game an entertaining one.

Rugby Reports

31st October 2009

Feature Match:

Division One (West): 

Battling Borderers beat nearest rivals

Whitland 31 points - Bonymaen 18 points

Whitland issued a clarion call to the rest of the teams in Division One (West) as they not only beat nearest rivals Bonymaen at Parc Llwyn Ty Gwyn but capped a good performance with a precious bonus point as reward for their determination.

Victory was all the more meritorious because the Borderers made a very nervy start where they gifted Bonymaen 12 points in as many minutes and failed to take their own chances – but were just a single pint behind at the interval, having scored two cracking tries, and were on top for much of the second period.

Bonymaen scored from their first opportunity when left wing Chris Hoppe followed up a speculative kick ahead by centre Rickie Williams and won the race for the touchdown. Even worse was to follow because after 12 minutes another kick through, this time by outside half Ian Taylor, saw centre Nick Harwood dive on the ball and Taylor converted.

Whitland pressed either side of this seven-pointer but No 10 Aled Davies wobbled a penalty wide and another which hit the woodwork – and it was only a try-saving tackle by James Stephenson which prevented the visitors going even further ahead.

Borderers bounce back

But the Borderers came back with a bang when strong surges by the outstanding Raff Williams and Stephenson set the stage for an unlikely dummy and scramble to the line by prop Alun ‘Tank’ Davies. Stephenson converted, as he did soon afterwards from the try of the match by skipper Lee Glanville, which came straight from the training ground and was initiated by a flat run and very short pass by Aled Davies.

Taylor put Bonymaen back in front at the break with one successful penalty from two attempts and Whitland wasted the chance of regaining the lead when a hastily-taken tap penalty 38 metres out came to naught.

Taylor opened the second period with a penalty which was soon cancelled out by a similar effort by Stephenson and the score stayed at 18-17 in Bonymaen’s favour for some while before a piece of quick thinking put the Borderers back into a lead they weren’t to lose. Lively winger Dion Thomas did well to charge down an attempted clearance and stayed on his feet to grab an opportunist corner try which Stephenson did well to convert.

This vital score seemed to knock some of the stuffing out of the visitors and an Aled Davies chip ahead bounced perfectly for Will Davies to pouch and speed to the posts so that Stephenson could finally kill off Bonymaen hopes of anything from the game – as a delighted Whitland contingent celebrated a very special win!

Whitland: James Stephenson: Dion Thomas; Gary Evans; Lee Glanville (Capt); Will Davies: Aled Davies; Huw Rees: Alun Davies; Marc Jones; Romeo Colella: Raff Williams; Carl Smith: Celt Thomas; Ryan Michael; Luke Kendall. Replacements: Randall Williams; Jack Mason; Aled Jones; Trystan Griffiths; Andrew Howells.

Action pictures taken by Bill Carne.

Otters outlasted by Ton

Tonmawr 25 points - Narberth 15 points

Narberth continued to raise their performance levels as they pushed Tonmawr all the way before Ton moved away in the final quarter on the back of some excellent kicking by Argentinian player Juan-Pablo Sucino, whose four successful penalties included one monster kick from fully 55 metres.

Socini joined the far with the Otters only 13-12 adrift and looking sharp, despite the early loss of winger Thomas Bonnell, but he showed why he has played for the Argentine’s under 21 team as he punished every Narberth indiscretion, whilst the Otters could only respond with their fifth penalty of the match, which gave Tonmawr a victory that pushes them into second spot in the table.

Craig Jones gave the Otters an early lead with a penalty but Warren Davies responded with a Ton three-pointer before the home side took the lead with unconverted tries by hooker Darrell Harvey and winger Elliott Trewan.

Richard Davies took over the kicking duties for Narberth after Jones had been off-target and landed two penalties before half time and one soon afterwards to take his side within a point, and the Otters also had half chances as Nick Jones was tackled just short after a mazy run and Adrian Killa went close from a tap and go chance.

But then Tonmawr pulled their ace kicker Sucino out of the bag and although Davies notched a fifth Otter penalty it was never going to be enough for victory.

Division Three (West):

Blues back to winning ways

Haverfordwest 26 points -

Laugharne 19 points

Haverfordwest played really well as a team to fight their way back from a six-point interval deficit to claim the league points on offer as they  scored two good tries and showed they can climb up the table if they play like this every week.

The first half was hard an uncompromising, as expected between two teams who know each other well and never give an inch to each other, with Laugharne 12-6 in front as ace kicker Ross Michael landed penalties after 5, 14,24 and 41 minutes, whilst young Blues’ outside half Mike Jones found the target in the sixth and 37th minutes.

But the Blues moved their play up a gear after the interval pep-talk, despite having prop Ieuan Jones in the sin-bin, and their pack established a strong platform from which centre Dan Harries powered his way to the line. Mike Jones added the extras and also slotted two more conversions – but Laugharne made it 19-all when centre Nick Jones crossed at the posts for Michael to convert.

It set up a tense finale where both teams had half chances but it was the Blues who had the final word when Ben Jones defended well and set up the chance to put full back Graham Badham away on a run which was continued by centre Sion Morgan before Mike Venables received the final pass, beat his marker on the inside and did well to score a smashing try which Mike Jones to convert and take his personal tally to 16 points as reward for some good individual performance in an excellent all-round display by the battling Blues.

Haverfordwest entertain Cardigan in a PembrokeshireKnock Out Cup match this Friday (November 6th) at Merlins Bridge - 7pm start.

Swalec Plate Round One:

Cardis beaten by big pack

Cardigan 19 points - Kidwelly 29 points

Cardigan went into their Swalec Plate match against Kidwelly as underdogs since the away side play one division higher in league set up – but the Cardis pushed them all the way until the last 15 minutes, when the teams were locker at 19-all before Kidwelly used their powerful pack to score the vital late points which took them through.

Kidwelly served notice of intent when they opened the scoring with a try from full back Dafydd Lewis which outside half Kylie Jones converted – but the Teifisiders bounced back with a try from flanker Gethin Davies after good work by the outstanding Dylan Richards, with No 10 Jack Lewis adding the extra points. But Kidwelly had two further tries from left winger Luke Marshall, one goaled by Jones so that they looked in command with a 19-7 interval lead.

Cardigan fought back well after the interval as scrum half Tom Turner sniped through on the blind side for a try superbly converted by Lewis – and the Cardis drew level when Turner put in a smashing little chip which Richards plucked out of the air to supply Rhydian Jenkins with the scoring pass for an unconverted try.

But Kidwelly closed things up again via their pack and a Kylie Jones penalty put them back in front before centre Stuart Morris added a late try, inevitably converted by Kylie Jones, to put the battling Cardis out of the competition.

Swalec Bowl Round 2

Seven-try Mariners beat Betws

Milford Haven 43 points - Betws 27 points

Milford Haven coach Alan McClelland gave an opportunity to several of his squad players to prove their worth in this Swalec Bowl tie against a Betws side they had already beaten 35-10 in an away league game – and the Mariners scored another seven tries in the process.

Coach McClelland was less pleased by the fact that his team conceded tries to second row Paul Rees (2), flanker Kevin Grewstone and winger Wayne Comely, plus two conversions and a penalty by Matthew Rees but knows that his team can dramatically tighten up for the forthcoming league games.

