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

 

 

19th November 2011

 

Division One (West):

 

Scott snatches vital late score

 

Ammanford 25 - Whitland 28

Scott Newton was the toast of his Whitland team-mates and their hardy band of supporters as the talented young full back coolly kicked a late penalty against Ammanford with the teams all-square on 25 points apiece.

It gave the Borderers a welcome win and spared their blushes a little after they had deservedly led 18-8 at half time but allowed Ammanford to claw their way back into contention and actually go in front.

The Borderers took an early lead when a clever chip through by skipper Andrew Jenkins allowed winger Dafydd Williams to claim an unconverted try before Ammanford responded with a penalty by Matthew Lemon and an unconverted try by Richard Griffiths.

Newton on form with the boot

But two Newton penalties and a try from hooker Marc Jones right on half time, converted by Newton, extended the visitor’s lead to 10 points.

But Ammanford started the second period strongly and they scored a try by winger Owen Herbert to go with a penalty try which Iwan Manwaring converted to nudge the homesters ahead.

Back came the Borderers with a try by centre Lee Glanville which Newton goaled, only for prop Wayne Price to score an unconverted try to make it 25-25 with time running out. But the Borderers’ pack made one final effort and earned that late penalty which Newton kicked – and his team were able to celebrate a narrow victory as a result.

Whitland: Scott Newton: Dafydd Williams; Lee Glanville; Gary Evans; Dion Thomas: Nico Setaro; Andrew Jenkins (Capt): Rhodri West; Marc Jones; Gareth Lloyd: Rhys Jones; Dylan Richards: Andrew Hawkins; Tomos Jones; Jack mason. Replacements: Aled Harries; Tom Dinan; Carwyn Jones, Huw Rees; Chris Davies.

 

 

 PHOTO: Lee Glanville - try for Whitland centre.

 

 

 

 

Otters’ running

rugby pays dividends

 

Narberth 42 - Waunarlwydd 21

Two tries apiece by classy backs Tom Bonnell and Johnny Morgan helped Narberth gain their seventh win of the expense of a Waunarlwydd side which also played its part in an entertaining tussle at the Lewis Lloyd Ground.

The Otters showed their supporters some cracking rugby as they quickly established a deserved 25-0 lead with tries from skipper Steve Martin and winger Bonnell (2), with two conversions and two penalties from outside half Nick Jones.

But then they decided that Christmas comes early on their rugby pitch as they gifted Waunarlwydd two tries by second row Kieran Davies and winger Lee Evans in time added on for injury, both converted by No 10 Jonathan Davies.

A third Nick Jones’ penalty gave the Otters a good start to the second period and then young full back Morgan sped through for two quality tries, one converted by Nick Jones and the other by his replacement Iestyn Crompton.

The Otters took their foot off the pedal again for winger Daniel Fox to score a try for the visitors which Davies duly converted – but by then it was all over bar the shouting and Narberth remain in second spot in the table as their reward.

 PHOTO: Johnny Morgan races away to score a cracking try.
PHOTO: Narberth skipper Steve martin has too much pace for Waunarlwydd.

Pictures by Joseph Kiff.

 

 

 

 

Division Two (West):

 

Game abandoned in the dark

 

Crymych 7 - Felinfoel 24

 

(Match abandoned

after 64 minutes)

The match between Crymych and Felinfoel was abandoned after 64 minutes because the referee decided it was too dark to continue with safety and so the match will have to be replayed at a later date.

The game had been held up for a long time after Crymych’s Guto Griffiths suffered an accidental knee to his head and play was sensibly held up until the ambulance arrived.

The Preseli Men had trailed 19-0 at half time as No 8 Owen Pullen scored a try which scrum half Rhodri Griffiths converted to go with four earlier penalties, with Lawrence Hollocombe adding an unconverted try after the oranges.

Crymych scrum half Rhys Davies responded with a try and conversion but then the game was called off and rugby followers around the county will wish the popular Guto Griffiths a speedy recovery and return to the game.

 

PHOTO: Guto Griffiths - we wish the popular Crymych player a speedy recovery.

 

 

 

 

 

Division Three (West):

 

Criddle late try

helps super Seasiders

 

Tenby 24 - Dunvant 20

A late try by winger James Criddle helped Tenby United gain a morale-boosting win over second-placed Dunvant and showed that the Seasiders are gradually building back to their very best form and thus capable of challenging any team in the section.

But they were 6-10 adrift at half time as outside half Lloyd Thomas slotted two penalties against a try by Ryan Shoemark for Dunvant which Craig Davies converted to go with a penalty.

Fortunes certainly ebbed and flowed after the interval as Thomas fired over a third penalty to go with tries by No 8 Luke Dedman and centre Toby Smith – but Dunvant edged to a 20-19 lead with a try by James Richards to go with another conversion and penalty from Craig Davies.

But the Seasiders showed real grit as they clawed their way back onto the attack through the tremendous work-rate of their pack – and quick hands along the back division allowed Criddle to reach the corner and claim a vital touch-down that clearly delighted his team-mates and the Seasiders’ supporters!

 PHOTO: Tenby United winger James Criddle celebrates his winning try in style as touch judge Russell Millns looks on.

Picture by Dave Bolton.

 

 

 

 

 

Blues’ blushes spared late on

 

Haverfordwest 16 - Tumble 15

Haverfordwest returned to winning ways with the narrowest of victories over a gritty Tumble side but almost conspired to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory as they conceded a late converted penalty try and then breathed a huge collective sigh of relief as a last-ditch Tumble penalty skidded just under the crossbar!

Yet the Blues started well enough as they had penalties from outside half Steve Williams in the 8th and 25th minutes, followed by a well-worked unconverted  try for flanker Adam Clarke after winger Jamie Lewis had made the initial break.

Tumble pulled five points back on 30 minutes when winger Nicky Allinson was allowed to score and although the visitors were boosted by this score it was the blues who took a 16-5 lead into half time as skipper Dave Williams marked his return to action with an unconverted try.

The Blues had several chances to increase their lead but the taking of wrong options saw them unable to add further points – and there were warning signs before Tumble were awarded a penalty try for a player being denied a try-scoring opportunity, which Owen converted from in front of the posts.

