Sport
Seagulls’ six-try victory over Bont
By Jonathan Twigg
FISHGUARD all but secured their Division 2 West status on Saturday (Mar 24) with a bonus point victory in their 34-20 defeat of Pontyberem.
The Seagulls ran in six tries to open up a nine point gap between themselves and the relegation trap door and now stand two points adrift of their visitors, who have played three games more both having notched six wins this season.
Led by hooker Gavin Walsh, Fishguard’s success can be attributed to a dominant forward performance where they were tenacious on the floor around the key battle ground of the rucks and mauls, controlling the scrum which put pressure on the visitors’ set piece and gained parity at the line out.
The back row of Chris Sousha, Luke Freebury and number 8 Simon James supported their more youthful back division by making the hard yards whilst being on hand to secure phase after phase of ball to keep the momentum going forward.
The opening score of this Travis Perkins sponsored game came after 13 minutes when flanker Sousha touched down, the try set up by debutant full back Robbie Jones, the Chairman’s son drafted in from the youth side and his pace, verve and confidence to run 40 meters reminiscent of a bygone era when ‘JJ’ himself flew down the wing.
James, centre Tom George and scrum half Andrew Williams supported man of the match Jones’ momentum where the mobility of home props Andrew Morillo and Ryan McVeigh saw them on the fringe of an exciting move.
Outside half Alun George, who had narrowly missed a penalty attempt four minutes earlier, landed the conversion, a feat he repeated five minutes later when centre Ben John finished off another passage of play with a mazy run over 30 metres with two hand offs, after James capitalised on a loose clearance from the Bont’s full back Rhodri Lewis, the number 8 setting flame haired winger Dylan Thomas, playing on permit from Crymych blazing down the touchline.
Pontyberem needed a foothold in the game but were reduced to 14 men when number 8 Wayne Williams was yellow carded by Cefn Cribwr based referee Huw David for a high tackle during the build up to the third try, skipper Walsh completing another forwarded orientated drive after ball had been secured in the line out by second row Gwilym Evans, who was instrumental in the driving maul alongside Morrillo and McVeigh.
The blue and black shirts sponsored by Jewsons gained some composure as the half time whistle approached, flanker Dion Robinson a go to man in the line out for hooker Ben Morris and scum half Adrian Williams pulling the strings to motivate his side as any good skipper should. Outside half Domonic Sauro slotted over a penalty as the home side strayed offside and their discipline in defence breached as they came from the side of rucks to illegally stop the visitors’ drives.
Number 8 Williams returned to the fray tidied up neatly at the base of a backwards moving scrum either side of half time, the early stages of the second half scrappy and unstructured much to the despair of passionate home coach Huw Evans, who could see the danger signs of the play suiting the Pontyberem game plan better.
The pack, with second row Matthew Lloyd and prop James Prosser marauding in midfield, put fellow prop Dan Suaro across the whitewash for Dominic to convert, alongside another penalty for 19-13.
Fishguard second row Jac Evans, a key line out man and ball carrier was lucky not to spend time in the sin bin when he tackled centre Gwion Jones in the air as the Pontyberem side had the wind both behind them in terms of play and figuratively in their sails, something Evans vociferously explained to his side as the final quarter approached.
His words were rewarded when the forwards secured a bonus point fourth try, Walsh getting his name on the score sheet for a second time burrowing through after James had set up the attacking ruck. Prosser responded for Pontyberem making yardage, supported by second row Alex Williams and back row man Pete Suaro, as the deficit was reduced to four points with a converted try for centre Dafydd Lloyd.
Wingers Dave Evans and Rhys Armstrong had ball in hand for the ‘Bont’ with the game on a precipice, the next score crucial. It came to the home side as they took advantage of a turnover deep in their own half and young Jones backed his skill set and pace to create an overlap, centre George beautifully drawing the final defender on halfway to set winger Liam Wilkes away down the touchline to cross wide out with eight minutes remaining, to compensate for a similar move just minutes before when he was recalled for a foot in touch.
George didn’t have his kicking boots on in the second half but his maturity to influence open play, with confidence in the final throws of the game saw a sixth try a minute from the end, McVeigh the recipient as James, Freebury and Sousha came to the fore, certainly a backrow at this level to be on par with any.