Big lock Gareth Fawcett again led the Mariners’ try count as he crossed for two scores, with others from hooker Craig Smith (2), centre Ian Rusinek, winger Craig Thomas and replacement centre John Whitticombe, playing from the Mariners after moving from Haverfordwest. Leigh Broome notched four conversions and whilst this won’t rank as the best Milford performance of the season it keeps them comfortably in the competition, however.

Makeshift Neyland bow out

Amman United 36 points - Neyland 21 points

Neyland made several changes of personnel for their Swalec Bowl match against Amman United but still managed to push the opposition from a division higher until the final stages as the score stood at 21 points each.

But then Mark Riley hit the post with a penalty chance that would have nudged them ahead and Amman United regained the initiative with two late converted tries.

The All Blacks were 18-13 adrift at the interval as Mark Riley converted Martin Roberts’s excellent try, to go with two penalties. Tony Busby showed his real determination as he played in the unaccustomed role of prop alongside Ashley Mathias, who played his heart out at hooker. Riley added another penalty and there was a try for pacy winger Andrew Charnley but Amman United go through after scoring tries by winger Gavin Madge (2), his brother Christian, plus a try brace by second row Ross Smith. Their four conversions were shared by outside half Adrian Thomas and centre Rhys Thomas, whilst scrum half Gavin Lewis also got his name on the scoresheet with a well-struck penalty.

Seagulls ease into next round

Fishguard and Goodwick 35 points - Tycroes 17 points

A first half hat-trick of tries by flying winger Matthew George helped Fishguard move into the next round as they rested several players but still had more than enough fire-power to defeat a Tycroes side which has won only once in seven starts in Division Five (South-West)

Matthew George benefitted from some quick hands by Alun George and Huw Evans in getting their back line in action, with Evans contributing two conversions and a penalty as they led 22-9 at the interval and were never headed thereafter.

Andrew Thomas fired over four penalties for Tycroes and former Neath winger Andrew Lewis claimed their try but the Seagulls added further tries from second row Nathan Jenkins and No 9 Alun George, with Huw Evans contributing another penalty to set the seal on another Seagulls’ success.

Scarlets win local derby double

Tenby United 18 points -

Pembroke 30 points

Pembroke beat Tenby United at home in the first league match of the season and made it a win double over their old rivals when they came back from a 12-11 interval deficit to win with a little to spare.

Leading the way for the Scarlets was Phil Williams, who notched six penalties and a conversion as the Pembroke pack, well led by skipper Steve Dyde and with Rob Weston, Mark Boswell and Josh Taylor always involved, held the edge up front.

Dan Colley scored a good try for the Seasiders, as did Nicky Guymer, with No 10 Tom Lewis slotting one conversion and two penalties. But Pembroke also had two tries, one each for Weston and centre Mark Williams from a cracking Rhys Marchant break – and in the final analysis it was the fact that Tenby conceded a plethora of penalties under pressure from the Pembroke pack which were heavily punished by Phil Williams, that swung the game in the Scarlets’ favour.

Rugby Reports

24th October 2009

Feature Match:

Division One (West): 

Jones kicks ease Otters home

Narberth 16 points - Corus 15 points

Three penalties and a conversion from the left boot of outside half Craig Jones helped Narberth gain their first home win of the season as they deservedly edged out fifth-placed Corus by a single point.

The Otters’ pack played well as a unit and dominated the set-pieces in the first half, where they played into the teeth of the strong winds yet still managed to lead 13-12 after claiming the psychological advantage with a penalty try from a scrum five shove which Corus couldn’t repel. The visitors immediately made two changes to their front row and almost throughout the second period there were uncontested scrums, which certainly was not what the Otters wanted since it took the intensity out of their game.

Corus took the lead after four minutes when outside half Simon Evans dropped a goal but Narberth were soon back on level terms as Craig Jones notched his first penalty after good work at the back by Matthew Davies and Nick Jones set the platform. The wind was playing a big part in play, however, and Corus centre Scott Robinson fired over penalties in the 16th and 21st minutes. But then Narberth were awarded their penalty try after 33 minutes, which Jones converted, and he added a penalty after Robinson had put his third kick on target for Corus.

With a single-point interval lead the Otters were firm favourites to do well as Jason Jennings, Colin Davies, Alex Jenkins and especially Lloyd Phillips caught the eye up front but Corus drove well into the wind and Robinson kicked a penalty to put them ahead once more before hooker Dan Smith put in a strong run after a little dummy to put Narberth on the attack, with Phillips taking play close to the line. But Corus defended well and Craig Jones’ third penalty was the only Otters’ score despite a territorial advantage.

Robinson had the chance to snatch victory for the visitors but failed with his difficult penalty and so Narberth were able to celebrate a second successive win as reward for a great deal of effort in awkward conditions.

Narberth: Matthew Davies: Tom Bonnell; Darren Simpson; Richard Davies (Capt); Nick Jones: Craig Jones; Andrew Davies: Sean Lloyd; Dan Smith; Justin Hughes: Jason Jennings; Alex Jenkins: Gareth Bateman; Lloyd Phillips; Colin Davies. Replacements: Steffan Phillips; Aled Harries; William Russell; Neil Davies; Rhys Davies.

Action pictures by Bill Carne

Borderers show true grit

Carmarthen Athletic 0 -

Whitland 8 points

Whitland showed their dogged determination as well as their undoubted skills as they made the short trip to take on Carmarthen Athletic and returned with a creditable victory after claiming the only try of the match and maintaining a clean sheet against strong opposition.

And the margin might have been wider because they had other chances before winger Will Davies scored the only try of the match after 36 minutes when outstanding second row Raff Williams set up the platform with a typical charge and from the ensuing ruck quick hands from Huw Rees and Aled Davies allowed the fly half to release full back James Stephenson with a long pass and he drew the last line of cover to put a delighted Will Davies in the clear.

Aled Davies had missed the chance of putting the Borderers ahead after 15 minutes when his short-range penalty hit the post and he did exactly the same thing at the other end after Celt Thomas, Ryan Michael and Jack Mason had done the spade work. There was no shortage of effort by the Whitland pack and their back line, with skipper Lee Glanville and Aled Jones covering well alongside Stephenson, kept out the Athletic attacks until Aled Davies finally found the mark in such difficult conditions as he kicked a penalty to set the seal on a very important victory for the table-toppers.

Whitland: James Stephenson: Dion Thomas; Lee Glanville (Capt); Aled Jones; Will davies: Aled Davies; Huw Rees: Alun Davies; Mark Jones; Richard Smith: Raff Williams; Carwyn Davies: Celt Thomas; Jack Mason; Ryan Michael. Replacements: Romeo Colella; Andrew Howells; Carl Smith; Gary Evans; James Davies.

Division Three (West): 

Preseli Men win by a single point

Crymych 11 points - Morriston 10 points

Aled Morgan was the toast of his Crymych team mates as the young full back landed a 75th penalty which eased them to a single-point victory over an obdurate Morriston side which could only muster a 10-8 lead at half time, despite having first use of the strong wind, but defended well afterwards to push the Preseli Men all the way.

