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| U8's 2009 - 2010 The Pentyrch Under 7&8’s season started on Friday 11th September 2009 with a group of approximately 35 players – some “old”, some “young”, some clueless, but all keen and enthusiastic. The new coaching team were also a bit “young and inexperienced” and possibly a little overwhelmed with all the activity and energy that was in front of them!!! It was a great start to training – the evening night was warm and sunny, the new clubhouse build was complete and the patio in front of the playing pitches was swarming with chattering and supportive parents. Training has been good for the first 4 weeks with the number of players at training increasing by the week. The Team Manager and Registration Officer have been busy (and sometimes, frantically) collecting all information and registering our new and young players! We are now almost at full capacity for this age group with 22 registered players for the Under 8’s and also 22 registered for the Under 7’s.
Date | vs | Score | Try Scorers |
Sept.13th
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Old Illtydians |
U8 Lost 4 - 5 |
Gethin Rosser x3 Taylor Hughes x1 |
Sept. 20th
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Llantwit Fardre
Abercwmboi |
U7 Lost 0 – 6 U8 Lost 3 – 5 U7 Lost 2 – 5 U8 Lost 1 - 8 |
Will Jones x1 James Williams x2
Cameron Docherty x2 William Couston x1
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Sept.27th
|
Barry |
U7 Won 10 -9
U8 Won 6 - 5
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Cameron Docherty x2 Joe White x3 Oliver Stockdale x2 Gethin Thomas x3 Will Jones x1 James Williams x1 Gethin Rosser x3 Tom Wakeling x1 |
Despite a slow start to the season, the end of this month has finally started to show rewards for all the hard work done at training.
Training is so far still good with numbers attending still very high – it can sometimes appear a little manic out there on the pitch with so many of them running about doing their “stuff”!!!
Sunday October 4th Away at CRICC A lovely, sunny Autumn morning with a really good turnout of players and parents down at CHSOB’s ground. Again we were fortunate that the opposition had enough players to field two sides – separate Under 7’s and Under 8’s – so all of our players had plenty of opportunity to play.
Sunday October 11th Away at Glamorgan Wanderers Not such a lovely morning! Absolutely bucketing it down!!! We arrived to play the home side but ended up with a St. Albans team there as well so the boys and girls had a chance to play twice.
Date | vs | Score | Try Scorers |
Oct. 4th
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CRICC |
U7 Won 5 - 4 U8 Won 10 - 9
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Joe White x3 Cameron Docherty x1 Daniel Cross x 1
Tom Wakleling x1 Aled Robins x1 James Williams x1 Taylor Hughes x2 Gethin Rosser x5 |
Oct. 11th
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Glamorgan Wanderers
St Albans
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U7 Lost 1 - 3 U8 Draw 1 - 1
U7 Draw 1 - 1 U8 Won 4 - 3 |
George Welsh x1
Gethin Rosser x1
Gethin Thomas x1
Aled Robins x1 Gethin Rosser x3 |
Oct. 18th
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Merthyr |
U8
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Oct.25th
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Rhiwbina |
U7 U8
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U9's 2009 - 2010 Victory at Luctonians Festival
March 21st AWAY Match Having extricated ourselves from the sofa after the huge amount of rugby yesterday and put away our onions and berets for another year, we set off in glorious spring sunshine to find Llanishen – I do literally mean FIND Llanishen as the pitches were cleverly disguised as a wood.... Squad: Ben, Brad, Cai, Cameron, Dan P, Dan J and Dan S, Gareth, George, Gruff, Harry, Jassim, Josh, LBJ, Rhys FIRST QUARTER I think somewhat daunted by the size of Llanishen we got off to a slow start, Cameron and Dan P both helped out well in the drives with Gruff ripping the ball from our opponents and was only stopped when we knocked the ball on. Gareth took the resulting kick off and passed to Dan J who turned and drove excellently into the pack. We were awarded a 5m tap but were prevented from getting over the line by a superb tackle from Llanishen. Harry had another attempt at the line and then passed to Josh but we got turned over in the next ruck and with great speed Llanishen powered up the line to score the first try. From the re-start LBJ had a great darting run before being tackled, Cai was running well and Dan J stopped his man by clinging onto his back and refusing to let go (it worked though!); suddenly the ball was in Ben’s hands and he was off to level the scores. Llanishen were just stopped from scoring again with a fantastic covering tackle by Gruff right on their line. SECOND QUARTER Llanishen scored again almost immediately but we struck back with a good break from Ben but we lost the penalty and a lack of concentration cost us another quick try. Dan P then took the ball from loose play and made good ground but we lost the ball again and Llanishen picked up the loose ball and ran in another try in as many minutes. Unbowed we started to put together some good moves with Cai passing out to Cam and George; Gareth picked up the ball from the bottom of a ruck and had a good run, Brad was chasing down his man well with Rhys tenacious as always in his tackling. We did stand firm in our defence with LBJ and Dan S both helping in the mauls and Jassim out on the wing; we were unable to respond to Llanishen pressure but we also did not let Llanishen add to their score before the whistle. THIRD QUARTER J osh started out with a lovely step inside to fool his opponent and gave the ball to Ben who made ground again but we lost the ball in the next ruck and gave possession back to Llanishen. George made a great tackle to fell their winger and we turned over the ball but promptly knocked-on and Llanishen scored again from their penalty. Gruff was chasing down every tackle with Cai on his shoulder; Gareth made some ground from loose play and suddenly Cameron was over, arm lifted in celebration BEFORE he got over the line (he has promised not to do this again it is too much for the spectators nerves!!). LBJ took the re-start well and passed out to Brad who also made ground and Dan S was putting his weight behind every maul but we could not get any further towards our line. FOURTH QUARTER L lanishen increased the pressure in the final part of the match and scored twice quickly. We still did not let our heads go down and Jassim picked up the ball from a ruck, ran, got tackled but presented the ball well to George who also had a run. Llanishen broke through our defence again but then Rhys had a lovely run and passed before being tackled out to Harry who took the ball into a drive with Cai and Dan P pushing for all they were worth. Dan J had another run up the line and was just tackled into touch short of his line, Gruff made a now trademark covering tackle to prevent another try and we were looking much sharper but we were unable to score again. The boys played really well and should not be disheartened by the score but our opposition were quicker recycling the ball and they were physically stronger in the rucks and mauls which gave them lots of possession and therefore tries. When we had possession we had some great runs and made good ground working together but we were prevented, with some excellent defence, from scoring more than our two tries. Well done boys you should be proud of your performance. Final score: Llanishen 10 –Pentyrch 2
March 7th AWAY Match Spring had definitely sprung when we bounced down to St Peters and then discovered that it was actually still Winter and we should have all taken extra layers! Squad: Ben, Cai, Dan P, Ffinli, Finlay, Gareth, George, Gruff, Harry, Jasim, Josh, LBJ, Rhys, Tom FIRST QUARTER  It was Harry’s turn to be out captain today and we exerted some great early pressure onto St Peters; George had a great run that was so nearly a try; Ffinli took the ball into a good drive and we won the penalty through good pressure. Josh took the tap and started a move from Ben to Cai to Ffin and Dan but a loose ball was knocked on and we lost position again. In the next move Rhys picked up and ran, passing quickly out to Dan P (showing no ill effects from his VERY late night) and back to George. St Peters were quick though and they scored a try that had been a long time coming. With a very well worked move from the kick off we put together a lovely run, Gruff and Tom both new on the pitch taking the ball well, Josh took the ball into the tackle again and LBJ picked up with a run weaving in and out of the opposition with great skill; Harry produced a great covering tackle but St Peters were too quick and scored again. From the next start Gareth took the ball well into a ruck, Fin took the ball and laid back well for Ben to pick up and run but as he was taken into touch the whistle went for the end of this period. SECOND QUARTER With Gareth taking the restart quickly, Dan, Ben and Ffinli had runs but were stopped by some really good tackling by St Peters; we got some good ground through a move by Tom, George and Gareth but once again St Peter’s took the ball over our line. Gruff picked up the ball from their line and ran well creating space for Harry to gain some great ground; Tom and Cai were working well in the maul, pushing and ripping with ease but we were still not able to prevent our opponents from scoring their fourth try. We were, however, competing well in all areas we were just unable to convert them into tries. THIRD QUARTER  Eric was our coach on the pitch for this part of the match and this seemed to inspire the boys to great deeds! Almost from the kick off Ben passed to George out to Gruff and then Josh who rumbled over for our first try. Tom had a run and passed out to LBJ who was stopped just on the line but in the restart it was Ben with a trademark side-stepping long run that got out second try. Cai then took up the gauntlet with another long run through defenders but we lost the ball forward in a tackle and Harry picked up the ball passing out to Dan P who went over for our third. Gareth kept his concentration to take a high ball and offloaded it before he was tackled to Rhys but we ran out of time to get over the line again.
FOURTH QUARTER Our heads up and with just one try in it we put together some great rugby for this part of the match. Cai had a run, LBJ laid back well to Dan and George. Tom had a break and then Finlay took a lovely pick up from his feet and was unlucky not to score. Jasim then took to the field as a very late replacement and Tom came off. St Peters then scored again and this seemed to spur us to even greater endeavour as George ran is a superb try with LBJ’s able assistance. The scores, now matched were sadly not to remain so as our opponents scored right on the whistle. We had a slow start and then a fantastic comeback in the second half but could not quite manage the win (sound familiar anyone?). Once again the boys played with heart and soul but perhaps the many sleepovers that had occurred last night were not helping our cause.
Final Score: St Peters 6 - Pentyrch 4
February 28th HOME Match
 On a blustery morning we fought our way through Heol y Parc, Bronllwn and finally the car park to meet our nemesis Rhiwbina for the second time this season, this time on our turf, could we pull off an unexpected win?
