Cup final dream slips away as Newcastle Emlyn battle back to seal 20-19 win in windy Carmarthenshire Cup clash

AMMAN UNITED YOUTH saw their Carmarthenshire Cup final hopes ended in heartbreaking fashion on Saturday (Apr 4) as Newcastle Emlyn snatched a 20-19 victory in a dramatic semi-final.

Played in difficult, windy conditions, the contest was fiercely competitive throughout, with Amman left to rue a series of handling errors that allowed the visitors back into the game.

Newcastle Emlyn made the stronger start, taking an early 3-0 lead through a penalty and then missing a chance to add to their tally.

Amman responded well and took control of the first half. Captain Ceian Lewis crossed following a well-worked catch-and-drive to put his side 5-3 in front. Toby Slater then produced an excellent touchline conversion in tough conditions to extend the lead to 7-3.

Amman continued to build momentum when Harvey Duncan made a sharp break down the wing to score their second try. Slater was again on target with an impressive conversion in the wind, giving his side a 14-3 lead at the break.

But the game turned soon after the restart. A costly Amman mistake allowed Newcastle Emlyn back into the contest, with the visitors scoring in the corner before adding the conversion to close the gap to 14-10.

Amman appeared to have steadied themselves when Kelston Fairhurst powered over from another catch-and-drive, stretching the lead to 19-10.

However, Newcastle Emlyn refused to give in. Strong forward play brought them another try, and the conversion cut the deficit to just two points at 19-17 as the pressure mounted in the closing stages.

The decisive moment came in the final five minutes when another Amman handling error handed Emlyn a crucial opportunity. The visitors worked their way into range and slotted a late penalty to edge ahead 20-19.

Amman had one final chance to rescue the game and opted for a catch-and-drive from a late penalty, having already found success with that tactic earlier in the match. This time, though, Newcastle Emlyn held firm to deny them and secure their place in the final.

It was a bitter end for Amman United Youth, who had looked in control at half-time, but Newcastle Emlyn showed resilience and composure when it mattered most.

NEYLAND RFC Under-14s welcomed Young Munster Underage Rugby to the Athletic Club Field on Saturday for another memorable meeting between the two clubs, with the home side running out convincing 47-12 winners.

A large crowd turned out to watch the latest chapter in a fixture that has become a much-loved tradition over the years, with many spectators having also been part of previous tours.

There was clear talent on display from both teams throughout a cracking game of rugby. Neyland made the most of their powerful ball carriers, while the Cookies impressed with some committed tackling and determined play.

In keeping with tradition, the men of the match were selected by the opposition side. Ryan Griffin, of Young Munster, and Karter Williams, of Neyland, received the honours after strong individual performances.

Thanks were also paid to referee Gareth Scourfield for officiating well and, once again, taking part in the post-match ritual of downing a pint of Guinness.

Both coaching teams were praised after the match, with organisers saying the players were a credit to their clubs both on and off the field.

After the game and presentation, the celebrations continued into the evening, with plenty of singing helping to round off another successful day. Over the years, the fixture has helped create lasting friendships between the two clubs, and Saturday’s event was described as another occasion to remember.

Special thanks were given to Jack Kinnersley and Matthew Reynolds for producing an excellent matchday programme and for using Veo to stream the game live. Appreciation was also extended to Wendy Watts and the ladies who helped with food and the raffle, as well as to Kyla Rowland and staff at the Neyland Community Hub for their hard work behind the scenes.

The visiting Young Munster side, led by Johan Gouws and his team, were also praised for the way they conducted themselves throughout the visit.

With another year of the fixture now complete, attention is already turning to next season, when Neyland are due to travel to Limerick for the return match.

The friendship between the two clubs continues to grow stronger with every meeting.

(Images: Photo Phil)

CARMARTHEN Kings Basketball Club have capped a remarkable first league campaign by reaching the SWBA Division 3 Cup Final while remaining unbeaten in all domestic competitions this season.

The West Wales side booked their place in the final with a commanding 76-58 away win over Pontypridd Panthers, who are currently third in the East division.

That victory followed an earlier cup success against Caerphilly Cobras, another of the East division’s strongest sides, meaning the Kings have now beaten the top two challengers from the opposite side of the league on their way to the showpiece final.

The SWBA Division 3 Cup Final will be played at Cardiff University on Saturday, April 25, giving supporters from Carmarthenshire and across West Wales the chance to watch a local side compete for regional honours on a major stage.

The club’s run to the final has come alongside an outstanding league campaign. Carmarthen Kings remain unbeaten in SWBA Division 3 West, having recorded home and away wins over teams including Swansea Troopers, Llanelli Steelers and Amman Valley Wild Boars, as well as being awarded a recent victory over Port Talbot Spartans.

Head coach George Spencer said: “Everything seems to be falling into place for the end of the season. Over the last few games we’ve played some of the best basketball I’ve seen us play, ever.

“The boys have bought into what we’re trying to do, and we’re proud to be taking Carmarthen to a cup final in Cardiff.”

The club’s success on the court has been matched by progress off it, with growing home crowds, a developing junior section and increasing backing from local sponsors.

Kings say their appearance in the final is not only a reward for the players and coaching staff, but also a boost for basketball in West Wales and an inspiration for the next generation of players in Carmarthenshire.

Supporters are being encouraged to follow the club’s social media channels for confirmation of the tip-off time ahead of the final later this month, where Carmarthen Kings will hope to crown an unbeaten season with their first SWBA silverware.

Photo caption: Carmarthen Kings squad ahead of their run to the SWBA Division 3 Cup Final. Top row, left to right: Richard Rees, Jonty Toland, Giacomo Moretti, Zack Daniel, Junior Manhede. Bottom row, left to right: Andrei Remec, Tal Remec (captain), Mckenzie Callard, George Spencer (team coach).