Morgan was performing the kicking duties because Gareth Davies was unavailable, with Eurig Davies coming in at No 10 and soon settling down at half back with Rhodri Roberts. Morgan gave Crymych an early lead before Morriston responded with an unconverted try by flanker Simon Crane from concerted pressure. Nick Bevan pushed Crymych back ahead with an unconverted try but hooker Paul Thomas added five points for Morriston, who led by two points at the oranges.

The Crymych pack had looked solid as John Davies, Cennydd James, Robert Davies and Andrew Phillips won good ball alongside Martin Edwards, John Hickin, Tomos Jones and Mark Oakman – and although they ensured a marked territorial advantage for Crymych in the second period it was only that Morgan kick that eased his side through – but it was hard-going until the final whistle!

Pack power pays off for Gorseinon

Gorseinon 15 points - Cardigan 7 points

Cardigan battled hard against Gorseinon but failed to score enough points in the first period, when the elements were with them, and paid the inevitable price thereafter as Gorseinon were a point ahead at the break and scored the only try of the second half to secure the spoils.

Cardigan skipper Dylan Davies led his pack well from the No 8 berth and flanker Dylan Richards caught the eye as the claimed a try by prop Rhodri Jones which was converted by Mike Diggle but they found themselves 8-7 adrift at half time as left winger Kevin Leady scored an unconverted Gorseinon try and full back Andrew Steele atoned for his missed conversion with a well-struck penalty.

Cardigan never gave up trying after the interval but centre Simon Stoneham sped through for a home try which Steele goaled to give Gorseinon their fifth win in eight outings – and fourth place in the section table.

Blues battle in vain

Penclawdd 21 points - Haverfordwest 5 points

Haverfordwest battled all the way against Penclawdd and it took a late try from The Cocklemen to finally secure the verdict after they had led 13-5 at the interval.

Mike Venables crossed for the Blues’ try in the first period, which lasted some 50 minutes and ended straight after Penclawdd outside half Jamie Moore landed his second penalty to go with a try from winger Barry Suggett, which Moore converted.

The Blues had plenty of effort up front from a makeshift front row of Neil Phillips, Dai Owen and Steve Brown, with Richard Walters joining skipper Gareth Phillips in the second row and Dafydd Bowen getting through a lot of work at No 8.

Darren Salmon also defended well and put in some runs out from defence at full back, with Richard James always in the thick of things at scrum half, but home left winger Suggett scored the only try of the second period in injury time after Moore had landed his third penalty to move the Cocklemen up the table.

17th October 2009

Feature Match:

All Blacks pace too much for Wasps

Neyland 69 points - Llangwm 0

Neyland wingers Delme Bateman and Andrew Charnley shared six of the 11 tries scored by the All Blacks in a one-sided local derby against Llangwm at the Athletic Ground where the Wasps battled hard but were unable to curtail the power of the home forwards – or their pace behind.

Bateman claimed two tries in the opening six minutes at the clubhouse corner, one superbly converted by Mark Riley, and Charnley got into the act at the other corner after Andrew Slark, Martin Roberts and Adam Collins had created the space.

It says much for the Wasps’ fighting spirit that they refused to submit and had their best period of play when a Mathew Williams’ error allowed Llangwm scrum half James Dix to go very close – and No 10 Luke Brock missed a simple penalty in front of the posts after good work by Ian Griffiths, James Lewis and Josh Davies.

Neyland had John Tennick back alongside Simon Phillips and the ubiquitous Williams in a lively back row and good work by Martin Roberts saw centre Adam Collins at hos elbow to score a try at the posts which Riley goaled. Mathew Williams scored the All Blacks’ fifth try just before the interval as he took three tacklers over with him at the posts for Riley to again convert and push his team into a 31-0 interval lead

One-sided second half

The second half was equally as one sided in terms of scores as No 9 Steve Hamer opened the Neyland account from close range for Riley to land the extras, as he did when Charnley scored his second try. Adam Collins burst clear for his second score and Charnley completed a hat-trick before Delme Bateman did the same and Riley notched the conversion, as he did when John Tennick rounded off the scoring before referee Chris Williams, who had an excellent game, sensibly called time a little early with the All Blacks so clearly on top.

Neyland: Martin Roberts: Andrew Charnley; Andrew Slark; Adam Collins; Delme Bateman: Mark Riley; Steve Hamer: Jack Kinnersley; Robert Codd; Mark Smith: Callum Tree; Matthew Doncaster: John Tennick; Simon Phillips; Mathew Williams (Capt). Replacements: Mark James; Tony Smith-Howell; Steve Roberts; Ashley Richards.

Llangwm: Richard Brock: Dan Morgan; Will Beresford; Andrew Brock; Jonathan Brock: Luke Brock; James Dix: Will Scriven; Johnny James; Steve Francis: James Griffiths; Nick Phillips (Capt): Josh Davies; James Lewis; Ian Griffiths. Replacements: Dan Hughes; Chris Dixon.

The match was sponsored by Roundabout Honda, with the match balls sponsored by John Henderson and Haverfordwest Coin Machines.

Action pictures by Bill Carne.

Division One (West):

Otters bounce back to winning ways

Bridgend Athletic 18 points - Narberth 24 points

After five successive defeats Narberth finally bounced back to winning ways as they outlasted a Bridgend Athletic side which led 10-5 at the interval but were unable to prevent the Otters claiming a deserved victory.

After a fairly even start it was the Athletic who opened the scoring after 18 minutes when outside half Steven Lewis kicked a penalty and five minutes later added the conversion to a try from blind-side flanker Shaun Williams. But then they committed the cardinal sin of having both James Olds and Jamie Doherty yellow-carded and in their absence powerful Narberth No 8 Colin Davies claimed a push over try so that the Otters trailed 10-5 at half time.

Narberth took the lead after eight minutes of the second period when centre Darren Simpson scored his first try for the club and Craig Jones added the simple conversion - and with Lloyd Phillips returning from Llandovery to show up well for the Otters alongside Gethin Bateman it was Colin davies who stormed over for his second try which Jones again converted.

Stefan Lewis kicked a penalty for the homesters but young replacement flanker Stefan Phillips scored his first senior try for Narberth – so that although the Athletic grabbed a try from second row Tom Penry-Ellis it was too little, too late as the Otters’ faithful celebrated a much-needed victory.

Narberth: Matthew Davies: Johnny Morgan; Darren Simpson; Richard Davies; Tom Bonnell: Craig Jones; Adrian Killa: Sean Lloyd; Aled Harries; Justin Hughes:  Jim Kaumaitotoya; Alex Jenkins: Gareth Bateman; Lloyd Phillips; Colin Davies. Replacements: Dan Smith; William Russell; Stefan Phillips; Andrew Davies; Neil Davies.

Borderers maintain winning streak

Whitland 20 points - Felinfoel 13 points

Whitland maintained their winning streak with a hard-fought victory over a Felinfoel side which was clearly intent on upsetting the odds at Parc Llwyn Ty Gwyn but found the Borderers in no mood to surrender.

Felinfoel had the best possible start when scrum half Luke Marsh intercepted a loose pass near his own 22 and sped 75 metres for a gift try which full back Justin Lewis goaled.

