| U11's
Abergavenny Rugby Festival 3th May 2009
Tyrchs Edged out of Semi Final Place
For many, the May Bank Holiday weekend conjures up images of pastoral calm, flowers swaying gently in the warm summer breeze, while butterflies flit unhurriedly across peaceful fields bedecked with golden corn.
The view from the Pentyrch gazebo [adjacent to pitch number 8] at the Abergavenny festival was somewhat different, with gusts of cold air mingling imperceptibly with the acrid aroma of overcooked beef burgers.
There was something soulless about this tournament- maybe it was down to scale, or perhaps the boys were ready for a break after the highly successful tour of Oakwood & Llandeilo. Either way, if felt a poor way to end the season, not least because in the main, the Tyrchs depleted squad performed exceptionally well, and came very close to reaching the last four after five absorbing encounters in their Group stage matches.
1st Pool Match- Pentyrch 5 Tries Abertillery 0
Pentyrch Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Elliott Jones, Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Nick Bowler, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies Subs: Owen Evans, Harry Jones, Chris Jones
A brisk and inventive start saw the boys overwhelm their Gwent valley opponents. A sweeping move from the halfway line involving Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch and Nick Bowler saw Henry Davies cross on the left hand touchline to open the score. Within a minute the lead was doubled as Nick Bowler broke through the middle before releasing Rhys Lynch, whose perfectly timed pass found Sam Fenton in space on the left- gratefully received –two nil!
Piling on the pressure, the boys continued to use the ball intelligently and this time switched the offensive to the right, Sam Fenton providing Henry Davies with the space and time to demonstrate his electrifying pace as he touched down in the corner for the third try.
Substitution: Owen Evans for Aaron Tomlinson
Sam Fenton maintained the momentum with a blistering 50 yard run which culminated in a fourth try as he squeezed in to score on the left.
Substitutions: Chris Jones for Nick Bowler, Harry Jones for Henry Davies
As the allocated 12 minutes drew to a close the backs set off for one more foray into their opponents’ territory, and Chris Jones edged down the left wing before passing inside for Sam Fenton to race through and notch up his hat-trick.
Try Scorers: Sam Fenton 3 Henry Davies 2
Second Pool Match Pentyrch 3 Tries v Abergavenny 1
Pentyrch Team Ben Harrison Jones, Owen Evans, Ethan Denty, Elliot Jones, Gwilym Rees, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Nick Bowler, Sam Fenton, Chris Jones Subs: Aaron Tomlinson, Harry Jones, Henry Davies
In this encounter Pentyrch demonstrated their superiority by winning their own ball and the majority of set pieces awarded to the opposition. However Abergavenny’s defence were better organised than Abertillery’s and they managed to hold the Tyrchs for the first third of the game. Elliot Jones was up early to nullify a charge from a tap penalty near half way. He stole the ball, but he and the supporting Tyrchs were driven into touch. Ben Harrison Jones-the Dick Turpin of the lineout- plucked the ball at the front and sprinted away up the touchline but the covering defence held him 5 m out. The ball was recycled neatly as the forwards worked through two phases, scrum half Tomos Angell then fed the unstoppable Ben H Jones on the blind; 1-0. From the kick off Tom Angell launched an attack in the backs, Sam Fenton fed Rhys Lynch on the loop, and play was up to the 22m before the defence forced the outside half into touch. Pressure on the Abergavenny line out possession produced a spilt ball in midfield; it was deftly scooped up by Nick Bowler who raced through for the second try. Substitution: Henry Davies for Chris Jones Another steal at the line out saw Ben H J storm upfield again with Gwilym Rees in support, the ball was recycled and passed amongst backs and forwards Owen Evans and Ethan Denty in an effective passage of play. Ben, out in midfield, launched a long pass out to Sam Fenton but the defence was well organised and forced the Tyrchs to set up and recycle. Swift handling again sent the ball out wide to Sam Fenton who rounded the defence to seal the game. The match ended in a bit of confusion when Abergavenny’s kick-off crossed the try line and was touched down by the Tyrchs. The Ref. awarded a try for subsequent “touch down” by an optimistic Abergavenny player. The final whistle went; 3-1 to the Tyrchs. A second solid performance, things were looking promising.
Tries Ben Harrison Jones Nick Bowler Sam Fenton
Third Pool Match: Pentyrch 5 Tries Penarth 0
Pentyrch Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Elliott Jones, Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Nick Bowler, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies Subs: Owen Evans, Harry Jones, Chris Jones
An early line out steal from Ben Harrison Jones served notice of the Tyrchs’ intent, and although Henry Davies accepted the pass he was grounded before he could move through the gears. No matter, from the ruck the ball was fed back to Sam Fenton who weaved his way in and out of three would be tacklers before opening the scoring.
From the restart a switch involving Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch and Nick Bowler provided an opening for Henry Davies to extend the lead, before Penarth hit back with determination. Try saving tackles from Aaron Tomlinson and Tomos Angell repelled the incursion, and after regrouping, the ball was gratefully received by Sam Fenton who scampered through for another try; 3-0
Substitutions: Chris Jones & Owen Evans for Sam Fenton and Aaron Tomlinson Try number four followed shortly afterwards, with Henry Davies & Nick Bowler combining cleverly once more, before feeding Rhys Lynch who tore through the defence, grounding the ball close to the right hand touchline.
Substitution: Harry Jones for Elliott Jones The rout was completed when Ben Harrison Jones surged through to within 3 metres of the try line before looping the ball over for Chris Jones to score in the corner.
Scorers: Sam Fenton 2 Henry Davies Rhys Lynch Chris Jones
Fourth Pool Match Pentyrch 3 Tries v Tondu 0
Pentyrch Ben Harrison Jones, Aaron Tomlinson, Ethan Denty, Elliot Jones, Gwilym Rees, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Nick Bowler, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies;
Henry Davies was called on early to make a crucial tackle out in the wing as Tondu displayed their ambitious intentions. They advanced to the Tyrchs 22m with some good interpassing but Elliot Jones was there to make the tackle. The ball was stolen and fed to Henry Davies on the wing, he ran ¾ the length of the pitch to make the first score; 1-0. The lively Tondu right winger had a go at breaking the Tyrchs line jinking past several tacklers progressing towards the centre of the pitch. He was eventually held and the Tyrchs stole the ball. Quick passing in the backs sent the ball to Sam Fenton on the opposition 10m, he left the defence for dead to make it 2-0. Soon after it was the inventive Tondu winger again making inroads in midfield but Sam Fenton was on hand to make the tackle. Uncertain handling in the Tondu midfield allowed Henry Davies to pounce on a loose ball near half way; the outcome was inevitable.
Subs; Chris Jones and Harry Jones for Henry Davies and Sam Fenton.
Pentyrch won this game by taking full advantage of their few opportunities and putting in an excellent defensive effort, particularly in the closing stages with Harry Jones using his strength to shepherd the advancing Tondu forwards into touch as the clock ran down.
Tries Henry Davies (2) Sam Fenton
Final Pool Match: Aberdare 2 Tries Pentyrch 1 Pentyrch Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Elliott Jones, Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Nick Bowler, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies Subs: Owen Evans, Harry Jones, Chris Jones
Pentyrch & Aberdare had won all four of their pool games and so this final match would decide who would top the group and proceed to the knockout stage of the competition.
It was Blues Cup semi-finalists Aberdare who started the stronger, applying early pressure and penning the Tyrchs deep into their own territory. Relieving kicks from Sam Fenton & Rhys Lynch provided respite, but the momentum was with their opponents, who after laying siege, crossed the gain line, scoring through the middle.
The Tyrchs riposte was swift, but Sam Fenton was painfully bundled into touch as he surged through up the left touchline. Unable to continue he was replaced by Chris Jones.
Minutes later the Tyrchs conceded a scrappy second try as they attempted to move the ball wide from a deep defensive position, and now needed to play catch up rugby as the clock ticked down.
The response was urgent and positive: Ben Harrison Jones made good ground, and it took three Aberdare forwards to neutralise the threat. The ball was fed back to Aaron Tomlinson who gained five yards before funnelling possession to Nick Bowler who burst through the middle to score. Surely one last effort would restore parity?
Alas no! [Why is it that time passes most swiftly when least appreciated]?
The referee blew for full time, but not before he had controversially banished Tyrchs Manager Phil Angell from the technical area dispatching him to the team gazebo, having taken umbrage to a comment made by a member of the Aberdare coaching staff and wrongly attributing it to the Tyrchs’ supremo. Rough justice, but Angell stood his ground, maintaining a quiet dignity as befits one of Brecon’s finest.
Try Scorer:
Nick Bowler
POSTSCRIPT
And finally….heartfelt thanks to the coaching team, Ian Hughes, Kelvyn Jones and Mark Krawiecki, and of course to Mr. Angell for their unstinting efforts throughout the season. Their expertise, encouragement, dedication and enthusiasm have helped the squad to flourish over the last nine months. Skill, technique and tactical awareness have developed apace, and are manifest in the boys’ desire to play an attractive expansive game whenever the opportunity arises. The move to a full sized pitch will provide these young turks with the platform to raise their game even further: Style? Of course, but substance too.
Touring Tyrchs in Twelve Try Triumph
Llandeilo U11s 0 Pentyrch U11s 80 (Eighty) 26th April 2009
Things were not looking good when 23 red-eyed, pale faced and lethargic Tyrchs disembarked from the tour bus. The warm sunshine however brought the best out of the boys and they exhibited some excellent handling in all departments to run in a dozen tries. The tourists took full advantage of the freedom offered by the hosts, the backs and forwards combined well as evidenced by the ten different names in the try scorers list. Pentyrch's defensive work was also first class; they managed to keep their concentration and commitment in the challenge to keep a clean sheet for the first time in several weeks.
Llandeilo were, however, a shadow of the team who had narrowly beaten the Tyrchs twelve months previously. Five of their better players were missing. Their depleted squad were indebted to the tourists, several of whom turned out in Llandeilo colours at various times to fill the gaps.
First Half: Pentyrch Team Aaron Tomlinson, Ben Harrison Jones, Matt Stewart, Tom MacDonald, Gwilym Rees, Tom Burns, Ethan Denty, Rhys Lynch, Marco Palladino, Chris Jones, Henry Davies, Jack Butler
For Llandeilo; Elliot Jones and Rhodri Davies Hughes
Llandeilo kept possession in the early minutes working through the phases but Pentyrch defence kept them penned in their own half. Ben Harrison Jones received tap penalty ball and drove hard at the hosts’ pack, the ball was rucked well and despatched to outside half Rhys Lynch who broke three tackles on his way to the first try.
Llandeilo came back and threatened from the kick off but a strong tackle from Henry Davies denied them. The resulting turnover was used up the blindside by Tom Burns, a silky dummy by the scrum half brought play up to the home 22m. Elliot Jones suffered a head injury and was replaced by Will Cole.
Pentyrch were beginning to operate very smoothly, the ball was moved swiftly along the backs following effective work at the breakdown by the pack after several phases. After such a sequence Ethan Denty took matters into his own hands and burst away from the breakdown to score. Chris Jones converted. The hosts probed but Gwilym Rees was in no mood to let them pass, he ripped the ball free and then good support work put Chris Jones away on the wing. Covering defenders however caught the winger just short of the line. From the line out the Tyrchs’ pressure in midfield won the ball back, Marco Palladino pierced the staggered defence and crossed over for the try.
From the kick off the Tyrchs, in the form of Matthew Stewart, were up quickly on the catcher and stole the ball. Llandeilo conceded a penalty and the receiver Aaron Tomlinson’s fast footwork took him past the fringes and into space for his try. In another backs move, Henry Davies collected a ball near half way and left the defence for dead to put take the try tally to 5.
Having secured the ball at the restart Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Matthew Stewart combined well up the wing to take the ball up to the 22m, but in the challenge Matt suffered a bad knock on the knee and was carried off on the stroke of half time.
Second Half The completely changed side wasted no time in taking the game to Llandeilo; Nick Bowler was soon on the score sheet with two tries in quick succession having found gaps in the defensive line. Rhodri Davies, back in Tyrch’s colours was always a nuisance in loose play and Lewis Evans on the wing threatened to break free on a few occasions. Another good position was established by runs from repatriated Tyrchs Will Cole and Gwilym Rees. Tomos Angell pounced on a loose ball from the defensive scrum and scored an opportunist scrum half’s try.
The 9th came from pressure on the catcher of a Sam Fenton clearance kick; second phase was set up and Rhys Powell at outside half dummied and sent a well timed pass to Nick Bowler. When tackle Nick set up second phase ball Will Cole snatched the ball from the blindside of the ruck and sprinted down the touchline from half way to score.
Llandeilo had some good attacking moves initiated by a centre who looked a lot like Aaron Tomlinson, the Tyrchs defence was well organised however and there was no way through. Owen Evans having fed a line out looped around and set up text-book ball for the backs. Rhys Powell with another dummy made the half break and offloaded a well timed pass to Sam Fenton who raced over for the first of his two very similar tries. Ben Harrison Jones was the next Tyrch to don Llandeilo green. The final score came when Rhodri Davies Hughes broke away from the pack near half way to round off the dozen, Rhodri converted to the delight of the tourists.
