Sport

Final heartache for brave Emlyn

Published

10 years ago

May 20, 2015

Tom Sinclair

Newcastle Emlyn 17

The team : A t the final whistle

Ystrad Rhondda 25

THE NEWCASTLE EMLYN team did themselves and the hundreds of fans who travelled up the M4 proud on Sunday (May 3) in their first ever appearance in the Millennium Stadium. With the lead changing hands seven times the result was in doubt up until the final few minutes of this cracking encounter. The greatest pity was that the second half was played in a torrential downpour with the WRU only deciding to close the roof at the end of the game.

Ystrad Rhondda in the end proved to be the more powerful side and deserved their victory, scoring three tries to Emlyn’s one. With the rain pouring down both sides deserved a great deal of credit for their intent to play in conditions which did not suit running rugby. It was possibly the red and whites that suffered most as they attempted to move the ball wide throughout the second half in their attempts to break down the well organised Ystrad defence.

All the early pressure came from Ystrad who started positively and declined two kickable penalties, as they went for a try from two line outs and two scrums on the Emlyn line. They undoubtedly thought they could target the Emlyn scrum but the fit again props Dai Jones and Gethin Davies, aided by hooker Alex Williams, proved to be very solid in the set piece. It was from a line out that Emlyn were in fact extremely fortunate not to concede a try with the video referee ruling that Emlyn number eight Brynmor Jones had been able to halt an Ystrad forward millimetres from the line.

After twelve minutes Emlyn were finally able to relieve the pressure when centre Viv Jenkins was able to intercept a pass and set up a ruck, allowing full back Shaun Leonard to clear the ball to the half way line. In fact, against the run of play, it was Leonard who opened the scoring with a long range penalty after Ystrad were penalised for a high tackle.

With both sides in second place in their respective leagues this game was always going to be a tight affair decided by the side who made the fewest mistakes or moments of individual brilliance. The moment of brilliance came from the Ystrad full back David Gratton. From the restart the Emlyn clearance kick was not particularly well directed allowing outside half Rhys Truelove to gather the ball on the half way line in the middle of the pitch. Gratton took the pass and ran at the advancing Emlyn defenders, he chipped over their heads, caught the ball and rounded the only remaining Emlyn defender to score an unconverted try in the corner.

To their credit Emlyn did not allow this defensive lapse to upset them and proceeded, courtesy of the boots of outside half Rhidian Harries and Shaun Leonard, to spend a great deal of the half in Ystrad territory. From a line out just outside the Ystrad twenty two, an accurate throw by Williams saw second row Arwel Davies deliver perfect ball from the top of his jump to scrum half Mike Jones. He fed Rhidian Harries who spotted a gap in the Ystrad defence and went straight through it. Unfortunately for him the supporting centre Alun Howells could not quite get clear of a defender as he desperately attempted to get close to Harries. The outside half’s run was brought to a halt some seven metres out and when Emlyn were penalised at the resulting ruck Harries was left stricken on the ground. After lengthy treatment Harries was eventually carried from the field on a stretcher and Steffan Evans came on as a replacement for him.

Territorially Emlyn dominated this half but found it virtually impossible to break down the Ystrad defence. They did have a golden opportunity when centre Alun Howells made a nice outside break and fed full back Leonard on the narrow side. Unfortunately Leonard decided to attempt to chip kick the ball over the head of the remaining defender instead of feeding unmarked winger Dan Davies. The kick was charged down and Ystrad were able to clear the danger.

With half time approaching Emlyn finally managed to score a try. From a ruck on the right hand side of the field the ball was passed to Leonard standing in the outside half position. The full back perfectly judged his cross kick for winger Dan Davies to catch and manage to squeeze over in the corner for an unconverted try.

Emlyn attacked from the start of the second half and were unfortunate when, after some excellent driving play by the forwards led by Arwel Davies, the slippery ball shot out of a ruck on the Ystrad side allowing them to clear the ball downfield. Leonard extended Emlyn’s lead to six points with a well struck penalty soon after the restart but the heavy rain was beginning to have an effect on the game as the ball, for handling purposes, became like a bar of soap.

The next score belonged to Ystrad when their outside half Truelove chipped over the Emlyn defenders in a pre-planned move from a ruck for right winger Mathew Hurley to gather the ball. The winger was brought down short of the line and through the excellent work of open-side Owain Powell, who was comfortably Emlyn’s best player, Emlyn managed to turn the ball over. Unfortunately a poor clearance kick gave the men from the Rhondda the opportunity to attack Emlyn on the narrow side and left winger Chris Clayton crossed for a try excellently converted from wide out by outside half Rhys Truelove.