And the Blues held that single point lead right until deep into time added when another penalty gave Owen a late chance of snatching the verdict – but his left-footed penalty kick fell just short to give the Blues a ninth win from ten starts.

PHOTO: Skipper Dave Williams scores for Haverfordwest against Tumble and Marc Jones is delighted!

Picture by Matthew Kelly.

 

 

 

 

Cardis ease home in low key tussle

 

Cardigan 15 - Pontyberem 3

Cardigan claimed their expected win over Pontyberem but it turned out to be a low-key match as the visitors arrived without a recognised front row and so the uncontested scrums throughout the match removed much of the intensity before the Teifisiders eventually won.

They were 8-3 in front at half time as Mike Diggle was as involved as ever to score an unconverted try and drop a neat goal, whilst Jonathan Morgan notched a single penalty for the visitors.

The second half was no more enterprising as frustration crept into the Teifisiders’ game and they were unable to build up a real head of steam – but they claimed the only score of the second period with ten minutes remaining as they won a lineout near the Pontyberem line and prop Geraint Davies emerged from the ensuing strong surge to claim a try which Diggle converted.

 

 

Division Four (West):

 

Battling Blacks

surprise Burry Port

 

Neyland 31 - Burry Port 9

Neyland produced their best rugby of the season as they entertained fourth-placed Burry Port and totally outplayed them as they scored five good-quality tries and restricted the visitors to just three penalties by their No 10 Daniel Eldridge.

The All Blacks enjoyed a cracking start as powerhouse centre Adam Collins blasted his way over at the posts, but the conversion hit the woodwork and bounced clear. It didn’t deter Neyland in the slightest, however, as skipper Mark Chamberlain drove over for two tries, one set up by youngster Sanchez Parsley on a very promising debut, and both converted by Mark Riley.

Eldridge slotted two penalties for Burry Port as they tried to mount a fight-back where young prop Tom Kaijaks, who hails from Pembroke Dock, caught the eye - but the All Blacks secured a bonus point for a fourth try when No 8 Callum Tree ploughed over to give his side a 24-6 interval lead.

There was still time before the oranges for the live-wire Andrew Slark to be yellow carded for a technical offence and during his absence Eldridge landed his third penalty – but the visitors failed to make their numerical superiority count when Chamberlain was similarly ‘sin-binned’. Indeed, Neyland secured the verdict when a typical surge by No 8 Tree allowed Collins to score his second try before Riley converted to help take the All Blacks to a smashing victory.

 PHOTO: Callum Tree scored a vital try for Neyland.

 

 

 

 

Mariners tight five maul Llan

 

Llanybydder 6 - Milford Haven 36

Milford Haven travelled to Llanybydder and showed that they can feature in the promotion race as they scored six excellent tries to secure a bonus point against a side which had previously been in the top five and are traditionally difficult to beat at home.

The platform for the Mariners’ plain sailing was the power of their tight five of Jamie Parr, Craig Smith, Mike Cockburn, Dewi Williams and Matthew Doncaster, which dominated the set-pieces and allowed Tom Arnold and Leigh Broome to call the shots.

Richard Watts kicked two penalties for Llanybydder but they were 24-6 adrift at the break and the Mariners added two further tries after the interval to score a comfortable seventh success in nine outings. Their tries came from Lee Riley, Craig Thomas (2), Grant Rogers, Gareth Fawcett and Leigh Broome, who also chipped in with three conversions as coach Alan McClelland allowed himself a rare smile at the way that his team had stuck to their task at a difficult venue.

              

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHOTO: Lee Riley scored a good try for Milford.

 

 

 

Division Five (West):

 

 

Quins’ struggle in vain

 

Pembroke Dock Quins 15 -

Swansea Uplands 24

Pembroke Dock Quins pushed promotion favourites Swansea Uplands all the way before eventually conceding defeat but always being in contention.

In fact, the Quins played some good early rugby and were quickly ten points to the good as hooker Neil Brace landed a penalty and then added the extra points to a try scored by Gareth Scourfield.

Uplands replied with a penalty from Tom Edmunds and the No 10 converted tries by his brother James, playing at scrum half, and Alex Withers, to give the visitors a somewhat flattering 17-10 interval lead.

Quins rampaging flanker Phil Hughes, who had a tremendous match, crossed for an unconverted try to keep his side in contention but James Edmunds added his second try which brother Tom converted and the Quins’ four-match winning league streak ended – but not before they had put up a terrific fight!

 

 

 

 

 

PHOTO: Gareth Scourfield -scored the Quins' first try.

 

 

 

 

Wasps concede late tries

 

Cefneithin 38 - Llangwm 6

Llangwm put up a terrific fight against third-placed Cefneithin that had co-coach Jeremy Brock singing their praises, but three late tries conceded by the Wasps gave a slightly-slanted skew to the final scoreline.

Andrew Brock gave the Llangwm an early lead with a beautifully-struck penalty from near half time but the Wasps were soon adrift and their only other points came from a second-half penalty by David Lewis.

In the meanwhile, Cefneithin had tries by Will Holbrook (2), Owen Lewis (2), Leighton Rees and Hywel Thomas, with Lewis also landing four conversions for a personal haul of 18 points.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHOTO: Andrew Brock - kicked Llangwm into an early lead.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eight-try Scarlets

beat four-try Saints

 

St Davids 20 - Pembroke 52

There were tries galore in an entertain local derby at Fishguard Road as St Davids picked up a bonus point for scoring four whilst visiting Pembroke crossed the Saints’ line on eight occasions as they led 26-10 at half time and repeated the same scoreline afterwards.

Fraser Watson showed his worth to the Saints as he grabbed both their first-half tries from his outside centre berth – but the Scarlets were already in control so that although further home scores came from full back Andrew Lamb and hooker Gerwyn Richards, again both unconverted, it was always the Scarlets who remained in control.

Their try scorers were outside half Simon Hooper (2), winger Sean Dalling (2), second row Robin Badham, flanker Luke Hansford, centre Mark Williams and powerful No 8 Dom Colman. Experienced kicker Phil Williams kicked six conversions as the Scarlets celebrated their sixth success of the campaign, with coach Ossie Boswell promising himself a curry on the way home as reward for his team’s fluid play.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHOTO: Simon Hooper - two tries for Pembroke fly half.

