Llanhilleth Celebrate SWALEC Division Five East Title Win

The Blaenau Gwent side carried off the SWALEC Division 5 East title with a win of 13 – 0, triumphing in all but two of the 20 league games that they’ve played this season including today’s win over Brynithel RFC.

It’s been a nail-biting climax to a hard-fought title race. At the start of the match, Llanhilleth were second place to RTB Ebbw Vale – who had played all of their matches. Llanhilleth RFC would need nothing less than a win to celebrate with the trophy and champagne at the end of a season where promotion was the club’s main target.

Among the players in the title winning squad are Steve Faletau – the brother of Wales, British & Irish Lions and Dragons No 8 Toby Faletau – and former Cross Keys and Pontypool prop Darren Crimmins.

Llanhilleth RFC Club Captain Dan Brimble said: Winning the title today is testament to the hard work and dedication shown from the entire team throughout the season and to win against our closest rivals is something very special.  We started the season in July last year and have trained very hard as a team to get fitter and streamline our game.

Danny added, “I think the win will give us the motivation we need to carry on the success into next season.”

Head Coach Jonathan Way, who has been coaching the club for six years, said: “It is 20 years since the club won their league so winning today means a great deal to everyone at the club who have invested a lot of time and effort into training and practising throughout the season.”

“Having Mark Rossitter join the coaching staff at the start of the season has made a huge difference to the club. Not only has he provided all the players with a fresh outlook on the game and new skills, he gave them the enthusiasm and determination to succeed. The win this season is not only down to a change in coaching staff but also down to players like Captain Danny Brimble, Scrum Half Grant Harrington and winger Alex Davidson, all supported by a very strong team in general.”

WRU Board Member Ken Hewitt added: “It is a fantastic achievement for Llanhilleth RFC to win the league today. They have worked hard throughout the season and really deserve the take home the trophy today. I wish them all the best with forthcoming season and hope that they can carry on their success next year.”

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YSTRADGYNLAIS RFC WIN SWALEC DIVISION 5 SOUTH WEST TITLE IN THRILLING FINALE

Ystradgynlais RFC have secured the SWALEC Division Five South West trophy in what has been a thrilling culmination to the season in the division.

 

The Blues sealed their win in a nail-biting 12 – 18 away win against league runners up Birchgrove RFC with the winner of that match later being crowned champions. Ystradgynlais then extended their winning run with a 42 – 5 away win at Crynant RFC today (Saturday 10^th May 2014). 

 

Swansea Valley side Ystradgynlais RFC were led to their league glory after the welcome return of former Ystradgynlais, Scarlets and Wales lock Vernon Cooper as Head Coach. Cooper retired from playing with the Scarlets in 2011 after featuring 369 times in a glittering club career.

 

The Blues, who have won their first league title since 1995, carried off the SWALEC Division 5 South West title by 5 points, winning all but two of the league games that they’ve played this season.

 

It’s also been a successful season for the youth side who have also won their league – the first time in the history of the club for both the youth and senior teams to have clinched their respective league titles. With 95% of the first team squad having come through the youth system at Ystradgynlais RFC, the Head Coach thinks the future’s looking bright.

 

Ystradgynlais RFC Head Coach Vernon Cooper, who won three caps for Wales, said: “The whole squad has been outstanding this season.

 

The highlights for me have been the way we have dug in and won tough away games that we wouldn’t have won in the past.”

 

He added: “We’ve got plenty of confidence looking towards next season and it is key for us that we keep hold of the quality players coming through from our youth team. If we do that and build on our success then hopefully the future is bright.”

 

Ystradgynlais RFC Club Captain Emyr Lawrence, said: “It means the world for us to win the league. The boys have put the effort in all season and it has paid dividends for us.

 

Vernon Cooper has made a big difference this season plus the effort and commitment of the players has changed. The whole squad has been outstanding.”

 

WRU Board Member Geraint Edwards, added: “Congratulations to Ystradgynlais RFC – it’s great that they have won their division. It’s the first league title they’ve won in a number of years, which is fantastic for the rugby club and for Ystradgynlais itself.”  

 

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New Dock Stars win Swalec Division Five West Title

New Dock Stars RFC have secured the SWALEC Division 5 West trophy with a 32-8 home win over Cefneithin RFC today (Saturday 26th April 2014).

The Llanelli-based side carried off the SWALEC Division 5 West title by reaching an unbeatable 89 points, winning all but one of the league games that they’ve played this season and with three games still remaining.


It’s been 32 years since the last silverware at New Dock Stars and the Division 5 West title win is the crowning of three seasons of hard work and dedication.


The nucleus of the team has remained consistent over the past three years – with some of the youth squad promoted to the senior squad this year - and the team has been rewarded having led their league opponents for most of the season.


New Dock Stars RFC Club Captain Jordan Evans said:


“I am absolutely ecstatic. This has been more than two years in the making. It’s been hard work but everyone is over the moon.

