Sport
New Hedges Saundersfoot Clinch Grueling Semi-Final Victory over Angle
In a nail-biting clash at Bush Camp, the home of Pennar Robins, New Hedges Saundersfoot secured their berth in the Fourth Division Cup final after an intense showdown against Angle. The highly anticipated encounter witnessed both teams battling fiercely for a shot at glory.
Entering the match in second place in their league, New Hedges Saundersfoot faced off against the resilient fifth-placed Angle squad. The encounter promised to be a thrilling affair, with previous encounters between the two sides setting the stage for another hard-fought encounter.
On the heavy playing surface, both teams showcased their determination, with New Hedges Saundersfoot initially seizing the momentum. However, Angle soon found their rhythm and dominated proceedings in the first half, though resolute defending from NHSU denied them the breakthrough they sought.
As the second half unfolded, the match took a dramatic turn when a breakaway led to a penalty for Saundersfoot, and up stepped star player Jack Franklin. Jack tried to score over in Saundersfoot though as his effort sailed high! Things got worse for Saundersfoot as Angle deservedly, and finally, took the lead with a great header by Rhys Allison, although Sam Franklin can consider himself unlucky with his effort to save the powerful header. Yet, Angle’s lead was short-lived as New Hedges Saundersfoot swiftly leveled the score through Oscar Miles, igniting hopes of a comeback.
With tensions running high and both teams locked in a stalemate, the match extended into extra time. In a pivotal moment, striker Adam Davidson delivered a stunning strike to give NHSU the lead, defying the odds and putting them on the path to a narrow victory.
Despite Angle’s valiant efforts to mount a comeback, New Hedges Saundersfoot held firm, securing their place in the cup final after a grueling battle. The match showcased the grit and determination of grassroots football in Pembrokeshire, with a good crowd bearing witness to the passion and skill displayed by both teams.
As the dust settles on an exhilarating semi-final clash, New Hedges Saundersfoot can celebrate their hard-fought triumph, while Angle can reflect on a spirited performance that, on another day, would have been good enough to gain them a place in the final.
A great effort by both teams!
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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