 

 

 

 

 

Seagulls coast

to comfortable win

 

Fishguard 25 - Penygroes 7

Fishguard gained their expected win over Penygroes at The Moors but there was inevitably a little ring-rustiness for the Seagulls after being out of action for a couple of weeks.   

They were 15-0 to the good at half time and although Penygroes did manage a try by strong-running Jonathan Singleton, converted by outside half Matthew Rees it was always going to be a home win. 

New Zealander Mark Leonard opened the scoring for Fishguard with the centre racing clear from 40 metres out, followed by other tries from full back Rhodri Thomas and fly half James Griffiths, who also contributed  two conversions and two penalties to add to his considerable points tally for the season – but this was a strong  all-round performance by the Seagulls which shows they can take on any team in the section if they are firing on all cylinders!      

PHOTO: Fishguard on the attack against Penygroes.

Picture by Andrew Butler.

 

 

 

 

12th November 2011 

Division One (West): 

Morgan makes Otters’ day

 

Narberth 27 - Llanharan 17

An excellent late try by talented young full back Johnny Morgan, converted by outside half Nick Jones, ensured that Narberth gained their expected home win over a gritty Llanharan side which played far better than their ninth place in the table might suggest.

The Otters claimed a bonus point for scoring four tries, which edged them into second spot in the table, but this wasn’t a vintage Otter performance since they made lots of basic handling errors, conceded soft penalties and lost the ball in contact, especially in the first period when they trailed 14-8.

Yet they made a bright start as they spread play wide and winger Tom Bonnell sped over for an unconverted try. But then errors aplenty crept in and Llanharan capitalised with tries from skipper Dai Atkins, playing in the centre, and outside half Cody Rees, both converted by No 9 Chris Williams.

Adam Phillips missed a penalty for Narberth in between these scores but the Narberth winger landed a simple penalty with the last kick of the half after Gareth Bateman, Wayne Williams and Timoci Kaumaitotoya joined with Chris James in establishing the platform in front of the posts.

Good rugby and careless errors

The Otters regained the lead after eight minutes of the second half when fly half Jones made an incisive break through the middle and found second row Alex Jenkins in support so that the big feller could power his way to the posts for Phillips to add the extra points.

But they made a careless error from the restart, only for Williams to miss a kickable penalty for the visitors – and the Otters bounced back with a second unconverted Bonnell try after they had worked the ball first right and then left.

The home side made several changes but lost Aled Hopkins to a yellow card for an off the ball incident within minutes of his joining the fray – and as well as being reduced to 14 men for ten minutes they conceded three points to a Chris Williams’ penalty.

Happily for home fans, however, the Otters defended well and then Morgan rounded off some slick handling involving debutant Iestyn Crompton, skipper Steve Martin and Richard Davies before Johnny Morgan brushed off two-would be tacklers to race to the posts for Jones to add the simple extras and set the seal on a sixth Otters’ win in 11 league outings.

Narberth: Johnny Morgan: Adam Phillips; Steve Martin (Capt); Richard Davies; Tom Bonnell: Nick Jones; Andrew Davies: Lewis Davies; Dan Smith; Tom Slater: Chris James; Alex Jenkins: Gareth Bateman; Wayne Williams; Timoci Kaumaitotoya. Replacements: Iestyn Crompton; Gareth Owens; Colin Davies; Jason Jennings; Aled Hopkins.

 

 PHOTO:Andrew Davies races away from a Narberth scrum. 

By Bill Carne.

 

 

 

Borderers bounced

in second half

 

Llangennech 39 - Whitland 16

A cracking try scored by centre Lee Glanville right at the start of the second period helped section leaders Whitland haul themselves level against Llangennech in this top of the table clash but the homesters managed to raise their game whilst preventing the Borderers from scoring any further points.

Llangennech added another 23 points whilst keeping their line intact and in the final analysis were worthy winners as they also claimed a bonus point for scoring four tries as they moved back to the top of the tree.

Scott Newton notched two penalties for the Borderers, one either side of a solo try by ex-Whitland prop Craig Kelly as he galloped 40 metres up the touchline. Gareth Walters missed the conversion and a penalty but made amends with two penalties and although Newton managed a third penalty right on half time a length of the field score by home winger Rhys Davies helped Llangennech to a 16-9 interval lead.

Then Lee Glanville added Whitland’s second try straight after the oranges, with Newton adding the extras – but Llangennech gradually gained the ascendency up front and had further penalties by Rhodri Jones and replacement Aled Roberts.

They signified a significant twist in fortunes and Llangennech added further tries by right winger Nicky Davies (2) and replacement prop Martin Bowen – and Roberts converted one of them to help the home side celebrate a vital victory.

Whitland: Scott Newton: Dion Thomas; Lee Glanville; Mike Georgiou; Will Davies: Andrew Jenkins; Huw Rees: Rhodri West; Aled Harries; Gareth Lloyd: Dai Ebsworth; Aidan Laxton: Tom Dinan; Jack Mason; Dylan Richards. Replacements: Chris Davies; Andrew Davies; Arwel Davies; Gary Evans; Fraser Watson.

 

 

 PHOTO: Scott Newton - kicked well for Whitland.

 

Division Two (West):

 

Preseli Men pounce

for first league victory

 

Maesteg 13 - Crymych 48

Crymych were able to celebrate a deserved first win of the league season as they made the long journey to Maesteg and came back with the spoils as they ran in six tries as reward for all their efforts.

The ‘Old Parish’ have so plummeted from former glories that they have had difficulties in raising a team but that takes nothing away from the Preseli Men, who played some excellent running rugby to lead 20-3 at the half way stage. Powerful flanker Tomos Jones grabbed their first try and skipper Simon James marked his return from a long spell out through injury with another score, both converted by Rhys Davies as the young scrum half also notched two penalties.

All the home side could muster in response was a penalty from outside half Aled Davies., and although they managed to score second-half tries from Lawrence Howley and Aled Davies they were always in arrears as Crymych added four further tries. Wingers Gavin Thomas and Dan Davies raced over for scores and player/coach Elgan Vittle added his name to the scoresheet before influential skipper James grabbed his second to complete a superb come-back. Rhys Davies converted all four tries to round off an excellent team display by the Preseli Men – and this win will surely help their confidence for future games against more able teams.