“Today, is the best feeling I’ve ever had on a rugby pitch.

“During the year, we’ve had a couple of lows, but we have bounced back from them. This, today, is obviously the highlight of the season.

“It’s unfair to single anyone out as it has been a team effort. The front row, the second, row, the backs, everyone has been magnificent.

“Looking to next season, I think we should stay up. We should cope well in Division 4 West.”

Coach Hywel Jones, one of three senior coaches at the club, said:

“This championship has put New Dock Stars back on the rugby map because this has been a long time coming.

“We have always been there or thereabouts, but this year the players have been outstanding. I can’t thank them enough.

“It’s been 32 years since we last won a trophy. The boys are chuffed and I couldn’t have asked for more from them.

“Every weekend has been a highlight and getting on the road to keep the winning form going to win this championship has been vital.

“The boys have worked hard for it and they thoroughly deserve it.

“I don’t think we will have a problem in Division 4 West.”


WRU Board Member Anthony John added:

“I congratulate New Dock Stars on their victory today and judging by the mood in the clubhouse this afternoon the celebrations should go on long into the night.

“As a club, they have been waiting a long time to get some silverware, but they have stuck at it and their perseverance has brought its rewards.”


SWALEC is the national community partner of the Welsh Rugby Union and sponsors both the SWALEC Leagues and SWALEC Cup, Plate and Bowl competitions. SWALEC Finals Day, which sees six clubs battle it out in the Cup, Plate and Bowl competitions, will take place on Sunday 4th May at the Millennium Stadium.

Jonny Petrie, head of sponsorship strategy at SWALEC, added: “Our strong partnership with the WRU and its clubs goes back a number of years and we’re very pleased to be doing more for grassroots rugby in Wales through our sponsorship of the SWALEC Leagues. It has been another strong season for Welsh rugby as a whole and we have seen some impressive performances at club level. Many congratulations to New Dock Stars RFC on claiming the title.”

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Swalec Leagues Weekend Review

Ebbw Vale warmed up for their Swalec Cup home quarter-final against Premiership side Llandovery with a 52-12 demolition of Blackwood in the Championship.

The win sees the Steelmen move 30 points clear at the summit and needing just a handful of wins to return to the Premiership.

Jason Strange’s troops ran in eight tries in all with Lewis Young, Gordon Howells, David James, Luke Davies, Polu Uhi, Ronny Kynes, Dan Haymond and John Lavender all crossing the whitewash. Iain Smerdon converted six of the tries.

For Blackwood, who are battling against relegation, David Ford and Nathan Gittins crossed for tries, one of which was converted by James Doubley.

With the Championship title essentially a foregone conclusion the Steelmen will look to upset the apple cart when they host the Drovers, who sit third in the Premiership.

At the other end of the table Beddau moved off the bottom when they romped to a 39-7 bonus point triumph over fellow strugglers Tondu.

Tries for Beddau came from David Francis, Dewi Shorrock, Jack James, Matthew Marley and Cobi Flowers. Rhys Morgan converted four of the touchdowns and landed two penalties.

Elsewhere, in Sunday’s encounter Bargoed turned the form book on its head to blow away Narberth 35-13 at Bargoed Park.

In One West, Glynneath moved a step closer to the claiming the crown when they ran out 38-6 winners at Kenfig Hill.

They were awarded two penalty tries while Rhodri Cole was at the double and Ryan Cole and Shaun Pennat also crossed with Jack O'Reilly kicking four conversions.

Meanwhile, Whitland and Loughor fought out a 12-12 draw in a match between two teams struggling to find their best form.

Dunvant increased their lead in Two West when they won 17-7 at Aberavon Quins.

Jordan Jackson, Danny Davies and Adam Williams crossed for Dunvant tries with Aled Lewis adding the extras to one.

Rhiwbina's scrum-half Harry Trelawney in action against Llanishen

In Two East, leaders Rhiwbina are now nine points ahead of title rivals Llantrisant after sweeping to a 35-17 bonus point victory over Llanishen.

Llanishen opened the scoring with a corner try by wing Tilan Mafi, but the hosts struck back with two penalties by Gareth McCarthy.

Rhiwbina finished the first half stronger, taking a 16-5 lead into the interval thanks to a try from wing Louis Millar and five further points from the boot of McCarthy.

After the break the Squirrels extended their advantage thanks to a converted penalty try, but Llanishen fought back strongly with Phil Thomas bagging a quick-fire double for the visitors

The powerful Rhiwbina scrum then forced Llanishen to concede a penalty try, converted by McCarthy, but Llanishen fought back strongly and Phil Thomas crossed for a brace of tries, one of which he converted.

However, the hosts regrouped and bagged two late touchdowns from Grant Fitzgerald and Alex Kerr to wrap up the points.