Pentyrch Team
Ethan Denty, Will Cole, Owen Evans, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Daniel Dageley, Tom Macdonald, Tomos Angell, Rhys Powell, Nick Bowler, Sam Fenton, Harry Jones, Lewis Evans
Pentyrch Try Scorers: Rhys Lynch Ethan Denty Marco Palladino Sam Fenton(2) Aaron Tomlinson Henry Davies Nick Bowler (2) Tomos Angell Will Cole Rhodri Davies Hughes
Conversions: Rhys Lynch 2 Chris Jones 2 Sam Fenton 4 Rhys Powell Rhodri Davies Hughes
Cardiff District under 11 Tournament 19th April 2009
Tyrchs Fall to Barry RFC at Quarter Final Stage
‘What’s occurin’?’: a phrase which has passed into Barry vernacular [following the stupendous success of ‘Gavin & Stacey’] but one which may have also accurately reflected the thoughts of the Pentyrch coaches as they watched the Under 11’s struggle in an unusually laboured quarter final performance against Nessa’s home town team. The Tyrchs paid the price for a tired and uncharacteristically lacklustre display, leaving their delighted opponents to seek greater glory at the business end of the tournament.
In the Group stage the boys had produced performances which would have marked them out as potential finalists, but it was not to be - and although a last 8 position is much less than they would have hoped for, the outcome was fair.
1st Pool Match- Pentyrch 14 Rumney 7
Pentyrch Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Will Cole, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Nick Bowler, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies Subs: Matthew Stewart, Elliott Jones, Chris Jones, Marco Palladino, Rhys Powell
First Half This game started at a furious pace, but with both defences lying flat and holding up well, the contest was conducted in the middle third of the pitch. After five minutes Rumney nipped through the Tyrchs cover with a fine interception try, which was successfully converted; 0-7 game on!
The Tyrchs were stunned into action and responded typically, with Ben Harrison Jones and Aaron Tomlinson asking questions of the Rumney defence and Nick Bowler causing havoc with ball in hand. Pentyrch were awarded a penalty 5 yards out and, following an initial drive from Ben, the backs switched the ball well with Sam Fenton and Henry Davies combining, before releasing Will Cole who burrower over to score. Sam Fenton converted to level the score at 7-7.
Rumney came back well but Tomos Angell and Rhys Lynch relieved pressure with well timed kicks as the half drew to a close.
Half Time substitution: Rhys Powell for Nick Bowler Second Half The Tyrchs made all the early running, with some sweeping moves across both flanks - Sam Fenton was tackled just short, and again and again the backs looked for a way through, but were foiled by resilent defence. Once more a 5 metre penalty provided the fulcrum for another attack, and this time the guile of Rhys Lynch unlocked the door as a clever dummy switch created the time and space for Henry Davies to sweep through and score. Sam Fenton again converted – 14-7.
The final few minutes were tense but the Tyrchs defended comfortably and confidently to notch up a well earned victory.
Scorers: Tries Will Cole Henry Davies
Cons Sam Fenton 2
Second Pool Match; Pentyrch 14 v St Josephs 7
Pentyrch Team: Aaron Tomlinson, Matthew Stewart, Elliot Jones, Gwilym Rees, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Chris Jones, Marco Palladino.
First Half The Tyrchs started well from the kick off pressurising St Joes in all areas and slowly worked their way up field. Hooker Aaron Tomlinson won scrum ball against the head, centre Rhys Powell with a trademark jink made the half break and fed winger Chris Jones who was edged into touch just 5 m out. The Tyrchs maintained field position and good handling in the backs allowed Rhys Powell to pass and loop around collecting this time from winger Marco Palladino, he crossed the try line but could not ground the ball before fierce tackling forced him into touch.
Pentyrch fielded the 22 m drop out and released winger Chris Jones, he cut inside and fed Tomos Angell, who in the tackle, popped it up to Rhys Lynch in support. Desperate but effective defending held up the outside half on the line. From the scrum the Tyrchs again threatened but St Joes defence was mighty. The pressure eventually told when, from a penalty, Elliot Jones drove at the defence and offloaded to Aaron Tomlinson, good handling transferred the ball to Chris Jones who raced over in the corner. The try was converted; 7-0
St Joes responded well and threatened through blindside breaks and inter-passing in the pack up the middle of the pitch, however great tackling from Tomos Angell, Rhys Powell and Chris Jones kept them penned back.
The final move of the half saw Mathew Stewart on the charge and then offload to Rhodri Davies Hughes, the half time whistle went at the breakdown.
Second Half St Joes enjoyed territorial advantage but Elliot Jones and Rhodri Davies Hughes worked well to win turnover ball in the mauls. Rhys Lynch cut through taking play past half way, the Tyrchs worked the phases and distributed ball to Marco Palladino who almost cut loose but was forced out 10 m short of the line.
Gwilym Rees with penalty possession made 15 hard yards through their pack and set up good second phase ball for the backs. Rhys Powell jinked through midfield and sent a lovely timed pass to Chris Jones who sprinted over for the score but was called “in touch” . Their endeavour was rewarded when pressure on the St Joes line out allowed Rhodri Davies Hughes to collect spilt ball and burst over for the score. Chris Jones converted;14-0
St Joes responded immediately forcing a line out near the Tyrch’s line. The clearance kick was charged down and St Joes got a deserved try.
Scorers: Tries Chris Jones Rhodri Davies Hughes
Cons Rhys Lynch Chris Jones
Quarter Final: Barry 12 Pentrych 7 Pentrych Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Will Cole, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies Subs: Matthew Stewart, Chris Jones, Marco Palladino, Elliot Jones
First half Perhaps the two and a half hour gap between this and the previous match accounted for their lethargy, but the Tyrchs seemed strangely out of sorts compared to their opponents who had only secured their quarter final berth half an hour earlier.
That said they made good early ground with Rhodri Davies Hughes and Gwilym Rees embarking on trademark drives. From one quick move Rhys Powell almost broke through to score, but was held up by blanket defensive cover. After five minutes of deadlock a Tyrchs penalty was used profitably as Tomos Angell released Rhys Lynch. Slick hands saw the ball moved on from Rhys Powell to Sam Fenton, who crossed in the left hand corner before adding the conversion. At 7-0 it looked as if all was going to plan.
However Barry responded emphatically, and rather ominously gained territorial advantage, but no reward as the half drew to a close.
Second half The seasiders picked up the pace after the break and following excellent defensive work they broke through on the counter attack to score in the right hand corner. Although the conversion attempt failed the Tyrchs now realised they were in a real contest.
The next period of the game was characterised by a series of shuddering tackles and developed into a war of attrition, contested in the middle third. At this point the Tyrchs would normally have moved up a gear, but today seemed ponderous and slow. Barry, sensing the chance of an upset, seized the initiative, and having gained a 5 metre penalty drove through to take the lead. The conversion pushed them 12-7 ahead.
Pentyrch Substitution: Chris Jones for Tomos Angell
The Tyrch’s looked shell-shocked, and strove to restore parity. Although the handling was sound, with ball moving left to right and back again through numerous phases of play, they could not break down the tenacious defensive line set by their opponents. As the clock wound down they became more desperate in their efforts- surely this wasn’t in the script?
But the game was up- there was no way through, and in the end the result was a fair reward for the passion and determination displayed by the underdogs. The Tyrchs could justifiably point to crucial injuries suffered by Tomos Angell and Nick Bowler which necessitated tactical and positional re-alignment, but ultimately these are hazards faced by all squads. That said the boys may rue their luck as this tournament had no obvious winner.
Next up- a recuperative break at Broadhaven and Llandeilo, before the final action at Abergavenny where your correspondents feel confident that normal service will be resumed.
Scorer: Try Sam Fenton
Con Sam Fenton
Blues Cup Semi Final 22nd March 2009 Rhiwbina Under 11’s 28 Pentyrch Under 11’s 12
It was Mothers Day and early morning trading was brisk at the petrol station on Manor Way, as penitent husbands, who had spent most of Saturday ‘watching the match’, queued furtively in order to purchase the obligatory box of Good News and bunch of wilting carnations for their long suffering wives. Two hundred yards away at Cae’r Delyn Fields soft centres and compassion were firmly off the agenda, as arguably the two strongest sides in greater Cardiff met to contest the semi final of the inaugural Blues Cup. The weather was fine, the pitch firm, and the target of an Arms Park final the clear objective for both teams.
Rhiwbina’s pre-eminence in recent seasons marked them out as firm favourites, and although they eventually prevailed, after a difficult start the Tyrchs matched their illustrious hosts for the greater part of the game: finishing the stronger team, but ultimately running out of time in their bid for glory.
Pentyrch Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Will Cole, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Nick Bowler, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies Subs: Ethan Denty, Elliott Jones, Chris Jones, Marco Palladino, Rhys Powell
1
st Half
The game commenced at a furious pace, the Tyrchs kicking off up the sloping pitch. Tomos Angell and Nick Bowler fashioned a brief incursion into opposition territory, but the hosts scrambled turnover ball, and swept downfield, moving the ball swiftly to the left wing, opening the score with a converted try after two minutes.
The Tyrch’s responded, with the fearless Rhodri Davies Hughes leading the charge from the restart. The Squirrels were penalised and slowly forced back into their 22 by some intelligent handling from Rhys Lynch, Sam Fenton, and Nick Bowler. Blanket defence repelled the advance and once again having secured the ball from the ruck, the hosts repeated the move which brought their first try, switching the ball at pace, before touching down again in the left hand corner to extend their lead. Ten minutes gone and 14-0.
The Tyrchs had known that any chance of victory depended on their ability to contain Rhiwbina in the early part of the match, but their original game plan was now well and truly obliterated. Neverthless they responded well, looking to the influential Ben Harrison Jones for inspiration, and he, together with Aaron Tomlinson acted as the fulcrum for a series of raids into home territory. The boys now started to enjoy a productive period of play – Rhys Lynch switching the ball cleverly to give Sam Fenton and Henry Davies the chance to use their pace. In defence they were resolute, holding off the hosts who were constantly playing at the margins, running the calculated risk of being caught offside.
A superb break from Tomos Angell created the room for Rhys Lynch to spin the ball out to Henry Davies, but there was just not quite enough space for him to take full advantage and he was wrestled into touch. From the line-out the Squirrels countered with the move of the match, tearing downfield, their scrum half driving through the centre, and sucking in the Tyrchs defence before releasing the outside half whose huge looping pass out to the left wing was gathered en route to the third try. 21-0.
Substitution: Chris Jones for Sam Fenton
The Tyrch’s looked shell-shocked, and although Nick Bowler gained some 20 yards from loose play following the restart, yet again Rhiwbina’s block defence held firm, and having driven the Tyrchs into touch, from the ensuing lineout they generated quick ball and yet another score extending the lead to 28-0. The final move of the half saw Henry Davies and Nick Bowler probing forward again but as the whistle blew the omens did not look good.
Second Half
Sustitution: Ethan Denty for Aaron Tomlinson
In recent weeks the Tyrchs had raised their game significantly when under pressure. Now faced with a seemingly insurmountable task against such illustrious hosts, a stirring half time team talk from coaches Ian Wynne Hughes, Kelvyn Jones and Mark Krawiecki reminded them of the ability, strength, and determination they had displayed on the training field and as the second period got underway they embarked on what, if successful, would have been one of the greatest comebacks of all time.
The hosts predictably surged forward from the restart but were held at bay, tackles raining in from Gwilym Rees, Will Cole and Rhodri Davies Hughes. The backs engineered some fluid moves prompted by Rhys Lynch and supported by excellent handling from Nick Bowler and Henry Davies. Gradually the Tyrchs edged forward, Rhiwbina forced into a series of uncharacteristic errors and infringements all of which were rightly penalised by the referee. When the Squirrels broke free they were denied by well timed tackles from Ethan Denty, Chris Jones and the effervescent Tomos Angell. Rhys Lynch cleared his lines with a booming 50 metre kick and the hosts’ sense of mounting irritation was palpable.
Yet another penalty: the Tyrchs used the ensuing scrum productively, driving the ball through the middle – Rhodri Davies Hughes dived through a gap in the home defence creating a platform- the ball came back and moved with lightning speed from Tomos Angell to Rhys Lynch and on to Nick Bowler who drove through to score - 28-5.
The Squirrels tried to respond but once again were stymied as backs and forwards combined superbly, keeping the tackle count high, and pegging them back. The Tyrchs were now in the ascendancy, gaining significantly more possession than their hosts who, to the growing irritation of the referee, were penalised again and again for seemingly deliberate infringement.
Substitutions: Rhys Powell, Elliott Jones & Marco Palladino for Nick Bowler, Will Cole and Henry Davies
The momentum was maintained - Rhys Lynch fed Rhys Powell who spun the ball out to Chris Jones on the left. He was edged into touch but the Tyrchs won lineout ball and the hosts were again penalised five yards out. The penalty was well used as Ethan Denty stormed through, and although he was held up just short of the line the dam was about to burst. The Tyrchs gained a scrum and Tomos Angell powered his way through to score. Rhys Lynch added the conversion -28-12 with five minutes to go!
Substitution: Aaron Tomlinson for Rhodri Davies Hughes
The onslaught continued with the game now being played almost exclusively in the Rhiwbina half- strong tackles from Aaron Tomlinson & Elliot Jones maintained the pressure, and the prompting of Rhys Lynch provided opportunities for Marco Palladino and Rhys Powell to edge forward in search of a further score.
The squirrels somehow held their line and as the final whistle blew there was a clear sense of relief: if the first half belonged to the hosts, the Tyrchs comfortably edged the second period. Five more minutes and who knows what the outcome would have been?
Defeat then, but defeat with great honour. There were bruises and cuts aplenty to show but this was a superb effort by the whole squad – finally denied by the skill and ingenuity of their opponents, but a second half performance the equal of any they have produced in the last three years.
By the way, on Friday night I met this chap who sold me a box of 24 commemorative ‘Limited Edition’ 2009 Wales Triple Crown Mugs. Let me know if you want to buy a couple- wife’s birthday perhaps?