 PHOTO: Simon James - back in action for Crymych with two tries.

 

 

 

 

 

Division Three (West): 

Blues shaded by a single point

 

Lampeter 16 - Haverfordwest 15

Haverfordwest finally lost their 100% league record as they went down to defeat by a single point at Lampeter, who had led by 16-0 at the interval and somehow managed to keep the Blues out for much of the second half.

 It was certainly a first half to forget for the Blues as the home side had three penalties from excellent place-kicker Huw Thomas, who has racked up a heap of points this campaign, plus a try by No 8 Meirion Jones which Thomas also converted.

The second half was totally different,  however, as Haverfordwest got to grips with their task and they scored an early try from left winger Jonathan Whitticombe after the left winger had cleverly looped around fellow wing man Jamie Lewis to score in the corner, with Steve Williams conversion hitting the woodwork.

Williams then landed a penalty and also converted a close-range try from New Zealand hooker Sam van Der Valk to set up a tense final ten minutes and although the Blues battled hard to add further points they were denied by some determined defence by Lampeter and so had to settle for a bonus point which keeps them still four points ahead of Dunvant at the head of the table, and with a game still in hand.

 

 

 

PHOTO: Jonathan Whitticombe - another try for Haverfordwest.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Seasiders seal home success

 

Tenby United 35 - Pontyberem 27

Tenby United played really well to beat Pontyberem at Heywood Lane, leading 18-13 at the break and maintain their discipline after the interval to run out worthy winners.

The Seasiders had first-half tries by veteran forward Justin Richards and young winger Simon Stanford, with James Davies converting one of them and also contributing two penalties.

Davies also converted tries after half time by No 9 Jason Scarfe and second rower Luke Dedman, whilst Tom Lewis also chipped in with a penalty so that although Pontyberem had tries by hooker Martin Jones, centre Neil Davies, flanker James Morgan and centre Ben Trehearne to go with two conversions and a penalty by Jonathan Morgan it was the Seasiders who picked up the points and made a little headway in the table as a result.

 

 

PHOTO: Simon Stanford goes in at the corner for Tenby.

By Dave Bolton.

 

 

 

Cardis miss out in final stages

 

Tumble 24 - Cardigan 16

Cardigan pushed fourth-placed Tumble all the way as they led 16-9 juts after half time but then Tumble used their big pack to gain a measure of control that allowed them to add 15 vital points without response from the Teifisiders, who were left to reflect on moments when they might have settled the issue.

Tumble took an early lead with a penalty by fly half Steve Hewitt but the Teifisiders levelled matters with a similar effort by full back Mike Diggle before a second three-pointer by Hewitt nudged his team back in front.

But Cardigan enjoyed one of their best periods when they took the lead after a good kick and chase set up a platform from which second rower Rob Connolly ploughed over for a try. Diggle missed the conversion attempt but quickly made amends with a well-struck penalty before a third Hewitt kick on target saw the Cardis’ lead restricted to 11-9 at the interval.

A bright start to the second half saw Cardigan score an excellent unconverted try by scrum half Arwyn Wilson after winger Wayne Parsons had established the attacking position.

But Hewitt notched another penalty and as the Cardigan pack came under the cosh a little there were further tries for Tumble by scrum half Chris Davies and centre Carl Gabrielson – and Cardigan were even denied a deserved bonus point by Hewitt’s conversion to add insult to injury!

 

PHOTO: Arwyn Wilson - nice try for Cardigan scrum half.

 

 

 

 

Division Four (West): 

Plain sailing for Mariners

in the second half

 

Milford Haven 38 - Betws 9

Milford Haven were expected to gain a comfortable home win over a Betws side some nine places below them in the section table but the Mariners knew at the half way stage that they needed to raise the tempo because they were then just 10-9 ahead!

Betws No 10 Owen Higgins had landed three penalties and all the Mariners could muster in response was a try by winger Lee Riley which Leigh Broome converted to go with a penalty.

But whatever coach Alan McClelland said to his team at the oranges it certainly worked because although the Mariners were playing up the hill towards Hakin United’s football pitch they scored four unanswered second-half tries, all converted by Broome.

Centre Grant Rogers, who was picked out by McClelland alongside Broome and the Milford pack for important contributions, scored a good try whilst former captain Craig Thomas added two tries and Broome brought his personal contribution to 18 points as he also got his name on the try sheet.

 

 

 

 

 PHOTO: Leigh Broome - points galore for Milford Haven.

 

 

 

 

 

Blacks well beaten

by rampant Wanderers

 

Neyland 0 - Llanelli Wanderers 29

Llanelli Wanderers showed why they are table-toppers as they maintained their 100% league record whilst preventing Neyland from scoring a single point, although the All Blacks did have their chances.

The Wanderers started with something of a bang because they scored 17 points in the opening 15 minutes as tries came from centres Karl Evans and Dan Rogers, who once played for Llanelli, with Jonathan Griffiths slotting both conversions and a penalty.

To be fair to Neyland, they never threw in the towel, despite such a disappointing start, as skipper Mark Chamberlain led by example up front alongside second row Mark James and hooker Tony Parsley, who had legitimate late claims for a try turned down because the referee was unsighted.

But it mattered little because by then the Wanderers had a second try from centre Rogers and a try by Griffiths, who also kicked a third conversion to round off the Wanderers’ scoring.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHOTO: Mark James - battled hard for Neyland.

 

 

 

 

 

Division Five (West): 

 

Quins seal win quintet

 

Bynea 8 -

Pembroke Dock Harlequins 36

Pembroke Dock Harlequins continued their fine run of form as they followed three successive league wins and a KO Cup victory with this comfortable success against a Bynea side rooted to the foot of the table with eight defeats from as many starts.

The Quins played strongly up front as Dean Wilcox, Neil banner and veteran Richard McIntyre dominated the scrums and second rowers Barry Parsons and Darren Griffiths controlled the linesout alongside Gareth Scourfield, whilst David and Danny manning were always there in the thick of things so that half backs Dai Rees and Adam Cawley could call the shots.

