Sport

Narberth play out draw in friendly with Trebanos

Published

2 years ago

August 29, 2022

NARBERTH’s second pre-season match was played on Saturday (Aug 27) on a hot, sultry afternoon in bright sunshine at the Lewis Lloyd Ground.

Spectators were treated to a fast running game on the hard pitch but neither side to gain full dominance. The score at the end of the first half was 7 Nil to Narberth. A peel off try from the pack led by the No.8 from the 10m line saw the try under the posts of Trebanos within the first 10 minute period and this was converted by full back Nick Gale.

In the second half, Trebanos were unable to respond until the final quarter of the game. Having conceded a penalty Narberth were slow to retreat 10m and a swift tap penalty from the Trebanos scrum half set their backs racing down the left side of the pitch to score close to the posts and their conversion was equally successful levelling the score at 7-7.

The spectators witnessed a game in which both teams fitness was good although both teams suffered some knocks and cramps which is understandable at the beginning of the season.

Narberth Coach Sean Gale agreed that the Narberth defence stood up well throughout the game and several chances of breaking out were missed through players overrunning the pass or some forward passes being disallowed. Several of their lineouts were also overthrown giving the ball back to Trebanos.

On the visitors side their strong pack excelled in cleaning out at the rucks and they secured the majority of possession from turnovers throughout the game. However, whilst they were generally stronger in breaking out and had a strong back line their attacking structures could never dominate the narberth defence. All in all the draw was a fair result.

Sean Gale commented: “We started well and we defended particularly second half but it was a bit around a broken game. We now know where we are with all 13 new boys in the squad today. So it was a game of chances but he new faces acquitted themselves well. Some of the new names to watch out for in future games are Evan Sheldon from West Wales raiders; Ewan Badham from Llandovery and Caine Rees Jones from Llanelli.”

The coach had a strategy of introducing new faces who have come up through the Narberth development teams of Youth and seconds. Notable amongst them for their efforts were Tom Clarke and Kyle Hamer rotating their Hooker duties with stalwart veteran hooker Dan Smith. Brother of Kyle, Josh Hamer had a great game at flanker.

Sean added: “We have given these new faces game time to introduce them to the rigours of Championship rugby. Next week on Saturday, September 3, at home we play Ystrad Rhondda so we now have to step up our intensity. We have had some tough games against them in the past but this is a new season , so it is all to play for”.

The first team will kick off at 2.30pm at the Lewis Lloyd ground but prior to that Narberth Athletic will also be at home playing Pembroke Tigers with kick off at 2.00pm.

Sport

New Hedges Saundersfoot win cup final in style.

Published

3 days ago

May 2, 2024

Herald Sport

Division Four Cup Final

New Hedges Saundersfoot 7-1 St Ishmaels Reserves

The Division Four Cup Final between New Hedges Saundersfoot and St Ishmaels reserves took place at Monkton Swifts, witnessed by an eager crowd. The game, officiated by Sean O’Connor, with Gareth Elliot and Dean Driscoll as assistant referees, promised an intense battle for the coveted trophy.

From the onset, New Hedges Saundersfoot showcased their dominance. Owen, Miles, Davidson, and Marsh all getting on the score sheet leading to an impressive goal tally.

The Mice never gave up and battled well but they struggled to contain their opponent’s attacking quality. Thomas Williams managed the one and only goal for Tish.

The final score stood at an emphatic 7-1 in favor of New Hedges Saundersfoot, underlining their superiority throughout the match.

New Hedges Saundersfoot emerged as deserved victors, clinching the silverware and adding a significant achievement to their season. Their comprehensive victory in the cup final will undoubtedly be celebrated by players and fans alike. Despite falling short of promotion in their league campaign, this triumph will serve as a testament to their talent and resilience on the field.

In conclusion, the Division Four Cup Final witnessed a commendable display of skill and determination from both teams. Congratulations to New Hedges Saundersfoot for their outstanding performance and well-deserved victory in the final.

News

Tigers second division Cup Champions

Published

4 days ago

May 1, 2024

Herald Sport

In a thrilling Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup final under the floodlights of Bridge Meadow Stadium, fans witnessed an epic battle between Monkton Swifts reserves and Johnston. Despite Monkton Swifts reserves being touted as favorites, Johnston proved their mettle from the outset.

The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Johnston’s center half, Craig Bendall, seized an early opportunity to put his team ahead just ten minutes into the match. However, Monkton Swifts’ prolific Scotsman, Davis, swiftly responded with an equalizer, showcasing the resilience of the favourites.

The momentum shifted again when the dynamic duo of Alfie and Scott Crawford of Johnston orchestrated a beautifully executed goal, putting Johnston back in the lead at 2-1.

As the game progressed, Monkton Swifts brought in reinforcements, including Ben Steele, to regain control. Their efforts paid off when Jordan Kilby leveled the score at 2-2 with just under 20 minutes remaining.

But the Crawfords had other plans. Combining once more, Scott provided the assist for Alfie, who coolly finished to put Johnston ahead once again.

With time running out, Monkton Swifts launched a relentless onslaught in search of an equalizer. However, Johnston’s defense held firm, defying the odds to clinch the Division Two Cup title in a memorable victory.

The match showcased the passion and determination of both teams, with Johnston emerging as deserving champions in a fiercely contested final at Bridge Meadow Stadium.

Sport

Promotion, relegation and everything in between.

Published

4 days ago

May 1, 2024

Herald Sport

As we come to the end of the 2023-2024 season it’s time to look at the winners and losers so to speak as most promotion and relegation battles are now all sewn up.

We begin at the very top where Goodwick United have blown away the first division to become deserved champions elect. At the opposite end of the table Fishguard Sports struggled all season and we comfortably relegated, going down with them are Neyland who’s relegation was confirmed a few weeks ago. Neither team were cut adrift and battled right until the end which is credit to both outfits, sometimes relegation can act as a spring broad and both clubs will be hoping this is the case.

Monkton Swifts reserves were the outstanding team in the second division and were a cut above the rest on their journey to becoming league champions on 56 points with an impressive plus 61 goal difference. As Monkton can’t be promoted due to their first team being in the first division it allowed both Herbrandston and St Ishmaels to be promoted. Herbrandston finished in third on 40 points, whilst the Mice just beat them to second place ending up on 42 points. Both clubs will now use the summer to prepare for the step up that awaits.

At the opposite end of the division, Cosheston never really got going and after their points deduction ended on a lowly 6 points which is never going to be enough to avoid relegation. The second relegation place was much closer with St Clears, Carew reserves and Broad Haven all being in a dog fight for the majority of the season. Broad Haven showed good fight and character which steered them clear of trouble while Carew found form at a key time, which means St Clears will play their football in the third division next season.