Squad: Ben, Cai, Cameron, Dan P, Dan S and Dan J, Ffinli, Finlay, Gareth, George, Gruff, Harry, Jasim, Josh, LBJ, Rhys, Tom FIRST QUARTER In case anyone was in doubt that it was his birthday tomorrow Gareth took his turn as captain and we elected to start uphill – our preferred method. Gareth took the tap and passed out to Josh who made ground and then passed to Harry who took the ball into our first ruck. Rhiwbina managed to rip the ball and made a good break but George made a great cover tackle to stop the first onslaught from our opponents. To no avail though as Rhiwbina took a quick start and ran in their first try.  From our restart Ben wriggled his way out of two tackles to make a good break and we were covering well with breaks from Gruff and Cameron but Rhiwbina struck again with their second try soon after their first. Our heads were not bowed and we kept up the pressure, defending our line well, Tom made a good break and passed out to Ben who was grounded into touch. We did nearly get over the try line but Eric called for the TV replay and we were instead awarded a 5 yard scrum. Ffinli was tackling well with Jasim and we stood firm in defence to prevent any further scores before the whistle but we could not manage to get ourselves on the scoreboard. SECOND QUARTER A great first drive from the Tyrchs saw Finlay emerge with ball in hand and pass to Harry, the ensuing ruck saw Dan J pick up the ball from the base and pass to Dan S who had a lovely run before being tackled. Tom picked up the ball quickly but was stopped again. We were putting good pressure on Rhiwbina with some superb tackles notably from Cai and Gruff; Rhys made a break and then Cameron got the ball from the maul and passed out to Dan J then Josh who made good ground. LBJ was covering the wing well with Finlay and our pressure meant that they could not capitalise on their possession and did not score in the period of play. THIRD QUARTER Our pressure in the previous quarter was not enough to prevent another Rhiwbina try early in this quarter but from the restart Gareth took the ball into a maul staying on his feet well and passed out to George who had a great run, we lost the ball in the next tackle but Harry nearly intercepted the pass from the ball coming out to Rhiwbina. We then set up a lovely backs move with Dan S passing from Jasim to Tom to Ben before being stopped again; Danny P put in a crunching tackle and Ffinli picked up and had a run but once again Rhiwbina got over our line. Our last move of this quarter was a great run by Finlay up the line but he was stopped with another good tackle by our opposition. FOURTH QUARTER We kept up our excellent tackle rate even though it was the final part of the match, Ffinli had a nice run but we lost the ball in the ruck; Cai had a great run but his foot was in touch inches before the line; then it was Finlay’s turn for some speedy manoeuvring before Cai finally got over the line along with most of his team mates for our first, and much deserved, try. Gruff put in a superb tackle on their quick centre that had caused us problems all game, preventing another try by Rhiwbina. Danny P also felled our opponents with a fab tackle; Josh was making ground well until a bump to the arm (and the extra first aid administered by his Mum) meant that he came off the pitch to be replaced by Ben. LBJ out on the wing again was tackling well along with Rhys who was chasing down and not giving up. Cameron too was getting into the middle of the rucks with determination but we just could not score again BUT we also did not let Rhiwbina score again and this was down to the resolve of the boys who at no point let their heads drop.  A good display by the boys against stiff opposition, our defence was superb and just one or two extra tackles could have made all the difference to the score line. Rhiwbina are a well drilled team and their passing before the contact was made ensured that they retained the ball and therefore the opportunities to score. The boys can all be proud of themselves and we will beat them one day!
Final score: Pentyrch 1 – Rhiwbina 4
February 14th AWAY Match Still suffering from the after effects of the game and the subsequent celebrations yesterday (well I was but you will be pleased to know I am feeling much better now), we fortunately only had to pop over the mountain road to Llantwit Fadre on a beautiful Valentine’s morning. Squad: Ben, Cai, Dan P, Dan S and Dan J, Finlay, Gareth, Gruff, Jasim, LBJ, Tom. FIRST THIRD After waiting for the U8’s to complete their match we were warmed up and ready for action. From the start this was a tough game; Tom took the ball into a ruck and passed out to send Cai on a lovely run up the line but was tackled into touch. Ben then had a break but Gruff scored our first try with a great run. Llantwit’s defence was strong and they were tackling and chasing down our boys really well. Not daunted by this LBJ, out on the wing, put in a great tackle on their speedy winger and then helped Finlay in the following drive. Gareth then made a break but was unlucky to knock the ball on or apparently he would have scored (quote from Mr Evans). Danny P had a terrific run but was stopped short, LBJ then took a knock to his foot and Jasim stepped on for his first game this year for the Tyrchs. Dan S passed the ball out of a maul to Gruff who had another good run and passed to Dan J and then Dan P had a run from the restart but to no avail. Llantwit then struck back with their first try just as the whistle went. SECOND THIRD Cai started this part of the match with even more zeal than normal and produced a wonderful run to gain us ground; Ben also had a side stepping run but it was Finlay who took the ball over the line for a great try. Llantwit struck back again with a superb run from their winger who was felled eventually by Gruff after eluding a number of our players. Gruff then went on his own run and was just stopped short; it was left to Ben to pick up the ball and dive for the line for our third try. It was Ben again who moments later after the restart scored with another run after having thrown an outrageous dummy and beating the opposition. Danny P then went over for a deserved try after all the running and tackling that he had made throughout the match. Gruff had a long run towards, and indeed over, the try line but it was disallowed after some correct sportsmanship from Laurie! Jasim was making his presence felt by pushing well in the mauls with Gareth and Tom was ripping the ball really well and his pass to Cai enabled him to run in his own deserved try. Dan J had taken a knock and was replaced by Dan S. Llantwit then made another break and their fast player shook off three tackles before going over with a fab jump/dive for the line. FINAL THIRD With the score standing at 6-2 it was remarked that this was a comfortable cushion, however Llantwit did not put their heads down and in the first three minutes had scored twice, both with runs that had started in the breakdown in our half and we just could not catch them. We were still tackling with firm determination and Cai produced yet another great tackle to stop them from scoring again. We then fashioned what can only be described as a team try with everyone playing their part to get us over that line, it was Dan J who emerged from the bottom of the ruck triumphant with ball in hand. We finished the match with another piece of quick thinking from Ben who saw the opportunity, picked up the ball and crossed the line for his hat trick. A great game, it was tighter than the score line suggests, Llantwit were solid in their defence and with only 11 boys in our squad today they all had lots of game time and all played with skill and tenacity, well done boys. Final score: Llantwit Fadre 4 – Pentrych 8
February 7th HOME Match Trying to put the disappointment of yesterday firmly out of our minds (what WAS he thinking!!??) we faced up to strong opposition from Dinas Powys. Squad: Ben, Bradley, Cai, Cameron, Dan P, Dan S and Dan J, Ffinli, Finlay, Gareth, Gruff, Harry, Josh, LBJ, Rhys, Tom. FIRST QUARTER With Tom acted as our captain (it was his sister’s birthday after all), we started strongly with some good tackling, Dan P and Ffinli both putting in good hits to prevent Dinas scoring, Harry took the ball from a tackle and had a run; Josh passed a lovely ball out to Dan J onto Gruff who scored in the corner. From the restart Ben put in a great tackle and Ffinli picked up passing to Harry who laid it back to Dan P. We then put a lovely passing move together that involved Tom, Ffinli, Harry back to Ffinli, Ben, Dan J and Harry again but we were stopped eventually by some good, hard tackles. Tom took a knock and was replaced by Finlay who almost immediately took the ball into a ruck and laid the ball back for Gruff to run in his second try of the quarter without response. SECOND QUARTER Dinas woke up in this part of the match and they had a super speedy No 5 who scored very quickly from the kick off. Gareth took the ball from the restart and made a good run, passing to Brad who took the ball into a maul but it was stolen from us and they scored two quick tries without much response from ourselves. Rhys then got hold of the ball and passed well out to Dan S and we drove the ball back using our strength, Cai took the ball on but was tackled and Dinas scored again. It was Cameron’s turn for a run when he took the ball from LBJ’s kick off, passing the ball out well but he was tackled again and Dinas scored with their ultra speedy winger - much to LBJ’s disgust!! Finlay picked up the ball from the ruck that formed from the restart and had a lovely darting run but was unable to convert the effort into points and yet again Dinas scored without response. THIRD QUARTER Tom kicked a great ball to start this third quarter and the half time team talk had obviously worked with the boys passing really well BEFORE they got tackled (all those hours of training/shouting finally paying off!). Dan J made a great tackle only to watch his man get back up, having none of this nonsense he promptly tackled him again just to make sure - he did stay down this time. Gruff took the ball on and sent out a great pass to Dan P who ran in our try to the corner. Harry and Josh both made some excellent tackles and set up another great run and try from Danny P. Some changes to our team did not diminish our resolve to at least level this match and Ffinli had a first-rate run down the line but was felled before he could reach the try line, Gareth took on the ball and laid it back well to his team, Finlay and Brad both had a nippy runs, only to be caught short but it was left to Gruff to score to level the match and get his hat trick. FOURTH QUARTER The final part of the match did not bode well when we conceded two early tries but we were neither deflated nor defeated and we struck back with a first class try from Cai from a passing move set up from the restart that involved Ben, Cameron and Rhys. Our heads were up now and we struck again, this time with a second try from Dan P. Finlay and Harry both tackled Dinas’ players into touch and Gruff ran with the ball, head down, for 10 yards before he was eventually stopped by the three players hanging off him. This run set up another try from Cai with a superb run through their tiring players. We took the ball back again from Dinas and Josh, gritting his teeth, made great ground with ball in hand and driving those muddy legs of his through the opposition. Harry had another good run; Ben picked up and went, passing out to Danny P who could not be stopped from getting another try even with an ankle tap just before the line. The final score was a narrow win for the Tyrchs against really good opponents. Once again the boys all played with great purpose and you can see their skills developing, they passed particularly well during the match and did not miss too many tackles so well done lads! Final score: Pentyrch 9 – Dinas Powys 8