The Quins had first-half tries by right winger Liam Smith (2) and left winger Lewis Beecher to go with one Brace conversion as the Quins led 17-3 at the break, the home points coming from a penalty by Luke Rees.

Replacement second row Eddie Davies scored a late second half try for Betws but by then Paul Jonkers, Sam Irwin and Stuart hay had set up further tries by Beecher and David Manning (2). Brace converted two of them and the Quins were home and dry as reward for another strong performance.

 

 PHOTO: Liam Smith - try brace for Quins' winger.

 

 

 

 

 

Wasps well beaten at Pill Parks

 

Llangwm 7 - Swansea Uplands 64

Llangwm ran into in-form Swansea Uplands at the wrong time as the Wasps found themselves 40-0 adrift at half time and showed real grit as they battled hard afterwards to restrict the promotion favourites to another 24 points as they also ran in a late try by prop Roy Venables which young fly half Joseph Kiff converted.

Wasps’ back row men James Lewis and Ian Griffiths never shirked a tackle but Griffiths was eventually forced off with a calf injury, whilst Hamish Nicholls also caught the eye with his work rate. But the Uplands had Tom Edmunds calling the shots behind a big pack and he scored a try hat-trick as well as notching seven conversions to give him 32 points, whilst his brothers Sean and James also appeared on the try count alongside Martin Reeve (2), Harry Lee, Paul Beck and Lee Hills.

 

 

 

Vital kicks cost Scarlets victory

 

Pembroke 8 - Nantgaredig 12

Pembroke went down at home to promotion candidates Nantgaredig, despite scoring the only try of the match, as the visitors had four penalties by ace kicker Meirion Davies.

The Nantgaredig centre punished any mistakes by the Scarlets, who had an unconverted try by winger Geraint Jackson but missed other scoring opportunities which cost them dearly.

Back rower Rob Weston, centre Mark Williams and full back Simon Dalling all played well for the home side but their only other points came from a penalty by wing Luke Dow as they were left without victory but with a bonus point as their only reward.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHOTO: Geraint Jackson - claimed Pembroke's sole try.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saints struggle in Ponty

 

Pontyates 37 - St Davids 8

St Davids found it hard going against a big Pontyates side which was able to celebrate its first win after eight successive defeats, with Saints’ coach Jack Dudley disappointed by his team’s all-round performance.

All the Saints could muster was a try by big second rower Chris Morgan from a lineout peel and drive, plus a penalty by Jack Jones – whilst Pontyates had tries by hooker Dewi Williams, winger Matthew Jones and a hat-trick by powerful No 8 Daniel George to go with three conversions and two penalties by outside half Kieran Evans.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHOTO: Chris Morgan - scored St Davids only try.

 

 

 

 

Big match called off

St Clears v Fishguard & Goodwick

Match postponed – waterlogged pitch

 

 

 

 

 

5th November 2011

 

Division One (West):

 

Borderers bag big local derby win over Carmarthen Athletic

 

Whitland 10 - Carmarthen Athletic 5

Matches between Whitland and Carmarthen are traditionally hard-fought and this local derby was no exception as the Borderers led 10-0 at half time and resisted a stout Athletic come-back after the break.

The Whitland front five played well in the opening stages and so their back row of Tom Dinan, Dylan Richards and Ryan Michael could be involved in the ball winning stakes. The Borderers deservedly took the lead when a clever kick ahead by Scott Newton allowed Will Davies to regather and speed his way to the posts for a try which Newton converted to go with a well-struck penalty.

Strong defence needed

The second half was equally as hard-fought and after Dinan was yellow carded mid-way through the period it took some resolute defence by the Borderers to limit the Athletic to a try by winger Pan Rashada which went unconverted.

But it meant that the visitors were within a single score of victory and it needed good cover from Newton, Davies and Mike Georgiou as Gary Evans and Lee Glanville managed to bottle up the middle.

Half backs Andrew Jenkins and Johnny Thomas made sure that they kept their pack going forward whenever possible and when the final whistle blew it was Whitland who were narrowly victorious in a local derby for the second week running, whilst the Athletic had to settle for a single bonus point.

Whitland: Scott Martin; Mike Georgiou; Lee Glanville; Gary Evans; Will Davies; Johnny Thomas; Andrew Jenkins: Rhodri West; Marc Jones; Richard Smith; Rhys Davies; Dai Ebsworth; Dylan Richards; Tom Dinan; Ryan Michael. Replacements: Huw Rees; Nico Setaro; Jack Mason; Aled Richards; Andrew Davies.

 

 

 PHOTO: Marc Jones gets ready to make a break.
PHOTO: Lee Glanville on the burst for the Borderers.

By Mark Vincent of Pembrokeshiresport.co.uk

 

 

 

 

Cracking performance by the Otters

 

UWIC 17 - Narberth 25

Narberth showed their real potential as they travelled to Cardiff to take on the students of UWIC and came back with a deserved victory over the team in second place – and with a bonus point for scoring four tries.

The Otters were 14-13 adrift at the end of an entertaining first half and were 18-17 in front before a superb late try by full back Johnny Morgan, converted by stand-in stand-off Nick Jones, finally sealed their success.

Adam Phillips, playing on the wing, missed an early penalty chance for the Otters but within three minutes they were in front as skipper Steve Martin rounded off a period of pressure by slicing through to the corner for an unconverted try.

But the lead was short-lived because UWIC fought back after 11 minutes with a good try from centre Lewis Messer which outside half Rhys Roberts converted – only for the Otters to recapture the lead after another four minutes when another Martin break allowed winger Tom Bonnell to score an unconverted try as reward for his support play.

Back came the students after 31 minutes when full back Dan Bibby raced over for a try which Roberts duly goaled – but the Otters had the final word as Nick Jones slotted a penalty after missing a longer-range attempt just before.

Entertaining second half

Martin created a second try for Bonnell after nine minutes of the second half but again the conversion went wide – and the Otters conceded a penalty to Roberts when they had Chris James and Gareth Bateman yellow-carded in quick succession. With a one-point advantage the Otters managed to weather the storm, however, and Morgan sealed victory from a scrum five where scrum half Andrew Davies put the full back in for a deserved try, which Nick Jones converted to make sure that the visitors were home and dry!