Pontyberem are six points adrift at the foot of Three West after losing 38-16 at Llanybydder, while Pontypool United gave a splendid display to defeat Brynmawr 29-13 in Three East.

Oakdale Captain David Fortune grabbed a try brace but his side still lost 19-15 at home to Abertysswg, while Briton Ferry bagged a bonus point 26-15 victory over  Pontardawe Four South-West.

Finally, No. 8 Jason Jones scored four tries for Tredegar Ironsides 33-14 Six East home win over Hollybush.

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Swalec Leagues Weekend Review

Title contenders Ystrad Rhondda and Heol y Cyw cut Merthyr’s advantage at the summit of One East to seven points, after they recorded victories over Bedlinog and Gilfach Goch respectively.

With the Ironmen not in action, it was the perfect opportunity for the chasing pack to close the gap and exert some pressure on the pacemakers.

Last season’s runners up Ystrad needed a late Rhys Truelove penalty to seal their most slender of successes, 17-16 against the basement boys. Truelove fired home four penalties while Matthew Jezkalic touched down for the visitors.

The Cockerels meanwhile had no such problems at Gilfach Goch as they claimed the full points on offer with tries from Chris Howe, Rhys Thomas, Kyle Lowry and Ryan Griffiths. They now sit level on points with Ystrad, just seven points behind leaders Merthyr.

At the top of One West, Glynneath stretched their lead to eleven points as they overcame a determined Carmarthen Athletic side 16-10.

The pacemakers outscored their rivals two tries to one with touchdowns from Jordan Griffiths and Ben Jones, while Josh Jones and Jack O’Reilly added a penalty apiece.

Kenfig Hill moved up to third thanks to a seven try 44-3 drubbing of hosts Llangennech.

The Mules’ Mike Kennedy was the star of the show with four tries, while Chris Tossell, Steven Gillet and Aaron Grabham also went over.

In the day’s other scheduled fixture, the match between high-fliers Kidwelly and Loughor was postponed. 

Joe Casella on the attack for Rhiwbina at Abercynon

Rhiwbina maintained their advantage at the top of Two East as they dished out a 73-0 drubbing to Abercynon.

The Squirrels helped themselves to eleven tries in all in this one-sided showing- Brett Chatwin, Chris Fido, Alex Kerr and Joe Casella were all at the double while Dave Smith, Sion Summers and Dan Murphy also went over.

Elsewhere, Llantwit Fardre moved up to fifth with a 33-11 win at Fleur de Lys. Jason Pocock was the stand-out performer for Fardre as the fly-half notched up 18 points from the tee.

Cefn Coed's Jason Price in action against Penygraig.

 In worrying news for Tredegar supporters it was a second week in a row the Gwent side were unable to field a team.

Moving west Trebanos clinched a 40-19 win over Amman United in Two West. Matthew Edwards starred for Banws as the wing bagged 20 of his team’s points, including a brace.

Four West’s Lampeter were the biggest winners of the day as they racked up a century in their 106-0 win over Milford Haven.

Lampeter crossed for 17 tries as they ran rampant, Paul Jones bagged four of them while there were hat-tricks for Gary Davies, Gary Jones and Brynmor Jones.

Centre Daniel Davies crossed twice for Cefn Coed in their win over Penygraig

After losing out to Penygraig at the start of the Five South Central campaign Cefn Coed  were too strong for their visitors, as they ran out convincing 53-13 winners at home.

The hosts helped themselves to seven tries in all through Daniel Davies (2), Matthew Rolls, Jason Price, Ryan Sullivan, Liam Elliott and a penalty try, while Steve James added 18 points from the tee. 

 In Five South East Caerau Ely notched up their twelfth win of the season with a 61-6 drubbing over Sully Sports. 

Finally, Menai Bridge kept alive their Three North promotion prospects with a 55-5 demolition of Welshpool.

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Treharris Phoenix hoping to rise to promotion challenge

Treharris Phoenix are currently flying high in Five South Central and inflicted league leaders Cambrian Welfare’s only second defeat of the season at the weekend.

Treharris produced a gritty display to edge out Cambrian 10-8 at home with Lee Munk touching down while Jamie Evans added the extras and a penalty.

Club Secretary Karl Edwards believes that if they can continue to produce the goods, Phoenix could be in line to bag back to back promotions.

“We are very happy with our season, we had a good win Saturday and the players and coaches really believe they have it in them to challenge for promotion.”

Phoenix have had a change at the helm in the off season and Edwards thinks their fresh impetus has helped the side adjust to life in a higher division.

“Stephen Parry and Wayne Ford have taken over coaching duties and are doing a great job. We’ve had one or two lads return to the squad but essentially it is the same group that took us up last year.”

Edwards admits Treharris have a number of big matches coming up and hopes a couple of wins could put them in the driving seat for promotion.

