Match Report - 26th November 2011

Pontyclun 2nd XV 7 v Old Penarthians 2nd XV 42 (CADRU League)

Following on from the success of the previous two weeks the second XV management team were disappointed to find only ten regular players had appeared at the clubhouse prior to departure to Pontyclun for their S.A.Brain CADRU 2nd Division away fixture.

However, sterling work (and bribery) from injured skipper Buckley persuaded three footballers, Callum Reynolds, Ellis Davey and Chris Heggarty, who were contemplating an afternoon of relaxation following the cancelation of their match, to make the journey.  Their commitment along with that of manager Robert Crimp, press ganged to play second row for the first time in ten years, ensured that the team were able to fulfil the fixture.  The opposition were also impressed and were willing to lend the Old Pens a player to ensure parity of playing numbers, if not substitutes.

The end result of 42 points to seven did not do justice to the endeavours of the day and all who represented the club did themselves and their colleagues proud.  The tackling in particular was of the highest quality and special mentions must go to Rhys Thomas and Paul Kemp for their outstanding performances. 

The Penarthians try was spectacular as Matthew Reid floated above the muddy pitch from fifty five yards sidestepping past opponents as if they were unable to move their feet from the sticky surface.  It brought back memories of another Reid many years before, when moustachioed father Stuart waltzed up the touch line in his marigold gloves in similar inclement weather, but in that instance it was in an attempt to keep warm rather than to score.

The conversion was kicked by Steve Thomas.