But Whitland rallied well and deservedly levelled matters when quick hands put in centre Aled Jones for a try at the posts which outside half Aled Davies converted – and although winger Craig Edwards landed a penalty for the visitors it was Whitland who led 14-10 at half time as Will Davies took a good catch from an attempted clearance and the pacy winger found hooker Mark Jones in support for a beautiful try which Aled Davies converted.

There second half turned into a war of attrition as neither side would take a backward step but with Randall Williams, Raff Williams and Ryan Michael all leading by example it was Aled Davies who slotted two penalties to one by Craig Edwards to keep the Borderers still at the top of the section table.

Whitland: James Stephenson: Dion Thomas; Lee Glanville (Capt); Aled Jones; Will Davies: Aled Davies; Huw Rees: Alan Proctor; Mark Jones; Richard Smith: Raff Williams; Carwyn Davies: Jack Mason; Ryan Michael; Randall Williams. Replacements: Trystan Griffiths; Andrew Howells; Matthew Owens; Carl Smith; Gary Evans.

Division Three (West): 

Diggle drives Cardis to victory

Cardigan 28 points - Llanelli Wanderers 20 points

23 points from Mike Diggle gave Cardigan a home win over a gritty Llanelli Wanderers outfit at the King George Vth Ground as they led 15-12 at the interval and were never caught by the Wanderers thereafter.

Diggle served notice of intent after five minutes when he slotted a penalty but the Wanderers took the initiative when left winger Ashley Banfield sped through for an unconverted try. Good work at a lineout and quick release from the ensuing drive enabled centre Jack Griffiths to put the Teifisiders back in front but the Wanderers claimed a try from an attacking scrum by centre Adrian Thomas, converted by co-centre Iwan Mayze, before Cardigan went into the interval with that narrow lead when Tom Turner fielded a misplaced clearance and the young scrum half Put Diggle away for a try at the posts which Diggle converted.

Diggle added his second try in similar circumstances in the third quarter and after converting his own try he also landed a penalty to extend the lead to 25-12.

Back came the Wanderers when flanker Iwan Jones ploughed over for an unconverted try and a Mayze penalty but it was appropriate that Diggle had the final word as his late penalty ensured a deserved Cardigan win.

Kelvin kills off Crymych hopes

Llandeilo 16 points - Crymych 11 points

Crymych suffered a disappointing defeat at Llandeilo as the home side played well defensively and forced errors in the Crymych camp which allowed Llandeilo kicker Kelvin Thomas to punish their errors with three vital penalties which in the final analysis proved decisive.

Kelvin Davies gave Llandeilo the lead with a well-struck penalty but it was soon cancelled out by his namesake Gareth in the No 10 jersey for Crymych, who captured the lead when hooker Owain Williams barged his way over for a good unconverted try.

Llandeilo responded with a Kelvin Davies penalty and try from No 8 Dylan Jones which Kelvin Davies converted, and all Crymych could offer in reply was a second Gareth Davies penalty before Kelvin Davies rounded off the scoring with his third penalty on target.

It gave Crymych just a bonus point which keeps them in second spot in the table – and another plus was the promising debut at scrum half of 18 year old Rhodri Davies, who followed his father Robin in wearing the No 9 shirt for the Preseli Men!

Big win for 12-try Blues

Llanybydder 0 - Haverfordwest 74 points

Haverfordwest earned their biggest win for a long time as they made the journey to Llanybydder and returned with maximum points over the basement home club as they ran in no fewer than 12 tries and also kept a clean scoresheet as the home club found it very hard going against the eager Blues.

Leading the way for Haverfordwest was talented young winger Ollie Reyland, who sped over for five tries and also slotted a single conversion for a personal haul of 27 points, whilst full back Darren Salmon also showed his paces with a try hat-trick as they led 26-0 at half time and were always in control throughout the game.

Other tries came from winger Ben John, centre Dan Harries, flanker Dan John and second row Richard Walters, with outside half Michael Jones contributing five conversions alongside one conversion from No 9 Richard James to complete a very satisfying day for the Blues players, coaches and hardy band of supporterts.

Division Four (West): 

Scourfield’s a push-over for Quins

Tenby United 8 points - Pembroke Dock Harlequins 10 points

A push-over try from No 8 Gareth Scourfield gave Pembroke Dock Harlequins their second local derby victory in succession as they followed up a home win over Pembroke with this equally tense and hard-fought victory against Tenby United at Heywood Lane.

The Seasiders actually led 5-3 at half time as prop Johnny Lane powered his way through from a close-range ruck and all the Quins could muster in reply was a penalty from Dean Lawrence.

Tenby’s only second half score was a try from Fijian No 10 Patrick Duryea but the Quins had teenage hooker Neil Brace as their man of the match alongside props Dean Wilcox and David Manning in a rousing forward display which ended successfully when Scourfield pounced for his try and Lawrence added the extra points to set the seal on a narrow Quins’ success.

Tenby versus Pembroke Dock Harlequins pictures supplied by Matthew Kelly of rawphotography.me.uk

Yellow cards cost Mariners dear

Milford Haven 29 points - Tumble 31 points

Milford Haven lost their second match of the season against third placed Tumble but still retained their proud place at the head of the table as they earned two points for scoring four tries and for being within seven points of the opposition’s score.

Coach Alan McClelland was quick to say that his young charges had not played as well as they might after leading 12-10 at the interval but then trailing 31-12 as two yellow cards gave the opposition a big advantage which saw them scoot ahead before the Mariners fought back bravely and had a chance of the draw when hooker Craig Smith grabbed a late, late try but Leigh Broome was unable to add the vital extra points.

Broome did manage two conversions and there were two tries again for winger Craig Smith, plus others for skipper Paul Evans and Ian Rusinek in a topsy-turvy game for the Mariners. Tumble used their strong pack to good measure as they had two tries by prop Clive Morgan and other tries by Rhys James and centre Joshua George to go with four conversions and a penalty from full back Steve Hewitt.

It meant a disappointing defeat for the Mariners but they will have been boosted by the good news that former Scotland winger Craig Moir has signed for his home town club and will be available for the Mariners in the near future.

Pembroke pack power in vain

Pembroke 24 points - Amman United 26 points

Pembroke surrendered their unbeaten home record to Amman United despite scoring four tries in a fascinating clash where the Scarlets had the clear advantage up front but Amman United posed a constant threat with their sharp backs.

The Scarlets had two penalty tries, both converted by Phil Williams, as young hooker Tom Jones caught the eye and veteran prop Richard Morris made a welcome return for his first match of the season, with Josh Taylor claiming a push-over try when he came on as a replacement in the home back row and centre Rhys Marchant sped through for a quality try after Huw Purser had created the chance as he broke out of a tackle and put in a telling run.

For Amman United, there were tries by winger Gavin Lewis, full back Dean Williams, wing Stuart Webb and flanker Dan Mathias, with Adrian Thomas adding three conversions from his outside half berth that just gave Amman United the edge in a nervy finish.

Rugby Reports

26th September 2009

Feature match:

Broome steers Mariners to local derby win

Pembroke Dock Quins 10 points -

Milford Haven 19 points

Milford Haven full back Leigh Broome scored the vital try at Bierspool which finally killed off Pembroke Dock Quins’ hopes of a first win of the season as he pounced on a loose ball swept it up and sped 50 metres for a try which he also converted.

