After the initial skirmishes, with both teams testing their opponent’s defence, Pontypridd were able to execute a slick backs move which allowed Adam Baker to beat the covering defence and score the first try of the game. Cody Baker from soon converted the try from out wide. Pontyclun’s forwards responded well and started to win the battle at the breakdown but excellent defence by Pontypridd’s backline ensured that any good attacking platforms were soon extinguished. 

In contrast, the Pontypridd backline led well by the impressive Macaulay Griffiths and Cody Baker were able to make the best of limited possession, making sure that Pontyclun often found themselves camped in their own half for large periods of the first half. The second half started with a sustained period of Pontyclun pressure but again outstanding defence from Pontypridd held firm.

In a battle not for the faint hearted each team fought for every inch gained with players literally putting their bodies on the line for the cause and the ferocity of the exchanges keeping Ponty’s legendary first-aider Chris Hislop Snr extremely busy. As the second half unfolded, Pontypridd started to enjoy more territory as their forwards started to slowly wear down the opposition.

The increasing pressure exerted by the forwards combined with an excellent rush defence meant that Pontyclun were slowly pushed back into their own 22. Soon afterwards, an attempt at a relieving kick by Pontyclun was charged down by a mercurial Fforrest Quirke resulting in a five metre lineout near the Pontyclun line. 

From the lineout, excellent work by Louis ‘Go-go Gadget arms’ Garland led to Ponty stealing the ball. Great defence from Pontyclun held the Pontypridd forwards at bay but Pontypridd were not be denied and good forward play finally allowed Dillon Lewis to twist in contact and place the ball down on the line. Pontypridd were not able to covert the try.

With time running out, Pontypridd made a number of tactical substitutions to ensure that there was no way back for Pontyclun.  The final minutes of the game were dominated by forward exchanges and the final whistle was greeted with a loud cheer from coaches, parents and players.

A special thank you must be extended to all the boys from both teams who showed remarkable sportsmanship after the intensity of battle by congratulating each other after the final whistle and back at the clubhouse.

Final Score Pontypridd 12 Pontyclun 0

Try Scorers: Adam Baker and Dillon Lewis, Conversion kicked by Cody Baker.

Man of the Match: Macaulay Griffiths  

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