Squirrels go nuts for promotion

Rhiwbina celebrate after dramatic win.

There was late drama in the promotion crunch match between Rhiwbina and Nelson, with both teams gunning for the runners up spot.

Rhiwbina gained promotion to Division Two thanks to a dramatic last minute 22-21 win over rivals Nelson at Caedelyn. With Nelson leading 21-15 going into the closing moments, centre Joe Casella crossed for a try in injury time, and the dependable Richard Saltmarsh kept his composure to kick the extras to send the 1000 strong crowd into raptures.

The Squirrels took a 15-9 lead into the interval with their first try coming inside five minutes when wing Brett Chatwin gathered a chip ahead to race away beneath the posts, injuring his hamstring in the process, however, and was consequently substituted from the field. The hosts went further ahead when centre Saltmarsh broke through the Nelson defence to score under the posts, also slotting the simple conversion. The visitors in response were restricted to two Paul Emmanueli penalties and one from Dan Jones, although their dangerous backs remained a constant threat.

After the interval Nelson, who sat in the coveted second spot at the start of the day, stormed into the lead with tries by replacement scrum half Iestyn Heard and a magnificent individual try from centre Chris Pitt, with Emmanueli converting the former to lead 22-15.

Try as they could, the Squirrels just could not breach the Nelson defence, and it looked like they would hold on to clinch second place and automatic promotion. However, Casella broke out of defence and the ball was carried into the Nelson 22, and Casella popped up again to cross for the try. The cool Saltmarsh slotted over the conversion as the final whistle blew, sending the record crowd wild.

Rhiwbina have therefore secured back to back promotions and now join neighbours Llanishen in Division 2 - a great end to their Anniversary season.

Pill Harriers also ensured they will be playing Division Two rugby next season after they secured the runners up spot in Division Three East with a 20-10 home success over rivals Senghenydd.

The Harriers outscored their rivals three tries to one with touchdowns from Ross Madden and a double from David Leith, while Gareth Hopkins slotted a penalty and a conversion.

The Saints, who will now end the season third, will have to see if they finish as one of the best third placed teams to also bag a place in Division Two next year.