Narberth: Johnny Morgan; Tom Bonnell; Steve Martin (Capt); Richard Davies; Adam Phillips; Nick Jones; Andrew Davies; Tom Slater; Dan Smith; Sion Lloyd; Alex Jenkins; Chris James; Gareth Bateman; Wayne Williams; Colin Davies. Replacements: Timoci Kaumaitotoya; Lewis Davies; Aled Jones; Rob Weston.

 

 PHOTO: Steve Martin - scored a Narberth try and created two others.

 

 

 

 

Swalec Plate – Round One:

 

First win of the

season for Preseli Men

 

Lampeter 17 - Crymych 26

Crymych finally gained their first victory of the season with a win over Lampeter that was perhaps a little more comfortable than the final scoreline suggests because the Preseli Men were 26-3 in front before relaxing and conceding two late converted tries to their gritty hosts.

Lampeter, who are currently seventh in Division Three (West), made a bright start and opened the scoring with a penalty from Huw Thomas – but the Preseli men were soon in control to lead 19-3 at the break as hooker Carwyn Rees and centres Elgan Vittle and Carwyn Phillips caught the eye alongside scrum half Rhys Davies, back after deciding in midweek to switch from Narberth.

Outside half Dyfan Dafydd, full back Guto Griffiths and winger Gavin Thomas rounded off concerted handling moves to cross for tries, two of them converted by Rhys Davies, who also added a third conversion after half time when Gavin Thomas raced away for his second try.

But Crymych took their foot off the pedal a little and Lampeter deserve every credit for clawing their way back with tries from No 8 Dafydd Jones and centre Gethin Roberts, both converted by Huw Thomas

The Preseli Men made sure that Lampeter didn’t add any further points, however, and so their reward is to move into round two as a result.

 PHOTO: Guto Griffiths - good try for Crymych full back.

 

 

 

 

Swalec Bowl – Round Two:

 

Saints stumble out of Bowl

 

Llangadog 34 - St Davids 10

St Davids bowed out of the Swalec Bowl as they went down to defeat against a Llangadog side which built up a 17-3 interval lead and were always just a little too strong for a makeshift Saints’ side.

Llangadog might be seventh in Division Six (West), a division lower than the Saints, but they have some experienced players and all the visitors could muster was a first-half penalty from Craig Challonder and a second half try by Andrew Lamb which Challonder converted.

For the home side, there were tries from winger Jason Williams (2), centre Jake Guerrin, flanker Craig Morgan and prop Dewi Howells. Scrum half Adrian Williams also scored a try and added two conversions to round off the scoring as Llangadog were clearly delighted by their deserved success.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHOTO: Craig Challonder - five points in St Davids defeat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scarlets snatch six tries

 

Llansawel 16 - Pembroke 38

Six tries from Pembroke sent them into the third round of the Swalec Bowl as the Scarlets proved too street-wise, strong and skilful for their opponents who are bottom of Division Six (West).

Ossie Boswell’s Boys took an early 14-point lead with tries by powerful centre Mark Williams and flanker Steve Dyde, both converted by back-in-action No 10 Phil Williams.

But they sat back a little and allowed Llansawel to claw their way back to trail just 14-11 early in the second period, before the Scarlets moved up another gear.

Pembroke added further tries by Luke Hansford, Dom Colman, Sean Dalling and Mark Roach, with another conversion apiece by Phil Williams and Simon Hooper ensuring that the Scarlets moved comfortably into the next stage of the competition.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHOTO: Mark Roach - try for Pembroke.

 

 

 

 

 

All Blacks shaded out late

 

Nantgaredig 17 - Neyland 12

Neyland came close to snatching the verdict against a determined Nantgaredig side but conceded vital late points and paid the inevitable price.

The All Blacks looked sharp in the first half against a team that is in search of promotion from Division Five (West) – taking a 12-point lead through tries from hooker Tony Parsley and winger Andrew Charnley on his return from injury.

Mark Riley also missed a long-range penalty and the All Blacks had the chance of a third try but a knock-on close to the line cost them dearly. There was a further set-back early in the second period when a yellow-card reduced them to 14 men for ten minutes and Nantgaredig scored a try by full back Gethin Page.

Then Nantgaredig drew level with a try by hooker Mark Davies scored and his name-sake Meirion converted – and Neyland has a long-range dropped goal attempt from Riley which was just off target.

In a tense finale, Neyland lost possession at a key time and scrum half Rhydian Evans sliced through for the winning score for his team, and although Meirion Davies missed the conversion it mattered little as the All Blacks bowed out of the competition.

 

PHOTO: Andrew Charnley - back from injury with a Neyland try.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Seagulls sunk by a single point

 

St Clears 11 - Fishguard 10

Both St Clears and Neyland are in real contention for promotion from Division Five (West) and rested key players in readiness for their league match at the same venue next Saturday.

The competition was none the less fierce for that fact, however, and in the final analysis it was the Carmarthenshire Saints who went through by a single point over the Seagulls.

Fishguard made a strong start but were unable to turn pressure into points and the Saints came with a penalty from Chris Rodenhurst before James Griffiths levelled matters with a successful three-point attempt at the other end.

A mistake when Matthew George slipped in the heavy conditions saw Rodenhurst grab a try to give the Saints an 8-3 interval lead and he also notched a penalty soon after the start of the second half to open up an eight-point gap.

Fishguard reduced the deficit to a single point when co-coach Huw Evans came on as replacement and was on hand to claim the touch-down after Thomas Ilaisa charged down a clearance kick, with Griffiths doing well to add the extra points.

It nicely set up a tight finish but the Saints’ defence remained calm and managed to keep out the Seagulls’ attacks to ensure they go into the draw for the third round.

 

 

PHOTO: Huw Evans - Fishguard 'super-sub' scores a try.

 

 

 

Mariners match called off

 

Milford Haven v Trinity St David College (Lampeter)

The students, as expected, called this match off and so the Mariners move into the next stage without having to play a game.

 

 

 

 

1st October 2011

 

Division One (West)

 

Otters stage superb fight-back

 

Narberth 40 - Carmarthen Athletic 38

Narberth supporters must have their finger nails chewed down to the quick as the Otters followed last week’s last-gasp defeat at UWIC by staging a superb fight-back against Carmarthen Athletic from a deficit of 25-9 just after the interval.

