NEYLAND RFC’s Under-14s have returned home from a thrilling rugby tour packed with action, adventure and unforgettable memories.

The young players kicked off their Tewkesbury 2025 tour in impressive style with a nail-biting 29-22 win against Bredon Star RFC — a closely fought contest that showcased the team’s determination and growing talent on the pitch.

But the tour wasn’t just about rugby.

After the match, the boys swapped boots for paddles as they took on exhilarating raft races and giant paddleboarding challenges — proving that their team spirit extended well beyond the try line.

Capping off the tour in style, the team had the honour of forming the Guard of Honour at the high-profile Premiership Rugby clash between Gloucester Rugby and Exeter Chiefs. Standing shoulder to shoulder as the pros ran out, the boys got a front-row taste of top-flight rugby – an experience many described as “a dream come true.”

A spokesperson for the club said: “What an experience and what memories! This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many of the boys and a huge step in their rugby journey.”

The tour was made possible through months of dedicated fundraising and the generous support of the local community. Special thanks were extended to Milford Haven Round Table, whose support ensured the team could attend the Gloucester game in person.

“The boys were a credit to the club and their families,” added the spokesperson. “They’ve come back inspired, motivated, and already counting down the days to the next tour.”

A PEMBROKESHIRE teenager is set to represent Wales at the upcoming MMA World Championships in Abu Dhabi.

Ty Haughey, a rising star in amateur mixed martial arts, has been selected to compete against some of the best young fighters from around the world. His selection follows strong performances at recent national competitions, where he demonstrated skill, determination, and sportsmanship.

The MMA World Championships, organised by the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), are considered the highest level of competition for amateur fighters. The 2025 tournament in Abu Dhabi will bring together athletes from dozens of countries, offering a platform for young fighters to showcase their talents on an international stage.

Ty’s family are now fundraising to help cover the significant costs associated with representing his country, including travel, accommodation, training, and equipment. A GoFundMe page, World Championship Dreams in Abu Dhabi, has been set up by Ciaran Haughey to help raise the necessary funds.

Debbie Haughey, Ty’s grandmother, contacted The Herald to highlight her grandson’s achievement and appeal for support. She said: “My grandson has been selected to represent Wales in MMA at the World Championships. We would be so grateful for any support to help him get there.”

The fundraising appeal emphasises that Ty’s selection is not just a personal achievement but a chance to put Pembrokeshire and Wales on the map in an increasingly competitive sport. Donations of any size are welcome to help Ty fulfil his dream of competing for a world title.

More information about Ty’s journey and details on how to donate can be found here: World Championship Dreams.

THE 2025 Pembrokeshire Division One cricket season got underway on Sunday, with several teams making powerful early statements. Cresselly laid down a marker with an impressive win over a previously dominant Neyland side, while Whitland, Carew and Haverfordwest also made emphatic starts.

Cresselly signalled their title ambitions with a 64-run victory over Neyland. Batting first, Cresselly posted 195 for 9 from their 45 overs, with useful contributions from Morgan Lewis (26), Charlie Arthur (20), and Simon Cole (20), before Dan James anchored the innings with a crucial unbeaten 74. Neyland, who have dominated much of the past decade but showed signs of decline last season, struggled in reply. Despite efforts from Andrew Miller (24) and Paul Murray (21), they were bowled out for 131. Tom Arthur (3 for 23) and Charlie Arthur (3 for 27) shared six wickets to seal a valuable opening win.

At Oatfield Park, Whitland made a commanding start with a 128-run victory over newly promoted Burton. Geraint Jones (79), Gopal Ramasamy (63), and Jonathan Thomas (61) guided Whitland to 240 all out. Burton’s reply faltered early, and despite some resistance from Joe Kiff (30) and Luke Hayman (20), they were dismissed for 112. Wayne Howells was outstanding with the ball, taking a remarkable 5 for 10.

Carew also opened their campaign strongly, defeating Lawrenny by 57 runs. Brian Hall (56) and Rhys Davies (40) helped Carew to 169 all out. Lawrenny’s innings never gathered momentum, and despite a fighting 25 from Oscar Lewis, they were bowled out for 112. Rob Williams starred with 4 for 12, supported by Ryan Morton (2 for 25) and Harry Thomas (3 for 35).

At The Racecourse, Haverfordwest were ruthless as they hammered Llangwm by 142 runs. Mikey Jones (86), Ben Field (47) and Jake Merry (31) powered Town to 240 for 8. Llangwm collapsed to 98 all out, with Steve Mills (31) and David Lewis (31) offering brief resistance. Rhys Sewell tore through the lower order with figures of 5 for 23.

Meanwhile at Herbrandston, newly promoted Herbie were given a tough introduction to Division One by Saundersfoot, falling to a 108-run defeat. John Mansbridge starred for Saundersfoot with a superb 77, backed by Simon Stanford (47), as the visitors reached 207 for 8. In reply, Herbrandston could only muster 99 all out, with Nathan Banner (14) and Robbie Hood (19) top-scoring. John Mansbridge capped a fine all-round performance by taking 5 for 32, while Tom Mansbridge added 4 for 27.

With Burton and Herbrandston both stepping up this season, the opening weekend underlined the gulf in quality, as established sides like Cresselly, Whitland, Carew and Haverfordwest asserted early authority.