Tries Nick Bowler Tomos Angell Conversion Rhys Lynch
Llandaf North U11s 15 v Pentyrch U11s 35 15th March 2009
A squad of nineteen assembled at Hailey Park for three periods of rugby at the beginning of a March heatwave. The Pentyrch’s forwards worked very well together and tackling in all departments was solid. The success rate for recycling ball at the breakdown attempts was very high during the first two periods, providing a plentiful supply of ball for the backs. The Tyrch’s also made the most of the open play situations and they racked up a total of seven tries. Llandaf North also had their moments and fought until the end as shown by their performance in the final period when the heat took its toll on the visitors. The home side crossed over twice in the final minutes to post a respectable score.
1st Period Pentyrch Team Gwilym Rees, Owen Evans, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Daniel Dageley, Elliot Jones, Ethan Denty, Tom Burns, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Chris Jones, Marco Palladino, Lewis Evans
Pentyrch started brightly establishing a promising position on the home side 10m. A scissors in midfield almost put them through, Ethan Denty developed the move but tough defending by the North won turnover ball at the breakdown. The half backs sent out the ball swiftly out left to their lively winger who sprinted from half way to score in the corner; 5-0.
The Tyrchs were not disturbed and pressurised the catcher at the kick off; they stole possession and scrum half Tom Burns cut through close to the breakdown turning the North on their heels. Gwilym Rees in support took it on, the supporting forwards produced second phase ball which was moved out to Chris Jones. The winger put his foot on the gas but was inched into touch deep in the opposition 22. The Tyrchs stole lineout ball and Tom Burns looped around the back to challenge the fringes, setting up second phase for the forwards and Ethan Denty broke strongly, scattering the defence and scoring in the middle:5-5.
Llandaf North composed themselves and manufactured a number of good initiatives, great tackles by Chris Jones and Owen Evans put paid to them but they had established an advanced position. A long penalty clearance kick regained territorial advantage for the Tyrchs. Llandaf won the line out but Tyrchs pressure in midfield saw Rhys Lynch collect a spilt ball and tear away. He was hauled down just short of the line but good support work by the Tyrchs enabled Rhys Powell to cross over to put the visitors in front; 10-5
The restart was fielded by Rhodri Davies Hughes, good handling work put winger Lewis Evans in space out wide. Llandaf North defended well but Elliot Jones ripped the ball free from a maul and set up the backs; Marco Palladino cut through the first line of defence but was held; he offloaded and the ball passed through several pairs of hands before returning to Elliot Jones, who galloped away to finish off a memorable try in the left corner
The North attacked again and Marco relieved the pressure with a good kick, but the hosts countered and telling tackles from Lewis Evans and Chris Jones kept them out. 5-15 at the break.
Second Period Pentyrch Team Tom Macdonald, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Will Cole, Elliot Jones, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Sam Fenton, Nick Bowler, Gwilym Preest, Harry Jones, Subs: Gwilym Rees, Rhys Powell, Ethan Denty Marco Palladino
Nick Bowler caught the kick off and the backs looked like cutting free through Gwilym Preest on the wing. A blindside move from the North lineout was snuffed out by a scything Tomos Angell tackle. The Tyrchs won turnover ball and the rampaging Elliot Jones again broke away setting up possession for the backs. Neat passing put Nick Bowler through in midfield, he jinked his way past would be tacklers and scored the try to put the Tyrchs comfortably ahead.
Tomos Angell caught the restart and off loaded to Sam Fenton who threatened to pierce the line but the home side defence was sound. The Tyrchs were awarded a scrum 5 m out, Tomos Angell probed off loading to Rhodri Davies Hughes- unstoppable at that distance-he celebrated the score in typical fashion. 5-25
Well positioned, Tomos Angell again caught the restart, made progress and went to ground. The ball was rucked well by the Tyrchs and a long pass from the base released centre Sam Fenton. Sam stepped past the first defender and left the others in his wake: 5-30,- it was beginning to look ominous for the hosts.
Elliot Jones caught the restart and drove menacingly upfield, the ball was recycled well and twin Harry Jones made several hard yards. The ball was recycled and accurate passing sent it left and then right before Nick Bowler broke through the defence and raced over for his second: 5-35.
Llandaf North began to put some good passages of play together but defensive work by Aaron Tomlinson and Gwilym Rees and Marco Palladino maintained the status quo.
Drives from Gwilym Rees and Ethan Denty made good ground, and Gwilym Preest almost cut free on a couple of occasions. Llandaf North had a punt out wide on the right but Tomos Angell and Harry Jones crashed the winger to the ground. In open play, Gwilym Rees and Rhys Powell combined well, working the ball to Nick Bowler and, again, winger Gwilym Preest. Aaron Tomlinson made an incursion through the middle but the North’s defence was becoming more resilient as time went on.
Third & Final Period Pentyrch Team Gwilym Rees, Ethan Denty, Daniel Dageley, Owen Evans, Will Cole, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Tom Burns, Marco Palladino, Rhys Powell, Nick Bowler, Chris Jones, Lewis Evans, Subs: Rhys Lynch, Aaron Tomlinson
The Tyrchs seemed to tire in the final period and their game lost its shape to some extent. Conversely Llandaf North improved and put together a couple of good passages of play that earned them two tries to make it 15-35. They may have closed the gap even further but for try saving tackles from Nick Bowler and Marco Palladino. The Tyrch’s job had been done during their superior first two periods; a satisfying morning’s work in which all members of the squad gave good accounts of themselves.
Scorers
Tries Ethan Denty Rhys Powell Nick Bowler 2 Sam Fenton Rhodri Davies Hughes Elliot Jones
Cons Dim Pyst!
Blues Cup Quarter Final Pentyrch Under 11s 21 St. Peters U11s 14 8th March 2009
If, as the Duke of Wellington allegedly claimed, the battle of Waterloo was won on the playing fields of Eton, then the foundations for this compelling Blues Cup victory were clearly laid at Parc y Dwrlyn Fields last Friday night on that triangular strip of land affectionately referred to as ‘the cabbage patch.’
Successive defeats at the hands of Cowbridge and Bridgend Athletic highlighted a particular weakness in the Tyrchs game- where, especially in the early phases of play, hesitancy in the tackle had been punished ruthlessly by well drilled opponents, leaving the boys to play what is euphemistically termed ‘catch up’ rugby. Friday’s training session was often brutal in its intensity, but the message was successfully driven home, and the Tyrch’s needed no further reminder as they strode out onto the rain swept pitch for Sunday’s quarter final tie against St. Peters RFC.
Pentyrch Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Gwilym Rees, Will Cole, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Nick Bowler, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies
Subs: Ethan Denty, Matthew Stewart, Rhys Powell, Marco Palladino, Chris Jones
1st Half The early exchanges were intense, and the Tyrch’s fronted up well, with Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, and Will Cole prominent in the rucks. The strong wind and bitter cold made handling extremely difficult, and it became clear that this would be a game won through tight forward control and unwavering concentration.
The first quarter was evenly balanced territorially, but weather conditions deteriorated still further, and a short but particularly intense hailstorm left the pitch and players looking more like extras from a post apocalyptic Hollywood epic, convincing the referee that adjournment was essential to avoid risk of serious long term physical or emotional injury.
There are unconfirmed rumours that that ‘The Rocks’ canvassed the support of their patron saint, who then had a quiet word with his boss: for within 10 minutes, the storm had passed and play was able to resume without further interruption.
From the restart the Tyrch’s set about their opponents with conviction- Nick Bowler’s tackling and Aaron Tomlinson’s prodigious work in the loose helping them to edge steadily forward. St. Peters were equally determined and their response emphatic, when from a well contrived move by the home backs, they intercepted to race through and open the score with a converted try.
Back came the Tyrchs, as Sam Fenton set off on a weaving run. Ben Harrison Jones took the ball on, and following a period of sustained forward pressure they were awarded a scrum some 10 m out. Lively scrum half Tomos Angell fed Rhys Lynch heading for the blindside, winger Henry Davies collected the pass and accelerated through to score in the right hand corner. Sam Fenton converted to restore parity.
With competition rules meaning that the away side would proceed in the event of a draw, there was still much to do, and the hosts’ hunger was evident in the way the forwards seized possession from the re-start. After Nick Bowler and Rhys Lynch led two incursions into St Peters territory, an infringement by the visitors set up a tap penalty 10 yards out. Swift thinking from the set piece paid dividends as Rhys Lynch burst through the middle, fending off titanic efforts from the visitors’ defence, before driving the ball firmly over the line to rapturous reception from players, coaches and spectators alike. Sam Fenton’s carefully placed conversion extended the lead; 14- 7 at the break!
Second Half: Substitution- Ethan Denty for Gwilym Rees
With a semi-final berth up for grabs, the Rocks were never going to yield lightly, and so it proved as the second half unfolded. Although Henry Davies went close to extending the hosts lead, it was the defensive work of Sam Fenton and Will Cole that caught the eye. The visitors’ increasingly frenetic attacks were neutralised time after time, but pressure brought its reward when they eventually cajoled and burrowed their way through for a try in the left hand corner. The conversion brought them level, and in pole position.
In recent weeks, this scenario might just have been enough to sow the seeds of self doubt among the Tyrchs, but not this time! As the game entered the final quarter it was the hosts who raised the stakes, driving, probing and forcing the visitors backwards. Now fighting a desperate rearguard action, the Rocks were harried into making a series of errors. Penalty followed penalty, until with minutes left, Rhodri Davies Hughes burst through the tiring St Peters defence to score a priceless and richly deserved try which Sam Fenton converted.
The final phases of play were tense but Ethan Denty and Ben Harrison Jones both stood their ground, gaining valuable yards, and using up precious time, through clever ball retention. The visitors made one final surge for glory, but were driven into touch ten metres from the try line. The ensuing line out was won by the Tyrchs and the match was won. Queue: celebration by the whole squad!
A superb victory earned from an absorbing contest in which the boys successfully adapted their game to meet the significant challenges posed by accomplished opponents, in appalling conditions. The semi final awaits, the dream of a final at the Cardiff Arms Park very much alive, and the required momentum clearly in evidence!
Pentyrch Scorers
Tries: Henry Davies Rhys Lynch Rhodri Davies Hughes
Conversions: Sam Fenton [3]
Bridgend Athletic U11s 75 v Pentyrch U11s 35 1st March 2009
All those associated with Pentyrch U11s are aware that Bridgend Athletic are a very good side.
“Knowledge is power Norman” as Reg Holdsworth used to say (sorry folks- 1980s Corrie). But knowledge was perhaps the problem for Pentyrch this St Davids Day, and it is likely that this game was lost before we headed west on the M4. Although some Bridgend tries were attributed to good handling, guile, effective running, and support work, several were down to lack of commitment in the tackle. However when Pentyrch tackles were made they were well executed, and the Tyrchs did put together some good passages of play evidenced by their five converted tries. Nick Bowler was immense throughout.
First Half - Pentyrch Team: Aaron Tomlinson, Matthew Stewart, Gwilym Rees, Elliot Jones, Will Cole, Tomos Angell, Nick Bowler, Rhys Powell, Chris Jones, Gwilym Preest.
The first try came when the handy outside half accepted a pass from his scrum half and with a clever jinking run wrong footed the backs, racing clear for the line. A second Bridgend try followed shortly after, when a dummy was bought in the backs. The shoots of some Pentyrch resistance surfaced with strong tackles from Aaron Tomlinson and Nick Bowler. The Tyrchs managed to keep Bridgend at bay for a few minutes but the home side worked their possession well, spinning the ball out right. Their handling failed them but in a cruel twist the ref missed a knock on and the home winger was awarded a try. Oh if only…………!
Bridgend launched another attack and camped on the Tyrchs line; desperate defending by Gwilym Preest kept them out and Tomos Angell made a clearance kick to touch. Pentyrch infringed at the line out and from the ensuing penalty another dummy allowed the centre in for the fourth Bridgend try.
They came again from the kick off, backs and forwards combining well down the middle to swarm over; 35-0.
A brief period of positive Tyrchs play commenced when Chris Jones executed a crushing tackle out wide, the Tyrchs turned over possession and Nick Bowler broke up the left touchline combining with Jones again on the wing. Elliot Jones took it on but Bridgend stole the ball back and made the clearance kick to turn the Tyrchs.
Nick Bowler made a long touch finder from a penalty, and good line out ball allowed Tomos Angell to release the backs. The ball was worked left and right, Gwilym Preest from half way made it up to the line, the forwards were up in support and Aaron Tomlinson burrowed over for the try. Chris Jones converted: 35-7. A turning point??
Gwilym Rees drove well from the restart but Bridgend had the forward momentum and were awarded a scrum. They broke blind sharply but Gwilym Preest made a crucial tackle on the winger forcing him into touch. Will Cole broke from the lineout and made good ground; with second phase Rhys Powell made a half break, Tomos Angell probed and Rhys Powell again in support took it up to the line. The Tyrchs pack, on the front foot for once, drove on and Will Cole made the score. Chris Jones converted; 42-14 at the interval.
Second Half -Pentrych Team: Tom MacDonald, Matthew Stewart, Daniel Dageley, Elliot Jones, Will Cole, Tom Burns, Nick Bowler, Lewis Evans, Marco Palladino, Jack Butler
The Tyrchs failed to deal with the restart and from the scrum and ensuing second phase ball the Bridgend midfield exploited a gap: try.
A Bridgend clearance kick was well fielded by Nick Bowler, Will Cole in support advanced down the middle but possession was again stolen. Despite a couple of great tackles by Nick Bowler Bridgend worked through three phases and extended the lead: 56-14.
At the restart Lewis Evans put in a good tackle and Pentyrch stole the ball, Nick Bowler making a promising half break. The Tyrchs managed to recycle a couple of times but Bridgend, consistently more effective at the breakdown, stole the ball. A neat side step in midfield put the centre through; 63-14.