“We have two tough away matches coming up in the league, travelling to Cefn Coed and Treherbert. We are the only side to have beaten Treherbert this season, and we follow that up with a local derby against Ynysowen. If we can notch up wins in those matches it will be huge for the confidence and belief in the side.”

 Next up Treharris take on Cefn Coed under the lights on Friday 7 February. 

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Swalec Leagues Round Up

Senghenydd came out on top in a nine try thriller as they edged past Mountain Ash 41-38 in an enthralling encounter in Two East.

Daniel John bagged a try treble for the Saints while Lloyd Rowland, James Hallett and Geraint Clarke also went over. The Old Firm had to settle for losing and try bonus points as they ran in five tries themselves.

Meanwhile, seven penalty kicks by Rhiwbina centre Grant Fitzgerald was enough for Rhiwbina to see off Llanishen 21-7 in the North Cardiff derby.

Rhiwbina's Charlie Elton makes a break

An individual try by Llanishen full back Tom Hannah, converted by Phil Thomas, brought some early second half hope for the home team, but the Squirrels drew further ahead in the last quarter thanks to outstanding performances by skipper Nick Howell and Dan Murphy up front. 

The Rhiwbina backs, bolstered by the return of flier Brett Chatwin, always looked dangerous and were well marshalled by Gareth McCarthy in his first league game of the season.

Elsewhere, Tredegar notched up their maiden victory of the season with a try bonus 37-27 success at Abercynon.

Meanwhile, new boys Trebanos continue to impress in Two West as they dismantled Aberavon Quins 61-15.

The Quins had no answer to Banws’ pace and power as they ran in nine tries, with wingers Dan Doherty and Rhydian Williams each bagging braces, while Alun Lewis and Kris Jones were also among the scorers.

After a torrid few weeks, Maesteg finally had something to smile about as they eased past Aberystwyth 25-6, with fly-half Corey Butler notching up 20 points from the tee for the Old Parish side.

In Three East, Risca once again dished out a hiding as they ran 15 tries past Rhymney in a 98-17 triumph. Scrum-half Rhys Meredith was the star of the show as he claimed four tries, while Neil Lewis grabbed a hat-trick.

Gareth Morris was the hero of the day for Resolven as they narrowly saw off Neath Athletic 37-34 at Cwrt Herbert, with Morris picking up a hat-trick.

Lower down in Four South East, Glyncoch, who have gone three years without a loss in the League, finally saw that run come to an end as they lost out 22-17 at St Josephs.

Finally, Llandybie laid down a marker of their title credentials in Six West as they trounced Llansawel 59-5,  back rowers Rhydian Jones and Lyndon Davies both claiming hat-tricks.

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Falcons clinch promotion

Abertysswg were celebrating last night (May 21) after clinching promotion to Division Four of the national leagues with a 28-12 win over Pontrhydyfen in the Division Five play-off match at Llanharan.

Scrum-half Jamie Perry spins the ball wide

The Falcons outscored their rivals three tries to two with full back Ricky Jones bagging a brace, while centre Richard Theophillus added ten points with the boot. 

The Dairyfield was bathed in sunshine as the sides took to the pitch, and with perfect conditions, both sides set about playing expansive rugby.

It was the Five South Central runners up that got off to the stronger start. With Abertysswg attempting to find their feet in the match after a scrappy start, it was Pontrhydyfen who landed the first blow.

Scrum-half Matthew Morgan and wing Tom Frost combined well to send captain Craig Cox crashing under the posts from close range, with fly-half Rory Williams adding the extras.

The Afan Valley side continued to look threatening as the back three sought to attack at every opportunity, and could have been further ahead if not for Williams’ penalty from 40 metres out just drifting wide of the post.

The packs were evenly matched at the set piece

The Falcons, who had been slowly growing into the match, got their lucky break just before the half hour mark. An up and under caused chaos in defence for Pont and the bouncing ball was gathered by Aber centre Theophillus, before offloading to lock Steve Jones who delightedly crossed. Theophillus dusted himself off to add the conversion and draw the sides level.

With newly found confidence, it didn't take Aber long before they were once again celebrating. Going through the phases in the Pont 22, the ball moved wide with full back Jones showing great vision and desire to create the extra man and go over out-wide.

Ricky Jones crosses for Abertysswg

After surrendering the lead, Pontrhydyfen didn’t lie down and threw everything at their rivals before the interval. Williams missed another shot at goal before inflicting a period of intense pressure on the Aber line.

The Five South Central runners up were held up twice thanks to some desperate defence from the Falcons, with both teams knew a score here would change the outlook of the second half.

The final play of the half saw Pontrhydyfen have the put-in 5 metres out from their rivals' line. With the scrum holding firm, Cox picked up from the base and drove towards the whitewash, but referee Jonathan Mason decided that the ball was once again held up and blew up for half time.