At that stage the Mariners were only 12-10 in front and the Quins had showed real spirit against a side high on confidence but Broome not only scored his try but played a strong role with his intelligent kicking alongside Jim Farr and was ever-ready to join in attacks.

Another Milford player who caught the eye was Milford flanker Gareth Fawcett, who set up the opening score with a rampaging run through the middle before quick recycling allowed Paul Evans to set his backs in motion and when Ian Rusinek was held up it was centre Wayne Sprowell who was perfectly placed to score a quality try which Broom converted from, wide out.

The Quins’ pack looked determined and early runs by Martin Cunningham and Richard McIntyre were followed by, where a series of probing runs by the home pack established the platform for second row Barry Parsons to crash through and Dean Lawrence to convert. David manning also made a strong thrust which might have given the Quins a lead but the final pass went astray – although the Quins led 10-7 at half time thanks to a Lawrence penalty.

Lawrence also had another chance of three points soon after the restart but his penalty fell just short – and a loose clearance kick kept the pressure on Milford as Kevin Bratcher, David Manning and Gareth Scourfield were all held up near the line.

But Milford showed good defence and when they finally broke clear they took the lead from a set-piece where No 8 Mark Wonnacott and skipper Evans put ubiquitous winger Craig Thomas over in the corner.

Then came that interception try from Broome as the Quins tried hard to claw their way back into contention, which gave the Mariners a third win from four outings, whilst the home side had nothing to show for a great deal off effort in an entertaining encounter.

Pembroke Dock Harlequins: Dean Lawrence: Adi John; Gary Pickering; Jason Keats; Carl Scott: Stuart Hay; Steve Davies: Richard McIntyre; Gary Burns; Dean Wilcox: Barry parsons; Martin Cunningham: Alex Pearce; Daniel Manning; Gareth Scourfield (Capt). Replacements: Kevin Bratcher; David Manning; Ian Osbourne; Neil Harries.

Milford Haven: Leigh Broome: Craig Thomas; Wayne Sprowell; Rhys Holmes; Ian Rusinek: Jim Farr; Paul Evans (Capt): Jamie Parr; Craig Smith; Mark Russell: Aidan Laxton; Scott Evans: Ben Johnson; Gareth Fawcett; Mark Wonnacott. Replacements: Tom Arnold; Tom Bullivant; Mike Cockburn; Joe Bradford.

Action pictures by Bill Carne.

Division One (West):

Borderers bag cracking away win

Cwmllynfell 16 points - Whitland 32 points

Whitland showed their real capability as they gained a deserved away win against Cwmllynfell where they also bagged a bonus point \as their reward for scoring five tries.

The Borderers had to contend with some stern resistance from Cwmllynfell in the first period, which ended level at 10-all, but once they had established their forward superiority it was the Borderers who moved out of reach to record their third win from four outings and remain in the top four.

Peter Thomas gave the homesters an early lead with a penalty but Whitland bounced back with a first try for scrum half Huw Rees, which was followed by a try from winger Will Davies after some quick hands by the Borderers’ backs. But Cwmllynfell regrouped and experienced No 8 Jim Morgan scored a try which Thomas converted.

Thomas put Cwmllynfell back in front with a second-half penalty and added another three-pointer after Will Davies had grabbed his second try for the visitors, which full back James Stephenson converted.

Leading by 17-16, Whitland needed to raise the tempo and that is just what they did as outside half Aled Davies scored two very good tries and slotted a drop goal in between. Stephenson converted the second of these tries and Whitland were able to celebrate a very good away win indeed.

Whitland:  James Stephenson, Dion Thomas, Lee Glanville (Capt), Aled Jones, Will Davies, Aled Davies, Huw Rees, Alun Davies, Trystan Griffiths, Richard Smith, Raff Williams, Randall Williams, Jack Mason, Ryan Michael, Luke Kendall. Replacements: Marc Jones, Gary Evans 

Otters ousted by late score

Narberth 10 points -Bonymaen 14 points

Narberth came within a few moments of beating Bonymaen in a very tight encounter at the Lewis Lloyd Ground but conceded a last-gasp try after a huge amount of time had been added on following a long break following an injury to a Bonymaen player.

At that stage the Otters were ahead by 10-7 as defences were strong throughout but after holding a territorial advantage the Otters gave Bonymaen a chance to break out and even worse was to follow because a speculative high ball was allowed to bounce and provided the perfect platform for No 8 Alan Powell to take the scoring pass for Ian Brooks to add the extra points.

There was only one score in the opening half and it came on 15 minutes when Bonymaen winger Chris Hopkins sped through and Brooks converted. Nick Jones missed a penalty for Narberth and Brooks was also off-target with a kick before Hopkins was yellow-carded for a high tackle on Tom Bonnell and he was joined by Narberth’s Chris James for retaliation. The Otters also had centre Richard Davies yellow-carded near half time but fought back to level matters after nine minutes of the second period where Colin Davies split the visiting defence with a typical surge and Matthew Davies was up in support to supply full back Jonathan Morgan with the scoring pass. Nick Jones converted and a drop goal from Matthew Davies edged the Otters in front.
But then came those fateful long minutes of time added on and Bonymaen pounced to secure a third victory and four outings to maintain their place in the top four, whilst penning the home side towards the other end of the table.

Narberth: Jon Morgan,  Nick Jones,  Richard Davies (Capt), Neil Davies,  Tom Bonnell,  Matthew Davies,  Adrian Killa,  Sean Lloyd,  Daniel Smith,  Justin Hughes,  William Russell,  Chris James,  Gareth Bateman, Colin Phillips, Timoki Kaumahotoya. Replacements: Tom Slater, Aled Harries, Sam Smith, Andrew Davies, Toby Smith.

Division Three (West):

Preseli men celebrate in style

Crymych 18 points - Laugharne 16 points

Crymych’s celebration of their 25th anniversary began early as they fended off the strong challenge of second-placed Laugharne to leap-frog over the opposition in the table, before the players and supporters attended the anniversary dinner that evening where Gerald Davies was guest speaker.

Gareth Davies gave the Preseli men the lead with a penalty and he also converted a good try scored by centre Steffan Phillips which gave them a ten-point lead after the first quarter.

Laugharne reduced the margin to 10-6 at half time with two penalties by Ross Michael  but Crymych, whose pack was again in top form, opened the second period with a try from Andrew Thomas, whilst full back Aled Bowen landed a penalty.

Laugharne had a third Michael penalty and he converted a try from outside half Darren Williamson but good defending by Bowen, Thomas and Guto Griffiths, plus some yeoman work up front by Simon James and Andrew Phillips, made sure that Crymych were good value for victory on their special day.

Brilliant Blues cause upset of the day

Haverfordwest 32 points -

Llandeilo 28 points

Haverfordwest caused the upset of the day in Division Three (West) as they deservedly beat a Llandeilo outfit which had previously been in joint second spot but was unable to step the Blues from taking a full five points whilst having to settle for two points of their own in a thoroughly entertaining tussle.