Their one point lead was short lived as from the kick off they were penalised and Shaun Leonard regained the lead for Emlyn with a penalty goal. Coach Marc Lloyd now brought on replacement Luke Kendall and the big number eight with Premiership experience started to take the game to Ystrad with some powerful surging runs. Leonard extended Emlyn’s lead when after runs by Kendall and Alun Howells, Ystrad, defending desperately, were penalised for off side and he kicked another penalty to extend Emlyn’s lead to five points.

Emlyn’s cause was not then helped when scrum half Mike Jones had to leave the field with an injury, necessitating Powell having to move to scrum half with Gareth Patterson coming on as a flanker. Ystrad began to empty their bench and the strength on their bench became apparent as their forwards began to take greater control of the game. In second row Nathan Hughes, they had a fine line out forward who dominated the front of the line out supplying them with a constant stream of possession, allowing them to set up numerous driving line outs from deep inside their own twenty two metre area.

The weather then played its part in the next Ystrad try when from a line out inside their own twenty two, the Emlyn pack supplied excellent ball back for it to be cleared. Unfortunately the slippery ball was dropped five metres from their own line. From the resulting scrum Ystrad number eight Liam Davies bulldozed over for a try converted by Truelove to give them a two point lead.

Emlyn continued trying to move the ball wide and use their speedy backs although handling had become something of a lottery. An Emlyn move broke down just inside the Ystrad half and they fly-hacked the ball downfield. Leonard covering across just managed to get to the ball ahead of the chasing backs as the ball crossed the touchline. Unable to stop he kicked the ball into the crowd only to find that bizarrely the referee penalised him for kicking the ball away stopping Ystrad from taking a quick throw in ! This was despite the fact that it would have been an Emlyn throw. Truelove stepped up and increased Ystrad’s lead to five points.

Strong runs by Kendall brought Emlyn back into the Ystrad twenty two and the number eight was brought down short of the line on two occasions. Using the forwards effectively Emlyn set up a number of rucks and then moved the ball wide only for Dan Davies to be tackled into touch inches from the Ystrad line.

Another attack saw the slippery ball spilled by an Emlyn player, picked up by winger Hurley who looked certain to score but for a fine covering tackle by Shaun Leonard. With time running out Emlyn’s efforts became even more desperate but the Ystrad pack were now fully in control of the game. When Emlyn were penalised at a ruck in front of their posts Truelove stepped up to convert the kick and give them their winning eight point margin.

Emlyn Will now be concentrating on their remaining league fixtures as they look to clinch the Division One West crown.

TEAM:

15 Shaun Leonard 14 Owen Francis 13 Alun Howells 12 Viv Jenkins 11 Dan Davies 10 Rhidian Harries 9 Mike Jones: 1 Dai Jones 2 Alex Williams 3 Gethin Davies 4 Dyfed Morgan 5 Arwel Davies 6 Joel James 7 Owain Powell 8 Brynmor Jones

Replacements:

16 Jack Parry 17 Bedwyr Davies 18 Gareth Lloyd 19 Tefion Davies 20 Gareth Patterson 21 Luke Kendall 22 Steffan Evans

Sport

Referee Marty Jones shares thoughts on the season

Published

5 hours ago

December 10, 2024

Herald Sport

LAST WEEKEND’S games may have been washed out, but The Herald sat down with popular referee Marty Jones to hear his reflections on the season so far.

Best welcome of the season?

“Fishguard Sports for their Division 2 clash against Carew 2nds was the standout,” Marty said. “The respect they showed was impeccable. From the warm welcome by coaching staff and players to the thoughtful touches like tea at half-time and full-time, they went above and beyond. Even the payment was sorted upfront, which is always appreciated! The atmosphere created by their coaches and supporters was excellent—no issues there, unlike what can occasionally happen elsewhere. Visiting Fishguard is always a pleasure… well, apart from the rabbit holes!”

Most impressive team?

“It has to be Goodwick United,” Marty revealed. “I’ve only reffed their first team once this season, and while that particular game didn’t go smoothly for me, they’re an incredible team. Their resilience and defensive quality set them apart. There’s a saying: ‘Attackers win you games, defences win you titles,’ and Goodwick embody that. Nick Jones, their keeper, has the best distribution in the league by far. Reffing them is always a privilege, and as a football lover, I relish officiating games involving the top teams.”

