Sport
Parr at the double as Milford beat Angle
MILFORD United moved off the foot of Division 1 on Tuesday (Apr 10), as they beat Angle 2-0 at Marble Hall thanks to a brace of goals from Liam Parr.
The win means Milford are now level on points with Herbrandston, who drop to the bottom, but are ahead on goal difference.
There was an even start to the game with both sides having chances to go ahead but neither keeper was really tested.
It was the home side who got the all-important breakthrough as a mistake from Angle keeper James Harries saw him kick the ball straight at Parr who made no mistake in putting the ball into the empty net.
That clearly shook the Angle keeper who made a similar mistake moments later but this time, Parr put his effort wide of the goal.
Shortly before half time, Gareth Richards had a great chance for Angle when he headed straight at the keeper but it wouldn’t have counted had it gone in as he was in an offside position when the kick was taken.
Early in the second half it was Milford’s keeper, Jack Nicolas, who made a mistake as he missed the ball but thankfully for him, his teammates were able to clear the ball before Angle could get to it.
Morgan Picton then had a chance for the home side but he saw his free kick tipped over by Angle’s Harries.
Scott Griffiths then saw a header go over from the resultant corner as they continued to push for a second goal.
That goal finally came as Liam Parr doubled his side’s lead to all but seal the points for Milford.
They held on and the win will give them confidence going into their next game on Saturday (Apr 14), when they welcome Carew to Marble Hall.
Angle are next in action on Thursday night (Apr 12), as they travel to Neyland.
Herbrandston now know they need to pick up victories in their final few games but they face tough opponents in Goodwick United and Merlins Bridge on Thursday and Saturday respectively.
Sport
Stunning start to the EPCR Challenge Cup 2024/25 season
THE OPENING weekend of the 2024/25 EPCR Challenge Cup delivered thrilling rugby action, with standout performances and record-breaking moments across the competition. Fans were treated to a feast of tries, dramatic plays, and individual brilliance as Europe’s elite club teams clashed in the first round.
Top performers steal the show
Several players etched their names into the headlines with eye-catching performances:
- Luke Matkava of Black Lion was a master off the tee, notching up an impressive 17 points, making him the weekend’s top scorer.
- Lucas Martin of Aviron Bayonnais led the charge with 22 carries, showcasing his relentless drive on the field.
- Nadir Megdoud, also from Aviron Bayonnais, dazzled defenders, beating 21 players—more than anyone else in Round 1.
- Jac Price of the Scarlets proved to be a defensive powerhouse, making a tournament-high 26 tackles.
Key stats and records
The opening round saw 49 tries scored and an impressive 384 points racked up across all matches. Among the key highlights:
- Connacht’s Chay Mullins delivered the only hattrick of the round, marking a dream debut.
- Antoine Aucagne of USAP scored the quickest try of the weekend, touching down just two minutes into their clash with the Toyota Cheetahs.
- Gloucester Rugby’s Seb Blake claimed the season’s first try in their match against Edinburgh Rugby, crossing the line at the 10-minute mark.
A weekend to remember
Jeandre Rudolph of Toyota Cheetahs showed versatility, making seven dominant carries, securing four turnovers, and scoring a try in a commanding display. Meanwhile, Scarlets’ duo Jac Price and Alex Craig led defensive efforts, with Price topping the tackles chart and Craig closely behind with 24.
The weekend opened with a nail-biting encounter between Dragons RFC and Montpellier Hérault Rugby, where Aurelian Barreau scored the tournament’s first points via an early penalty.
A promising start
The EPCR Challenge Cup continues to unite teams from the Gallagher Premiership, TOP14, and United Rugby Championship, offering a stage for unforgettable rugby moments. The Principality Stadium in Cardiff is set to host the finals weekend in May, promising an electric atmosphere for fans.
With such an explosive start, rugby enthusiasts can look forward to more drama and excitement as the tournament progresses. For detailed results, updated pools, and more, visit the EPCR Challenge Cup website.
Sport
Ospreys v Emirates Lions match relocated to Parc y Scarlets due to storm
THE HIGHLY anticipated Ospreys v Emirates Lions match in the EPCR Challenge Cup has been moved to Parc y Scarlets after Storm Darragh caused structural damage to the Swansea.com Stadium. The fixture, originally scheduled at the Swansea venue, will still take place on Sunday, December 8, with a 3:15pm kick-off.
Following extensive consultations with EPCR, alternative venues such as St Helen’s and the Dunraven Brewery Field were considered. However, Parc y Scarlets was chosen as the best option, ensuring both player safety and supporter welfare.
In a joint statement, Ospreys and EPCR expressed gratitude to the Scarlets for their swift cooperation in accommodating the match at short notice. “We are incredibly thankful for the Scarlets’ support during this unexpected situation,” the statement read.
The change of venue does not alter the match schedule, and arrangements for ticket and hospitality transfers are being finalised. Supporters are advised to await further updates regarding these details. The match will be broadcast on Premier Sports, SuperSport, and FloRugby.
An EPCR spokesperson added: “We appreciate the understanding of fans during this unforeseen change. We look forward to an exciting game at Parc y Scarlets.”
Sport
All football in Wales postponed as Storm Darragh threatens severe disruption
THE FAW has announced the postponement of all football matches scheduled for Saturday, December 7, as Storm Darragh is set to bring life-threatening conditions to the country.
The decision follows a rare red weather warning issued by the Met Office, forecasting winds of up to 90mph and heavy rainfall across Wales and parts of southwestern England. This is the first red alert since Storm Isha in January, with forecasters warning of extensive disruption, including potential damage to buildings, power outages, and severe flooding.
An FAW spokesperson said:
“The Met Office has issued red, amber, and yellow weather warnings for the vast majority of Wales due to Storm Darragh, which is expected to bring damaging winds and heavy rain, causing significant disruption and danger to life.
“It is not safe to drive in such weather, including travelling to and from football matches. Being outside in high winds increases the risk of injury, and the Met Office advises people to stay indoors if possible.
“Clubs have been advised to check for and secure any loose items around their grounds if it can be done safely. This includes bins, furniture, goalposts, and fences.”
Precautions and ongoing assessments
The FAW confirmed that matches scheduled for Friday, December 6, and Sunday, December 8, will be reviewed individually, depending on league policies and updated weather conditions.
The Met Office has also issued a yellow warning for rain in Wales from 3:00pm today until midday tomorrow, alongside two amber warnings for wind on Saturday. Rhondda Cynon Taf, where severe flooding affected between 200 and 300 properties during Storm Bert last month, is among the areas bracing for renewed challenges.
Residents are urged to prepare for potential disruptions and stay informed of weather updates. Storm Darragh’s impact is expected to be one of the most severe weather events in recent months, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety advisories.
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