Steve Williams put the Blues in front with a penalty and slotted the conversion of a try from Dafydd Bowen after a tap penalty to put the Blues 10 points ahead after only 11 minutes.  Celvin Davies reduced the deficit for the visitors with a penalty before Mike Venables sped through for the Blues’ second try after some good handling.

But Llandeilo showed their credentials when winger Dylan Jones scored a corner try and they leveled matters when second row Nathan Jones ploughed over in almost the same spot and Celvin Davies added the extras.

The scoring still wasn’t finished, however, and a long clearance out of defence by John Whitticombe was quickly followed up by Darren Salmon – and the Blues’ winger did well to kick ahead and win the race for the touchdown so that Williams could convert and put Haverfordwest 22-15 ahead at half time.

Llandeilo started the second half well as No 8 Chris Mosey claimed a try and although Celvin Davies missed the conversion he added a penalty after Matthew Lewis was yellow-carded for the Blues, taking Llandeilo ahead for the first time.

The Blues weren’t willing to lie down, though, and from a scrum five Dafydd Bowen barged over for his second try and Williams converted, then missed a drop goal but notched the resulting penalty. Celvin Davies rounded off the scoring with an unconverted try for Llandeilo but it was the Blues who held on well to secure the spoils and show what they can do in this division.

Action picture by Matthew Kelly of Rawphotography.me.uk

Cardis lose to Cockle men

Penclawdd 15 points - Cardigan 8 points

Cardigan managed a bonus point at Penclawdd but the Teifisiders were not at their best, despite the prompting and probing of scrum half Tom Turner, who was clearly their man of the match.

Iestyn Crompton raised early hopes for Cardigan’s hardy band of supporters as he kicked a penalty as early as the tenth minute but the Cockle men drew level in a tight first half when opposite number Steve Snell also landed a three-pointer from half way.

Penclawdd took the lead after 11 minutes of the second half when a controlled drive from a lineout allowed No 8 Damian Williams to be impelled over the line for Snell to add the extras – and the strong home pack was again heavily involved 20 minutes later when hooker Owen Williams grabbed an unconverted score.

Cardigan responded with five minutes remaining with a try by winger Wayne Parsons as he latched on to a loose ball and sped down the middle before touching down in the corner. It meant that Cardigan had a chance of snatching a draw with a converted try but they were unable to break the deadlock applied by the Penclawdd defence – and the Teifisiders had to settle for second best on this occasion!

Division Four (West):

Scarlets still suffer travel sickness

Hendy 16 points - Pembroke 10 points

Pembroke’s form continued to yo-yo between home and away games as they were unable to win at Hendy despite having their chances on a number of occasions.

They held the edge in an opening quarter where there was no scoring but then conceded two penalties which home full back Lee Evans slotted before Phil Williams opened the Scarlets’ scoring with a three-pointer of his own. But Hendy established a 13-3 interval lead as Lee Evans finished off a good handling move and centre Josh Davies added the extra points.

Josh Davies also kicked a penalty for Hendy after the oranges but Pembroke could only muster a try by skipper Steve Dyde on a burst from the 22, which Phil Williams converted.

Seasiders show their true grit

Trimsaran 23 points -

Tenby United 25 points

Tenby United finally showed what they can do after three successive defeats when they made the difficult journey to Trimsaran and came away with a narrow, but fully deserved, victory as reward for sticking to their task.

The Seasiders were 17-8 adrift at the interval as prop Carwyn Morgan and winger Phil Griffiths scored Trimsaran tries and both were converted by scrum half Dafydd Latham to go with a penalty. Latham added two further penalties in the second half but Tenby kept plugging away and a try brace from No 8 Jason Ronowitz, plus another from flanker Nicky Guymer, kept them in touch.

Del Brace played an influential role as he landed two conversions and two penalties as well as looking sharp alongside Scott McLaughlin, Gavin Brace and Dai Hutton, whilst Dan Colley, Dai Merrick and Barry Bowen covered well in the second period.

But it was the Tenby pack that deserves the plaudits, especially hooker Terry John for taking so many balls against the head and the back row for being so heavily involved throughout.

Division Five (West):

Furnace too hot for the All Blacks

Furnace 29 points - Neyland 8 points

Neyland’s excellent start to the new season was brought to an abrupt halt as they found a Furnace side in fine fettle – although the final margin of their victory was a little flattering since they grabbed two tries in the last five minutes as the All Blacks tried to play ‘catch-up’ rugby.

The visitors could also look back on the fact that they went close to scoring on four occasions and could well have been ahead at the break instead of trailing by 14-8.  Home winger Mark Cook opened the scoring with a try converted by Simon James but Mathew Williams and Delme Bateman were both off target with Neyland penalty kicks although Bateman did kick a penalty before Furnace added a second try through centre Barry Watkins which James also goaled.

Neyland flanker Simon Phillips completed the first-half scoring with an opportunist try but a James’ penalty soon after the restart was the only score in the second half until those last few minutes when home No 10 James grabbed a try which he also converted and there was an unconverted score for centre Dale Watts as Furnace won their second game of the season – and in doing so robbed the All Blacks of their unbeaten record.

Brock boys take Llangwm close

Llangwm 13 points -

New Dock Stars 17 points

Llangwm came close to their first win of the campaign but were denied victory in controversial fashion as late claims for a corner try by Andrew Brock were turned down by the referee as it was decided Brock had put a foot in touch.

Llangwm led New Dock by 6-0 at the interval as Luke Brock slotted two penalties and the Wasps might have been even further in front but failed to turn pressure into more points, despite the yeoman work of Gareth Jones, James Lewis and Ian Griffiths in a lively back row.

But they were rocked back by three tries in the second half when Rhodri Owen swept through the middle for two tries and Clark Jones added another as well as kicking a conversion.

Llangwm fought back with a good try by Andrew Brock from a pre-planned penalty move in front of the posts which saw Gareth Jones make the initial thrust before quick hands put Andrew Brock in at the corner and Luke Brock did well to add the extra points.

Then came that fateful final decision which left Llangwm without a win but at least they had  the consolation of a bonus point as some reward for a great deal of effort by the entire squad.

Saints suffer in closing seconds

St Davids 8 points - Bynea 9 points

St Davids scored the only try of a tight match against Bynea but still went down to defeat by a single point as a last-gasp penalty by Bynea kicker Robert Charles found the target and left Fraser Watson’s team with a bonus point as scant reward for their work-rate and determination.

The Saints’ pack went well, with Eddie Bolger involved in all that they did, with skipper Watson and Craig Challoner posing a threat behind the scrums – but they were behind early on when Charles kicked a penalty. St Davids missed the chance of reducing that deficit almost immediately when Geraint Morris was off-target with a penalty chance – but they led 5-3 at half time because a neat break by scrum half Will Bateman set up the chance of an unconverted try by Challoner as reward for his contribution.

Another Charles’ penalty nudged Bynea back in front but St Davids missed a glorious chance of responding quickly when Andrew Lamb made an excellent break but lacked support at a key time. But continued pressure from the Saints’ eight earned a penalty near the posts which Geraint Morris converted – and the scoreline stayed at 8-6 in the homesters’ favour until those late stages when Bynea earned a penalty in Quins’ territory and up stepped Charles to win the game for Bynea.

