Ponty under 12s claim Blues Cup

Pontypridd under 12s claimed a notable triumph on Sunday 24^th May, becoming the inaugural winners of the age group Blues Cup at Cardiff Arms Park, with an emphatic 44pts to 21 victory over opponents Cowbridge.

Pontypridd 44 - Cowbridge 21

Pontypridd travelled to the Arms Park to take on Cowbridge in the first ever Blues Cup final.

From the kick off it was evident that this would be a tough game, when the Cowbridge second row gathered and beat some poor defence to score under the posts.From the restart Pontypridd were penalised for being in front of the kicker. Cowbridge took the penalty quickly, with their centre showing blistering pace to score another converted try under the post. With just three minutes gone and Ponty not touching the ball it was already 14 – 0 to Cowbridge.

To their credit Pontypridd gathered themselves and dominated the rest of the first half. Uncharacteristically balls were knocked on and three overlap opportunities not taken. Pontypridd eventually replied with three tries from Callum Hall, Chris John and Jordan Powell. Callum Hall kicked two conversions. On the stroke of half time Cowbridge cleared up field from their own try line. The ball was gathered by their centre who once again showed tremendous pace to run in from 70metres.

Half time: Pontypridd 19 Cowbridge 21.

In the second half Pontypridd continued to dominate most phases of play and this was rewarded when Callum Hall orchestrated a fine move with the backs, fed Lewys Cullen who beat his man and fed on to James Stallard. James then showed good strength and pace to hold off the covering defenders to score.

Soon after Pontypridd pressurized the Cowbridge line, with Jordan Powell charging down a clearance kick and Aled Evans pounced on the loose ball to score.The next try came following some excellent handling in the three quarters with the ball moved to Joseph Davies on the wing.  He outpaced the covering defenders to score in the corner.  Pontypridd were now on top with the forwards and backs linking well.  Grant Jones carried well, set up quick ruck ball and this was moved through the hands for full back Lewys Cullen to dive over.

The final score came following a clearance kick form Cowbridge. This was gathered by James Stallard who again showed strength and pace to score his second try.

This was an excellent performance by the team who showed great character to come back from a poor start to deservedly lift the cup. Credit also to Cowbridge for their contribution to an exciting and high standard cup final.