Pontypridd Under 14

Pontypridd under 14s played a districts representative match against their Bridgend counterparts on 28^th September, and emerged as creditable victors by 29 pts to 5.

Of the two sides on the field, Bridgend started the stronger by stamping their authority from the first kick, and making a big tackle and turn over. This led to the ball being spread out wide and the Bridgend full back coming close to scoring, but with a try saving tackle from Pontypridd centre Curtis Evans saving the day.

For the next ten minutes the Bridgend forwards continued to stay on top until Ponty gradually started to win some ball for their dangerous backs to use. This allowed Liam Watton to make a break deep into the Bridgend twenty-two, the ball recycled and moved quickly for all action flanker Simon Baines to crash over for Ponty’s first try, successfully converted by Joshua Jones.

This seemed to settle the Ponty side, and we witnessed the best move of the game with Ponty full back Luke Mounter selling two dummies to slide in for a second try just before the break.

In the second half changes were made by both sides. Pontypridd started in complete control with centre Tom Rees playing his first game for the club. He demonstrated his pace and power and was rewarded with his first of two tries. All credit to Bridgend, they did not give up without a fight and scored a well worked try by their captain and no 8. But Ponty were determined to have the last say, with Garrick Legg scoring a try, again converted by outside half Joshua Jones.

The score line was not a true reflection of the game, which was a close fought affair. Our thanks go to Beddau RFC for hosting the game, and laying on after match refreshments, and a big thanks to Karl Baylies for refereeing the game and allowing the play to flow.

Gary Lucas
Pontypridd Community Rugby Development Officer