Seagulls soar to the top of the table

Swansea Uplands 0 - Fishguard 47 points

Fishguard maintained their wonderful start to the campaign with their fourth win from as many matches, each with a bonus point and this one no exception as the Seagulls ran in no fewer than seven tries whilst keeping a clean sheet.

The Fishguard pack got on top from the outset as Romeo Colella, Mark James and Alan Phillips ruled the roost in the scrums and the back row of Mark George, Emyr Hughes and Tom Evans were always to push forward. The Seagulls claimed tries by Romeo, winger Matthew George and his twin brother mark at No 8, all converted by experienced No 10 Huw Evans to establish a clear interval lead.

Full Back Mathew Reynolds opened the second half scoring with a good try and others followed from centre Mark Lennard, replacement Thomas Ilaisa and skipper Steve Jenkins, who certainly led by example. Huw Evans added two further conversions and Mark Lennard slotted one to complete another cracking day for Fishguard as they now have an impressive maximum 20 points from four games!

Rugby Reports

19th September 2009

Feature match:

Division Five (West):

Seagulls too sharp for battling Wasps

Fishguard & Goodwick 41 points -

Llangwm 11 points

Fishguard and Goodwick completed three wins from as many matches, plus a third bonus point, as they eased to victory over a gritty Llangwm side which deserves every credit for refusing to submit to the powerful home attack.

The Seagulls led 11-3 at half time as proof of the resistance shown by Llangwm but with Graham Davies and Huw Evans as a powerful half- back pairing the points soon flowed after the interval as Thomas Ilaisa, Nathan Jenkins, Meirion Ladd and Carwyn Thomas led the home pack to increase the tempo.

It was No 8 Thomas who opened the scoring within the first five minutes for Fishguard from a push-over attempt but Llangwm showed they weren’t prepared to lie down as Luke Brock kicked a penalty – and all Fishguard could muster for the rest of the half was two penalties by Huw Evans.

Seagulls apply the pressure

Gareth Jones, Ian Griffiths, skipper Nick Phillips and Hamish Nicholls formed the back bone of the Wasps’ pack whilst James Dix and Luke Brock tried hard to bring in strong runners like Robbie Neill and Andrew Brock at every opportunity.

Fishguard opened their second half account when Graham Davies ploughed through and although Huw Evans missed the conversion he soon made amends with a penalty and then set up a cracking try for Thomas Ilaisa which he also converted.

Llangwm had a try from Robbie Neill and a second Luke Brock penalty but Fishguard made sure of maximum points as centre Matthew Reynolds and replacement Alan Phillips added further tries, whilst replacement Mark Lennard got involved with a conversion and penalty to set the seal on another good team performance by the Seagulls which would have pleased skipper Steve Jenkins.

Fishguard & Goodwick: Gareth Adamson: Alun George; Steve Jenkins (Capt); Matthew Reynolds; Mark George: Huw Evans; Graham Davies: Gerwyn Davies; Mark James; Andrew Morrillo: Thomas Ilaisa; Nathan Jenkins: Meirion Ladd; Matthew George; Carwyn Thomas. Replacements: Alan Phillips; Gwilym Evans; Mark Lennard; Emyr Hughes.

Llangwm: James Venables: Paul Rees; Andrew Brock; Robbie Neill; Jonathan Brock: Luke Brock; James Dix: Dan Hughes; Aled Morgan; James Griffiths: Hamish Nicholls; Nick Phillips (Capt): Ian Griffiths; James Lewis; Gareth Jones. Replacements: Richard Brock, Dan Morgan; Steve Francis; Josh Davies.

Action pictures by Bill Carne.

Division One (West):

Athletic too strong for Otters

Carmarthen Athletic 31 points -

Narberth 10 points

Narberth were unable to master the big Carmarthen Athletic pack and went down to another disappointing defeat where they were already 18-3 adrift at half time and rarely looked likely to claw their way back into contention afterwards.

They went behind to an early try by flanker Lee Bassett which was converted by Mark Jones and although Nick Jones slotted a penalty for the Otters they were soon in further trouble when Mark Jones landed penalties in the 16th and 38th minutes, either side of an unconverted try by winger Viv Jenkins.

Winger Thomas Bonnell gave the Otters a boost early in the second period when quick hands from Adrian Killa, Aled and Richard Davies gave him the space and Nick Jones converted – but another Mark Jones’ penalty was followed for the Athletic by two further tries from Viv Jenkins to give the pacy winger a hat-trick.

Justin Hughes, Dan Smith, and Ales Jenkins battled hard up front for the Otters as they lost Jason Jennings to a nastily cut head, with Carmarthen Athletic collecting a bonus point for their four tries and leaving Narberth with nothing to show for their efforts.

Narberth: Matthew Davies: Thomas Bonnell; Nick Jones; Richard Davies (Capt); Johnny Morgan: Toby Smith; Adrian Killa: Justin Hughes; Dan Smith; Sean Lloyd: Jason Jennings; Alex Jenkins: Colin Davies, Timoti Coimytotoya; Gareth Bateman. Replacements: Rhys Davies; Neil Davies; William Russell; Sam Smith; Tom Slater.

Borderers’ battle in vain

Whitland 6 points - Tonmawr 12 points

Tonmawr snatched away Whitland’s unbeaten tag as they outlasted the Borderers in a tight tussle at Parc Llwyn Ty Gwyn where Whitland had to settle for a bonus point from a match they might well have won.

Perhaps it was an omen of things to come as Aled Davies hooked a simple penalty chance wide in the opening exchanges and Tonmawr grabbed a try from open-side flanker Ojike Ozoigwe which centre Daniel Roberts converted.

Aled Davies landed his second penalty chance but Tonmawr were 12-3 in front at the interval as right wing Gareth John sped over for an unconverted try.

Whitland had some real graft from Randall and Raff Williams, Luke Kendall and Ryan Michael but all they could muster for holding a slight edge during the second period was another Davies penalty.

Tonmawr also had missed penalties from Roberts and full back Warren Davies after 22 and 26 minutes but it mattered little because although Whitland tried hard to grab that elusive late try and conversion that would have seen them take the verdict, there was no further scoring and so Whitland could only look back on what might have been!

Whitland: Carwyn Jones: Dion Thomas; Lee Glanville (Capt); Gary Evans; James Stephenson: Aled Davies; Huw Rees: Craig Kelly; Mark Jones; Alan Proctor: Raff Williams; Carwyn Davies: Luke Kendall, Ryan Michael; Randall Williams. Replacements: Jack Mason; Aled Jones; Alun Davies; Will Davies; Trystan Griffiths.

Division Three (West):

Preseli Men pounce in first period

Crymych 15 points - Penclawdd 8 points

Crymych eased to a narrow home win over Penclawdd in a match where all the points were scored in the first period as defences were very much on top after the break.

Jamie Moore gave the Cocklemen the lead with a penalty which was soon cancelled out by a similar effort by Crymych No 10 Gareth Davies, who also added the extra points to a cracking try by Steffan Phillips, which ended at the posts after his run from half-way.

Penclawdd hit back with a try from scrum half Phil Tucker which went unconverted but Crymych had the final word right on the interval when good work up front by John Davies, Simon James, Mark Oakman, Rhys Richards and Tomos Jones resulted in second row Andrew Phillips claiming a good unconverted try.