January 24th AWAY Match With Christmas a distant memory and the New Year’s Resolutions already broken we travelled to the Vale to play our first game since December 13th. Squad: Ben, Bradley, Cameron, Dan P, Dan S and Dan J, Ffinli, Finlay, Gareth, George, Gruff, Harry, LBJ and Rhys FIRST QUARTER The boys seemed rusty after their long break from the rugby field and against good opposition it took us some time to get up to our full momentum. Gareth took the kick off and we had some good breaks from Gruff and Dan J and made good ground. A good sequence from Harry to Dan P to Ben gave us some ground but Cowbridge were well organised and they turned us over in a ruck, grabbed the ball and scored their first try. From the next start we put together some lovely running from Rhys to Ben to LBJ who produced a great offload to Dan P but again we were bundled into touch by our opponents. Gruff was chasing down his prey again with determination and all the boys were helping in the breakdown, Cameron took the ball from the floor and had a run as did George – who was on for an injured Ffinli – but we could not manage to cross the line before the first whistle. SECOND QUARTER Definitely more alert in the second part of the match, Ben made a great break and was only brought down by three Cowbridge players but he was rewarded moments later with a great side stepping run resulting in a try. Dan S had certainly had his Weetabix this morning and was getting in the oppositions way grabbing the ball from the ruck when no one else realised, he passed out to Brad who had a run but was felled into touch and the restart saw Cowbridge score again. From our restart though we had some good passing from Finlay to Dan J to Brad who took the ball into the ruck but Cowbridge got it again and scored. George had a run down the wing and passed to LBJ in good time but he was bundled into touch. Harry and Ffinli both made great tackles and set up the ball for Ben to score his second try of the match. Cowbridge came back almost immediately with their fifth try but we were not bowed and still kept tackling and running with George nearly scoring right up to the whistle. THIRD QUARTER A crack commando unit attempted to infiltrate the Cowbridge defences by appearing in the wrong half of the pitch but the camouflage did not work and we were forced to retreat to our half. Gruff started the quarter well with a lovely try, once again Cowbridge pegged one back; this time we were ready though and put some first rate moves together to create some fluid rugby: Gareth passed to Dan P and back to Gareth who was tackled into touch. We were camped on their line and Brad took the ball and was unlucky not to score with his foot going into touch but Dan P took the gauntlet again and went over for our fourth of the match. Finlay got the ball from a Cowbridge player and had a go; Rhys made a great tackle and we got the ball from the resulting melee, Dan S and Ffinli had a run but we were deemed offside and the penalty went to Cowbridge. Gruff made yet another crunching tackle and George had a darting run passing to Cameron who desperately tried to get through stout defence, this pressure made the ensuing try from Dan P almost inevitable and the third quarter finished 6-5 to Cowbridge. FOURTH QUARTER Well we were awake by now! A fantastic final quarter from both sides with the match really well balanced. Finlay scored a great team try to take us level but at the death Cowbridge scored again to make the final tally 7-6. A superb game and the boys can be really proud of themselves, they never gave up and the score line showed their spirit up against really good opposition. Final score: Cowbridge 7-Pentyrch 6
December 13th AWAY Match at Llandaff With many parents suffering from Christmas Party excesses the cobwebs were blown away at Llandaff fields on a cold yet sunny morning when we took on a very evenly matched Llandaff side on a narrow pitch that apparently played havoc with our expansive flowing game! Squad: Ben, Bradley, Cai, Cameron, Dan P, Ffinli, Finlay, Gareth, George, Gruff, Harry, Joshua, LBJ and Tom. FIRST QUARTER Our forwards were definitely going to be busy in this match and from the kick off we were on our toes. Harry stole the ball from the first ruck and Ben found some space for a good run; Ffinli passed out to Gareth who was tackled into touch. We set up a great driving maul but the ball was stolen by Llandaff who were then deprived of any more ground by Josh, he passed the ball out to Finlay and then Tom who nearly made the line but was stopped short by some good defence. Gruff then picked up the ball and had a lovely run; once again we were stopped short but then we drove back Llandaff 10 yards with a superb rolling maul that we controlled brilliantly. Dan and Cai were covering on the wings and some quick passing saw Ffinli get over the line for our first try. Almost as soon as the restart Ben picked up the ball from the floor after another ruck and with some first rate side stepping once again crossed the line. SECOND QUARTER A very quick try from Llandaff did not dampen our spirits and George had a good run finding some elusive space. Gruff and Josh were tackling with their usual enthusiasm and prevented our opponents from gaining much ground. We put a lovely movement together with passing through the backs from Finlay to Cai, Brad, George and finally LBJ who was unlucky to be put into touch. Gareth had a good run and found some room but Llandaff’s defence stood firm. Cameron produced a great tackle and Ffinli was all over the pitch chasing down our opponents. We held out until the end of the quarter with some determined tackling. THIRD QUARTER A slight counting problem again saw nine boys take to the pitch but luckily this error was spotted in time for the kick off of this third part of the match. Tom took the ball from the start and passed to Josh who was stopped by two Llandaff players in tandem. The ensuing ruck saw us snaffle the ball yet again and George passed out to Cameron at the start of a period of pressure from the Tyrchs. We put together a passing move from Gruff to Brad, Cai, Tom, Ben and Ffinli and we were unlucky not to score from this. Cai made another one of his try-saving tackles; Dan was chasing down our rivals with zeal. Then Gareth came on as a blood replacement for Cameron who had taken a knock and he was soon needed to help support a great drive from the boys which ended in a deserved try from Harry. FORTH QUARTER Some interesting team changes from Llandaff saw almost an entirely different side take to the field in the final part of the match. We were undaunted by the size and speed of our new opposition and Ffinli set out our stall with a fab tackle; Ben picked up the loose ball and passed out to George who had a run. Finlay then took up the baton but we could not get through their defence. Llandaff got the ball out to undoubtedly their best player who ran in his first try. LBJ took the ball from the restart but Llandaff managed to get the ball again and it took a joint effort from Ben and Gareth to bring down their speedy winger. Gruff took the ball into a maul and Ben emerged from the mêlée with the ball but we could not keep possession and Llandaff went over for their second try in five minutes. Harry made some much needed ground with a good run and Josh, covered in mud again, made a great tackle to prevent another try. We made some team changes and then suddenly we were once again facing the original Llandaff side. A quick move from George in the far corner saw Dan get over the line for our fourth of the day. The final whistle was blown and we emerged with a respectable draw from a tight match. Final score: Llandaff 4 – Pentyrch 4
November 22nd AWAY Match An exciting moment early Sunday morning when the mobile beeped and we thought we could all stay in the warm and dry but all hopes were dashed and we dutifully travelled up the M4 to Tondu for what turned into the best game of the season so far... Squad: Ben, Bradley, Cai, Cameron, Dan J, Dan P, Dan S, Ffinli, Gareth, George, Gruff, Harry, Joshua, LBJ, Rhys and Tom. FIRST THIRD Tondu kicked off and we set our stall out as the ball was caught well by Ffinli and passed to Dan J who in turn produced a lovely switch pass to Ben to make ground. We got stuck into the mauls led by Josh whose legs were pumping over the wet ground to make some valuable ground. Some good runs by George and Danny P were only prevented from being lengthy by some great tackling from Tondu. However, just as the match was finely balanced we broke through and Cai scored a terrific try in the corner. From the kick off we produced a lovely passing sequence from Ffin, Ben and Harry who got bundled into touch just short of the line. Tom was running back and for to support his team and Gareth took the ball from a maul and made ground; again with some great defending we were unable to convert any more opportunities. Tondu levelled the match just before half time. SECOND THIRD An alert team took to the pitch for the second part of the encounter and Dan J made a great tackle and we turned the ball over enabling Ffinli to rip it from the maul and score a great try. Tom was driving into the mauls with good strength and always aided by Josh who seemed to be enjoying the muddy conditions (although I am not sure his Mum will when she has the kit to wash!). We were unlucky to get a knock on against us after setting up a good move and Cameron threw the ball away in disgust (too much watching Martyn Williams I fear); we were defending so well, a large maul saw LBJ emerge from the base with no adverse effects, Rhys was getting right into the rucks burrowing like a mole to get the ball and Bradley was tackling well. Dan S was imposing himself along with Tom in the breakdown but despite our best efforts Tondu scored. They nearly scored again but Gruff ran almost the length of the pitch to produce a magnificent try saving tackle that Tim Cox remarked “was like a lion chasing down a gazelle”, Gruff had obviously had his Weetabix when he did the same thing moments later but this time scoring a try running again from line to line reminiscent of our dear Shane yesterday. FINAL THIRD The final third saw the normal changes with everyone getting time on the pitch; the changes did not disrupt the game though and some lovely passing through the line saw Harry and Gareth working well together. George was brought to the ground but twisted himself as he fell and laid the ball back beautifully for his team. We once more defended well but Tondu scored to level the match again. We had some great opportunities to score but Tondu were also tremendous in defence and prevented some good darting runs from Dan P and Cai from being converted into points. A tactical switch was made so quickly by the coaches that Brad didn’t even have time to put his scrumcap on before he was called upon to make a last ditch tackle. Tenacious tackling kept Tondu out as they finished the match with one last sweeping attack. The rain started just as the final whistle went. The boys all played with skill and spirit, our defence was outstanding and we tackled with fantastic determination and effort. Up against a good side, a draw was definitely a fair result from this great match. Final score: Tondu 3 - Pentyrch 3 Remembrance Sunday, with an impeccably observed 2 minutes silence, saw the Tyrchs hosting the Rocks of St Peters. Squad: Ben, Brad, Cai, Cameron, Dan’s Palmer, Jones and Stewart, Ffin, Finlay, George, Gruff, Harry, Jasim, LBJ, Rhys and Tom. FIRST MATCH First half Two evenly matched sides lined up against each other on a sunny but blustery Maes. Receiving the ball from kick-off Finlay made good headway with a strong run but was tackled well. Strong driving by St Peters saw the ball turned over and pass swiftly to the wing but good covering stopped this dangerous attack. Dan P ripped well to emerge from a ruck with the ball, but the Rocks were equal to his power and after each side had turned the ball over, they managed to spread it quickly and out flank our defence for the opening score. The match then went into a forward dominated period with both sides contesting well at every ruck and maul. A swift counter by the Tyrchs saw the ball pass through the hands of Ffin, Harry and George before he was bundled into touch. The forwards of both sides continued to impress with Tom, Cai and Gruff to the fore but the Rocks managed to repel everything that was