We arrived at Rhiwbina and were informed that some of Rhiwbina’s better players were being rested as they had just played 4 tournaments in 4 weeks.  However the thought of a weak Rhiwbina team does not seem right as they ooze class right through their squad.

The game kicked off with Ponty playing in their preferred way of up the slope and kicking to Rhiwbina.  Our forwards worked the ball back for Shaun to send Rhys on a run up the middle, where again quick ball enabled granite hard Jamie Chapman to beat a defender or two before being pushed into touch.  Ponty dominated the opening exchanges with Daniel Griffiths supplying good line ball and our back line passing and running like pros. 

Unfortunately the pitch was a little narrower than normal and we were unable to release speedy winger Lewis Allen.  Each time he got the ball he got two Rhiwbina players at the same time that pushed him into touch.  Rhiwbina did launch several attacks but once again our new defensive line up, the Mackain special, enabled Rhys to run up and harass the Rhiwbina backline forcing their outside half down blind allies where Morgan Burgess and Jasper Powell were covering and tackled him to the ground. Half Time 0-0

Ponty started the second half with a clear mandate of taking the ball up the middle and at the first chance Shaun Bowditch tried out his new move and rounded 3 defenders before scoring a superb try.  Converted by Lewis Allen.  Lucas Hickman was now playing centre and made a right nuisance of himself every time Rhiwbina had the ball.  Forcing them into errors. 

Again the forwards lead by Greggor Mackain who worked tirelessly to secure ball produced quick ball for scrum half Adam Ashford to realese the backline.  A dropped ball by the Rhiwbina backs saw Lucas Hickman pop the ball up to Jamie Chapman to score his first ever try.  Converted by Lewis Allen.

Ponty now really gain in confidence and good runs and off loading by Prop Adam the ox Morris saw Ponty create another chance for Shaun to run over and score a try that he converted. Fulltime Rhiwbina 0 Pontypridd 21

At the end of the game the Rhiwbina coach asked if we would play another 15 minutes to give all his players a decent run out. The game started with Ponty again kicking off and we carried on where we had left off.  Open fast attacking rugby with the aim of keeping the ball alive.  At each breakdown Jasper Powell was the first to arrive followed my Morgan Burgess who kept the move flowing. 

Adam Ashford then kept the opposition guessing with his mazy running or good passing.  Time and time again we worked the ball to the wingers, Lewis and Jamie, who tried their best to break the defence but all credit to Rhiwbina who kept on tackling.  Finally the ball broke to Lewis Allen who ran down the wing.  He was tackled short but Lucas was on hand to keep the move going and crash over for a try.  Converted by Lewis Allen.

As the whistle blew the Rhiwbina coach run passed shouting one more half! Half time Rhiwbina 0 – Pontypridd 7

The second half saw Morgan make a break down the touchline but again caught short by great tackling.  Form the line out Morgan managed to get the ball and supported by his forwards got over the line. By now the team were buzzing and everyone was playing with a smile on their face.  This may have something to do with Morgan’s attempted conversion which when it landed was in a different postcode to us as it was that wide.

Adam Morris and Greggor Mackain kept running at Rhiwbina while Daniel and Jasper cleaned out the ruck.  Hooker Greggor was now playing scrum half, our scrum half was playing prop, our prop hooker, and our winger was in the centre and our centre in the second row.  How this happen I don’t know but it did not effect the team and Shaun raced over for his hatrick after some great rugby. 

Greggor stepped up to take the conversion to prove that what ever the second rows can do the front row can also do.  He placed the ball and kicked it over the post before turning around and taking a bow.  The game then ended after what was a great morning of rugby played by two talented teams in one of the best sporting atmospheres I can remember. Rhiwbina 0 – Pontypridd 19

Many thanks to Terry of Rhiwbina and his coaching team and well done to the Rhiwbina team, some of who have not played for weeks.  They were a formidable opponent who refused to lie down and played until the end.  We were asked for a third game but by now all everyone wanted was a sit down. Again today Ponty showed their class and skill levels. 

The backs were awesome with Rhys Grainger punching holes in the midfield and making great tackles.  Shaun controlled the game at fly half while Jamie, Lucas and Lewis were all solid in attack and defence. The pack of Greggor, Daniel, Adam Ox, Jasper and Morgan (who had his best game for months) were all awesome providing quality ball for their teammates. 

Adam Ashford again proved what a great rugby player he is with bone crunching tackles, great passing and superb vision at scrum half. This was the last full game of the season for a team who have grown in confidence and skill over the last couple of weeks after a mid season dip.  All credit to each and every one of you and special mention to Lewis Allen for a 100% goal kicking record. 

What an achievement!

Man of the match Lucas Hickman

Tackle of the week Jamie Chapman.

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