With the Falcons denying Pont time and time again before the interval, you felt the next score was crucial and it was the Caerphilly side that took their chance, shifting the ball wide with wing Gareth Lerwell’s inside ball finding Jones for his second of the night. Theophillus was once again on hand to slot the extras and added a penalty a short while later to give Aber a 22-7 lead.

Pontrhydyfen were shell shocked but regrouped well, with their efforts rewarded with a penalty. Williams pushed it into the corner and after a good catch and drive from Cox, broke off the blindside to send Matthew Morgan scampering over.

Pontrhydyfen test the Falcons defence

The try renewed the Afan Valley side’s belief, and a great chip and gather from Williams saw them threaten the Aber defence but the final pass failed to go to hand. With their tails up Pont were in the ascendancy, however, the Falcons' defence replied to the challenge with vigour, repelling wave after wave of attack.

With time ticking by and Pont getting desperate, the Caerphilly side knew another score would surely put the match to bed, and a rare foray into the opposition half in the final quarter saw centre Josh Perry fire over a drop goal, with Theophillus slotting another penalty soon after to seal the victory.

Abertysswg celebrate after the match

In a match played at a high intensity with both teams putting their bodies on the line, a few niggles crept into the game towards the end with each side reduced to 14 men for the closing moments. Referee Mason sin binned Pont’s replacement prop Alun Bevan for an off the ball scuffle, as well as Aber’s Jamie Perry for a tip tackle.

Abertysswg: Tries: S Jones 26, R Jones 32,46; Cons: R Theophillus 27,47; Pens: R Theophillus 56,77; Drop Goal: Josh Perry 73.

Pontrhydyfen: Tries: C Cox 9, M Morgan 58; Cons: R Williams 9.

Star Man: Richard Theophillus

Referee: Jonathan Mason

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Cwmgors win Swalec Division Five South West title

Cwmgors have lifted the SWALEC National League Division 5 South West title.

Cwmgors celebrate claiming the Five South West title

Having sealed their title triumph with a 89-7 away win over Llandybie on Wednesday 8 May the team carried off the SWALEC title by six points.

The match saw Cwmgors score 15 tries and 7 conversions, with Cwmgors’ 26-year-old Michael Hodges notching up two tries to his total of 24 this season, setting a new club record. 

Home-team Llandybie only managed to put seven points on the board which marked the last move of the game before the full-time whistle was blown.

Cwmgors’ promotion to Division 4 may see the club expand to offer a youth section next season.

Coaches and Captains celebrate the title success

Forwards Coach Chris Jones said: “We’ve had an outstanding season with total commitment from all of our players. It’s been a long and hard season and the past few weeks have been challenging as we’ve had so many away games in a row.”

Backs Coach Barry Morgan said: “The highlight for us this season was beating Penybanc 18-14 in April. At half-time we were down 14-0 so we had a serious team talk at half-time and the boys turned it around in the second half resulting in our win. Cwmgors are all local boys and we’re so pleased with what we have achieved. We’ve stuck together and the hard work has really paid off.”

Cwmgors have won all their matches this season, bar one in March against Cwmtwrch where they drew 8-8.  The team has put their success down to regular training with professional boxer, Chris Jenkins, who is currently ranked 27^th in Great Britain. Since last summer, Chris has put the team through its paces through circuit training and aerobic fitness.

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Wednesday rugby round-up

Cardiff Met look set to bag a top three finish in the Championship after they dispatched already relegated Glamorgan Wanderers 51-31, at their Cyncoed base.

The Wands managed five tries in a high scoring and entertaining encounter, with Rhys Jenkins, No8 Garrick Armstrong, Charlie Johnston, Jac Hopkins and Andrew Bradbury all crossing for the visitors.

But the students out-did their efforts with six touchdowns of their own. Sam Cross, Miles Normandale, Rhodri Davies, full back Guy Woods, wing Pierre Tucker and Ben Axten-Burrett all went over, with Matt O’Brien equally capable with the boot. He converted all six, added two penalties and even threw in a drop goal for good measure for a personal tally of 21 points.

The evening’s other fixture saw basement club Whitland pick up only their third win of the season via a 33-24 victory over Newbridge at Parc Llwyntygwyn.

The hosts earned a bonus point by crossing four times. Fraser Watson, Will Davies, Zach France Miller and Rhodri West did the damage, with Johnny Thomas converting two of them and adding two penalties, and Carwyn Jones kicking a further three points.

Full back Ceri Young grabbed a brace of tries for the visitors, with Stefan Morgan adding another and Neil Burnett kicking the remaining points.

There was plenty of drama at both ends of the table in One East.

At the top, Ystrad Rhondda posted a 28-21 home victory over Gilfach Goch to keep in touch with leaders RGC 1404, but weren’t happy when their opponents arrived with three Premiership players in the side.

On the team-sheet, they were all listed as in the side on permit, while the hosts pointed out this was against the rules. Gilfach stated that it was a clerical error, and that one was in fact in the team on dual registration, therefore breaking no rules.