Will Cole went close with a determined solo effort but the home pack secured possession at the breakdown. Their clearance kick was caught by Nick Bowler, he off loaded to Tom Burns who in turn fed Marco Palladino. A lovely side step put him through to score from half way. Nick Bowler converted 63-21!
The Tyrchs were soon defending again, Jack Butler put in a great tackle on the wing, Lewis Evans kicked into touch to relieve pressure. Nick Bowler collected a loose ball and almost got free up the touchline. A Bridgend kick got them to within 5m of the try line. The beefy No 10 burst through defence from short range to score but the conversion was missed.
From the restart Pentyrch established good position. Lewis Evans cut inside, Mathew Stewart in support drove on; the defence was well organised but Daniel Dageley dived over from short range. Nick Bowler converted. 68-28
Bridgend came again, displaying good hands and combining well, a fine running angle put them through the gap; 75-28.
The game ended on a high note for Pentyrch - Nick Bowler, having fielded a clearance kick, slipped three tackles and raced away for the final score. Nick converted to cap an excellent individual performance.
Pentrych Scorers
Tries Aaron Tomlinson Will Cole Marco Palladino Daniel Dageley Nick Bowler
Cons Chris Jones (2) Nick Bowler (3)
Pentyrch U11s 14 v Cowbridge U11s 21 22nd February 2009
‘Pride Comes Before a Fall’ sang Chicory Tip on the B side of their debut 1972 Number 1 smash hit single, and whilst it is unlikely that this track features on the Desert Island Discs shortlist of Allen Stanford or Big ‘Phil’ Scolari, they would perhaps recognise the sentiment. From a slightly more localised perspective, last Sunday’s narrow defeat by Cowbridge brought to an end a run of 10 successive wins for the Tyrchs dating back to October of last year, and whilst the boys were disappointed with the final outcome, the level of performance was significantly higher than when they last tasted defeat at the hands of Pencoed.
Cowbridge have always provided challenging opposition, and this occasion was no different, the visitors fielding no less than five Vale of Glamorgan district players and a winger who, at close on six foot tall, exhibited the pace to match his stature.
First Period: Pentyrch Team
Ben Harrison Jones, Will Cole, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies, Chris Jones
The tone and tempo of the game were set early on- the visitors content to use their strong and well drilled pack to gain territorial advantage, the hosts attempting to run the ball whenever the opportunity arose. Initial Cowbridge forays were repelled by the intelligent clearance kicks of Rhys Lynch and Sam Fenton and, when on the offensive, the talismanic figure of Ben Harrison Jones was always to the fore.
Gradually, the boys from the Vale gained a degree of control, largely through the efforts of their forwards in securing turnover ball, operating most effectively at the fringes, and occasionally adopting a more streetwise approach than their hosts.
Although Henry Davies and Ben Harrison both caused alarms in the Cowbridge defence with clever running, their pack snuffed out the danger, and from a break in midfield they swept downfield, their backs only denied a try by virtue of having crossed the dead ball line before touchdown. No matter, from the restart they won the ball at the breakdown and burst through to open the score with a try which was converted as the referee blew to end the first period of play- 0-7.
Second Period: Pentyrch Team
Elliott Jones, Owen Evans, Daniel Dagely, Tom Macdonald, Mat Stewart, Tom Angell, Rhys Lynch, Marco Palladino, Gwilym Preest, Henry Davies
Restart-rewind- the pattern continued. Tom Angell and Rhys Lynch prompting the backs and, at the other end of the field, the pace of Marco Palladino preventing a certain try for the visitors, who steadily eased forward as the match moved to the half way point. From an attacking scrum the Cowbridge forwards swarmed through and although desperate defence initially kept them at bay, the pressure eventually yielded a second forward driven try, from close range. The conversion put them 14 points clear.
The Tyrchs responded superbly as almost from the restart a fluid move in the backs released winger Gwilym Preest who raced down the left touchline to score in the corner. The try was converted to narrow the deficit to 14-7.
Substitution: Chris Jones for Henry Davies
The game now opened up as Gwilym Preest and then Marco Palladino went close to levelling. Ethan Denty and Elliott Jones made some surging runs from midfield; Owen Evans and Tom Macdonald were plucky in defence. As the whistle blew for the end of the second period, the Tyrchs were in the ascendancy, forwards and backs beginning to play with greater confidence and cohesion.
Third Period: Pentyrch Team
Ben Harrison Jones, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Will Cole, Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Marco Palladino, Henry Davies, Chris Jones
The match was now well balanced and Will Cole and Rhodri Davies Hughes helped the hosts gain the upper hand territorially. However, when pressure appeared to be creating opportunities to level the score, Cowbridge contrived to secure turnover ball and swiftly cleared the danger.
The Tyrchs continued to run the ball from deep positions and a bold move resulted in an interception try for the visitors just as it seemed they were about to concede the initiative.
Undaunted the boys fought back and won second phase ball from the kick off, Rhys Lynch cleverly broke through two tackles on the right flank before using his pace to edge over for a well deserved try in the corner. Chris Jones converted: 21-14.
As the game reached its conclusion the Tyrchs fought desperately to secure parity as Aaron Tomlinson and Rhodri Davies Hughes gained ground on the right. The visitors’ defended desperately and a lost Tyrchs’ line out ball enabled them to seize and retain possession as the clock ticked down.
The boys’ disappointment was palpable, and although a draw would have been a reasonably fair outcome, Cowbridge will feel their victory was deserved, based on a platform of solid scrummaging and canny work in the loose. Ultimately the boys will derive more from this reversal than from successive ‘try-fests’ against lesser opponents, and with the Blues Cup Quarter Final and festival season approaching, this was, arguably, an ideal test providing lessons can be learned.
Oh, and by the way – for those of you under 30 [sorry 45] the slightly more memorable ‘A’ side of that Chicory Tip single was ….’Son of My Father’.
Pentyrch Try Scorers:
Gwilym Preest Rhys Lynch
Conversions: Rhys Lynch Chris Jones
Skeleton Staff Rattle Barry’s Bones Barry U11s 5 v Pentyrch U11s 35 15th February 2009
As a squad of eleven eager boys accompanied by eleven less than eager hangovers gathered on the pitch they looked forlornly to the entrance gate for signs of latecomers to bolster a depleted squad. Thankfully Barry only mustered a similar number so that aspect of the contest was even.
The match was won by The Tyrchs comfortably in the end but there was a period in the first half during which doubts, similar perhaps to those experienced the previous afternoon, prevailed on the touchline-along with the headaches and the nausea.
First Half The Tyrchs started promisingly up the slope when Will Cole gathered the kick off and made it up to half way shrugging off first tackling efforts. Second phase ball was used by outside half Rhys Lynch who broke up to the 22 m. The Tyrchs backs displayed great handling, moving the ball left and then right through two phases until the silky Rhys Powell broke the defence to open the scoring 0-5.
Barry responded positively with immediate pressure from the kick off penning the Tyrchs in their 22. The nippy scrum-half gathered and sneaked over from close range to level the scores.
A short penalty was used powerfully by Will Cole who charged up the middle, the pack secured second phase possession, quick hands sending the ball to winger Chris Jones who raced over in the corner. Barry came back strongly again and pressurised the Tyrchs line forcing some desperate defensive work; Marco Palladino put in a try saving tackle on the line. Rhys Lynch’s clearance kick from the ensuing scrum took play up to the 10 m line.
The Barry no. 9 again attempted a blindside break but Matthew Stewart was alert and despatched him without ceremony into touch. The Tyrchs then lost Will Cole to injury and he was replaced by Tom Burns.
A sustained period of Barry pressure saw them probing close to the breakdown, but Marco Palladino and Tomos Angell tackled fiercely. A penalty allowed the Tyrchs to get out of their half for the first time in 5 mins. Another good move from the backs saw Rhys Powell and Tomos Angell combine well releasing the flier Chris Jones on the wing who was forced just into touch on the Barry 22 m. Following the line out good drives from Aaron Tomlinson, Elliot Jones, and Nick Bowler put the Tyrchs in a great position. The ball was quickly sent along the backs to wing Chris Jones whose blistering pace took him past the cover to score his second.
Pentyrch were working well in this period, turn over possession and swift passing in the backs saw them repeatedly stretch the home defence, and Chris Jones almost crossed over again. The Tyrchs pressured the Barry line out, Nick Bowler stole the ball and burrowed through to score on the stroke of half time; 5-20
Second Half Nick Bowler obviously enjoying his unaccustomed position in the pack broke through the middle and set up second phase. Scrum half Tom Burns exploited a gap on the blind and made 20 m before being hauled down. From the scrum a dummy scissors worked well in midfield and winger Tom Angell put Rhys Lynch, on the loop, over in the right hand corner.
Form the kick off Mathew Stewart gathered and off loaded to Aaron Tomlinson. Aaron sidestepped half of the Barry pack and waltzed through the gap to score to extend the lead to 5-30. Although Pentyrch were comfortable Barry continued to make a game of it. Their backs had several forays but the Tyrch’s defence was solid; Tomos “The Clamp” Angell executed a couple of crushing tackles in quick succession.
The Tyrchs had the lion’s share of the possession in the final quarter but failed to use it effectively, perhaps tiredness caused the lack of composure and breakdown in team work which was so evident earlier in the game. However they did manage a final score after a Barry clearance kick put the ball out near half way. The Tyrchs took it quickly stretching the Barry defence, second phase was set up and Nick Bowler broke away and raced for his second try of the day 5-35.
The game finished with the Tyrchs on the attack following a walloping clearance kick by Chris Jones that took play to within 10 m of the try line. The position looked promising but the final whistle denied the visitors another opportunity.
Pentyrch Aaron Tomlinson, Matthew Stewart, Elliot Jones, Nick Bowler, Will Cole (Tom Burns), Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Chris Jones, Marco Palladino.
Subs. Tom Burns Tries Chris Jones (2) Nick Bowler (2) Rhys Powell Rhys Lynch
Cons Dim Pyst! Llantwit Major U11s 7 Pentyrch U11s 26 1st February 2009
‘I am just going outside and may be some time’. Immortal words uttered at latitude 80 South by Captain Oates, and some ninety seven years later [give or take a month] by Phil Angell before embarking on a trip to the slightly less remote but bitterly cold and windswept terrain of Llantwit Major RFC. Fortunately this particular tale of endeavour in a harsh climate had a happier ending as the Tyrchs braved the elements to record their ninth successive victory.
The squad was well represented and the coaches were able to make a number of changes at half time to ensure that everyone had the opportunity to stretch their legs and retain some body heat.
First Half: Pentyrch Team Owen Evans, Will Cole, Mat Stewart, Daniel Dagley, Gwilym Rees, Tom Burns, Rhys Lynch, Nick Bowler, Marco Palladino, Sam Fenton, Harry Jones
The early sorties were evenly balanced with Mat Stewart prominent in defence and Sam Fenton launching a series of darting raids on the home front. A fluent break from the Tyrchs involving Tom Burns, Rhys Lynch and Nick Bowler almost yielded a try but the hosts scrambled the ball into touch. Bright work from Owen Evans and Nick Bowler maintained the pressure and close support work from Harry Jones paid dividends as he strode through to open the scoring. Sam Fenton’s conversion attempt was very well struck but the roaring wind blew the ball back from whence it came, without having crossed the gain line.
Llantwit’s stocky forwards responded well, gathering momentum and territorial advantage as the game moved into the second quarter. A tap penalty at 10 metres provided the platform for them to burst through and edge ahead with a converted try.
Back came the Tyrchs, with Sam Fenton and Rhys Lynch switching the ball around intelligently and profitably. A well worked move deep in the opposition’s half saw the two boys combine cleverly – Rhys supplying the pass for Sam to score. The conversion made it 12-7 to the Tyrchs.
There were no further scores in the first half although Nick Bowler again went close with a lovely run out of defence.
Second Half
Pentyrch Team
Elliott Jones, Ethan Denty, Tom Macdonald, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Nick Bowler, Gwilym Preest , Chris Jones
The boys sprang to life again at the Referee’s whistle, putting Llantwit under immediate pressure. Desperate defence kept the Tyrchs out, but just as the hosts appeared to be gaining some ground, a swift interception from Rhys Powell halted their progress and the ball was flicked through for Rhodri Davies Hughes to burst through and score a converted try; 19-7.
The game now became much tighter with both sets of forwards working hard to contrive an advantage. At the one end the Tyrchs were indebted to Rhys Powell for a try saving tackle and at the other to Nick Bowler for consistently strong running.
Substitution: Marco Palladino for Nick Bowler
The Tyrchs continued to use the ball intelligently and their concentration paid off as another sweeping move saw Rhys Lynch work a dummy scissors before releasing Chris Jones, who sped down the left touchline diving over to score in the corner. The try was converted pushing the margin to 26-7.
The last quarter developed into a forward battle as the hosts pushed hard to narrow the deficit, but the Tyrchs looked comfortably in control, apart from one instance when Rhys Lynch’s clearance kick nearly decapitated Rhodri Davies Hughes!
Substitution: Sam Fenton for Rhys Lynch
The game ended as it began with the visitors probing for defensive weakness: their positive attitude epitomised by Aaron Tomlinson, whose swift break almost yielded another score on the stroke of full time.
A well deserved win and some entertaining passages of play in what must have been the coldest day since records began.
Post script: Unlike Captain Oates, I can confirm that Phil Angell did make it back to base camp.
Pentyrch Try Scorers:
Harry Jones Sam Fenton Rhodri Davies Hughes Chris Jones
Conversions: Rhys Lynch: 3
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION?