They fought back really well to lead 34-28 with time running out but still had a few missed heart-beats for their fans as two late tries hauled the Athletic back into contention – with the missed conversions allowing the Otters to edge through by two points!

Such a victory seemed extremely unlikely before the break as the Athletic were by far the better side and raced into a 17-point lead in the opening quarter as Tenby brothers Toby and Sam Smith scored tries from their respective positions at full back and No 8. Fly half Stuart Morris fired over both conversions and a penalty and it took the Otters until the 33rd and 35th minutes before young fly half Rhys Davies slotted two penalty kicks.

But Narberth lost second row Rob Weston to a yellow card and Morris kicked another penalty for the Quins. Jim Kaumaitotoya raised hopes for the Otters with a surging run but it came to nothing – although another Rhys Davies penalty reduced the interval deficit to 9-20.

The Athletic again started the second period well as left winger Rhys Thomas claimed a soft try before the Otters finally woke up to the fact that they needed to raise the tempo and cut out basic errors. Adam Phillips and Steve Martin combined to put winger Nick Jones in at the corner and although Rhys Davies missed the conversion he made amends with his fourth penalty.

Fresh legs paid dividends

After the Otters rang the changes and brought on fresh legs another Kaumaitotoya thrust, after good work by Dan Smith, set up a period of pressure from which Nick Jones popped up in midfield and scored at the posts for Adam Phillips to add the simple extras and reduce the deficit to a single point.

A superb try put the Otters ahead for the first time when a Dan Smith dummy created the gap for skipper Martin to cleave through the gap and score in the left corner, with Adam Phillips converting superbly from the touchline. Morris and Phillips then exchanged penalties before Athletic centre Rhys Lewis cut through for an unconverted try – only for Phillips to land two more penalties to extend the lead to seven points.

It seemed as if the Otters were home and dry but again the visitors scored a try, this time for replacement scrum half Scott Maynard, and the Otter faithful had to hold their collective breath until the conversion attempt failed. It meant that victory went to the home side, whilst the Athletic could at least take comfort from picking up two bonus points, having outscored the Otters 5-2 in the try count, and for finishing up within seven points of their opposition.

Narberth:  Adam Phillips; Nick Jones; Richard Davies; Steve Martin (Capt); Tom Bonnell; Rhys Davies; Adrian Killa; Sean Lloyd; Dan Smith; Tom Slater; Rob Weston; Alex Jenkins: Gareth Bateman; Jake Iles; Timoci Kaumaitotoya. Replacements: Aled Davies; Wayne Williams; Colin Davies; Nathan Bowen; Johnny Morgan; Tom Slater.

 

 PHOTO: Adrian Killa gets the ball away under pressure for Narberth.

Picture by Bill Carne of Pembrokeshiresport.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

Setaro steers

Borderers to away win

 

Llanharan 21 - Whitland 23

Talented young outside half Nico Setaro helped Whitland bounced back from the disappointment of a home defeat against UWIC with 18 points in their narrow 23-21 success.

Setaro showed his talents as he was called in at No 10 and showed real maturity as skipper Raff Williams certainly led by example up front, whilst scrum half Andrew Jenkins also played well as the ideal link between the Borderers’ forwards and backs.

But it was Llanharan who opened the scoring with a penalty from Chris Williams before quick hands by the Neyland backs allowed centre Gary Evans to score a quality try which Setaro converted.

Another Williams’ penalty hauled Llanharan back into contention and his third kick on target edged ‘The Dairymen’ into a 9-7 interval lead.

But Setaro scored a cracking try as he rounded off more good handling by the Borderers’ backs – and he converted as well as slotting two further penalties. Steffan Thomas scored two tries for the homesters but Setaro’s third three-pointer made sure that Whitland were still ahead at the finish – and with a deserved third place in the table as their reward!

Whitland: Lee Glanville; Dion Thomas; Gary Evans; Mike Georgiou; Dafydd Williams; Nico Setaro; Andrew Jenkins; Rhodri West; Marc Jones; Richard Smith; Raff Williams (Capt); Rhys Jones; Dylan Richards; Celt Thomas; Ryan Michael. Replacements: Gareth Lloyd; Aled Harries; Andrew Hawkins; Jonathan Thomas; Huw Rees.

 

 PHOTO: Raff Williams - led Whitland by example.

 

 

 

 

 

Division Two (West):

 

Kenfig too strong

for battling Crymych

 

Kenfig Hill 61 - Crymych 12

Kenfig Hill showed why they are top of Division Two (West) as they built up a 21-7 interval lead against a gritty Crymych side which never gave up trying but conceded 40 points in the second period whilst managing just an unconverted try of their own.

It was hard-working second row Cennydd James who scored the Preseli men’s first half try, converted by Ianto Griffiths – and it was James who added his second after the interval, this time unconverted.

For Kenfig Hill, there was try brace apiece for Tom Briggs and Matthew Tossell, with others by Ben Clarke, Steve Gillard, Thomas Maund and Derwyn Rees. Raymond Evans also sliced through for a try from his No 10 berth and also converted eight of Kenfig’s nine tries.

Victory left the home side in second spot behind Glynneath, with five wins and four bonus points from their five stats – whilst Crymych are still seeking their first league point of the campaign after their five matches.

 

 

PHOTO: Cennydd James - two tries for Crymych.

 

 

 

 

 

Division Three (West):

 

Cardis crush sorry Seasiders

 

Cardigan 51 - Tenby United 9

Cardigan maintained their climb up the table as a comprehensive win over old rivals Tenby United pushed them into third place behind Penclawdd and Haverfordwest, who were without a match.

Yet the interval score showed the Seasiders very much in contention at 17-9 down as young fly half Tom Richards (2) and centre James Davies slotted penalties for the visitors – but with Cardigan skipper Dylan Davies (No 8) and scrum half Mike Diggle beginning to exert a real influence at the base of the scrum, whilst outside half Iestyn Crompton, centre Nathan Murphy and full back Rhydian Jenkins looked sharp as their pack won more and more ball.