thrown at them. Stout Trychs defending by Rhys and Dan J halted St Peters last attack of the half, forcing them into touch at the corner flag. Half time: 0-1 Second half Changes aplenty did not seem to disrupt the intensity of the game and early in the half Dan P made good ground before being hauled down. The match opened up and strong running from the Rocks was halted by fine tackles from Cameron and Dan J. St Peters piled on the pressure and despite heroic defending from Dan S, Jasim and Harry a second try seemed inevitable and duly arrived through a bludgeoning forward drive. Not downhearted by this setback the boys came back in style. A flowing move saw Ben, Gruff and LBJ each make ground before good tackling brought it to an end. The Tyrchs were now in the ascendancy and the swivelling hips of Brad, which would not have been out of place on Strictly, seemed to confuse the defence, opening up a gap which was closed just before he could exploit it. The tackling from both sides remained committed until the final whistle, which saw the Rocks edge a well contested match. Final Score: Pentyrch 0 St Peters 2 SECOND MATCH First half A rousing speech, despite his broken night of sleep on a restaurant floor, by coach/ref Laurie saw the boys come out fighting in the second match. LBJ took this literally and had handbags moment with his opposite winger. A strong start was made by the Tyrchs, Tom leading the way with a surging run and offload that would have graced the Millennium Stadium, although our pitch was holding up better. The tackling remained committed, one by Rhys which had shades of Haye v Valuev, forced the ball to be spilled, allowing Ben to pick up and sprint uphill to open the scoring. Back came the Rocks but a crunching tackle from Finlay caused a knock-on. Advantaged was well played by a puffing ref, Ben picked up and was away again, out-sprinting everyone for his second touchdown. The Trychs remained the more dangerous. The ball was being recycled well, through Dan J, Jasim and Ffin. George put in an outstanding tackle to stop the most dangerous first half attack. Brad was making a nuisance of himself at the breakdown and it was his intervention that allowed Finlay to break from his own try line. Hauled down in the Rocks half, he recycled quickly, the ball finding its way to Ffin who almost made it to the line. Half time: 2-0 Second half Numerous changes for the second half, continued to confuse your guest reporter and the coaches who started it with 11 players on the pitch. The Rocks began the half strongly but each probe for the line was repulsed by strong tackling. Gruff stopped one attack before combined tackling by the forwards turned the ball over, giving Tom the space to break from his 22. Gaining in confidence, swift passing allowed George to use his speed before being well tackled into touch. Dan P made one of his trademark charges only to be stopped by plucky defending. Ffin had a try ruled out after good work from Harry had released him. Rolling changes continued as everyone was given an opportunity. Cai had a powerful run halted just short, but the pressure on the Rocks was building. Good defending kept the Tyrchs at bay only for an attempted break out from their own line by St Peters to be turned over. The ball seemed to roll in slow motion for an age before Rhys, in the thick of everything, saw his chance, picked up and sprinted over for the most popular try of the season to date. Cam had a fantastic run halted for handing off as the try line beckoned. To their credit the Rocks heads never dropped and it was left to Dan S to put in the last tackle of the match to snuff out their final attack. Final Score: Pentyrch 3 St Peters 0
October 25th AWAY Match Neither wind nor rain could stop the intrepid players and supporters of Pentyrch RFC from getting to Caedelyn Park and the match against the old nemesis Rhiwbina. Squad: Ben, Cai, Dan J, Danny P, Dan S, Finlay, Gareth, George, Harry, Joshua, Laurie, Rhys and Tom FIRST MATCH We were definitely ready for action and when the whistle went the boys got straight up and at Rhiwbina. Putting in some big hits on some equally big opposition we were quickly rewarded when Tom took the ball from a rolling maul to score a great opening try; Rhiwbina were not bowed though and they scored a quick equaliser. Josh was charging in and producing some great tackles supported well by Dan S who took the ball quickly from a ruck and passed out to Cameron who ran in a lovely try. Not to be outdone Rhiwbina scored a quick try back again; Rhys took the kick off and got caught in the middle of a large maul but the boys heaved and shoved with George notably getting a good shoulder barge in and got the ball back out to Gareth who took up the challenge and with a weaving run scored our third try. This see-saw match was not over and Rhiwbina clawed back to make the score 4-3 at half time. A change in the weather saw a rainbow over the pitch but we were still looking for the pot of gold when Dan J ran in a swift try and yet again Rhiwbina responded. Laurie seemed to have a small problem with his opposite number and it was nearly handbags at ten paces when George had a go too! Josh was rewarded for all his efforts with a delightful try in the far corner despite some obvious problems keeping his gum shield in place! There was a pile-up and one by one the players got up to reveal a bewildered looking Rhys and Tom at the bottom of the ruck, we passed the ball out well and Dan J went over for his second of the match. It was a close and tight match, the boys played with spirit despite the rain and the final score was worthy of the contest. Final Score: Rhiwbina 6 – Pentyrch 6 SECOND MATCH In worsening conditions the second match kicked off with both Ben and Finlay creating some lovely runs from space. George and Harry worked well together and covered ground to prevent Rhiwbina from being able to recycle the ball quickly but the Tyrchs could not prevent the inevitable try that came from persistent pressure from our opponents. Dan P was playing well until he got injured in one crunching encounter and was replaced by Josh, Cai was standing up to the barrage well and tackling with clout; Cameron and Dan J were on hand to support when the ball was taken to ground and both produced some lovely darting runs. Tom was tackling particularly well and used his good technique to our advantage preventing any more tries in the first half. Yet again Rhiwbina scored a speedy try almost from kick off in the second half but we were not bowed and both Josh and Dan P were on hand to bundle their player into touch to prevent another score. Harry then made a great break and was tackled just short of the line; Gareth took up the baton and although tackled, he laid the ball back well which enabled Finlay to make even more ground. Laurie backed-up his team mates and was covering the pitch with speed and sent a first-rate pass out to Ben who was brought down in the middle of a great sprint. Rhiwbina pegged another try back but we were not defeated yet, Rhys was as resolute as ever and Cai picked up a loose ball making some good ground but Rhiwbina were solid in defence and we were prevented from scoring by a good quality side. Final score: Rhiwbina 4 – Pentyrch 0 THIRD GAME Belting down with rain and wind, the boys took to the pitch for the final game and despite the weather they played some of their best rugby in this match. Dan S again took the ball out of the ruck quickly and passed out to Laurie who had a great run up the wing. Rhys was on hand again tackling and holding onto his opponent for dear life! George and Gareth both produced nippy runs and combined well with Dan J who was running superbly. Josh was powering through again and Tom and Cameron were both still tackling with determination despite the atrocious weather. The half time score was 2-0 to Rhiwbina. The second half was literally a blur, my glasses being covered in rain and the wind blowing my notes away both conspired against a full match report. I can, however, report that the team were Dan P, Harry, Cai, Dan J, Ben, Finlay, Tom, Rhys and Cameron who all played brilliantly! When the final whistle went, a very relieved set of supporters and players trudged off the pitch and headed towards our half term break. Final score: Rhiwbina 3 – Pentyrch 0
October 18th HOME Match On a lovely sunny Sunday morning we welcomed Merthyr to Pentyrch to play for the Cup which is decided upon the most number of tries scored throughout the mini and junior section. Squad: Ben, Bradley, Dan P, Dan S, Ffinli, Finlay, Gareth, George, Gruff, Harry, Joshua, Laurie, Rhys and Tom FIRST MATCH FIRST HALF Despite some gruelling pre-match warm-ups we seemed a little dozy at first but playing against tough opposition we soon saw the boys tackling with ferocity and determination. Josh was strong up front and ripped the ball from a ruck that seemed lost to pass out to Tom who in turn passed to Ben who was motoring up the wing but stopped in his tracks by Merthyr. George was brought to the floor but laid the ball back for Finlay to take up and he had a good run before he too was prevented from going any further. Dan P and Harry were working well together again and both put in some crunching tackles; Finlay had two long runs with some lovely side-stepping; Gruff suddenly seemed to wake up and was resolute in his defensive tackling. The score was a very commendable 0-0 at half time. SECOND HALF The same team took to the pitch after the change of ends and we were still playing with dogged determination. The number of tackles that we both took and made was a credit to the boys, but we kept loosing the ball at the breakdown with an equally gritty Merthyr team ripping the ball well and using it quickly. Gruff was by now completely awake and playing some great rugby, he so nearly scored the first try and was only bundled into touch a yard before the try line. Finlay produced some excellent tackles and his blonde locks seemed to be flying in all directions! Dan Palmer had a good run and was only prevented from getting any further towards the try line by being heaved into touch. Tom and George were propping up our defence well; Harry and Josh were strong, as always, and made ground for us; Ffinli took the ball and had some good darting runs. Gruff took a knock and was substituted for Laurie. Ben made ground well and had a great run from almost on their try line that nearly made it to ours but it was not to be and Merthyr scored the only try just on the final whistle causing our first defeat of the season. Final score: Pentyrch 0 Merthyr 1 SECOND MATCH FIRST HALF A rapid start to the second match saw a swift pass out from George to Gruff who ran in a deserved try for the Tyrchs. Bradley and Laurie out on the wings were firm with their tackling and along with Rhys made some great stops that hindered the opposition. Gareth and Ffinli were running skilfully and Harry carried the ball well and made ground. Dan S got to the rucks quickly and passed the ball well out to his team but we were unable to score another try and the first half finished with no further points from either side. SECOND HALF Merthyr started the second half with a quick try to make the score even, we responded well and kept up the pressure but the game was tight. Dan P and Joshua were solid in their tackling and Rhys did not let up in his resolve. Tom ripped the ball and had a good run; Finlay and Ben were running at or through the opposition! with Bradley and Gareth always on hand with support. We did not have much room to manoeuvre and despite a valiant effort from Laurie were unable to stop a second try from being scored by Merthyr. We were ripping the ball much quicker from the tackles and making good ground and progress and despite some great rugby from our boys we were denied another try. We played well and quicker passing would possibly have opened up the game for us, the boys were disappointed but this was a valuable lesson and we should not be disheartened by this defeat. Final score: Pentyrch 1 Merthyr 2