The referee sided with Ystrad, and Gilfach went in to the fixture with just two replacements. It was a controversial beginning to the game, as some will question why a team who had nothing but pride to play for would arrive for an end-of-season fixture with three players with Premiership experience in their side.

However, the row must have inspired the Rhondda Valley side on, as they secured a bonus point win through braces by David Gratton and Jay Harris. Rhys Truelove converted all four to secure a vitally important win.

At the other end, Merthyr’s fate looks to have been sealed as they lost 42-13 away at Rumney and Mountain Ash surprised Rhydyfelin to pick up a vital 35-12 win.

With Merthyr expecting a points deduction for failing to fulfil a fixture, they will certainly have to produce a ‘Great Escape’ of the highest proportions to survive relegation.

Mountain Ash compounded their defeat by picking up a bonus point win as Rhydyfelin undoubtedly had one eye on their Swalec Plate final this weekend. Chris Edmonds (two), Ross Davies and Mark Addis were their try scorers.

In One West, Glynneath posted a 36-17 victory over Kenfig Hill to move above Ammanford and level on points with Kidwelly in the table.

Corey Jenkins starred for Glynneath by scoring a try, two conversions, three penalties and a drop goal, with a penalty try, a James Price score and a Rhodri Cole touchdown adding the extras.

Carl Davies crossed for the visitors’ sole five-pointer, with Nicky Giles kicking the rest of their points through penalties.

In Two East, Llantwit Fardre put seven tries past lowly Rhymney, while leaders Bedlinog came close to a half century of points as they hammered Garndiffaith 49-0.

Lampeter climbed off the bottom of the Three West table and above Milford Haven by beating the same side 53-7, touching the ball down nine times in the process.

There was also an important result in Three North as Harlech defeated Rhos 22-7 to really dent the visitors’ title challenge. The loss allowed Wrexham to climb above them to the top of the table with a 32-12 win over Porthmadog.

In Four South West, Glyncorrwg landed seven tries as they beat Pontardawe 43-12. They came from six separate scorers – Anthony Daws, Gareth Kingman, Steffan Hnatiuk, Joshua Thomas, Rhys Harris and Steffan Williams – as well as a penalty try.

Bettws moved just a point behind second-placed Caerleon in Five East thanks to a 54-18 beating of Brynithel. JJ Whitehead and Ryan Bradford both notched braces, with Kyle Williams, Sean Clarke, Mikey Thomas and Lewis Crowley making it eight tries scored for the hosts.

Abertysswg also ran up eight tries as they beat Canton 50-5 in Five South East. Gareth Lerwell grabbed two of them, with the others shared between Ricky Jones, Richard Theophilus, Josh Perry, Jamie Parry, Lee Llewellyn and Michael Wogan.

Cwmtwrch defeated Llandybie 55-7 in Five South West, while Glyncoch triumphed over Rhigos by the same scoreline in Five South Central.

The result of the day went to Pontrhydyfen in the same division, smashing Blaengarw 102-0 in their own back yard. They managed 16 tries, with Craig Cox equalling the club record of six tries in one match. Tom Frost nabbed himself a hat-trick, with the others scored by Chris Hunt, Kelvin Walters, Nick Edwards, Mark Davies, Richard Wanklyn and Chris Golvett.

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Undefeated Gowerton pick up SWALEC 5 West crown

Gowerton were crowned as the SWALEC Division 5 West Champions after sealing their title triumph with a 22 – 44 away win over Pembroke RFC on Saturday 20^thApril.

The Starch have enjoyed great success in the league having won all of their matches so far this season. They will be crowned champions in front of their home supporters after their home match against Pembroke RFC on Saturday 27^th April.

Outside-half Josh Hamer added to his tally as top scorer for the season during the weekend’s win in West Wales and Gowerton’s top try scorer, prop Craig Thomas, added another to his fifteen tries of the campaign.

Player-Coach Gethin Lillicrap said: “We’ve got a team of home-grown talent and our first squad is a fruition of the junior and youth system here. Our back-line is made up entirely of youth products. It’s been a fantastic season for us and we’re really looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead in Division 4 next year.”

SWALEC is the national community partner of the Welsh Rugby Union and is the national sponsor of both the SWALEC Leagues and SWALEC Cup, Plate and Bowl competition.

Huw Lock, sponsorship account manager at SWALEC, said: “Our strong partnership with the WRU has goes back a number of years and we’re very pleased to be able to support rugby in Wales through the SWALEC Leagues. 
It has been a great season for Welsh rugby as a whole and we have seen some impressive performances at club level. Many congratulations to Gowerton RFC on claiming the title today.”

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Wanderers give Bargoed a scare

Bargoed survived a mighty scare from relegation threatened Glamorgan Wanderers to return to winning ways with a 21-17 home victory, that sees Ebbw Vale’s lead at the summit cut to 14 points.