The midfield axis, John either side of the George brothers and Jones from full back bodes well for the Seagulls, thankfully for coach Evans, who has very little hair left to tear out. This isn’t down to alopecia, contributing for his entertaining apoplectic demeanour, knowing his side now go on their travels for the next four fixtures, heading next to Parc Gryffyd Jones for a key encounter with St Clears on Easter Saturday.
Pontyberem returned to the Gwendraeth Valley with nothing to show for their efforts on the Moors, having consolidated well on going 19-0 down, despite struggling in the scrum set piece, to have an opportunity to win the game. The key moment when they turned the ball over for Jones to open the play in his own 22 yard metre area a point of reflection, as they head to Loghour on Easter Saturday (Mar 31), the home side failing to fulfil their fixture at Hendy due to player numbers available.
That ensuing points deduction draws Loughor back into the group with the Bont, both hanging a lingering eye on the relegation trap door.
Sport
Talent, skill and dedication rewarded at Sport Pembrokeshire Awards
THE TALENT, skill and dedication of Pembrokeshire’s fantastic sporting community was celebrated at a glittering awards ceremony last week.
The Sport Pembrokeshire Awards 2024 were held at Folly Farm on Friday November 29th.
For the first time in 17 years, a new compere took charge after renowned sports journalist Bill Carne decided to hang up the microphone in 2023.
Ceri Coleman-Phillips of BBC Wales Sport took up the presenting responsibilities with aplomb as the winners were revealed.
The judges commented on how difficult their job had been to whittle the high-quality nominations down after 252 entries poured in from across Pembrokeshire.
The winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award was Brian Hearne, whose contributions to tennis in Pembrokeshire spans more than 50 years.
Described as a fierce competitor on the court and a gentleman off it, qualified coach Brian has inspired countless players over the years
Brian took over the reins of the Pembrokeshire County Open Tennis Tournament in 1966, ensuring its legacy continues now into its 75th year.
A member of Haverfordwest’s first team for 45 years, Brian represented South Wales and Wales in veterans age groups, and won a Welsh doubles title.
In recognition of his lifelong commitment, Brian became Haverfordwest Tennis Club’s first life member in 1990. Today, at 85, he serves as club president.
The winner of the Chairman’s Special Achievement Award, presented by Pembrokeshire County Council Chairman Cllr Steve Alderman, was Paralympic gold medallist Matt Bush.
Cllr Alderman described Matt as “a phenomenal athlete whose journey epitomises resilience, dedication, and triumph.”
Cllr Alderman added: “Matt’s victory in the taekwondo K44 +80kg category at the Paris 2024 Paralympics is a landmark moment for Pembrokeshire sport.
“In the 18 year history of the Sport Pembrokeshire Awards, we have never before celebrated a gold medal Paralympian but we do so now with immense pride.”
Following his victory in the gold medal contest, Matt received the prestigious honour of being a Great Britain flagbearer for the closing Paralympic ceremony.
With Matt’s win in mind, the evening took a look back at the Pembrokeshire men and women who had competed in the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games, or were part of the support teams, and how their efforts on the biggest sporting stage will inspire the next generation of local athletes.
It would have been remiss not to mention Jodie Grinham, originally from Haverfordwest, who made history by becoming the first pregnant athlete to win a Paralympic gold medal in archery and became one of the faces of the Paralympic Games.
This year’s school award went to Cleddau Reach VC Primary School.
The school award is considered one of the most significant because nurturing a love of sport at a young age is vitally important to ongoing health and well-being.
Cleddau Reach VC, under Headteacher Rhys Buckley, was described as a school at the heart of its community in Llangwm and offering pupils and staff numerous opportunities to try all manner of sports and activities.
The sporting ethos of the school is simple but underpins everything they do.
That ethos is: If there’s an event taking place, the school attends.
With a focus on ensuring sport is for everyone, pupils are encouraged to be role models to younger peers and create that lifelong enjoyment of sport.
Mr Buckley was joined by Ricky Pearson and Caty Brock to receive the award along with some of the pupils.
Ceri brought a wonderful evening to a close with a reminder of the dedication involved from everyone to ensure sports continues to thrive in Pembrokeshire.
She said: “We celebrate not just the winners but every nominee, coach and supporter who makes sport in Pembrokeshire so extraordinary.”