Surprising quality?

“Division 1 and Division 2 this season are the best I’ve seen in years,” Marty observed. “Tenby have particularly caught my eye. While I know how good they are, they’ve still managed to surprise me with their performances—drawing with Hakin, pushing Goodwick, and consistently playing entertaining, attacking football. They’re a pleasure to referee and would be great to watch as a fan. It speaks volumes about the strength of Division 1 that a quality team like Tenby isn’t in title contention.”

Standout players?

“It’s tough to choose,” Marty admitted. “For juniors, Ollie Clarke from New Hedges Saundersfoot deserves a mention. He’s respectful, talented, and scored the best header I’ve ever seen. The juniors league is in great shape, with plenty of promising players like him. For seniors, I have to highlight Jack Ashman. His recent performance was incredible—the best individual display I’ve seen all season. While I’m not saying he’s the most consistent player in the league, that match was something special.”

Title predictions?

“Goodwick United for Division 1,” Marty predicted confidently. “Their defence is rock solid, and I can’t see them losing. Hakin aren’t quite there yet. Division 2 is much harder to call, but I’d back Fishguard Sports. They have the squad depth to edge out Narberth in a close race.

“For the cups, I’d love to see a Hakin vs. Goodwick final in the Senior Cup, with Hakin on their day being capable of anything. In Division 2, I’m picking Fishguard for a league and cup double. That said, I haven’t reffed Narberth yet, so maybe I’m being a little unfair to them. It’s brilliant to see such strong competition in both divisions—it keeps the Pembrokeshire leagues exciting!”

News

Indoor cricket: Lawrenny youngsters win low-scoring tussle

Published

6 hours ago

December 10, 2024

Herald Sport

Lawrenny (82 for 4) beat Neyland B (63 for 5) by 19 runs

THE MATCH between Lawrenny and Neyland B turned into an unexpectedly low-scoring affair, with both sides struggling to rack up runs. Challenging conditions, possibly due to the newly introduced balls known for swinging more before being fully “knocked in,” appeared to hamper the batting.

Batting first, Lawrenny posted a modest 82 for 4 in their 10 overs. Finley Lewis (12) and Will Allen (21 from 15 balls) top-scored, with Rhys Eynon adding a quickfire 23, including two sixes and two fours, before being run out. Noah Williams remained unbeaten on 16, with 10 extras boosting the total. Neyland B’s Tom Pritchard (2 for 12) and Iestyn Myles (1 for 21) were the pick of the bowlers.

In reply, Neyland B struggled against Lawrenny’s bowling attack, led by Finley Lewis (2 for 5). Early dismissals of John Tennick (3) and Iestyn Myles (2) left the team reeling at 5 for 2. Jamie Smith managed 13, while Tom Pritchard fought hard with a defiant 22, but it wasn’t enough. Additional contributions from Lawrenny’s bowlers Will Allen (1 for 16), Rhys Eynon (1 for 12), and Oscar Lewis (1 for 12) ensured Neyland B were restricted to 63 for 5, sealing Lawrenny’s 19-run victory.

Cresselly cruise to victory over Pembs Seniors A

Pembs Seniors A (97 for 5) lost to Cresselly (98 for 0) by 6 wickets

Cresselly continued their dominant run with a clinical performance against Pembs Seniors A. Chasing a modest target of 98, they cruised to victory in just 7.4 overs without losing a wicket.

The Seniors struggled with the bat after losing key player Kevin Bowen for 3. Andrew Williams (24) and Alan Webster (36 not out from 24 balls) provided some stability, but the rest of the lineup faltered. Stuart Carpenter chipped in with 15, including a six, but contributions from Huw Scriven (5) and Mark Hicks (0) were minimal.

Cresselly’s bowlers, led by Griff Jenkins (2 for 16) and Tom Arthur (1 for 20), kept the Seniors in check. In reply, Noah Williams (25, including three fours) and Griff Jenkins (26, with two sixes and two fours) retired unbeaten, setting the platform for Tom Rowlands (23 not out) and Milo Jones (16 not out) to finish the chase in style.

Haverfordwest Lightning strike Seniors B

Haverfordwest Lightning (128 for 4) beat Pembs Seniors B (88 all out) by 40 runs

Haverfordwest Lightning delivered a commanding performance, setting a strong total of 128 for 4 in their 10 overs before dismissing Pembs Seniors B for 88 to win by 40 runs.