Blues Cup Beddau U11s 14 v Pentyrch U11s 21 25th January 2009
Owing to unplayable pitches at both of Beddau’s home grounds this “away” fixture was played at home thus providing the Tyrchs with an advantage which may have proved the difference in this cup tie. The game was played at a fast pace, the team work and commitment displayed by both sides-to the very end-was no doubt the sort of competition that the tournament organisers would be very satisfied to have created. At times the defensive work and fitness displayed by both sides made for a very tight game suggesting that that both teams are outgrowing the confines of the mini pitch and they will be more than ready for the full size pitch next season.
First Half Beddau had the slope advantage and early on forced tackles out of –who else- Sam Fenton on the wing. Henry Davies made a break and got the Tyrchs up to half way before being caught. Tomos Angell probed close to the breakdown and Ben H Jones in support took it on. From a penalty near half way the ball was moved along the Tyrchs backs, second phase was set up by Rhys Powell then possession transferred swiftly out to Henry Davies on the wing. From 22 m out he rounded the defence and scored in the right hand corner. Sam Fenton converted. 7-0.
From the kick off Beddau won a line out. However outside half Rhys Lynch intercepted between the half backs and broke away to bring play up to Beddau’s 10 m line. Beddau kicked clear from defence but Sam Fenton fielded and set up second phase. With the recycled ball Tyrchs forwards Ben H Jones and Ethan Denty combined well to make more ground. The ball was again sent out to right wing Henry Davies but good defence forced him back inside, and he scampered past several despairing defenders onto the left wing. Gwilym Rees in support collected and powered over from 5 m to score. Rhys Lynch added the points.
The Beddau runners began to exert pressure on the Tyrchs and some telling tackles were executed by the Tyrchs backs to keep them at bay. They came again and again but were denied in the left corner by virtue of a foot in touch. Beddau were more alert in the ensuing defensive lineout, the prop grabbing the short ball and diving over in the corner. The conversion made it 14-7 just before half time.
Second Half The Tyrchs advanced to the 22m and Beddau through a long ball into their lineout but Rhodri Davies Hughes collected at the tail and smashed into midfield. Second phase was set up and ball was despatched swiftly out to centre Rhys Powell who crossed over. Sam Fenton converted 21-7. The Tyrchs and their supporters were hoping that they might pull away at this stage but Beddau were not finished yet. Telling tackles from Aaron Tomlinson, Ethan Denty, Tomos Angell, Henry Davies, and Rhys Lynch halted their threatening attacks. Ben H Jones broke away from the loose and blasted 20 m up to the Beddau 22 m; Tomos Angell sniped with second phase possession but Beddau were sharp in defence. Again Beddau pressed and they were rewarded with deserved try to put them within a score.
As the match entered its final phase Beddau were again on the attack. Aaron Tomlinson put in a clearance kick but again Beddau returned. The Tyrchs were awarded two penalties just outside their 22 which required them to run out of defence rather than enjoy the luxury of relieving kicks. Pentyrch then attempted to tighten the game and gained ground down the middle but conceded penalties themselves at the breakdown. Gwilym Rees drove close to the pack and the Tyrchs recycled possession, Rhodri surging through again and setting up ball for the backs to have one last go out wide but Sam Fenton was just forced into touch in the corner on the final whistle.
A great team performance and a game played in good spirit. The Tyrchs’ display no doubt benefited from the presence of the substitutes looking on - a wealth of talent waiting eagerly in the wings is a factor not to be underestimated in games such as these.
Bring on the Rocks in the quarter finals!
Pentyrch Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Aaron Tomlinson, Ethan Denty, Rhodri Davies Hughes Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies.
Subs. Chris Jones, Nick Bowler, Matthew Stewart, Daniel Dagely. Tries Henry Davies Rhys Powell Gwilym Rees
Cons Sam Fenton 2 Rhys Lynch 1
St Joseph’s Newport U11s 25 v Pentyrch U11s 30 11th January 2009
It was obvious that Christmas was well and truly over: wives and girlfriends had long since despatched their crestfallen partners to obtain full refunds for the well-intentioned but ill judged and wholly inappropriate ‘surprise lingerie gift’; the bottle of Emva Cream had once again retreated to the back of the drinks cabinet for the start of its eleven month sojourn, and young children had learned the harsh realities of economic life as they tried in vain to cash in the generous Woolworths gift vouchers received from distant maiden aunts.
But the Tyrchs began 2009 where they had left off, playing some free flowing enterprising rugby on a chilly morning at Newport St Joseph’s. Showing eminent New Year resolve the boys turned out in record number with a cast to rival a Cecil B de Mille epic. This provided the coaching team with a significant challenge but to their enormous credit, they ensured that every one of the 24 boys had the opportunity to contribute to an exciting contest:
First Half-:Pentyrch Team Ben Harrison Jones, Will Cole, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Sam Fenton, Henry Davies
The Tyrchs were out of the blocks quickly, immediately pressurising the home defence. The first line out was taken comfortably by Ben Hur [sorry Harrison Jones] and from the resultant drive Rhodri Davies Hughes was on hand to burrow through the defence to score: 5 nil after two minutes.
From the restart Sam Fenton embarked on a jinking run deep into opposition territory before switching the ball to Rhys Powell, who in turn fed winger Henry Davies whose run was halted mere yards from the try line.
Continued pressure from Rhys Lynch and Sam Fenton yielded dividends and following a tap penalty 5 metres out Rhodri Davies Hughes released Aaron Tomlinson who powered through to double the lead.
The pattern continued with forwards and backs combining well prompted by regular incursions by Sam Fenton. Tomos Angell spotted an opportunity from the scrum flicking the ball back to Rhys Lynch who saw the gap, and accelerated down the right wing evading two tackles before touching down for a splendid try- 15-0. Substitution: Gwilym Rees for Ethan Denty
Without pausing for breath the Tyrchs poured forward again and from recycled ball Ben Harrison Jones powered through the flailing defence to extend the lead to 20-0.
Substitutions: Nick Bowler & Chris Jones for Henry Davies and Sam Fenton
Momentum was maintained with some excellent Gwilym Rees drives allied with the incisive passing of Nick Bowler. As the Tyrchs edged forward, Tom Angell released a pass which swept through the hands of Rhys Lynch and Rhys Powell en route to Chris Jones who edged down the touchline, diving over in the corner for the fifth try.
As the half drew to a close, a quickly taken Gwilym Rees tap penalty created the opportunity for Rhodri Davies Hughes to break through the home defence once more; 30-0 and a rout in prospect.
The final minutes of the half saw the hosts recover their composure and exert sustained pressure on the visitors for the first time. However, their advances were repelled as Will Cole and Nick Bowler snuffed out the danger.
Second Half
Pentyrch Team
Elliott Jones, Owen Evans, Daniel Dagley, Tom Macdonald, Matt Stewart, Tom Burns, Sam James, Marco Palladino, Lewis Evans, Jack Butler
With the Tyrchs now fielding a completely different team, St Joes took advantage of understandable defensive uncertainty and swept in, scoring two tries from the right wing in quick succession. Gaining in confidence, the home backs now began to string together some well executed moves and were only stopped from further closing the gap by a well timed Jack Butler tackle.
This turned out to be a temporary reprieve as St Joe’s punished some weak tackling with two more tries. The margin had now closed to 10 points and in spite of the committed tackling of Matt Stewart it was evident that the initiative was shifting towards the hosts, who breached the Tyrchs lacklustre defence yet again, moving to within one try of what had previously looked to be an unassailable lead.
Substitutions: Harry Jones and Nick Bowler for Lewis Evans and Tom Burns [injured]
The boys were smarting from the reversal in fortunes and now rolled their sleeves up to protect their slender lead with Nick Bowler prominent in open play and Tom Macdonald winning ball in the loose.
Substitutions: Sam Fenton, Ethan Denty, and Chris Jones for Marco Palladino, Tom Macdonald & Jack Butler
With territorial parity gradually restored, the Tyrchs went in search of a further try. The hosts responded well but Elliott Jones and Ethan Denty stifled their attempts to break through. With minutes left St Joe’s spun the ball out from left to right and with an overlap beckoning, Chris Jones gratefully intercepted, before relieving pressure with a run out of defence.
Substitutions Henry Davies and Tom Burns for Nick Bowler and Elliot Jones
The Tyrchs now used their experience to close the game out although there were some relieved faces at the final whistle; 30-25 and a seventh consecutive win secured.
At the risk of falling into cliché - clearly a ‘game of two halves’, but one which could be viewed as a tactical triumph for Ian Hughes & Kelvyn Jones, whose ability to secure victory whilst involving all 24 players during a single 40 minute contest was nothing short of miraculous.
Pentyrch Try Scorers:
Rhodri Davies Hughes 2 Aaron Tomlinson Rhys Lynch Ben Harrison Jones Chris Jones
No Posts- No Conversions!
Pentyrch Under 11’s 40 Dinas Powys U11s 5 21st December 2008
‘Angell from the realms of glory….’
And it came to pass that a decree went out from The Archangell Phil, calling one and all to Dwr y Felin Fields for the final time this year.
Fever & pestilence, [rather than Herod’s hit men], meant that a depleted squad of just fourteen Tyrchs were on hand to welcome their opponents [and a rather vocal] coaching team. An eleven-a-side match was contested over three periods, and whilst the outcome was probably determined in the opening 20 minutes, the final stages proved no less eventful, for reasons which will become clear.
1st PERIOD Pentyrch Team : Ben Harrison Jones, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Owen Evans, Will Cole, Aaron Tomlinson, Tom Burns, Rhys Lynch, Sam James, Sam Fenton, Chris Jones, Jack Butler
Playing down the slope and with a strong wind behind them, the visitors started well, generating all the early pressure with a series of excellent breaks. Sam Fenton, and then Rhodri Davies Hughes produced fine interception tackles to repel Dinas’ increasingly dangerous incursions into home territory, but at the third attempt a fluid move through the middle brought a deserved try, and a 5-0 deficit to contemplate.
From the restart the Tyrchs sought to unsettle their opponents, and first class handling from the backs helped gain valuable ground, with Sam Fenton acting as the fulcrum for a series of raids. The forwards took up the mantle and following swift interplay along the left hand touchline Ben Harrison Jones forced his way through to score. Sam Fenton added the conversion to put the Tyrchs 7-5 ahead.
‘I saw three Tyrchs come sailing in…’
The game appeared well balanced at this stage but the hosts then moved up through several gears, demonstrating great technique and handling skills in increasingly difficult weather conditions:
Ben Harrison Jones led the way with a surging 20 yard run deep into the visitors half, close to the right hand touchline. A clever pass was slipped to Tom Burns, the ball swept from right to left, through three sets of hands, and gratefully accepted by Chris Jones, who fended off the covering tackler before scoring in the left corner. Rhys Lynch converted to extend the lead to 14-5.
Less than a minute later it was Ben, again, who took a short line out ball and raced the length of the pitch to touch down, breaking the will of his opponents in the process.
Now in total control, the Tyrchs closed out the first period as Will Cole’s excellent work in the loose generated more high quality ball for the backs. This time it was Sam Fenton who weaved his way through to score, adding the conversion which pushed the margin out to 26-5.
Second Period: Substitutes- Tom Angell, Harry Jones, Elliott Jones, and Matt Stewart for; Tom Burns, Owen Evans, Will Cole, Jack Butler
‘When the mud lay all about, deep [but not particularly] crisp or even…’
The hosts turned the screw as the weather deteriorated- the driving wind and freezing rain more reminiscent of an Old Testament epic rather than a Christmas card scene. A series of forward drives pushed Dinas back towards their own try line, and a 5 metre scrum only had one outcome, with Ben notching his well deserved hat trick. Rhys Lynch successfully converted in the face of a gale force wind: 33-5. Ben left the field for a brief rest and was replaced by Will Cole.
The game won, there followed a period of impasse. Dinas’s forwards did their utmost to force their way back into the contest, but strong tackling from Rhys Lynch, Aaron Tomlinson, Mat Stewart & Elliott Jones halted their momentum. Any attempts to play expansive rugby were stymied by the bitterly cold weather although the commitment and concentration of both teams never wavered.
Third Period: Substitutes – Tom Burns, Owen Evans, Ben Harrison Jones for Tom Angell, Aaron Tomlinson, Matt Stewart
The Tyrchs maintained territorial pressure and spent the third session of play camped in their opponents half. Dinas tried to break free from the unrelenting pressure, but were stopped in their tracks firstly by Owen Evans and Rhodri Davies Hughes, and finally by Harry Jones with a text book tackle, closing a rare gap in the home defensive line.
‘For mighty dread had seized his troubled mind…’
Once again the home pack gained ground and following a line out Ben Harrison Jones drove though to score a ‘try’ in the corner, provoking a torrent of ill mannered and totally unjustified criticism from a member of the Dinas coaching team, who, to the embarrassment of his compatriots, had spent much of the preceding half hour focussing on perceived injustices in earlier decisions made by the referee.
‘Peace on earth and mercy mild…’ Rising above the conflict with a supreme act of seasonal goodwill, Kelvyn Jones offered to disallow the ‘try’, restarting the game with a line out. This effectively stunned the heckler into silence; his discomfort deepened when, from the ensuing play, a superb forward drive pushed the Dinas pack over their own line, before Rhodri Davies Hughes administered the coup de gras.
‘Ten, sorry, fourteen Tyrchs a- leaping…’
Chris Jones converted: 40-5 – Merry Christmas!
