Fixture

Aberaeron 27 Pantyffynnon 5

It may be a little optimistic to suggest that Aberaeron could be on the up after last season's trauma and relegation, but life in Division 3 C West could not have started better with a bonus point success against Pantyffynnon. With new coach Justin Lloyd at the helm, there were distinct signs of optimism, albeit that the all important bonus point was not secured until the last minute. The league is a little of an unknown quantity, so all the more important to take every opportunity when it arises, as there are likely to be some more challenges ahead. From the first whistle Aberaeron's forward power was evident and they were soon rewarded with a well struck penalty by Steffan Rees. The only surprise was that it took midway into the opening period for the first try as the hosts were somewhat guilty of passing up several opportunities, but the giant Gethin Hughes eventually broke the dour defence to cross for the score. Rees duly added the conversion and he was soon back in action to convert the second score which was the result of an excellent break by centre Ollie Sawyer, scything through the visitors defence from midway.

The second half was very much a repeat of the first period as the visitors defence held firm, and it was they that shocked the home contingent with a break from their own line, taking advantage of a breakdown in attack to register the score through Scott Swinsford. The pressure from the home eight however finally bore fruit and Aaron Lewis crowned a fine performance with a storming break to extend the lead. As the clock ticked down the introduction of Tudur Jenkins and Kieron Etheridge proved to be a masterstroke as both made inroads which in the end provided the opportunity for the all important 4^th try, gained near the line by scrum half Dyfrig Davies. So with the points in the bag, there were welcome smiles as they trooped off the field, but with the knowledge there are far sterner challenges ahead.