Fixture

Aberaeron 15 Nantyglo 0

The sight of a second row galloping half the length of the field is indeed a rare occurrence but Richard Francis Cummings' effort from half way paved the way for Aberaeron's progression into the next round of this year's Bowl competition. The effort was all important as it was always likely to be a tight affair with both teams enjoying considerable success to date in their respective league having only lost on the odd occasion. Important therefore for the early success to dampen the visitors spirit which they were never to overcome despite some strong forays especially from rolling mauls. Much credit must also go to Aberaeron's defence who were up to a considerable challenge against bulkier opposition, and the total squad epitomised the belief that's been nurtured on the dark and cold winter nights. The conversion of the early try by Rhodri Jenkins secured the early success and the outside half extended the advantage with a penalty, which had been reversed after inappropriate comments to the referee. Scoring opportunities throughout the game were at a premium and Aberaeron had the opportunity of a break away score to extend the lead , only for centre Dyfig Dafis to be denied metres from the line after outpacing the cover defence. With the result in the balance after the restart the first score was all important and fortunately for the home support it came their way as strong pressure on the Nantyglo defence with a series of rolling mauls gave scrum half Justin Lloyd the opening of a deft scoring pass for prop Alex Danton to extend the lead. From there on Lloyd directed operations from the base of the scrum with the reaction from his team ensuring there would be no comeback and prevent progress to the next round. In essence this was a comprehensive success based on a durable display by the full squad and much anticipation will now be on next Tuesday's draw where the luxury of home advantage would increase optimism of further progress in the competition.