Pentyrch Scorers
Tries: Ben Harrison Jones [3] Chris Jones Sam Fenton Rhodri Davies Hughes
Conversions: Sam Fenton [2] Rhys Lynch [2] Chris Jones
CRICC U11s 14 v Pentyrch U11s 40 14th December 2008
CRICC welcomed Pentyrch to their riverside ground on a surprisingly pleasant December morning. The sides last met in the District tournament in the spring April when the Tyrchs ran out winners by a couple of scores, so a close encounter was expected. This match went through three phases; in the opening session the Tyrchs dominated territory but solid defence limited them to two converted scores, the second phase saw CRICC come back and threaten to draw level, the third phase started with an interception try by the Tyrchs and thereafter they pulled away, leaving no one doubting which the better side were. CRICC to their credit managed a consolation score on the final whistle.
The Pentyrch backs again performed well in contrast to the home side who failed to handle fluently although they had some forceful individual runners. As in their previous match the Tyrchs forced their opposition into several clearance kicks, their experience in dealing with such tactics showed as they countered effectively on most occasions. In addition the Tyrchs benefited at several opposition lines out by deploying their own “Berlin Wall” (Ben H J) at the front to steal the throw. 1st Period Pentyrch started well up the field imposing themselves on the game and forcing many clearance kicks. Fortunately for them Sam Fenton couldn’t help but be underneath them to start the counter. The Tyrchs enjoyed the lion’s share of possession and territory but couldn’t get on the scoreboard. CRICC attacked up blind but were tackled into touch. They had other occasional forays but any territory was gained through kicks. One such clearance produced a lineout on the Tyrchs 22, Ben Harrison Jones took it at the front, brushed aside challengers and sped up the touchline. He fed Sam Fenton who advanced the attack but sound tackling forced him into touch. Will Cole stole the line out and drove at midfield; he set up second phase and Rhodri Davies Hughes took it on. Third phase ball was set up and Rhodri split off again, shrugging off the defence for the opening try which was duly converted.
Sam Fenton caught the deep restart kick and returned it with interest, as is now the customary fashion in the top flight game. CRICC collected and kicked back, Rhys Lynch fielded and stepped through the oncoming pack making useful ground. The Tyrchs were awarded a penalty at the breakdown. Ben Harrison Jones accepted the challenge and drove over casting defenders aside for a converted try.
CRICC moved up to the Tyrchs 22 m and spent some time slowly gaining ground towards the try line. The Tyrchs were awarded the put in for a scrum 5 m out. A good pass from Tomos Angell allowed Rhys Lynch to put in a relieving kick taking play up to half way. CRICC again came back with another penalty kick but stern defence kept them out. Will Cole broke free from a maul and, when held, Rhodri took it on to relive the pressure. An exchange of kicks ended the half with the Tyrchs 0-14 to the good.
Pentyrch
Ben Harrison Jones, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Will Cole, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Sam James Sam Fenton,
Second Half
Ben HJ caught the restart and smashed through the first tackle but the CRICC forwards gathered themselves to eventually smother the attack. Harry Jones with a good tackle out wide halted a CRICC break. CRICC were awarded a penalty 5 m out; the scrum half took it quickly and burrowed over for a converted try. CRICC were enjoying their best period which ended Pentyrch's domination. CRICC moved up to threaten the Tyrchs line but a long pass from scrum half Tom Burns gave Rhys Powell time put in a long clearance kick up to the opposition 22 m. Matt Stewart worked well in the loose to disrupt CRICC's efforts. It was nip and tuck for several minutes and the tension mounted.
From a scrum on the Tyrch’s 10m CRICC went blind and, having hesitated, spun it towards the open side, but the Tyrchs backs were up quickly to pressurise. Rhys Lynch plucking a high ball out of the air intercepted a pass, and sprinted away to score in the right hand corner. Sam Fenton converted; 7-21
Soon after the restart CRICC broke up blind but were escorted in appropriate fashion into touch. Matt Stewart made several metres up the wing but was eventually tackled into touch. The Tyrchs pack spoiled CRICC line out ball; Ben H J scooped it up and scampered over for the try.
Matt Stewart caught the restart deep and carved his way up to half way before being cut down. Injured in the tough challenge he was replaced temporarily by Ethan Denty. Sam James smother tackled in midfield producing a split ball that Sam Fenton gratefully collected, dancing past the tiring defenders and sprinting over from the 22 m for a converted try. The restart kick was fielded by Ethan Denty, who waltzed past half hearted defenders who appeared to have lost their resolve. The try was converted by Sam Fenton.
Daniel Dagley caught the restart and made 20 m up the wing before being tackled into touch. CRICC won the lineout and established a position 5 m from the Tyrchs line. They were awarded a penalty, took it quickly and crossed over in the centre of the field for the final play of the match. They converted to make it 14-40.
Pentyrch Ben Harrison Jones, Elliot Jones, Matthew Stewart, Owen Evans, Daniel Dagely, Tom Burns, Rhys Lynch Rhys Powell, Sam Fenton, Harry Jones.
Tries Rhodri Davies Hughes Ben Harrison Jones 2 Rhys Lynch Sam Fenton Ethan Denty
Cons Rhys Lynch 3 Sam Fenton 2
Pentyrch U11s 20 v Porthcawl U11s 10 7th December 2008
This was a high quality game played with skill and commitment on both sides. Strong running in the visitor’s side and dogged defence kept them in touch until the closing stages. Again conditions were conducive to running rugby and the Tyrchs backs put on a good display. The forwards won the vast majority of their own ball at set pieces and were rarely turned over at the breakdown emphasising how well the teamwork is developing. Porthcawl’s defence was organised and brave, on many occasions they prevented the home side scoring after their try line had been crossed. They were forced into several clearance kicks during the match, some made it into touch but most gave the skilful Tyrchs the opportunity to counter from deep and set up good field position.
Played over three 15 minute periods the match was at all times tense, no conversions meant there was even less time for recovery after scores adding to the frantic pace. Everyone was very relieved when the final whistle blew at 20-10 to the Tyrchs.
1st Period
Playing up slope and into the sun the Tyrchs started well but the visitors soon showed this was not going to be an easy ride. Sam Fenton and Rhys Lynch made early important tackles. Rhodri Davies Hughes split from a breakdown on halfway and made several metres before being held, scrum half Tomos Angell made to the line but couldn’t ground the ball owing to clever and determined defensive work. A good Porthcawl clearance kick was fielded neatly by Sam Fenton who passed several defenders before being caught. Gwilym Rees set off with the second phase ball and set it up again for the Tyrchs- the ball was swiftly moved along the line and then back again to Chris Jones on the wing who still had much to do before crossing in the corner; 5-0.
Soon after the restart pressure on the Porthcawl backs forced turnover ball and the Tyrchs used it well to gain more territory. They won a scrum against the head; the backs realigned quickly which allowed Sam Fenton to cut through the first line of defence before being caught. Will Cole picked from a ruck on his own 10 m line and had Ben Harrison Jones in support but great defensive work from the visitors kept him out.
A miss-move in the Tyrchs backs worked well and got them across the gain line but the ball was stolen by the covering defence. Pentyrch continued to enjoy territorial advantage and when Porthcawl attempted to clear from behind their line Aaron Tomlinson was up like a flash and charged down the attempted kick, he was unlucky not to make the touch down in the corner. The pressure was telling and a neat scissors in the backs put Rhys Powell over the gain line and he carved his way past covering defence to score the try. 10-0
Porthcawl responded well and probed near the breakdown but the Tyrchs were in no mood to relinquish ground, eventually forcing them into touch in the last play before the whistle blew for the end of the period.
Pentyrch
Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Aaron Tomlinson, Will Cole, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Sam Fenton, Chris Jones, Marco Palladino
2nd Period
Porthcawl started the second half with great purpose and caught the Tyrchs a little cold. From a line out 5 m out they spun it out wide for a simple try. They attacked with purpose again and the Tyrchs had to tackle well to keep them at bay. However the visitors’ pressure paid off when they used scrum possession well and their backs levelled the scores at 10-10.
Sam Fenton made good ground after fielding a clearance kick and a good position was set up 5 m out. The ball was lost however and another clearance kick turned the Tyrchs on their heels but Sam was again in the right place to catch and counter. When held he popped the ball to Sam James who made several metres, the forwards worked well in support and they were rewarded when Ben Harrison Jones crossed for his first try to put the Tyrchs back in front.
Ethan Denty crunched the threatening right winger into touch to win a line out. The ball was spun out and Sam James on crash ball made a telling break but yet again the visitors refused to give in displaying solid tackling. They continued to give as good as they got and terminated promising breaks by Gwilym Rees, Tom Burns, and Elliot Jones. Porthcawl again used kicks to gain territory but Harry Jones and in turn Jack Butler were well positioned to collect and set up promising counter attacks. The period ended a tense, 15-10 to the Tyrchs
3rd & Final Period
The early exchanges included sharp work from Will Cole who won opposition line out ball; the ball was spun out to Chris Jones and good supporting worked saw the ball pass through several hands before Rhys Powell cut through for the score but yet again determined defence held him up just over the line.
Sam James on the crash ball again broke from defence, Rhodri broke blind but the visitors stood firm. The injured Rhys Powell was replaced by Sam Fenton. Swift handling in the backs freed Marco Palladino on the right wing; he made 15m before being forced out 5m short of the line.
Porthcawl’s final attempt to get out of their half brought them up to their 10 m but the Tyrchs forced them back to almost to their own line with a series of tackles from Aaron Tomlinson, Rhys Lynch and Chris Jones on the wing. A tap penalty for the Tyrchs saw Tomos Angell head for the corner but he was scythed down, the loose ball was quickly recycled and the backs shifted it out to the wing, but as happened so often the visitors used the touch line as an extra defender. The final word went to Ben Harrison Jones, as he stole Porthcawl ball at the front of the line out and raced 25 m to put the game beyond doubt.
A great win, arguably the best of the season so far.
Great credit should be afforded to the man-in-the-middle, Kelvin Jones, who unfortunately had to deal with some outrageous unwarranted criticism from the touchline “experts”.
3rd Period Pentyrch Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Elliot Jones (Sub by Ben Harrison Jones), Will Cole, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell (Sub Sam Fenton), Marco Palladino, Sam James, Chris Jones
Tries Chris Jones Rhys Powell Ben Harrison Jones 2
Cons Dim Pyst!
St Joseph’s Cardiff U11s v Pentyrch U11s 30th November 2008
After two weeks of high tempo training on the Church Village Astroturf, the Tyrchs were raring to go and the glorious late Autumn weather at Heath Park provided a perfect opportunity to translate theory into practice.
The hosts, St.Joseph’s elected to play two separate matches, which enabled the visitors to field two almost entirely different teams, notable exceptions were Gwilym Rees & Rhys Lynch who each enjoyed productive days. The conditions were suited to an open game and good service from both scrum halves Tom Burns and Tomos Angell initiated swift movement of the ball out wide for the backs to utilise to good effect.
1st Match St. Josephs 5 Pentyrch 39 Pentyrch Team : Owen Evans, Gwilym Rees, Aaron Tomlinson, Mathew Stewart, Elliott Jones, Tom Burns, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Chris Jones, Lewis Evans
The Tyrchs sprung to life from the kick off with Aaron Tomlinson seizing on a loose ball which he cleverly fed to Gwilym Rees. A swift pass released Rhys Lynch who cut through the melee and swept through the home defence to touch down in the left hand corner. Chris Jones failed narrowly with the touchline conversion, but the Tyrchs had thrown down the gauntlet inside the first three minutes.
Chris Jones fielded the restart kick, but a high tackle halted his momentum. The resultant penalty once more saw the inspired Rees-Lynch axis combine effectively; a skilful off-load from Gwilym released Rhys on the wing near half way, Lynch made it past the despairing defence to double his try count after just five minutes.
The hosts fought back and gained a degree of parity at the set piece, but the Tyrchs’ fluid handling and effective rucking kept them on the back foot. A gap appeared and Gwilym Rees darted through, gazelle-like, to touch down and extend the lead to 15-0.
To their credit, St Joe’s responded immediately and fashioned a well worked try to reduce the deficit. However, the Tyrch’s quickly snuffed out the challenge, and effectively ended the contest before half time, launching a classic move as the ball moved rapidly across the back line- Tom Burns to Rhys Lynch, Rhys Lynch to Rhys Powell, finally feeding Chris Jones who sped down the left wing to touch down in the corner- 20-5 as the half time whistle blew.
The second half saw the Tyrch’s pile on more pressure and Tom Burns broke from the base of the scrum to score a superb try, reminiscent of Robert Jones in his hey day. Minutes later, Aaron Tomlinson combined beautifully with the omnipresent Gwilym Rees and raced though to score under the posts. Rhys Lynch added the conversion which pushed the margin out to 32-5.
The hosts reacted strongly and skilful handling helped them find a gap in the Tyrchs defence. They were finally denied by a try-saving covering tackle from Chris Jones, and having secured turnover ball Gwilym Rees released Tom Burns who had to weave his way past several defenders for his second try as the clock ran down. Chris Jones completed the scoring by adding the conversion.
Pentyrch Scorers
Tries: Rhys Lynch 2 Tom Burns 2 Gwilym Rees Chris Jones Aaron Tomlinson
Conversions: Rhys Lynch Chris Jones
2nd Match St.Joseph’s 0 Pentyrch 43
Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Gwilym Rees, Will Cole, Ethan Denty, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Sam James, Nick Bowler, Henry Davies
The second match soon settled into a familiar pattern as the Tyrchs’ forwards took control of the proceedings. Henry Davies benefited from quick ball and when he was halted in his tracks Ben Harrison Jones picked up and burst through to open the score. Rhys Lynch converted, grateful that the Tyrch’s had dispensed with the ‘touchline try’ strategy which had make goal kicking slightly more difficult in the first match!
Momentum maintained, the backs demonstrated their pace and Henry Davies swept through to double the try count after ten minutes. Rhys Lynch converted to extend the lead to 14-0.