The tackling in the second period was unrelenting as Gareth Davies kept pushing the Preseli Men forward and Jason Nicholls made an impact when he joined the forward battle. Aled Bowen and Matthew Hill helped organize the home defence well – but there were no further points and so it was Crymych who registered a hard-fought victory as reward for their efforts.

Blues beaten by own errors

Lampeter Town 27 points - Haverfordwest 12 points

When Haverfordwest analyse their performance at Lampeter they will look back on the fact that they could well have won the  match but unforced errors, plus the fact that they dropped three scoring passes, cost them the verdict, despite some plus points for their coaches.

The Blues took the lead with a penalty by outside half Mike Jones but a Lampeter drive saw prop Aled Jones score their first try, which Huw Thomas converted before adding a penalty to push Lampeter into a 10-3 half-time advantage.

Haverfordwest had lost key forward Graham Jenkins after 35 minutes and worse was to follow as they conceded a further 10 points in the first six minutes after the interval as No 10 Huw Thomas landed his second penalty and converted an interception try from centre Tim Smith, who raced home unopposed from half way.

Ollie Reyland looked solid at full back, Richard James had a good game at scrum half, Richard Brazell gave 100% in his unaccustomed role as second row and Dafydd Bowen looked strong when he came on as a replacement.  Reyland slotted two long-range penalties to haul the Blues back to a 12-20 deficit but as they played catch-up rugby they paid a heavy price when a move broke down and winger Gareth Griffiths applied the coup de grace with a try which Huw Thomas duly goaled.

Cardis relax – and pay the penalty

Morriston 28 points - Cardigan 24 points

Cardigan committed the cardinal error of relaxing when they took a 19-3 lead soon after half time and paid the almost inevitable price as Morriston clawed their way back and snatched the verdict.

Cardigan’s try scorers were winger Rhydian Jenkins, flanker Gethin Davies, centre Geraint Diamond and outside half Iestyn Crompton, who also landed two conversions.

But Morriston, who had only a penalty from winger Chris Shill in the first 40 minutes, added tries by No 8 Adam Colclough, flanker Steffan Jones and winger Adam Summerfield. Shill converted two of them and fired over another two penalties – and Cardigan had thrown away a game they looked odds-on favourites to win at a canter at one stage, with the slight consolation of a bonus point from this away clash.

Division Four (West): 

Quins improve but still lose

Betws 18 points -

Pembroke Dock Quins 15 points

Pembroke Dock Harlequins lost their third successive league match as they went down to defeat at Betws and so remain firmly rooted at the foot of the table.

The Quins trailed 10-3 at the interval as Dean Lawrence kicked a penalty but Owen Williams sniped over from his scrum half berth for Betws and full back Matthew Rees landed the conversion and a penalty.

Rees, who controlled a lot of play from outside half, kicked another penalty in the second half and good work by busy prop Carwyn Morgan set up a chance for a home try by flanker Jonathan Hughes.

The Quins never gave up trying and they grabbed two good tries by Stuart hay and Lee Rixon, one converted by prop Richard McIntyre – but they could never quite gain the ascendancy and had to settle for a bonus point

Plain sailing for masterful Mariners

Milford Haven 38 points -

Cefneithin 12 points

Milford coach Alan McClelland nominated this victory over old rivals Cefneithin as the best-ever since he took over the reins – and it was doubly pleasing since the Mariners had lost out in the silverware chase to this opposition last season and felt hard-done by in the process.

But there were no mistakes from Mackie’s talented young team as second rows Gareth Fawcett and Aidan Laxton caught the eye in the ball-winning stakes and the whole team looked geared-up for the action.

They led 21-12 at half time as winger Craig Thomas opened their account and Fawcett pounced for two tries as reward for his support play, all three converted by Leigh Broome as Owen Lewis and Chris Moore responded for Cefneithin and Moore kicked a conversion.

But the second half was all Milford as they had a penalty from Broome, who also converted cracking tries by prop Mike Cockburn and Ian Rusinek to set the seal on success as Cefneithin lost their unbeaten tag and the Mariners leap-frogged over them into the top three in the table.

Scarlets do just enough

Pembroke 20 points - Trimsaran 13 points

Pembroke eased their way back into winning form against Trimsaran but weren’t firing on all cylinders as periods of good play were interspersed by basic errors and the taking of wrong options.

But a win is a win and the Scarlets were deserved victors as they came back from an early ten-point deficit to trail 8-10 at the oranges and then take control afterwards with three good tries during the match which confirmed their potential.

Open-side flanker Elgan Morgan scored Trim’s try whilst outside half Dafydd Latham notched the conversion and a penalty, adding a second three-pointer after the break to complete his team’s scoring.

But Pembroke opened their account with a try from winger Joe Jackson after good handling by his back division, with full back Phil Williams kicking a penalty – and with second half tries by flanker Tom Surtees in rounding off a forward thrust, and centre Mark Williams powering through on a typically robust charge, with Phil Williams added a conversion to round off the scoring and ensure victory for the Scarlets

Seasiders suffer second home defeat

Tenby United 11 points - Pontarddulais 43 points

Tenby suffered the indignity of a second home defeat as they went down to Pontarddulais and are now at the foot of the table as the only side in the section without a single point.

On the positive side the Seasiders had a nice try by Dai Merrick to go with two penalties from Delwyn Brace but they have lost so many experienced players to other clubs over the past two seasons that it is inevitable that they struggle at the moment.

Pontarddulais are looking strong, with a pacy set of backs and they had 20 points from outside half Gary Williams as he sliced through for two tries and slotted five conversions. Other tries for the Bont came from Steffan Williams, a penalty try, James Davies and Nick Hoyle, whilst Jonathan Lloyd contributed a penalty to complete the scoring for the jubilant visitors.

Division Five (West): 

Busby battles for late Blacks point

Aberaeron 10 points - Neyland 10 points

A last-gasp try by bustling back-rower Chris Busby gave Neyland a share of the spoils at Aberaeron – although the All Blacks were denied a third successive win because regular kicker Mark Riley was injured and Mathew Williams was off-target with both conversions and a relatively easy penalty that was normally well within his compass.

The second conversion chance came as the last kick of the match after a quickly-taken tapped penalty allowed Busby to power his way through for a try – and there were three other clear-cut chances that Neyland missed, including a typically powerful thrust by centre Adam Collins where he was hauled down literally inches short.

Aberaeron showed why they are strong at home as they started off with a good try from Dylan Evans after a Neyland move broke down and he showed the cover a clean pair of heels, with Aled Sweeney adding the extra points.

Neyland should have scored right at the start of the second period when Collins was denied, with Williams missing his penalty before the All Blacks finally got on the scoresheet when Martin Roberts sped through for an unconverted try.

An Aled Sweeney penalty for Aberaeron nudged them a little further ahead at 10-5 but just when it looked as if they might repel the Neyland runners, with Greg Miller always involved with forays from deep positions, up popped Busby to at least give his side a share of the spoils in a match where a draw was perhaps the fairest result on the balance of play.

New Dock Stars v St Davids

Match postponed because of the death of Saints’ stalwart Brian Harries, whose son Eirian plays for St Davids. We extend deepest sympathy to all the family.