Winners and finalists:
Girls (U16) Sporting Achievement
Chloe John-Driscoll (Shooting) – winner
Cerys Griffiths (Swimming) – finalist
Ffion Bowen (Football) – finalist
Boys (U16) Sporting Achievement
Carter Heywood (Football) – winner
Hugo Boyce (Cycling) – finalist
Ned Rees-Wigmore (Hockey) – finalist
Club of the Year
Haverfordwest Gymnastics Club – winner
Strength Academy Wales Cymru – finalist
Camrose AFC Women & Girls Football – finalist
Junior (U16) Disability Sport Award
Jac Johnson (Gymnastics) – winner
Finnley Walters (Boxing) – finalist
Lewis Crawford (Boccia) – finalist
Disability Sport Award
Jules King (Crossfit) – winner
Evelyn Thomas (Powerlifting) – finalist
Marc Evans (Cricket) – finalist
Young Volunteer of the Year
Anna May (Tennis & Surfing) – winner
Caitlin Chapman (Netball) – finalist
George Richards (Cricket) – finalist
Junior (U16) Team Achievement of the Year
Neyland Yacht Club Junior Sailing Team – winner
Chaos Thunder U12’s Netball Team – finalist
Hakin United AFC u16’s – finalist
Unsung Hero
John Laugharne (Rugby) – winner
Owen Shanklin (Pool) – finalist
Sue Christopher (Surf Lifesaving) – finalist
Team Achievement of the Year
Fishguard & Goodwick Ladies Hockey Club – winner
Alan Evans, Andrew Evans & Michael John (Short Mat Bowls) – finalist
Pembrokeshire County Bowls Team- finalist
Male Sporting Achievement
Sam Coleman (Powerboat Racing) – winner
Jeremy Cross (Tennis) – finalist
Rhys Llewellyn (Athletics) – finalist
Female Sporting Achievement
Helen Carrington (Powerlifting) – winner
Gracie Griffiths (Race Walking) – finalist
Seren Thorne (Shooting) – finalist
Club Organiser
Nadine Tyrrell (Gymnastics) – winner
Paul Hudson (Short Mat Bowls) – finalist
Nick Shelmerdine (Cricket) – finalist
Coach of the Year
Tom Richards (Tennis) – winner
Francesca Morgan (Swimming) – finalist
Philippa Gale (Netball) – finalist
School Award
Cleddau Reach VC Primary School – winner
Lifetime Achievement Award
Brian Hearne – winner
Chairman’s Special Achievement Award
Matt Bush – winner
Sport
Local Angharad James-Turner leads Cymru in historic Euro ’25 play-off final
TONIGHT (Nov 29), Pembrokeshire’s own Angharad James-Turner will captain the Cymru Women’s national football team in the first leg of their crucial Euro 2025 play-off final against the Republic of Ireland in Cardiff. As the youngest player ever to accumulate 100 caps for Cymru, Angharad’s leadership and experience will be invaluable as Cymru battles for a spot in next summer’s European Championship.
A star in the making
Angharad James’ footballing career began in the heart of Pembrokeshire, where she first showcased her talent with local club Manorbier Ladies, not far from her hometown of Haverfordwest. Her ability on the pitch quickly caught the attention of larger clubs, and at 16, she joined the Arsenal Academy. By 2011, she had made her debut for Arsenal in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, marking the start of an illustrious career.
From there, James has played for an impressive array of clubs across the globe, including Notts County, Yeovil Town, Everton, Reading, North Carolina Courage, Orlando Pride, and Tottenham Hotspur. Her versatility as a midfielder, as well as her time playing as a fullback at Spurs, has earned her a reputation as an exceptional player who can control the game and set up her teammates with key assists
Now 30, James has become the heartbeat of the Welsh national team. She was named Cymru captain in October 2024, taking over the leadership role from Sophie Ingle. Despite the big shoes to fill, Angharad has proven herself to be more than capable, leading her team through tough qualifiers, including the pivotal play-offs for Euro 2025
A champion on and off the pitch
Angharad’s international career is nothing short of remarkable. She made her senior debut for Wales at just 17 and reached 100 caps in 2022, the same day Wales qualified for the World Cup play-offs for the first time. Her contribution to Welsh football has been pivotal, and she was named to represent Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics
Off the pitch, Angharad is equally impressive. She’s a proud Welsh speaker and regularly conducts interviews in Welsh, despite the challenges of living abroad for much of her career. In a recent social media post, she spoke about her ongoing commitment to the language, sharing her belief that it’s important to keep Welsh alive and accessible
In addition to her football career, Angharad is also a proud co-owner of a coffee van, “Two Sides Grind,” which she runs with her partner Amy James-Turner and their dog, Betsy. The duo is working towards one day owning a coffee shop, demonstrating Angharad’s entrepreneurial spirit
A historic moment for Pembrokeshire
For those in Pembrokeshire, Angharad’s journey is a point of immense pride. From her early days in Manorbier to becoming the captain of Wales, she is an inspiration to young athletes across the county. Her determination, humility, and skill make her a true role model, not only in Wales but around the world.