Rhodri Davies Hughes then broke away from a ruck on half way and was held a few metres short of the line, the ball was recycled effectively; Will Cole continued the advance and Rhodri again collected and drove over for the try just right of the posts. Rhys Lynch converted. From the kick off the forwards set up good ball for the backs, Sam James made a good half break and off-loaded to Nick Bowler, Ben Harrison Jones in support accepted a well timed pass and cantered over near the corner.
Half Time: 26 -0.
Henry Davies collected the restart kick but St Joes were up pressurising the Tyrchs. The home side mounted a promising attack up the blind side following a scrum but Nick Bowler despatched their No. 9 with customary efficiency. St Joes continued to enjoy marginal territorial advantage at this stage but the Pentyrch forwards drove them back forcefully over the half way, Aaron Tomlinson making a mammoth tackle as St Joes attempted to spin the ball away from the maul.
From a tap penalty a home forward drove at Nick Bowler but once again the winger gave no quarter and forced him into touch. Gwilym Rees fed Ben Harrison Jones at the front of the ensuing line out; Ben shrugged off the defenders and raced half the length of the pitch for an unconverted try near the corner flag.
The St Josephs forwards used a short penalty move to drive at Pentyrch, the visitors however stole possession at the breakdown, the ball was again sent swiftly along the line to Nick Bowler who slipped the first tackle and left two other defenders in his wake to score near the corner.
The rout was completed with another splendid try – this time from Will Cole, who broke through the home defence to score under the posts. Rhys Lynch rounded off the proceedings notching his 20th point of the day.
Pentyrch Try Scorers: Ben Harrison Jones 3 Henry Davies Rhodri Davies Hughes Nick Bowler Will Cole
Conversions: Rhys Lynch 4
St Albans U11s 5 Pentyrch U11s 57 16th November 2008 Pentyrch travelled to Tremorfa Park for the first round of the inaugural Blues Region U11s knockout cup competition. St Albans’ welcome was warm and they made it a memorable occasion for the visitors. Blues Star-in-Residence Xavier Rush was also generous with his time and was happy to sign autographs for the boys (and Dads). The Tyrchs took advantage of the buns’ hospitality-a little too often in the view of the independent referee- but the game was over as a contest by the break. The home side rallied in the second half however and put up a much improved performance, managing one score against the Tyrchs three. One of the most memorable moments in the day came when Aaron Tomlinson scored his first try for the Tyrchs. It’s been a long time coming but was richly deserved in a game where he was involved to great effect in all aspects of play. 1st Half The tone was set immediately as both Sam Fenton and Henry Davies had early runs evading would-be tacklers with ease. From one of these attacks Sam Fenton fed Ben Harrison Jones who made some 15 m before being held. Ethan Denty, alert at the breakdown, helped himself to the recycled ball and broke away to score the first try from 10 m out. Sam Fenton converted. Aaron Tomlinson skilfully gathered the kick off ball and set Gwilym Rees on a low penetrating run. Nick Bowler probed and when third phase ball was passed swiftly to Sam Fenton he set off on a trademark speculative run culminating in a score near the left corner. Rhys Lynch added the points to make 14-0 after five minutes. Tom Angell tackled well to halt a home side advance when they threatened to make it out of their own half. Sam Fenton scooped up a loose ball following a good tackle and raced over from half way, and then added the conversion. Aaron Tomlinson gathered the kick off safely and allowed Henry Davies to cut inside but the “buns” defence was solid on this occasion. Good work by the pack allowed Rhodri Davies Hughes to set off from the breakdown but he was hauled down by his scrum cap. Whilst the crowd were still mid-gasp at the reckless challenge Rhodri took the penalty and made several more yards before being held legitimately. The ball was recycled efficiently and Ben H Jones advanced the attack. The home side were awarded a penalty and fed the ball to the right winger but Nick Bowler dealt with him rigorously. Ben H Jones gathered the ball and put Ethan Denty free on the blind side for his second try. Lynch converted. Unfortunately for the “buns” the kick off went straight to Ben Harrison Jones, and the scattered defence proved an irresistible invitation for the Tyrchs’ Talisman. – Sam Fenton converted Rhys Lynch exploited a gap up the right; the ball was worked back to Tom Angell who fed Nick Bowler. A great tackle appeared to have denied Nick but he used his strength to wriggle over near the corner. The conversion went over and the ref. blew for half time. 2nd Half It is assumed that the Ref. was contacted by the International Referees Panel at half time regarding strict enforcement of the ELVs as he penalised the Tyrchs several times for highly technical infringements at the breakdown, such lessons will however put them in good stead for the future. The “buns” began to put together some periods of cohesive play after the break, Henry Davies forcing them back on their heels with two tackles in quick succession, Rhys Powell also put in a brace of telling challenges to repel their advances. Some good handling in the backs, including a dummy switch in midfield, brought the Tyrchs within striking distance. Rhodri Davies Hughes, always hungry at the breakdown, gathered a rucked ball and split away to score an unconverted try. Chris Jones moved well to catch the restart but the buns were up quickly to force a line out. The home side gathered the loose ball from a long throw; they drove through the Tyrchs midfield to score a well deserved try. The conversion attempt failed. The “buns” enjoyed more of the possession in this period and Aaron Tomlinson and Mathew Stewart were required to put in strong tackles in defence. Pentyrch eventually regained momentum when they won a line out on half way. Rhodri broke from the set piece and set up second phase, Aaron Tomlinson was on hand to pick up and cross over to celebrate his first try for the Tyrchs. From the kick off Rhodri made it up to the opposition 22, Ben H Jones in close support continued the offence and scored his second try of the day. With the 50 point differential reached, the Ref blew for full time. 57-5. Although not a close contest the match was enjoyable and played in a good spirit. The Tyrchs can be especially proud of their tackling, the handling and the support work was particularly good at times in spite of the lack of recent match practice. Pentyrch Ben Harrison Jones, Ethan Denty (2nd half Sub Matthew Stewart), Aaron Tomlinson, Gwilym Rees, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Sam Fenton,(2nd half Sub Rhys Powell) Nick Bowler, (2nd half Sub. Chris Jones) Henry Davies. Tries Sam Fenton 2 Ethan Denty 2 Rhodri Davies Hughes Ben Harrison Jones 2 Aaron Tomlinson Nick Bowler Cons Rhys Lynch 3 Sam Fenton 3
Sully Under 11s v Pentyrch Under 11s 26thth October 2008 Final Score: Sully 5 – Pentyrch 54
A familiar pattern unfolded, as weary parents peered out into the gloom and torrential rain on Sunday morning, waiting for the text message to confirm that the game had been cancelled. Alas no message - but by the time the squad had meandered towards Sully and the coast, driving rain had given way to…. well, gale force winds. Perfect weather to blow away cobwebs and any lingering sloth resulting from that extra hour in bed.
Before the previous match against Rhiwbina, coach Ian Hughes had delivered an impassioned team talk reminiscent of Henry V’s call to arms before the Battle of Agincourt. The troops were stirred and responded with passion, the encounter with Sully provided further evidence of improvement in all areas of play, albeit against slightly weaker opposition.
Sixteen of the squad made the journey to the seaside, and bolstered by the welcome return of three of our district players served up some enterprising and attractive rugby over a single match with the team duly rotated at half time.
1st Half Pentyrch Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Gwilym Rees, Aaron Tomlinson, Will Cole, Tom Burns, Marco Palladino, Nick Bowler, Rhys Powell, Henry Davies
The whistle blew, the Tyrchs’s attacked and following an initial drive by Will Cole the ball slipped gratefully into the firm hands of Ben Harrison Jones, who powered through three tackles to score the opening try after just 30 seconds, Rhys Powell converted. From the restart the hosts were penned back as Aaron Tomlinson and Nick Bowler harried them into making a succession of errors. Line out ball was secured by Ben Harrison Jones and swiftly recycled by the backs: Marco Palladino to Rhys Powell, and then through to Henry Davies who sprinted on to score in the corner. Rhys Powell extended the lead to 14-0.
Still inside the opening 10 minutes, Ben Harrison Jones was out of the blocks once more, carving a path through Sully’s despairing defence. An astute pass found Nick Bowler who weaved through a seemingly impossible gap to touch down close to the left hand corner. Rhys Powell again added the conversion.
The hosts fought back well and began to achieve a degree of parity at set pieces and the breakdown. Tom Burns and Gwilym Rees reacted quickly to repel danger at the scrums and with Sully gradually becoming frustrated at their inability to gain territorial advantage, it seemed inevitable that pressure would yield further points for the Tyrchs. This time it was the excellent Rhodri Davies Hughes who captured a loose ball and wriggled his way over to score.
As half time approached another break yielded the best try so far, as the ball passed rapidly through the hands of Marco Palladino, Rhys Powell, and finally Nick Bowler who celebrated his second try with a splendid Shane Williams impression. Nick also scored the conversion to bring the half to a close at 33-0.
Second Half Owen Evans, Mathew Stewart, Tom Macdonald, Chris Jones, Elliot Jones & Jack Butler replaced: Ben Harrison Jones, Rhodri Davies Hughes, Gwilym Rees, Aaron Tomlinson, Tom Burns and Marco Palladino
Despite having made a number of positional changes the Tyrchs maintained their momentum. Nick Bowler and Chris Jones slotted in as half backs and their early break provided Elliott Jones with the opportunity to surge through and extend the lead, with Chris Jones adding the conversion.
To their credit Sully came back strongly and Jack Butler, Owen Evans, and Tom Macdonald were on their mettle to prevent an immediate riposte, by steering their opponents into touch. From the resultant lineout excellent handling saw the ball moving swiftly across the pitch from Chris Jones to Rhys Powell and finally to Henry Davies whose electrifying pace generated sufficient space to enable him to touch down in the corner. Chris Jones converted to increase the margin to 47-0.
Substitutions: Ben Harrison Jones & Marco Palladino for Will Cole & Rhys Powell.
From the restart the hosts muscled their way down field and laid siege to the Penytrch line. Pressure was eventually rewarded and a try was the least they deserved for maintaining their composure and spirit against difficult odds.
The last significant act was left to the Tyrchs, as another swift interchange between all five backs concluded with Marco Palladino racing through to notch up the half century of points. Chris Jones converted to increase the margin to 54-5.
Tom Burns replaced Henry Davies for the final moments and Sully deserve credit for managing to keep the Tyrch’s rampant forwards at bay as the clock ran down.
It would be too easy to get carried away by the margin of victory, but after severe early season tests from renowned opponents [Bridgend, Pencoed & Rhiwbina] there was much to savour in this performance - improved technique in the tackle, secure passing and a willingness to run the ball when opportunity knocked.
This was an entertaining game to watch, and great credit is due to the referee whose astute judgement and pragmatic approach created an environment where skill and inventiveness were allowed to flourish.
Tries: Henry Davies [2] Nick Bowler [2] Ben Harrison Jones Rhodri Davies Hughes Elliott Jones Marco Palladino
Conversions: Rhys Powell [3] Chris Jones [3] Nick Bowler
Pentyrch U11s v Rhiwbina U11s 19th October 2008
Pentyrch entertained Rhiwbina at home in an interesting fixture played over two games. Both squads were depleted in numbers but Rhiwbina as always arrived with inTENT and well prepared for the late kick-off. The Tyrchs’ tackling was solid in all departments and in that respect they proved that a week is a long time in Mini Rugby. However, although they matched Rhiwbina in the first of the two games the visitors were better at taking advantage of the gaps and loose play in the second to score a convincing win.
First Game Pentyrch 14 Rhiwbina 14 1st Period Rhiwbina started well up the slope and applied early pressure, their scrum half sniping effectively close to the fringes. It was tense, and solid tackling was required by both sides as Pentyrch rose to the challenge. A penalty on half way was fed to Will Cole who needs no encouragement to have a blast at the defence. He made several hard yards before Rhiwbina’s collective efforts brought him to a standstill. The ball was recycled efficiently out to the backs who developed the attack before Will Cole collected again and smashed his way through. Chris Jones converted.
Rhiwbina responded and got to within 10 m of the Tyrchs’ line. Rhys Lynch cleared with a long kick eagerly followed up by Chris Jones who pressurised the recipient. Soon after the Tyrchs won good ball in midfield and released Rhys Powell who, after a deft show of the ball, ghosted past the defenders and sprinted away for the try. Rhys Lynch added the two points.
From the kick off Tom Angell, with electrifying pace, cut through the startled defence but was eventually brought down on the 22. Gwilym Rees, Pentyrch’s own Grim Ripper, as always winning ball where others fear to go, allowed Will Cole to target Rhiwbina’s midfield but he was eventually held. A long throw at a line out was gathered well at the tail by Daniel Dageley and he made good ground before being felled. However, Rhiwbina were also probing and determined tackling was required to keep them out, Chris Jones responsible for one try saving effort late in the half.
Half Time Substitutions ON Sam James, Tom Burns, Jack Butler, Tom Macdonald, Lewis Evans, Matthew Stewart, Owen Evans OFF Rhys Lynch, Chris Jones, Gwilym Preest, Daniel Dageley, Tomos Angell Elliot Jones.
Rhiwbina enjoyed the lion’s share of possession early on but only lateral meandering resulted. Jack Butler executed fine tackles to deny the visitors repeatedly. Mathew Stewart and Rhys Powell also made telling challenges. Mathew Stewart and Owen Evans were replaced by Aaron Tomlinson and Elliot Jones.
With all but one of the Tyrchs’ backs tied into a maul on their own 22 Rhiwbina were alert to the blind side opportunity and the scrum half waltzed over unopposed. From the kick-off Rhiwbina were sharper and took advantage of a dip in Pentyrch’s concentration to tie the scores. By this time the visitors were enjoying the slope advantage and drew try saving tackles on the flanks from Sam James, Jack Butler and Rhys Lynch.