October 11th AWAY MATCH A short trip down Pentyrch hill saw as take up the challenge of the local derby against Taffs Well. In typical October weather with drizzle blowing across the pitch, the spectators took the obvious route upwards to watch from the comfort of the covered balcony. Team: Ben, Bradley, Cai, Cameron, Dan J, Dan S, Ffinli, Finlay, Gareth, George, Gruff, Jasim, Joshua, Laurie, Rhys and Tom FIRST THIRD Eric and Eurof had woken the boys up well in their pre-match training as we kicked off against good opponents. Despite the dual disadvantages of playing on the wrong pitch and starting with just 9 players the boys started with enthusiasm. Quick passing and great handling in the wet conditions saw Gareth run in a superb team try in the far corner (biased me?). All the boys were tackling with determination and Dan Jones at one point was powering through with two Taffs Well players clinging onto him, Joshua Holland kept up the forward momentum scoring a lovely try. Cai and George had obviously spoken before the match regarding tactics and not once but twice switched the ball to each other confusing the opposition and gaining ground. Dan S and Jasim were always on hand to back up their team and tackled skilfully whilst Gruff and Ffinli were producing some lovely darting runs and side steps. However it was Finlay Torkington who crossed the line with a great run passing two of their players with ease. It was not over yet and Joshua forced his way through again to score his second of the match just before the whistle. SECOND THIRD Cameron was alert from kick off scored a very quick try in the corner; Bradley and Tom were running very quickly and eluding Taffs Well with great skill, we did the sensible move and from a great driving maul passed out to Ben on the wing who ran in our 6th try. Dan J was still playing well and disrupting their flow, it was Gareth this time switching to Gruff in a well timed pass that confused our opponents. Laurie and Rhys were tackling with ease and prevented Taffs Well from getting on the scoreboard again in this part of the match. They kept coming back at us but like The Blues yesterday were solid in defence and Ffinli was finally rewarded for his darting runs with another try for the Tyrchs. FINAL THIRD The final part of the match saw the usual wholesale personnel changes but we still kept up the attack and George ran in a try getting passed several of their players with some great side-stepping. Ben so nearly scored again in the top corner but was well tackled just short of the line, his persistence paid off when moments later he crossed the try line for his second of the match. Laurie had clearly been practising his tackling technique on his brother and fashioned a great tackle on one of Taffs Well’s quick runners. The boys were defending our lead well and it took almost our whole team to stop their big No 9 from scoring, the two Fins were working together again and both produced try saving tackles but Taffs Well finally managed to peg two back in this portion of the match. Gruff finished off a great performance from all the boys with the try that took us into double figures for the first time this season. The lads just seem to get better and better and this was a great team performance in their first dose of real rugby weather. Well done to all the boys! Final score: Taffs Well 2 Pentyrch 10
October 4th AWAY MATCH On this cloudy morning, body warmers at the ready we braved the A470 to play our first away match against a very good CRICC side. The tea may have been weak but the opposition was not... Team: Ben, Bradley, Cai, Cameron, Danny P, Dan S, Ffinli, Finlay, Gareth, George, Gruff, Harry, Jasim, Joshua, Laurie and Rhys FIRST QUARTER The first few minutes caught us napping and CRICC scored a great quick try in the far corner. Heads up we came back strongly and once again the boys demonstrated their tough tackling ability. A try saving tackle from Ben prevented CRICC from getting on the scoreboard again and Cameron crossed the line with a well worked team try. Dan P then scored an almost single handed try from one end of the pitch to the other. Dan S and Rhys were working well together putting themselves up for the tackles; George had some great darting runs and Laurie had an impressive run that was so near to a try but not quite. Jasim was always there to back up his team mates and Gareth got some good tackles in. Pressure from the opposition led to CRICC scoring their second try but then Bradley produced another weaving run and scored our third try of the period, Rhys finished the quarter with a great pick-up and run, he went to ground and then offloaded the ball with great timing. SECOND QUARTER We were definitely awake and firing on all cylinders for this part of the match, Cai covered loads of ground to both chase down his man and stand firm in defence, the two Fins were back together passing well, Ffinli was rewarded with a try and Finlay created another try saving tackle. George had a great run but was bundled into touch just short of the line. Gareth was by now fully conscious and made some good tackles and Gruff prevented the other side from scoring yet again. Harry was in great form and scored a lovely try from some scrapping and mauling – his favourite kind! Jasim worked together with Rhys in the middle of the pitch to disrupt their running and Josh produced some crunching tackles which ultimately stopped CRICC from scoring in this quarter. THIRD QUARTER Bradley started the quarter with another fine darting run but was tackled just shy of the line. Speedy Ben, however, shook off the best efforts of our competitors to score his first try of the morning. Cameron, having recovered from an earlier injury requiring maternal treatment, seemed even quicker across the park; Laurie and Joshua stood their ground in the line with resolve and along with Gruff prevented any more tries from CRICC. Finlay ripped the ball from a grounded challenger and helped, again, by Ffinli made some good ground. Harry and Danny P powered through their defence and Harry was rewarded with his second try of the morning. FOURTH QUARTER Some quick personnel changes saw all the boys playing in this part of the match; CRICC scored first and then it was up to swift Ben to gain his second try of the session. All were tired by now and our opponents took advantage with another great try by their No 11 who got thorugh four of our players to score a fantastic, almost solo, try. We played fabulously well right up to the final whistle and the boys should be really proud of the final score, well done to them all. Final score: CRICC 4 Pentyrch 8
September 27th HOME MATCH Another lovely sunny Sunday morning saw the boys playing against a tough Barry side and some sizeable opposition. Team: Ben, Bradley, Cameron, Dan J, Danny P, Dan S, Ffinli, Finlay, Gareth, George, Gruff, Harry, Jasim, Joshua, Laurie, Rhys and Tom. FIRST QUARTER The boys started positively and put in some crunching tackles on the Barry side, when the Tyrchs got tackled they were somewhat reluctant to give up the ball, Joshua notably carrying the ball along the ground with three Barry players hanging off him! Tom made a great tackle and bundled their quick winger into touch and Harry created a try from a rolling maul – apparently he does not know of any other way to get over the try line? Finlay and Ffinli produced two impressive runs working well together and George supported well on the wing. Danny P and Dan J charged with gusto at everyone and Cameron assisted with a run that set up the try for super speedy Ben. SECOND QUARTER Changes to the team saw Bradley (Mum, I am NOT wearing my scrum cap) Newman still tackling well along with Dan J. Dan Stewart supported his team mates well with some darting runs; Jassim ran at everyone and Gareth got hold of his opposition and put in a great pass. Gruff and Rhys tackled skilfully chasing down every opportunity; Tom was caught without support, stayed on his feet and laid the ball back brilliantly. George created a great run from a break and was helped by Laurie to cover a load of ground. Despite all this effort we were unable to score in this quarter but Barry were yet to respond. THIRD QUARTER The boys showed no signs of letting up the pressure on their opponents in this part of the match with some outstanding runs and tackles from all the team. Cameron ran almost the length of the pitch but was caught just short of the line, the two Fins worked well together again and Gruff sent a fabulous long pass out to Danny P who scored a great team try. Harry and Joshua tackled with enthusiasm and Laurie was always there to support and help his team mates. Despite a bang to the head from a stray kick Ben played his usual swift game and Bradley (still without a scrum cap) ran well alongside him. Laurie Palmer seemed to feel he was missing out on the game and although refereeing decided to join in one of the mauls, but at least he had no difficulty counting this week. FOURTH QUARTER The final part of the game saw every boy playing with some quick substitutions from Eurof and Eric; we played a strong, quick game and Gruff got a lovely try in the corner, this was followed by Ben getting his second try of the match. All the boys played with spirit and the fact that Barry still did not get on the scoreboard was due to the great tackling that we put in from beginning to end. Well done boys! FINAL SCORE: Pentyrch 5 Barry 0
September 20th HOME MATCH A great start to the U9’s contact rugby season, the boys really got stuck in to the tackles with some fabulous challenges from them combined with some fantastic running. Team: Ben, Bradley, Cai, Cameron, Dan J, Danny P, Dan S, Ffinli, Finlay, Gareth, George, Gruffydd, Harry, Jasim, Joshua, Laurie, Rhys and Tom Pentyrch v Llantwit Fadre We started well and through some great running from Ben, Ffinli B, Harry and Cameron, Dan Jones scored our first try of the season. Cai and Danny stopped just about anyone in their path with some crunching tackles. Finlay T and Tom worked well together causing some problems for the opposition as they struggled with possession. Joshua helped to regain the ball and set up Harry Fry’s run which resulted in our second try. Llantwit Fadre responded with a great individual effort to get one back. Half time saw some personnel changes, again with everyone getting up for the tackles, Finlay T ripped the ball from Llantwit and George scored a great try from nearly half way. Jasim and Laurie took on some considerably bigger boys and Gareth also tackled well. The star tackler of the second half was Rhys who clung onto the other side’s legs like his life depended on it! Dan Stewart had a great break from kick off and Bradley assisted in Cai’s great try saving tackle. Gruffydd had some big sprints and he was rewarded with our fourth try to which our opposition could only peg one back. Final score: Pentyrch 4 Llantwit Fadre 2 Pentyrch v Abercwmboi A much larger team awaited us for the second match but we were not daunted by their size... Ben ran 10 yards with three of Abercwmboi’s players hanging off him! Cameron, Dan J and Joshua had some great breaks and Harry tackled one rival into touch nearly knocking over some spectators. Laurie and Tom were not scared of getting thrown around and Danny P was chasing everyone down. Ffinli and George had another good half and at the end it was a very even 0-0. The second half saw the return of some hard hitting contests and some great sprints from our lads in particular Bradley and Cai; Danny P was rewarded with a much deserved try. Dan S and Gareth got some good tackles in and Finlay T along with Harry and Tom made great ground which enabled Gruffydd to get the second try to which Abercwmboi responded immediately. Jasim and Rhys backed up the runners with even more hits. We just needed to watch those hand-offs and we would have conceded far fewer penalties, Laurie Palmer also needs to learn how to count up to 10!! Danny P and Harry were substituted for Joshua and Dan J and the score remained unchanged until the final whistle. Final score: Pentyrch 2 Abercwmboi 1
U10's 2009 - 2010
U11's 2009 - 2010 Previous seasons reports have been moved to here! Sunday 25th Apr Luctonians Tourament JOINT WINNERS WITH RHIWBINA 
We won the cup jointly at Luctonians on Sunday and the boys played brilliantly
Here are the scores.