As Cymru takes on the Republic of Ireland in tonight’s crucial first leg, Angharad James-Turner’s leadership will be central to their hopes of qualifying for Euro 2025. Whatever the outcome, Pembrokeshire can be proud of one of their own leading the charge for Welsh football at the highest level.
Wales v Ireland – how to follow all the action
Wales v Republic of Ireland (first leg)
29th of November, Cardiff City Stadium. K.O. 19:15pm
- Match Of The Day Wales – BBC One Wales and BBC iPlayer
- Radio Wales Sport and Chwaraeon Radio Cymru and BBC Sounds
- Follow all updates on the BBC Sport website and app.
Republic of Ireland v Wales (second leg)
3rd of December, Aviva Stadium. K.O. 19:30pm
- Match Of The Day Wales – BBC One Wales, BBC Three and BBC iPlayer
- Radio Wales Sport and Chwaraeon Radio Cymru and BBC Sounds
- Follow all updates on the BBC Sport website and app.
Sport
Pembrokeshire Knock-Out Cup quarter-final report
HAVERFORDWEST edged out St Davids in a thrilling encounter under the new floodlights at St Davids, advancing to the semi-finals of the Pembrokeshire Knock-Out Cup. The decisive moment came in the second half, with Dylan Williamson crossing for a crucial try in a fiercely contested match that featured five tries, four yellow cards, and relentless effort from both sides.
Match Overview
First Half
Early Advantage for St Davids
St Davids struck early, igniting the scoreboard just three minutes in. Centre Morgan Griffiths broke the line before full-back Iwan Davies dived over in the corner. Bob Froy’s conversion gave the Saints a 7-0 lead, and a subsequent penalty from Froy extended the advantage to 10-0.
The Saints’ early dominance was underpinned by hooker Rhys Price’s control in the scrums and No.8 George Raymond’s powerful carries.
Haverfordwest Respond
Haverfordwest fought back as winger Scott Candler’s elusive run created an opportunity for full-back Matty Phillips to score from close range. Jack Codd added the conversion, cutting the deficit.
Although Codd missed a penalty shortly after, St Davids capitalized with another three points from Froy.
The momentum shifted again when Haverfordwest centre Iestyn Arnold charged down a kick, setting up Candler for his first try. Codd’s conversion handed the visitors a narrow lead at 14-13.
St Davids quickly retaliated. A dominant scrum near the try line allowed Iwan Davies to claim his second try, with Froy converting to restore a 20-14 lead.
As the half neared its conclusion, Haverfordwest’s Jamie Phillips was shown a yellow card for repeated infringements. Despite being a man down, Haverfordwest’s Ioan Hawkridge-Jones broke through to earn a penalty, which Codd converted from 35 metres, leaving St Davids ahead 20-17 at halftime.
Second Half
Physicality Takes Centre Stage
The second half saw a tighter contest, with tempers flaring and scoring opportunities scarce. Froy missed an early penalty for St Davids, and the game descended into a series of physical confrontations. Haverfordwest centre Gabe Thicker and St Davids replacement hooker Chris Cooper were both sin-binned after a heated exchange.
Williamson’s Match-Winning Try
The decisive moment arrived at the hour mark. Arnold broke through St Davids’ defensive line from 40 metres out and expertly offloaded to Dylan Williamson, who finished the move with a vital try. Codd’s conversion pushed Haverfordwest ahead 24-20.
Late Drama
Haverfordwest’s substitutes Terry Lovell and Dan Berry shored up the scrum, allowing the visitors to dominate possession and territory in the closing stages.
In a final twist, St Davids captain Nathan Foster received a yellow card, leaving the Saints with 14 men for the final moments. Despite their spirited efforts to launch a late attack, St Davids couldn’t break through Haverfordwest’s resolute defense.
Haverfordwest now look ahead to the semi-finals, while St Davids exit the competition with their heads held high after pushing their higher-league opponents to the limit.
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