All of the Blues' points came before the break with tries from Luke Smalley, Dafydd Carter and James Pizey, while Chris Mapps added the extras to all three

Wanderers manager Luke Burton said before the encounter, “We can't leave Bargoed without anything if we are to put pressure on the sides above us.”

And the Wanderers did just that, as they staged a rousing second half fight-back by crossing for three tries of their own through David Ellis, Steffan Simpson and Ed Doe, who also converted one.

It may not have been all four but to salvage one point brings the Memorial Ground outfit within five points of Bonymaen, as the battle to avoid relegation looks like it will go down to the wire.

There was almost a full schedule of fixtures in Two East with leaders Bedlinog narrowly seeing off Rhiwbina, 18-15 at the Rec.

The Foxes were outscored two tries to nil but the boots of Iain Smerdon, who kicked two penalties and a drop goal, and Ben Grzseica, who took over from the tee to add three penalties and seal the win, sees them go six points clear at the top.

The Squirrels' Brett Chatwin will feel aggrieved to have finished on the losing side after claiming a brace.

A Dan Davies try and eleven points from the boot of Matthew Davies helped Garndiffaith to a 16-7 home win over Pill Harriers.

Elsewhere, Llantrisant moved up to second after a bruising 9-6 victory over Senghenydd, while the bottom two also clashed, with Rhymney coming out on top 13-12 at Tylorstown.

In Two North, COBRA remain in the hunt for promotion as they comfortably dispatched Llanidloes 51-15. Jack Jukes bagged a brace for the hosts, while Alwyn Williams and Aled Davies were also among the scorers.

Pacemakers Abertillery BG continued their supremacy at the top of Three East with a 38-7 win at Caerphilly. The leaders crossed six times through Kurtis Haile(2), Justin Phelps, Shaun Connor, Darren Miles and Aled Penn.

Meanwhile, Abercarn picked up a crucial win in their bid to avoid the drop as they edged past Abergavenny 18-17. Outside half Jason Evans was the hero for Abercarn as he fired home six penalties to claim his side's fourth victory of the season.

Ynysddu continued where they left off from Saturday as they notched up a half century in a 57-7 success at Chepstow.

The visitors came within nine points of scoring 200 in two matches as they ran in nine tries in all. Josh Davies claimed a brace, while prop Gareth Gwilym went over for the score of the evening - the front row man dashing 70 yards to touchdown a score which he will no doubt be dining out on for awhile!

In Four South East, Barry kept up their title bid with a 17-5 home triumph over Pontycymmer. The hosts crossed twice through Ashley Adams and Rhys O’Sullivan, while Tom Lee stroked home the extras to both and a penalty.

There were wins for both Glyncoch and Pontrhydyfen in Five South Central as the title race intensifies.

Pontrhydyfen easily dispatched Tonna 43-10 with back row Craig Cox and try machine Steve Colarusso both bagging braces, while fly half Rory Williams claimed 18 points.

Finally, in Five South East, Canton dented Cefn Coed’s hopes of promotion with an 18-7 triumph. Peter Hughes was at the double for Cefn while Luke Radford added a conversion, penalty and dropped a goal.

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Swalec Leagues Round Up

Denbigh defied the North Walian weather to move 10 points clear at the top of Division Two North courtesy of a 59-0 hammering of relegation-troubled Llangollen.

With the weather putting paid to a lot of the sport in the region again on the weekend, some clubs were able to get matches played in what will have been a huge relief with the postponed fixture pile-up most are already facing.

They managed nine tries against the visitors, with Dan Jones, the aptly named Jamie Winning and Tom Seddon each grabbing braces. Osian Williams, Liam Arsup-Jones and Dan O’Sullivan rounded off the try count, with Seddon also converting seven of them.

Machynlleth were also big winners – 50-0 over another side fighting the drop, Shotton Steel.

In Two East, Bedlinog stretched their lead at the top to three points as Nelson didn’t play and they etched out a 6-6 draw at Senghenydd, who remain four points behind them in fourth.

Kicking was the name of the game in a match that saw Bedlinog fail to cross the whitewash for the first time this season, and it was a last minute Ian Smerton kick that drew the leaders level to earn a vital point in their fight for promotion.

Two second half tries for Rhiwbina by the prolific Brett Chatwin secured a hard-fought win and bonus point over visitors Fleur de Lys to take the Squirrels into third place.

Jake Chilcott opened the scoring with a penalty, and with some hard work from the forwards they crossed for two first half tries from prop Cameron Neal and No8 Dan Murphy, the second converted by Chilcott.  Adam Greendale replied with a penalty for Flower.

Both defences held secure in the second half until, after a great chip to the corner by Harry Trelawny, Chatwin raced through to pick up and touch down, and Chilcott converted superbly.

Flower’s Ben Papp then scored the visitors’ only try, but it was Chatwin who had the final say, slicing through under the posts to score his second try and secure a vital bonus point after more great work from the forwards, and Chilcott converted.