Crompton eventually scored 24 points from two tries, five conversions and two penalties, whilst other tries came from winger Dorian Butler, flanker Gethin Davies, centre Murphy, winger Wayne Parsons and replacement prop Gethin Jones.

It took the Teifisiders beyond the 50-mark and earned them a third successive 5-point victory, whilst Tenby are now in ninth place, with one win and a draw from five matches played.

 PHOTO: Gethin Davies - try for Cardigan flanker.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Division Four (West):

 

Mariners strong in second half

 

Milford Haven 33 - Aberaeron 18

Whatever coach Alan McClelland said to his Milford Haven players at half time in their match against Aberaeron at The Observatory Field it certainly worked because the Mariners built on a 7-6 interval lead to score five tries and pick up a welcome bonus point as well as a deserved win.

The visitors were minus several key players but had former Cardiff Blues legend Hemi Taylor helping out and at 49 years of age scoring one of their two tries alongside Tudur Jenkins, who also slotted a conversion and two first half penalties.

Jamie Parr claimed the Mariners’ opening try from a driving maul, his third score in two games, and converted by Jim Farr and after Mackie’s ‘hair-drier’ treatment at the break there were further scores by Matthew Reynolds, Leigh Broome, Ian Rusinek and skipper Mark Wonnacott.

Farr added three more conversions to help bring the smile back to his coach’s sun-tanned features and another pleasing feature for Milford was the hard work shown by the front row of Parr, Mike Cockburn and Adam Rees.

 

 

 

 

 PHOTO: Leigh Broome - try for Milford.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blacks just shaded out

 

Neyland 25 - Laugharne 30

Neyland looked hot favourites to gain their first win of the season against Laugharne at the Athletic Ground as they led 25-6 at one stage in the first half – but they somehow conspired to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory as Laugharne fought their way back to take the verdict.

Pacy left winger Darren John gave the All Blacks a great start as he scored two tries, the second converted by Mark Riley before Laugharne responded with a penalty by Ross Michael. The Neyland No 10 slotted a penalty and also added the extra points to a good try claimed by Neyland skipper Mark Chamberlain before Michael’s second successful penalty was cancelled out by another three points from Riley.

At this stage a Neyland win seemed on the cards but then prop Zac Lowther scored a Laugharne try – and Neyland lost prop Ashley Mathias through injury. His place was taken by Steve Hamer and the centre showed his resilience in playing well in the front row but a Grant Waters’ try and Michael dropped goal pulled Laugharne back within reach.

The result was finally settled in the visitors’ favour when Gareth Davies ploughed over for a try and although Michael missed the conversion attempt he soon notched a penalty.

The All Blacks were camped on the Laugharne line when play finished but at least they had the consolation of a bonus point as reward for their considerable efforts.

 PHOTO: Patrick Bellerby runs hard for Neyland.

Picture by Matthew Kelly of Rawphotography.me.uk

 

 

 

 

 

Division Five (West):

 

Quins suffer heavy defeat

 

Nantgaredig 37 -

Pembroke Dock Quins 0

Pembroke Dock Quins went down to defeat at Nantgaredig as they battled hard to restrict the homesters to just an eight-point lead at the half way stage – but then conceded another 29 unanswered points after the interval.

Barry Parsons played really well for the Quins in the linesout and Steffan Halwood looked sharp in the centre – but Nantgaredig had a try from right wing Iwan Thomas to go with a penalty from centre Meirion Davies as the only scores of that competitive period.

But Nantgaredig took greater control after the oranges as further tries came from scrum half Rhydian Evans (2), Bleddyn Lewis and Meirion Davies, who chipped in with two conversions and another penalty to give himself a personal haul of 17 points as the Quins were unable to score any points as reward for their efforts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHOTO: Barry Parsons - played really well for the Quins.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scarlets succeed in Palmer Cup

 

Pembroke 53 - Llangwm 5

Llangwm had to make the short journey across the Cleddau Bridge to take on old rivals Pembroke at Crickmarren with a makeshift team and paid the inevitable price as the Scarlets ran in nine tries and the Wasps had just a try from Chris Thomas as their only score.

The teams compete over two legs annually for the Palmer Cup and the silverware is almost inevitably bound to stay in Pembroke as they scored first half tries by scrum half Andrew Davies (2), prop Phil Greenwood and winger Joe Jackson in opening up a 22-0 lead as davies also notched one conversion.

Pembroke coach Ossie Boswell was disappointed that there were uncontested scrums from the outset but pleased at the way his team retained control despite not being able to use their traditional scrummaging power. There were further tries from full back Sean Dalling, who looks a good player, winger Lyn Williams on his debut, winger Luke Dow, centre Simon Hooper and replacement second row Luke Devery, who hails from Ireland and has recently joined the Scarlets.

James Davies kicked two conversions to set the seal on Pembroke’s fourth win from five starts, whilst Llangwm will be hoping for something like a return to full strength for future matches.

 PHOTO: Andrew Davies scores for Pembroke

Picture by Matthew Kelly of Rawphotography.me.uk

 

 

 

 

 

Seagulls ease home

against gritty Saints

 

St Davids 20 - Fishguard 31

Matches between St Davids and Fishguard are traditionally hard-fought and this one was no exception as the visitors eventually eased through to a first-leg victory for the Seagulls’ Cup, competed for annually between these neighbours.

Fishguard were 19-5 ahead at the interval, despite having a few players unavailable, with coach Huw Evans drafted in at centre for a full match. The Saints were delighted to welcome back Phil and Andrew Lamb, whilst coach Jack Dudley was pleased by the overall performance of a team in which both these players joined No 8 Anthony Davies, scrum half Jack Jones and hooker Gerwyn Richards catching the eye.

Andrew Lamb, Richards and Davies were the Saints’ try scorers alongside a conversion and penalty by Phil Lamb, whilst Fishguard had tries from Mark James, switched from hooker to the back row, No 10 James Griffiths (2), centre Mike Jenkins and winger Matthew George (a length of the pitch job). Griffiths also landed three conversions and Fishguard scooped a bonus point for their efforts – but sadly the Saints are still seeking their first league point, despite playing well in this local derby tussle!

PHOTO: Fishguard in control at St Davids.

Picture by Andrew Butler.