Fixture

Aberaeron 12 Lampeter 10

Despite the adverse weather this much awaited local derby produced a full blown encounter with Aberaeron just about taking the honours. Heavy overnight rain had proved an issue but a band of dedicated locals had ensured the playing area perfect for the occasion. A capacity crowd were therefore able to witness the table toppers aiming to repeat their recent successes and increase their advantage in the league. Aberaeron on the other hand have had their focus on the semi final of the Bowl Cup in 2 weeks but also the bragging rights following the drawn encounter earlier in the year. The early skirmishes were shared but Lampeter's first foray produced the opening score. A series of rolling mauls took the game to the home line and a final push saw Ryan Holmes cross the whitewash. Despite the wind advantage they failed to further capitalise and make real impact for territory and they were made to pay minutes from the break when Aberaeron mustered a forward onslaught that took the forward eight close to the line and a quick release saw flanker Aaron Lewis bring the scores level at half time. Aberaeron were just as guilty of not taking advantage of the elements but within the opening minutes they were to convert the all important score from a counter attack. A defensive clearance by Lampeter found Rhodri Thomas on half way and an excellent run by the full back took the visitors defence by surprise ending just short of the line. Quick release found Lewis again on the charge to double his try count for the afternoon leaving Rhodri Jenkins to add what was the winning conversion. With their winning streak at risk Lampeter made considerable efforts to pull back the deficit and a rare lapse in the home defence allowed Ewan Bowden an opening to claim a score which was not converted. The remaining minutes were contained in the middle of the park with both side unable to make real progress and the final whistle signalled considerable joy in the home ranks with bragging rights intact. The success proves a perfect fillip for Aberaeron's up and coming Cup encounter while Lampeter will aim to bounce back with some tough games ahead to reinforce their promotion credentials.