Shan Pereira anchored the Lightning’s innings with an excellent 37, supported by Will Phillips (26) and Matthew Vaughan (19). Jake Merry contributed 12, and with 26 extras, the team posted a daunting total.

The Seniors’ response relied heavily on Jonathan “Taffy” Williams, who remained unbeaten on 38, smashing four sixes. His all-round effort included a stellar 4 for 24 with the ball, but he received little support. Martin Thomas added 28, but the rest of the lineup collapsed, scoring just 7 runs between them.

Haverfordwest’s bowlers, particularly Jake Merry with a sensational 2 for 2, ensured the Seniors never gained momentum. Sean Atyeo (1 for 14) and Dylan Lee (1 for 17) also contributed, sealing Lightning’s victory with an impressive all-round effort.

Sport

Week 7 report – Pembrokeshire Cricket First Division Indoor League

Published

6 hours ago

December 10, 2024

Herald Sport

Pembroke A outclass Pembroke B

Pembroke B (80 all out) lost to Pembroke A (81 for 0) by 6 wickets

Pembroke A showcased their dominance in indoor cricket with a convincing 6-wicket victory over Pembroke B. The B team was bowled out for a modest 80 in their 12 overs, overwhelmed by the pace and precision of Callum Davies and Billy Wood. Davies, the competition’s fastest bowler, delivered figures of 2 for 8 in 2.2 overs, while Wood claimed 2 for 25. Sam Davies added 1 for 23 to the tally.

B team captain Ceri Davies was the lone bright spot, striking two fours and two sixes in his top score of 32 before falling to Callum Davies. The rest of the lineup faltered, unable to form meaningful partnerships.

In response, Pembroke A chased the target with ease. Openers Luke Butler (26 off 17) and Billy Wood (25 off 17) laid a strong foundation, with both hitting several boundaries. Archie Hillier-Wood contributed a steady 7 not out, while Sam Davies smashed two fours and a six in a rapid 15 not out off five balls. Pembroke A finished on 81 without loss in just 8.2 overs, climbing to second place in the league standings.

Llanrhian overcome Pembroke Dock

Llanrhian (123 for 4) beat Pembroke Dock (102 all out) by 21 runs

Llanrhian secured a 21-run victory over Pembroke Dock, consolidating their top-four position while leaving the Dock in the bottom two. The highlight of the match was a resilient 47 by Dock captain Nick Daley, who was the last man dismissed.

Llanrhian set the pace early, with openers Daf Williams (33 retired) and Iwan James (27) adding 50 runs in just five overs. Russell Martin added a brisk 15 before a poor run-out ended his innings. Karl Davies chipped in with an unbeaten 24 and then starred with the ball, taking 3 for 25. Williams also bowled effectively, claiming 2 for 14.

The Dock’s bowlers, including Rhys Daley (1 for 23), Nick Daley (1 for 26), and Tom Grimwood (2 for 32), worked hard but couldn’t prevent Llanrhian from posting 123 for 4, aided by 21 extras.

In reply, the Dock’s chase faltered as they lost key wickets early, with Rhys Daley (5), Grimwood (1), and Adam Phillips (13) falling cheaply. Nick Daley fought valiantly, but his dismissal left Scott Griffiths (18) to provide late resistance. Despite their efforts, the Dock were bowled out for 102, falling short of the target.

Neyland A edge out Hook in top-of-the-table clash

Hook (93 all out) lost to Neyland A (95 for 3) by 3 wickets

Neyland A tightened their grip at the top of the table with a narrow 3-wicket win over Hook in a keenly contested encounter. Hook managed 93 all out in their 12 overs, with Neyland’s Sean Hannon starring with a superb all-round performance, scoring 24 runs and taking 3 for 9, including a double-wicket maiden.

Hook’s innings started poorly, losing Liam Miller (4) and Harry Makepeace (1, run out) early. George James (25) and Aled Phelps (26) stabilised the innings, but Neyland’s bowlers, led by Jack John (2 for 12), kept them in check.

Neyland A’s chase began cautiously but stayed on course. Hannon and Dai Davies added 22 runs in the opening three overs, with Davies retiring on 25. Despite late wickets, including Steve Murray’s dismissal by Bradley Flood (1 for 29), Andrew Miller (14 not out) and Jack John (14 not out) guided Neyland to victory with four overs to spare.

With this win, Neyland A maintained their perfect record, extending their lead at the top of the league.