Winning start for Squirrels in Division Two East

Rhiwbina capped off an historic maiden match in Division Two with a hard fought 18-12 win over visiting Llantwit Fardre.

The Squirrels, with the luxury of unveiling new changing rooms and playing kit pre-season, were in confident mood ahead of the encounter.

With conditions perfect for running rugby, the Squirrels looked to run the ball at every opportunity, and the game could have got off to a flying start for the Squirrels after only 2 minutes, as Brett Chatwin sliced through out of his own half.  The ball went rapidly through several pairs of hands, before being eventually fumbled as the move fizzled out.

Unable to capitalise on the early possession, Llantwit made no mistake turning pressure into points, courtesy of a penalty by Jason Pocock.

Rhiwbina, who were up against a strong wind in the opening half, regrouped with Paul Smith making several of his trademark rampaging runs, while Llantwit also impressed in broken play with the three quarters making a number of breaks from midfield, and were denied by some good scramble defence from the hosts. Rhiwbina were dominating the set piece, but it was the Squirrels that trailed 3-0 at the break.

After the interval, veteran Richard Saltmarsh sent over a penalty to tie up the scores, but the lead didn’t last long when Pocock landed an effort of his own

Rhiwbina broke the try deadlock 18 minutes into the second half – Morgan Lewis chipped ahead to beat the defence to the touch down.

Llantwit, determined to regain their advantage, broke well from their own half, and indiscipline from the hosts granted Pocock’s third sight at goal, and he made no mistake.

With just five minutes remaining, Rhiwbina sealed the game after a series of great passing movements, with Dave Gilbert orchestrating things which saw Grant Fitzgerald crossing for a try. Saltmarsh added the extras and, moments later, was also on target with a penalty.

Llantwit pressed to get themselves back into the match but could only manage a further Pocock penalty as the visitors had to settle for a losing bonus point.