Pentyrch v Vardre
Pentyrch 42 Vardre 0
Try scorers Dylan Palmer 1, Ben Jones 1, Joe Miles 2, Ben Burton 1, Dave Owen 1
Conversions all 6 by Carwyn Herbert
Pentyrch V Bromyard
Pentyrch 19 Bromyard 0
Try Scorers Joe Miles 3,
Conversions Carwyn Herbert 3
Pentyrch v Aberdare
Pentyrch 42 Aberdare 0
Try scorers Dylan Palmer 2, George Harris 1, Dave Owen 2, Joe Miles 1
Conversions Carwyn Herbert 6
Pentyrch v Gwernyfed
Pentyrch 28 Gwernyfed 7
Try scorers George Harris 1, Ben Jones 1, Ben Fry 1, Dylan Palmer 1
Conversions Carwyn Herbert 4
Pentyrch v Mumbles
Pentyrch 45 Mumbles 0
Try Scorers Carwyn Herbert 1, Joe Miles 2 Dylan Palmer 4
Conversions Carwyn Herbert 6
Pentyrch v Rhiwbina
Pentyrch 7 Rhiwbina 7
Try scorers Ben Fry 1
Conversiona Carwyn Herbert 1
Pentyrch Under 11’s @ Tondu Tournament – Sunday 11th April 2010
Having met early on top of the usual windy Pentyrch, those of us in shorts were confident that the elements would be on our side once we got to Tondu. Those same people who started putting on over trousers and wishing they were elsewhere realised that they should never trust the British Weather. Those same people who were more concerned with the cold and left their sun cream in their bags regretted not realising that the Sun was out there somewhere having ended the day with a sun burned head.
But still, we were there not to worry about the elements and the illness that followed the sun burn, but to watch Pentyrch Under 11’s participate in Tondu’s rugby tournament on a cold yet warm, cloudy yet sunny Sunday……apologies back on the weather.
The tournament was a 5 team round robin event and Pentyrch were up against some new opposition in the form of Briton Ferry and NHSOB as well as some old foes of Tondu and Bridgend Athletic.
Match 1 – Briton Ferry [2:2 Draw] After finishing the first half 2 nil up through a brace of tries from Joe Miles, Pentyrch came out for the second half perhaps thinking the game was well and truly won. A resurgent Briton Ferry, however, came out fighting and finished the game strongly with two tries to finish the game equal. (Tries: Joe Miles 2)
Match 2 – Tondu [Pentyrch 2:1] A closely fought match from start to finish it appeared that the first half would end equal through a Joe Miles try as well as one for Tondu. A last minute move, however, involving the backs passing along the line resulting in George Harris dancing along the touchline to evade the Tondu defence saw Pentyrch go into the break 2:1 up. The second half was all about strength in defence in keeping Tondu at bay. The boy’s hard work and resilience was well rewarded with no more tries to trouble the scorer leaving Pentyrch the victors. (Tries: Joe Miles; George Harris)
Match 3 – Bridgend Athletic [Pentyrch Lost 4:0] Not a performance to be remembered. Injuries and tiredness had taken their toll but with Bridgend Athletic taking an early 2 nil lead, Pentyrch opened themselves up in an attempt to bridge the gap that only resulted in further success for Bridgend Athletic.
Match 4 – Newport High School High Boys [Pentyrch Won 5:1] To have any chance of reward in the tournament Pentyrch had to win their final match. Using the full strength that the squad entails Pentyrch quickly put themselves on top leading 2 nil half time with tries from Lloyd John and Elis Morgan. Pentyrch’s all round strength, skill and endeavour did not diminish in the second half and further tries from Cazza Herbert, Dylan Palmer and a second for Elis Morgan saw them run away with a 5:1 win. (Tries: Lloyd John; Elis Morgan 2; Cazza Herbert; Dylan Palmer)
Pentyrch’s overall performance in the tournament revolved around the result of the final match between Tondu and Bridgend Athletic. A win for Tondu would push Pentych into third position. However, the resultant draw between the two teams secured top spot for Bridgend Athletic and runners up spot for Pentyrch.
For some the only obstacle to overcome now was the journey home. No doubt some journey’s home were a pleasant and peaceful one, others took Helen Owen home (Roll on the Luctonian’s journey!!!!)
 Pentyrch U11’s v Penarth U11’s @ Penarth – 28th March 2010 After last week’s invigorating match report I was tempted not to write this report as the standard is hard to match. Nevertheless a brief summary of Pentyrch U11’s match with Penarth is provided, although it does not all make for good reading. Match 1 With the start of the Easter break upon us and Cardiff Representative players hosting their Irish friends, Pentyrch for once struggled for numbers. Normally close on 20 players turn up on a Sunday but on this occasion only 13 players were available to play two short matches of 12-a-side. Whether those who played were looking over their shoulders hoping the rest of squad was going to run through the famous Penarth gates or they were just simply not up for it from the off, Penarth took full advantage of Pentyrch’s early lethargy running in 3 tries without reply in the first half. There was certainly a bit more ‘bite’ in Pentyrch’s play from the restart and some strong play by Jacob McCarthy and a jinking run down the line by George Harris that resulted in a try for each of them, earned a bit more respect to the scoreline, matching in the half the two additional tries scored by Penarth. Match 1: Pentyrch U11’s 2 : 5 Penarth U11’s (Tries – Jacob McCarthy; George Harris) Match 2 The second match followed in the same vein as the second half of match 1. Closely fought and greater commitment from the Pentyrch boys right from the start. The ever committed Ethan Williams scored a try through individual power but it was not enough to hold off Penarth who won through a late second half try. Match 2: Pentyrch U11’s 1 : 2 Penarth U11’s (Try – Ethan Williams) Had the boys been confident in their abilities from the first kick off today’s result could so easily have been so different. They have to believe in themselves and the players around them. They must not believe they are going to lose just because some players, albeit good players, are missing. .   Sunday 21st March 2010
Pentyrch v Llanishen away
Pentyrch 17 Llanishen 12
Try Scorers Joe Miles 1, Archie Torkington 1, Dave Owen 1
Conversions Carwyn Herbert 1
Sunday 13th March 2010
Pentyrch v Llandaff away
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Back to a full sized pitch allowed increased development for the boys and the opportunity to practice further what lies ahead on a full time basis next year. Having performed so well over the last few weeks there was perhaps a feeling of going through the motions against Llandaff, why one does not know, because Llandaff proved sterling and stubborn opposition often asking questions that Pentyrch could not answer. .jpg) 
This was no more evident than when Llandaff replied to an early unconverted try by Joe Miles, with a well worked try under the sticks. The conversion was a formality and Llandaff took a 7:5 half time lead. Following a half time rollicking, Pentyrch dominated, but they met with a resilient Llandaff defence and whilst the territory and possession should have resulted in more, one try by Ben Fry converted by Cazza was enough to see Pentyrch win 12:7. The common 3rd period match extension saw a solitary Joe Miles try being scored..jpg) .jpg) On the day, not Pentyrch’s best performance but a lot of credit has to go to Llandaff for restricting the boys with stout defending. Thankfully, incompetencies of coaches have not been evident for a few weeks now, but then again this could be due to the fact that fixtures have been away from home during that period and we haven’t had to mark out the pitches.
Sunday 6th March 2010
Pentyrch v St Peters away
Pentyrch Under 11’s have been on somewhat of a roll over the last few weeks so the trek to Minster Road to play St.Peters was one of anticipation as well as trepidation as St.Peters have over the last few seasons been a strong all round competitive side.
It was testament to both sides, having Cardiff District players in their squads that they played the official starting match without these boys. Having kicked off, however, the thought that St.Peters might have been hindered in any way was put in doubt when a converted try was scored within the first minute. A touchline comment of ‘We are going to get creamed’ was not doubted when St.Peters quickly doubled their advantage with another converted try to make it 14:0, this within possibly 5 minutes of starting the match. However, what has been so remarkable about Pentyrch Under 11’s this year has been the resilience and doggedness that have been observed since the turn of the year. This example of commitment has been obvious from the likes of Elis Morgan, Jack Molton, Ethan Williams and Moggs Brooks, players you would gladly have to face up to the physical side of the game. Backed up with the flair of Cazza Herbert, the guile of George Harris and the power of Dave Owen in the middle, the turn around by Pentyrch was tremendous. With a try from Dave Owen, two tries from Ethan Williams and three conversions from Cazza, the turn round saw Pentyrch turn a 14 nil deficit into a 21:14 win. A remarkable but well deserved victory. In light of the District players being rested, it was evident of the strength that St.Peters had available. Although Pentyrch could bring only 2, which quickly ended in one through injury, of their Cardiff players on for a flourish of a 3rd period, all credit must go to St. Peters who ran in 4 converted tries without reply. The hospitality and attitude shown by St.Peters was most pleasing.