Pentyrch Will Cole, Aaron Tomlinson, Gwilym Rees, Daniel Dageley, Elliot Jones, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Gwilym Preest, and Chris Jones. Substitutions: Sam James, Tom Burns, Jack Butler, Tom Macdonald, Lewis Evans, Matthew Stewart, Owen Evans
Tries Will Cole Rhys Powell
Cons Chris Jones Rhys Lynch
2nd Game Pentyrch 0 Rhiwbina 28
The second game deteriorated a little in that the play was often scrappy. Rhiwbina were more adept at capitalising on the opportunities that arose from the loose play. They scored all of the points as their team worked together well and eclipsed the efforts of the Tyrchs in most departments. They were more urgent in the loose and turned over Tyrchs’ possession frequently. Tomos Angell sped promisingly from the break down on a couple of occasions but lack of support put paid to each of his initiatives. Rhiwbina forced a 5 m scrum from where they exploited the blind side for their first try. The squirrels continued to exploit the gaps that appeared and finished off well to open up a 21-0 lead by half time.
In the second half there were memorable pieces of good play; Rhys Powell’s crucial tackle into touch, Elliot Jones robbing line out ball, and Tom Macdonald, who gathered a loose ball & stood up well to set up second phase possession. However it was Rhiwbina’s alertness that allowed them to run away with a convincing win.
Pentyrch Aaron Tomlinson, Owen Evans, Mathew Stewart, Daniel Dageley, Elliot Jones, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Sam James, Gwilym Preest, Lewis Evans,
Substitutions: Tom Burns, Jack Butler, Tom Macdonald, Gwilym Rees, Matthew Stewart, Owen Evans, Chris Jones
LOOK AWAY NOW! Pencoed Under 11’s v Pentyrch Under 11’s 12th October 2008 Score: Pencoed "A substantial number [see below]" – Pentyrch 0
There are always ‘positives’ to take away from every game. The fact that splendid autumn weather and the quality of Pencoed’s bacon rolls came close to the top of the list last Sunday probably tells you as much as you need to know about this mis-match. In fact, those of a nervous disposition should read no further…..
Last March the Tyrchs lost the corresponding fixture by a narrow margin running their hosts extremely close in all departments. This was a very different story, the outcome of which can be partly explained by the differing approach adopted by each club towards the selection of ‘district level’ players in their teams. Pentyrch followed local protocol and rested all five who had played the previous day Pencoed did not.
So reader, if you are still there, best go and hide behind the settee for 10 minutes…
1st Period Pentyrch Team: Ethan Denty, Gwilym Rees, Aaron Tomlinson, Will Cole, Matthew Stewart, Tom Angell, Rhys Lynch, Nick Bowler, Marco Palladino, Chris Jones
Pencoed seized the initiative from the kick off, switching the ball between flanks with composure. Nick Bowler made an excellent try saving tackle but recycled possession yielded an early close range try which was duly converted.
The Tyrchs fought back and Will Cole led the line admirably, almost scoring following a break from the line out. Pressure was maintained and the hosts were penned back in their own half through some excellent spoiling work, most notably from Gwilym Rees and Ethan Denty.
Eventually Pencoed regained possession and another sweeping move saw them break through several despairing tackles en route to a second converted try.
From the restart the pattern was repeated although the Tyrchs initially held firm, with Tom Angell and Aaron Tomlinson managing to quell the danger. The hosts upped the tempo and their imposing forwards combined juggernaut-like to punch repeated holes in the Tyrchs’ defence before whipping the ball out for their grateful backs to weave through some lacklustre tackling to ground the ball. As half time approached the Tyrchs, although battered, were still in the game, but worse was to come….
2nd Period Penytrch Substitutions: Tom Burns, Sam James, Rhys Powell, Jack Butler, Owen Thomas, Tom Macdonald, Daniel Dagley, for: Nick Bowler, Chris Jones, Matthew Stewart, Marco Palladino, Tom Angell, Gwilym Rees, and Aaron Tomlinson
As during the opening fixture this season against Bridgend, wholesale team changes may have accounted for the tentative start made by the Tyrchs in the second half, but against opposition as powerful and ruthless as Pencoed this proved fatal, as the home side built on their impressive platform to rattle in two more tries in quick succession. Injuries then deprived the Tyrchs of Rhys Lynch & Rhys Powell and Marco Palladino & Aaron Tomlinson returned in their stead - Aaron gamely slotting into the centre, but by now the hosts were in rampant form, and tries six seven and eight followed without reply.
Ethan Denty & Will Cole came off, having done their utmost to man the barricades, and Gwilym Rees & Matthew Stewart replaced them for the final scenes, but they and their tiring colleagues were unable to prevent Pencoed from driving further holes in the Tyrchs’ flagging defence, notching up three further tries.
So a heavy defeat, and one which was probably predictable given the selection decision made by the hosts. That said positives do exist for our boys- Pencoed played a simple but effective game and generally did all things exceptionally well- there is much to learn from their approach. Weak & occasionally poorly positioned tackling are areas which can be worked on in the weeks ahead, and so in many respects this fixture coming so early in the season could have a beneficial impact, providing the boys react positively. It is, after all, ‘only a game’ but it is incumbent on all parents to help restore self belief and confidence, ready for next Sunday- Rhiwbina did I hear you say?
Final score Pencoed 73-Pentyrch 0
Pentyrch U11s 26 v Llandaf North U11s 10 28th September 2008
These two teams last met on a shivering Sunday in February when the Tyrchs ran out convincing winners. A warm summer morning provided conditions ideal for running rugby however this contest was generally confined to tussles up front, expansive rugby was the exception rather than the rule. The visitors provided stiff opposition in the first period and the Tyrchs took time to gain the ascendancy. In the latter stages the game opened up with more ball distribution and wide running to allow Pentyrch the decisive scores in the last of the three periods. New boys Tom Macdonald, Daniel Dagley and Marco Palladino enjoyed their first win in Pentyrch colours.
1st Period
Although the Tyrchs started strongly they were repelled at each foray by determined defence. There were notable drives by Ethan Denty and Gwilym Rees but the hosts failed to recycle possession and the ball was lost on each occasion. A good clearance kick from the North defence was fielded by Rhys Lynch and Marco Palladino was released on a counter attack but the defence were up quickly to nullify the opportunity. The Llandaf North forwards, more urgent at the breakdown, robbed the ball but they in turn succumbed to Tyrchs pressure that forced them backwards. Will Cole then gathered a loose ball and crossed the line but lost possession in his attempt to ground the ball.
More pressure from Pentyrch forced another North clearance kick that was well fielded by Rhys Powell. He started the counter attack but the visitors’ forwards were up in numbers and stole the ball. Almost immediately Pentyrch’s pressure put their opponents on the back foot eventually producing the bonus of a spilt ball. The omnipresent Will Cole collected and drove over making no mistake with the touch down this time. Rhys Lynch Converted. Pentyrch
Will Cole, Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Gwilym Rees, Owen Evans, Elliot Jones, Tomos Angel, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Jack Butler, Nick Bowler, Marco Palladino 2nd Period
The visitors were now beginning to enjoy extended periods of possession but Tyrchs’ dogged defence kept them out of their 22. Gwilym Preest spoiled an early Llandaf North break out early in the second period with a scything tackle. Ethan Denty broke away but again ball was stolen and the North countered. The Tyrchs then pressurised their adversaries into several mistakes and the slow grind of forward power gained several yards before the Tyrchs were forced into touch near the visitors’ line. Pressure at the lineout saw Will Cole and Gwilym Rees gather the ball and power over as one to make the touch down.
From the deep kick off Llandaf were up quickly to establish good field position. They were awarded a scrum 5 m out. The scrum half broke blind and was held, but timely support allowed the visitors to cross over to reduce the arrears to 12-5.
Pentyrch Will Cole, Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Gwilym Rees, Tom Macdonald, Tom Burns, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Sam James, Harry Jones, Gwilym Preest, Daniel Dagley.
3rd Period
The visitors started the last period strongly with a repeat of their short scrum move. They again broke blind and surged through despairing tacklers to make the scores 12-10. The injured Rhys Lynch was replaced at outside half by Sam James. The game opened up as both sets of forwards tired in the heat. Rhys Powell found open ground on the left, he was well supported and Tomos Angell raced over in the corner for the decisive score. Sam James converted. Tom Macdonald replaced Gwilym Rees. As gaps opened opportunities beckoned but the visitors’ defence hung in to produce try saving tackles; Jack Butler was denied on the wing and an excellent tackle in the middle of the field felled a bullocking Will Cole. Tom Burns replaced Tomos Angell.
Another Llandaf North attacking scrum was defended well on the blind by Sam James, the loose ball was scooped up by Marco Palladino who broke free to sprint away from deep leaving the tiring defence in his wake for a well deserved first try for the Tyrchs. Sam James added the points.
Daniel Dagley replaced Owen Evans. The final moments again saw the forwards in possession with Aaron Tomlinson and Will Cole driving well making good ground well supported by Elliot Jones.
Good interplay and team work was sporadic in this performance. There were occasional glimpses of quality play during the contest and some good individual performances. Improved communication and teamwork will be needed if the Tyrchs are to overcome more organised opposition. Nevertheless it was a satisfying first win of the season in the new era of U11s District rugby.
Pentyrch Will Cole, Ethan Denty, Aaron Tomlinson, Gwilym Rees, Owen Evans, Elliot Jones, Tomos Angell, Rhys Lynch, Rhys Powell, Marco Palladino, Nick Bowler, Jack Butler
Tries Tom Angell Will Cole 1 Gwilym Rees/Will Cole 1 Marco Palladino
Cons Rhys Lynch Sam James (2)
Pentyrch Under 11’s v Bridgend Athletic Under 11’s 14th September 2008 Pentyrch 14 Bridgend Athletic 33
And so the summer came to an end, and it was time to return to Dwr y Felin fields for that familiar Sunday morning routine. Calendar reminders were an irrelevance: selection boxes and Yuletide cards had been on sale in Spar for three weeks, and the mother in law had already asked that fateful question about ‘the arrangements’ for Christmas dinner. Yes, the rugby season was about to begin…
But no early Christmas gift for the Under 11’s- first up were the all conquering Bridgend Athletic, who had trained through the Summer, and rattled up a century of points in their opening fixtures last weekend.
The neutral could be forgiven for thinking this would be an impossible task for the Tyrchs with just 2 hours of training time under their belts, but this turned out to be a compelling contest of the highest quality.
The home side had 18 players, their opponents just 13, so it was decided to play a single match over three periods which ensured adequate game time for all.
1st Period Pentyrch Team : Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Rhodri Davies Hughes Aaron Tomlinson, Will Cole, Tom Burns, Rhys Lynch, Sam Fenton, Lewis Evans, Chris Jones, Marco Palladino
Bridgend were out of the blocks quickly and the hosts fronted up with Ben Harrison Jones and Will Cole picking up where they left off last season. The Tyrchs won the first scum against the head with some excellent hooking from Gwilym Rees and set off on a mini break. The visitors seized back the initiative however, and slick handling set up a well worked try on the right wing. From the restart Bridgend again took possession and a period of relentless pressure saw them double the score after 10 minutes. The Tyrchs were stung into action and responded immediately- Rhys Lynch released Sam Fenton and debutant Marco Palladino in a series of raids and gradually the pack secured more possession, growing in confidence and ultimately restoring territorial parity as the first period of play drew to a close.
2nd Period Penytrch Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Will Cole, Owen Evans Tom Macdonald, Tom Angell, Sam James, Rhys Powell, Gwilym Preest, Henry Davies, Nick Bowler
Wholesale team changes may have accounted for the Tyrchs sluggish start and they were caught cold as the visitors notched up their third converted try. Undeterred the boys came back strongly and with Ben Harrison Jones leading the line they came heartbreakingly close to scoring, dominating possession as the game opened up. The Bridgend tackling was resolute and determined and the well rehearsed alignment of their backs ominous, particularly as the Tyrchs were unable to convert pressure into points. Once again a break saw the visitors sweep through the home defence to extend their lead to 28-0 with a glorious try close to the left touchline.
3rd Period Pentyrch Team: Ben Harrison Jones, Gwilym Rees, Rhodri Davies Hughes Will Cole, Aaron Tomlinson, Tom Angell, Rhys Lynch, Sam Fenton, Marco Palladino, Chris Jones, Henry Davies
The Tyrchs got off to a great start with Rhys Lynch releasing Sam Fenton & Henry Davies. The ball was cleverly spun out to Marco Palladino who grounded agonisingly short of the try line. Bridgend regrouped and surged back down field but a booming kick from Rhys Lynch cleared the halfway line & relieved the pressure. The hosts responded admirably and a series of forward drives through the middle brought due reward when Will Cole dived over to score the first try, which Chris Jones converted.
Gaining in confidence the boys sustained momentum and the backs went close to scoring first through Henry Davies and then Marco Palladino. Pentyrch Substitution: Nick Bowler for Chris Jones Territorial advantage was maintained and the home forwards tightened their grip, eventually creating the opportunity for Will Cole to surge over. Sam Fenton added the conversion reducing the deficit to 28-14. Pentyrch Substitution: Tom Burns for Tom Angell.
As the clock ran down there was still just enough time for Bridgend to fashion another try out on the right wing – a final reminder of their pedigree and resilience.
In conclusion, a worthy effort from the Tyrchs who appeared initially in awe of their well drilled opponents. After the opening salvo had yielded a brace of tries for the visitors there was little to choose between these teams and in truth this represented an ideal opening fixture and a good opportunity for the coaches to evaluate the strengths and developmental needs of the squad.
Tries Will Cole (2)
Conversions Chris Jones Sam Fenton
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