Elsewhere, Abercynon also climbed above victims Garndiffaith courtesy of a 31-19 victory at Y Parc.

Seven Sisters closed the gap on Builth Wells at the top of Two West to just a point with a 43-18 win over Maesteg Quins.

No8 Alun Jones was the star of the show with a hat-trick of tries, while Daniel Norton, Anthony Llewellyn and centre Kyle Davies added the others.

Crymych were also big winners in the division, running in seven tries in a 51-20 victory over Felinfoel, while Penclawdd also ran in seven tries in a 50-12 win at basement club Haverfordwest. Jonathan Terry grabbed a brace, while hooker Rob Morris, John Hughes, Gareth Evans, Jamie Moore and Chris Corbisiero also crossed.

In Three South West, Pencoed ran out 44-18 winners at Brynamman thanks in large part to Marc Davies kicking 19 points. They secured a bonus point by running in five tries – Gareth Prentiss, Chris John, Scott Narbeph, Ken Morris and Glen Hiscocks being the men to thank for those.

Leaders Trebanos were victorious at lowly Vardre, coming through 18-8 thanks largely to Brendan Murphy grabbing a brace of tries.

The top four all won, with Trebanos and Pencoed joined by second-placed Ystalyfera winning 21-17 at Maesteg Celtic and third-placed Mumbles just edging Bryncoch 24-20.

Amman United remain 10 points clear at the top of Three West thanks to a 20-8 win at Pontarddulais. After forcing a penalty try, Joel Forster and Sean Mangan also crossed to add to a drop goal by fly half Adrian Thomas.

At the bottom, Pontyberem picked up a vital win in the relegation fight of the day, beating Lampeter 30-17. The result moves them on to 25 points, with the bottom two Lampeter and Milford Haven both on 21.

Abertillery BG won the battle of the top two in Three East, triumphing 27-7 at Newport HSOB in a bonus point win that moves them nine points clear at the top. Greg Lane grabbed a brace of tries in the match many saw as a title decider, with Aled Lane and Chris Stevens grabbing the others.

Third-placed Gwernyfed cut the gap between them and Newport HSOB to seven points with an entertaining 46-38 win over Brynmawr. Both sides secured bonus points for tries scored, with the home side’s coming through a Craig Fuller hat-trick, centre Gareth Dodd brace and scores for Lee Hammond and Andrew Hill.

With Rhosllanerchrugog’s game postponed and Wrexham going down 20-3 at Harlech, Newtown opened up a three-pont gap at the top of Three North thanks to a 30-3 win at Bangor.

At the bottom, Holyhead finally won a league game at the 14^th time of asking, 34-10 over Benllech, to move within five points of Porthmadog.

Second-placed Pontyclun ran out 59-10 victors over Penarth in Three South East, while leaders Dowlais beat lowly Tonyrefail 45-8, scoring seven tries. David Butler (two), Jim Kelly (two), John Flanigan, Chris Williams and Simon Griffiths were the scorers.

The Swalec Bowl semi-final line-up has now been completed. Cilfynydd set up a date with Fishguard as they overcame Cambrian Welfare 11-6 in their re-arranged quarter-final. Mark Burton scored all their points via a try and two penalties.

In the other delayed quarter-final, Blaenavon set up a date with Wattstown as Jamie Noble and Lee Wright tries gave them a 10-3 win over Penlan.

Pontycymmer ran in eight tries in a 53-8 victory over lowly Taffs Well in Four South East, while leaders Tycroes scored nine tries in a 53-0 thrashing of Betws in Four West. Simon Cooper and Tristan Morgan both scored braces, and Grant Williams, Stephen Roache, Matthew James, Aaron Price and Dean Bromham got the others.

In Five South East, Pontllanfraith’s sorry season continued with a 53-10 loss at Caerau Ely, while in Five South Central, Glyncoch kept up the pressure on Dinas Powys at the top courtesy of a 64-0 home win over Tonna. Daniel Jones scored a hat-trick of tries in an impressive victory, with Neil McGrath (two), John Milton, Mark Rowlands and Peter Cummings also scoring.

In Five West, Swansea Uplands put 14 tries past St Davids in an 80-6 victory at the relegation threatened club. Paul Beck celebrated the birth of his fourth daughter with as many tries, one for each of them. It was also a brilliant day for the Edmunds brothers. Tom (three), Sion (two) and James all scored, with Ian Lewis, Harry Lees, Ben Davies and Jamie Boyle finishing off the rout.

Baglan had an even bigger win in Five South West, 14 tries again contributing to a 103-21 victory at bottom side Llangadog. Neil Gadd bagged five of them, with Dean Wood (two), Rhodri Rees, Daniel Blethin, Dan Gulley, Jamie McLean, Nathan Dare, Sam Owen and Kevin Thomas also crossing the whitewash.

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