U11’s Match Report – 28th February 2010, Pentyrch v Rhiwbina
Sunday 28th February 2010 a great day that involved a sporting rivalry known to many across the land. The greatness had nothing to do with a certain person’s birthday – No-one offered me a drink - and the sporting rivalry was not that of Canada v USA in the Ice Hockey. The rugby match between Pentyrch U11’s and Rhiwbina U11’s is the rivalry in question and the resultant win for Pentyrch made the day that much more satisfying.
Given that both sides have played each other for a number of years and added to that the closeness of the two ‘villages’, there is always that feel of apprehension both for players and parents before and during the match.
The match on this day was also one of transition. Both sides had decided to enter into a 15 a side match, to prepare them for what lies ahead in coming seasons.
No parent observing will question the effort that every Pentyrch and Rhiwbina player put into the match and no one can be any more than proud in the way the match was played considering that this was a new experience for both sets of players. Against contrary belief, Pentyrch U11’s would be no better prepared to play this full sized match than any opposition, this being their first and only time they had played this format.
The match itself was full of endeavour, skill and big hits. It had its funny moments, it had its frustrating moments but most of all it had a pleasurable element in the content that it offered to the viewing public.
A try conjured up through stylish back play and finished off by George Harris running around the Rhiwbina back line could have been the try of the season if it had not been disallowed due to the incompetency’s of the coaches – sorry guys, only joking - who failed to put the corner flag in the right place. Honest and fair refereeing that was to be the constant by Barnie ‘You will train like a Marine’ Miles, would not be swayed into awarding a try. Nevertheless, in the next play a typical marauding run from Pentyrch’s very own Richie McCaw, Ben Fry, saw Pentyrch go 5 nil up. A lead that they would see out to the end.
The defence put up by Pentyrch was defiant to ensure that their line would not be breached. One crunching tackle by Jack Molton ably supported by Elis Morgan to push back the Rhiwbina attack from the try line was typical of the doggedness of Pentyrch. Defence and attack by the midfield duo of Dylan Palmer and Dave Owen took spectators back to that of Roberts and O’Driscoll for the Lions in South Africa. And away from the physicality and skill there was the comedic moment of the day when Moggsy conjured up a round of applause when being replaced. This typified the friendliness that this team emits, and the joy that the U11’s took in performing so admirably and also getting the result that so much hard work warranted.
Well Done Sunday 21st February Away at Sully
Pentyrch 9 Sully 3
Try Scorers Dylan Palmer 4, Ethan Williams 1, Ben Jones 1, Jacob McCarthy 1
Ben Burton 1, George Harris 1
I would also mention that Aled Davies scored 1 try for Sully. as he Joseph Gronow and Jacob Brice
played for Sully in the first half and Jack Molton, Ethan Williams and Robin Wareing did likewise in the
second half.
Sunday 7th February 2010
Dinas Powys at home
Pentyrch 28 Dinas Powys 7
Try Scorers George Harris 1, Dylan Palmer 2, Ethan 1
Conversions Carwyn Herbert 4 Sunday 31st January 2010 St Illtydids away
Pentyrch 55 St Illtydians 0
Try Scorers George Harris 2, Ben Fry 2 Carwyn Herbert 1
Ethan Williams 1, Joe Miles 1, Ben Burton 1, Chris Samuel 1
Ellis Morgan 1, Robin Wareing 1
Pentyrch 20 St Illtydians 0
George Harris 2, Ben Fry 1, David Owen 1 Sunday 12th December 2009
Blues Cup - Treorchy away
Pentyrch 14 Treorchy 35
Try scorers Ben Fry 1, Jacob McCarthy 1,
Conversions Carwyn 2
Sunday Nov 8th
St Peters at home
Pentyrch 10 St Peters 28
Try scorer George Harris 1, Dylan Palmer 1
Sunday 18th October
Merthyr at home
Pentyrch 42 Merthyr 7
Try scorers Ben Fry 1, Dylan Palmer 2 David Owen 1
George Harris 1, Carwyn Herbert 1
Conversions Carwyn Herbert 4, George Harris 2 Sunday 11th October
Taffs Well away
Pentyrch 12 - Taffs Well 14
Try scorers Joe Miles 1, George Harris 1
Conversions Chris Samuel 1
Sunday 4th October Cricc away
We played 3 halves
Pentyrch 7 Crick 42
Try scorer Ethan Williams 1
Conversion Ben Jones 1
Sunday 27th September 2009
Barry at home
Pentyrch 54 Barry 14
Try scorers Morgan Brooks 1, Ben Jones 3, Carwyn Herbert 1
Dylan Palmer 1, Ben Fry 1, George Harris 1
Conversions Carwyn Herbert 5, Ben Jones 1, Ben Fry 1
Sunday 20th September 2009
Llantwit Fardre at home
Match 1 Pentyrch 42 Llantwit Fardre 14
Try scorers Joe Miles 3, Dylan Palmer 1, Ben Jones 1, David Owen 1
Conversions Carwyn Herbert 6
Match 2 Pentyrch 21 Llantwit Fardre 21
Try scorers Ellis Morgan 2, Dylan Palmer 1
Conversions Ben Jones 1, Christopher Samuel 2
Sunday 13th September 2009
St Illtydids away
Pentyrch 30 St Illtydids 0
Try scorers Christopher Samuel 1, Morgan Brooks 1, George Harris 1,
Ben Fry 1, Ellis Morgan 1, Ben Jones 1
U12's 2009 - 2010
U13's 2009 - 2010
U14's 2009 - 2010  Stay awake old man  at the top of their game!  Good to see a lot of rugby being played?  We do feel OK, we promise!  Everyone a back seat driver  Oh yes we did play some rugby.  And we were fed also
U15's 2009 - 2010 Previous seasons reports have been moved to here!
Sunday 20th September 2009 Malvern 12 Pentyrch 29 A good start from the under 15's, a game Pentyrch were never going to lose. Some new players making their first appearance for Pentyrch Owain Hill, Iwan Holye, Luke Marshall all played well! If you were called Ben you had an good day! Ben Cooke scored 3 tries
Ben Chandler scored 1 try and kicked 2 conversions and Jordan Williams (who's middle name might be Ben) scored 1 try Sunday 18th Oct, away to Merthyr This was the best performance of the Season from the Under 15's! Merthyr the home team started well and raced into a 17 nil after only 20 minutes. This should have deflated the 15's but their response was nothing short of remarkable. Ben Cooke reduced the lead and Ben Chandler converted the try to make it 17 - 7 at halftime. The Second half was all Pentyrch they turned the table on the home side and took the lead with Try's from Peter Williams 2 Daniel Howarth and Ben Chandler 1 plus one conversion making the score 17 -29 and that's how it should have stayed but for some very bad decisions from the Referee (to be polite). Despite not winning this was a morale victory and a great performance from the under 15's Pentyrch retained the Alun Jones Cup for another year.   Pentyrch Boy's win the game for Cardiff Schools against Bristol Schools in what can only be described as Cardiff Schools hardest game to date. Cardiff Schools beat a very physical Bristol Schools side 15-8. Bristol started the best with constant pressure pushing Cardiff back to their own 22 on several occasions. This was the pattern of the match until a great move from the backs led to Gabriel Davies passing to Ben Chandler who went past 3 players to touched down for Cardiff's first try 0-7. This gave Cardiff a lot of belief and they measured up to their west country opponents and took control of the match. Bristol pulled a try back but Gabriel Davies was on the end of a good pass to go over and make the final score. Bristol Schools 8 - Cardiff Schools 15. The comment of the day was from the Mr Williams Cardiff Schools Coach who Said " fair play not a lot of teams go to Bristol and win". The boy's show off the Tyrch's at the blues ground  
Pentyrch U15
South Coast International Rugby Festival Report
17 April to 19 April 2009
 
   
17 April 2009: It was 10.30 a.m. precisely according to Tick Tock the tour timekeeper when the tour bus departed Pentyrch RFC with a 49 strong party consisting of players, coaches, H2O carriers, medics, idiots and supporters alike. The customary silly hats were on full show and the bling jewellery dazzled the many onlookers that only wanted to watch the bus leaving Pentyrch to satisfy themselves that most of the village idiots would be away from Pentyrch for at least 3 days. At 10.45 a.m. it was the first rendition of the now legendary tour song, “Shoesy Don’t Take Your Love To Town”, by the one and only Kenny Rogers (I think it was the B side to The Gambler !). At 11.15 a.m. Shoesy decided to open his slab of lager and duly offered a can to each of his fellow coaches. If only they had known that he was going to moan about not having one back all weekend then surely they wouldn’t have taken one. A quick stop in Magor services to pick up young Elliott Jones, who had flown in from Texas especially to go on tour wearing his pink cowboy hat and girlfriends suspenders and the bus was off again. It was midday when the Pentyrch bus pulled in to Reading services. As the doors flew open you could see the Pentyrch faithful all running to the entrance of the services painfully wondering whether to hit the overpriced restaurant or the toilets first. It was a split decision. After a laborious journey down the M25 the bus finally arrived at Pontins, Camber Sands. Room allocation was swift and deadly with a number of supporters wrestling with players to ensure they had the back room with the two single beds and the window and not the 1956 deluxe sofa bed. Supporters 1 players 0. A quick tour around Pontins saw the group finally meet in the grand hall about 7.00 p.m. Cookie, who had by this time drunk 3 of Shoesy’s cans and had been berated for 6 hours for not buying one back decided to hit the Kronenburg 1664 and regretted it until about 14.30 p.m. on Saturday. The boys, fully refreshed from a dip in the pool, decided they would watch the 10.30 p.m. cabaret that evening and the singer, who decided to go back and change into something more appropriate (ie clothing), after she realised her fans consisted of a bunch of 15 year old rugby players, duly sang the night away. Before bed time however, the tour cabbage, who had watched PLAY SCHOOL too much as a child, decided that today we were going through the square window. Tour joke that one ! 18 April 2009: At break of dawn there was a smell of bacon coming from room 662 and massive laughter coming from room 666 as Cookie realised that Bernie had one eyebrow less than he did when he went to bed. This turned to complete panic however as Cookie ran to the bathroom to check his own eyebrows ! It was soon back to laughter though as mirrors don’t lie and a full set of eyebrows were in tact. 8.30 a.m. and the bus leaves for Ashford RFC for the opening rounds of the festival. The TYRCHS, who were in a group of 6, had 4 matches to play that day and were well up for it by 10.00 a.m. after the traditional Welsh rugby team warm up consisting of 10 press ups, a cheeseburger, 2 hot dogs, a couple of leg raises and a Lucozade Sport. As the supporters hit the beer tent, it soon became apparent that the Scrumpy Cider, that was on offer at £2 per lethal injection and was a mere 8.5%, would cause some complete damage in the Pentyrch supporter ranks and it certainly did that. The only good part about this was the players soon learnt that when they were old enough to drink, then cider is not a good session drink. The Games: Pentyrch 25 Chosen Hill 5 The opposition started strong but were no match for an extremely dominant Tyrchs team that wanted to run the ball at every opportunity. Chosen Hill had come to the tournament with a reputation as being one of the strongest teams in the West Country and learnt quite quickly that if you go a bit further West and over the bridge then the teams are even stronger. The only disappointing thing about this game was the injury to Lloyd James who would see no more of the tournament but plenty more of the pool and cabaret acts ! Pentyrch 20 Colchester 0 An extremely aggressive Colchester side were next up and showed the young Tyrchs exactly how they wanted to play when their number 8 stamped on Alex Moore’s head when he was trying to get away from a ruck. The Tyrchs became a much more physical side in this game after that and matched the opposition in every tackle and contact to the dismay of the opposition. Two quick tries by the Tyrchs saw Colchester crumble and two more finished them off with the Tyrchs bruised, but deserved winners Pentyrch 40 Midhurst 0 The organisers moved the Tyrchs to pitch 5 for this game which was a meadow with no rugby posts and which you could only get to by following the yellow brick road, jumping across a stream and then climbing over a bridge. Still, the Tyrchs, who were now in full flow, started the game at a fantastic pace and notched up 8 tries in a comprehensive victory. The only disappointing part to this game was Keiran Williams’s extremely poor landing on his double summersault celebration of the 5th try which the judges awarded 4.1, 4.2, 3.4 and 2.3. Pentyrch 35 Beckenham 5 Prior to the Tyrchs final game of the day the referee approached the Pentyrch coaches to say that the side they had just beaten 40 – 0 had beaten the side they were about to play 50-0. The referee therefore decided to play 1.5 minutes for the first half and 2.3 minutes for the second half which meant the Tyrchs could only score 7 tries. This particular game will be remembered by so many for so many different reasons. The players will remember it because they did everything in their power to send the young Cookie, their fellow under 14 clubman, over for a try and the coaches will remember it for the absolute ridiculous passes being made and the stupid angles of running that were also being made to achieve just that. That said, 2 minutes left and a bazaar run from Ryan Ali saw an even more bazaar pass across the line which eventually saw the young Cookster scamper over from 7.4 yards out to crash over in the corner for his first try for the under 15’s (but not his last Shoesy !) The final game now over and it was a mad rush off the meadow, over the bridge, across the stream, down the yellow brick road and passed Owens and Simmons in the Cider tent and back to the clubhouse to watch the Blues thump Gloucester. What made this match even more enjoyable was the team from Gloucester that had sat down in the clubhouse to watch the game with the Tyrchs slowly disappeared as the Blues try count steadily increased. Wales 2 England 0 today I think. 5.00 p.m. and back on the bus for a return to Pontins where a very nervous under 15 team awaited the Kangaroo Court at 7.00 p.m., Judge Death Row Simmons presiding. As the crowd gathered outside room 662 the words that would echo in the thoughts of many duly came – “Please be upstanding for the Judge”. Simmo, clad in a judge’s robe, a wig from Amadeus Beethoven the movie and Dee’s salad crusher came into view of the awaiting crowd to a deafening silence. Simmo then proceeded to shock the fathers with his depth of bad language which the players were only too aware of course as they had said many similar words on the bus. One by one they were ridiculed and made to drink Fizzy Coke and Crushed Crackers whilst singing the tour song (and a few others about the tour committee !) It was then the guiding light appeared in the form of Father Ted Barrett. As he came around the corner, with Pete Owen still singing the same song he had been for the last 6 hours, he received a damning report from the judge for being late and was duly made to sing Baa Baa Black Sheep. The crowd, who were a verse ahead of Father Ted of course, all waited for the line of the night – TREE BAGS FULL. There was uproar. With everyone in stitches, the judge left the courtroom and the players scattered as they had heard that night’s act were 4 twenty year old singers who did not care too much for clothing – and they were girls thank God. If only they had run that quickly on the pitch they would have scored twice as many tries ! As the players left for the Chicks Aloud concert, the fathers duly met in the local pub to meet the villagers and exchange pleasantries. The pub, which was about 4 light years past Pontins and in a galaxy far far away was probably the weirdest pub we had ever drunk in. The pub lounge looked like a cross between a carnival back room and a scene from the deliverance and it got steadily worse as the night went on. A quick decision to return to Pontins was a welcome one and we all ran home except Owens of course who did not have the legs to get there in the first place ! 19 April 2009 The smell of bacon was not coming from room 662 this morning as Owens could not lift his head from the pillow let alone raise a rasher of bacon. 8.30 and the boys were packed and the bus loaded and we were off to Ashford for the final pool game and the finals. The same warm up was religiously followed as it seemed to do us well the day before and we were on the pitch for the first game, hot dogs in hand ! The results: Pentyrch 10 Bracknell 0 The final pool game saw a shaky Tyrchs side grind out a win against a team that they should have scored more against. That said, all credit to Bracknell, they wanted to beat the young Welsh team who as yet had not been beaten and they did everything in their power to do that. Some tough tackling from the Tyrchs and a try each side of half time however saw the game won and the Tyrchs were crowned champions of group A. Semi Final Pentyrch 25 Trojans 5 The semi final was eagerly awaited and the Tyrchs played the runners up in group B. The ref called the Pentyrch coaches over and explained that as the Trojans only had 14 players due to injury, the Tyrchs were allowed to play with 15 players but could not have any subs even if injuries occurred ! Baffled by the rule, the Tyrchs offered the Trojans a player to make them up to 15 on the proviso they could use their subs and the Trojans and ref duly accepted. Big hand for Moggsy here as the Tyrchs had 4 injuries in this game and if it wasn’t for Moggs they may have found themselves going home early. As it was, 2 tries after 2 minutes saw the Tyrchs take control and from then on they always looked like the side that were going to win with another 3 tries coming during the game. The Final Pentyrch 10 Shelford 0 Shelford, it must be said, are the Cambridgeshire champions and have lost one game in 2 years. They were also the Northampton Saints tournament winners 2 weeks before and had 6 County players in their starting 15. The game started at a frantic pace and the tackle count must have been 65 Pentyrch 65 Shelford at half time with the score 0-0. Although the Tyrchs coaches felt their team were good enough they knew they had to play at their best and continue with the performance of the first half to beat this very strong team from Cambridge. Some early pressure from Shelford saw the Tyrchs awarded a scrum on their own 22M line. As the ball went blind, their young full back Tom Lewis ran 70 yards to score under the posts. The best thing about this try was that in the event of a tie the first score counted double so the Tyrchs knew that Shelford would have to score twice to win. Also, if anyone saw Barrie Lewis jumping up and down between the posts as his son was running toward the line then you would have thought he had just bought a round !! He was frantic ! The Tyrchs started getting the upper hand by now and were hitting everything that moved and forcing many errors in their opposition. A ruck 2 yards from the Shelford line then saw their Captain Shoesy dive through the middle for the second score and the game was over. Credit to both sides here however as the game was extremely well contested by both teams but the Tyrchs just had the edge we thought. After the whistle blew, Death Row Simmons called all the boys over to congratulate them and he nervously showed them the tattoo he had received the night before across his derriere which simply stated Pentyrch Champions. Relief indeed for a judge that would not have got his pants down unless the Tyrchs had won. Well done Simmo ! Back to the announcer’s tent for the trophy presentation and what a trophy it was. 17 foot tall and about 6 foot wide !! So big in fact we had to hire a trailer for the bus to bring it home. A few celebratory drinks in the clubhouse saw the Tyrchs leave Ashford at about 4.30 p.m. for the long drive home. As the bus left Ashford RFC the lyrics of Delilah could be heard everywhere and a very proud Tyrchs team with full support went home. Before arriving home though it was one final version of the tour song and then all the boys put some money in the bag for the driver. Barrie provided the plastic bag of course !
Full Tour Party:
Players: Coaches: Alex Moore Jamie Hughes Swiss Tony Ben Cooke Barrie Lewis Big Lew Cain Johnson Steve Cooke Slice 1 Conor Barrett Elliot Jones H2O: George Crews Bernie Murphy Sexy Lady Geraint Harcombe Huw Gallivan Medic: Jack Logan Bal Ghuman Deep Heat Jordan Davies Jordan Hughes Supporters: Jorge Powell Pete Owen Short Stack Joshua Simmons Shaun Simmons Death Row Keiran Williams Trevor Gulliver Tick Tock Keiran Macnamara Adam Ali Madam Ali Lloyd James Luis Tobenas Flippin Eck Luis Tobenas Kevin Garabowski Petrocelli Luke Williams Huw Davies Mr Speaker Matthew Thomas Peter Thomas Top Deck Michael Owen Roger Perks Bling Bling Michael Perks Graham Perks Uncle Albert Morgan Rees Andy Young Splish Splash Oliver Young Jason Ovens INSET Day Rhys James Ceri Hughes Ms Demeanor Rhys Hughes Mike Simmons Tony Dallas Rhys Owens Ted Barrett Father Ted Ryan Ali Thomas Murphy Tom Lewis
U16's 2009 - 2010
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