Swalec League Weekend Review

SWANSEA are a point off the Championship summit after a thoroughly convincing 43-10 win at Bridgend Athletic on Saturday made it four wins out of four.

They now trail table-toppers Bargoed by a point thanks to Nicky Thomas’ try double in a seven-score salvo with Aled Jenkins, Steff Jones, Jake Cole, Matthew Davies and Marc Bennett also crossing the whitewash.

Full-back Thomas also nailed four conversions to take his personal points haul to 18.

Leaders Bargoed lead the way by a solitary point after they also made it four wins out of four with a crushing 42-12 defeat of beleaguered basement boys Llanharan.

Lee Protheroe, Darren Humphreys, Dafydd Carter, Josh Prosser and a penalty try were on the scoresheet for the league leaders, with Prosser adding three conversions and two penalties.

Elsewhere, Aaron Howard bagged a brace to help guide Merthyr to a 22-7 success at home against Glynneath while there were also wins in the Championship for Cardiff Met, Pontypool, RGC 1404 and Tata Steel.

In other action, most clubs took a break from league action on Saturday as the SWALEC Plate and Bowl competitions took centre stage with clubs dreaming of reaching the Millennium Stadium in the spring.

In the Bowl, The big winners of the day were Anglesey outfit Llangefni, who smashed hapless Rhosllanerchrugog 123-0. George Horseman scoring seven of their 18 tries, 15 of which were converted by Rhys Hughes.

Try trebles for Jonathan Cronin and Dean Williams inspired Bynea to a 60-5 thumping home victory against Fall Bay.

Cronin also booted five conversions as he side ran home ten tries, with Mark Davies bagging a brace alongside efforts from Nick Morris and Joe Morgans.

Jack Holland and Owen Phillips led the way with a brace apiece as Abercrave duly dispatched  Pontyates 52-7 with Curtis Griffiths, Ryan Tippett, Cellan Edwards and Nathan Cornelius also going over.

John Paul Stevens landed four conversions while Darren Hodge added two.

James Williams scored a hat-trick to help inspire Tonna to a 39-21 victory at home against Baglan.

Garry Knight also chipped in with a brace to sit alongside a Phil Williams effort. Matthew Gourlay kicked the other points.

In the Plate, there was a heartbreaking exit for Caernarfon who were eliminated at the first hurdle on tries scored following a dramatic 25-25 clash with Bethesda that went into extra-time.

The sides were deadlocked at 20-20 at full time, with visitors Bethesda ultimately going through on try count, 4-2. Dylan Williams, Paul Thomas, Gareth Williams and Aaron Roberts got their tries, while Domic Yau and Iolo Huws replied for the home side.

Meanwhile Aron Humphreys and Ieuan Morris both filled their boots with two tries apiece as Nelson cantered to a comprehensive 60-13 victory at Fleur De Lys.

Paul Adams was on the treble trail but couldn’t prevent Cardiff Quins from crashing out – after a 35-22 home reverse against Bedlinog.

There were also a couple of league fixtures played on Saturday.

In Division Three West C, Llangadog went four points clear at the summit as they edged to a 30-26 victory at Pantyffynon in a top of the table battle.

They collected a tries bonus point as Owain Jones, Dewi Howells,Aled Jenkins and Adam Thompson all went over with Dafydd Jenkins kicking two conversions and two penalties.

In One East Central, Ynysybul won for the third game on the spin – a 39-23 win at Gilfach Goch, Sean Ireland leading the way with a brace.

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Swalec Cup, Plate and Bowl Predictions

Swalec Cup

Pontypridd v Cross Keys 5.25 pm

Pontypridd will be hoping to retain the trophy they won 12 months ago and will undoubtedly start as favourites, but, just as in 2012, the Gwent opponents pose a very real threat. The sides are tied at one game all in the head to head in the league this year and I think it could go either way on Sunday.

Paul John’s side will be keen to get over the heartbreak of their agonising loss on try count to Leinster A last weekend and what better way than to claim the Swalec Cup?

Everyone has been talking about Ponty as potentially doing the double but if Keys can stun the defending Champions on Sunday their odds of themselves claiming a league and cup double will be slashed.

Both teams have formidable packs and although neither side have ended their league campaigns in less than sparkling form, there could be fireworks on Sunday.

Verdict-Pontypridd by 7 points

Swalec Plate final 3.15pm

Merthyr v Rhiwbina

Both teams are in the hunt for a double after securing their respective leagues in the last week. The Ironmen obliterated One West Champions Glynneath in the last round and you would have to be a brave person to bet against Lee Jarvis’ troops coming away with the title on Sunday.

However, Rhiwbina have shown they can live with first division sides having beaten several on the way to the final.

Merthyr have been running in the tries for fun of late but, in securing the One East crown last Saturday, looked a tad nervy as they edged past Bedlinog. The Squirrels had no such problem mid-week when they eased to the Two East title as they thumped Tredegar and I believe the distraction of that match will have helped the Cardiff side's preparation.

Ultimately, I can’t look beyond a Merthyr victory but I think it will be closer than a lot of people are predicting.

Verdict-Merthyr by 9 points

Swalec Bowl final

Clwb Rygbi Cymry Caerdydd v Llantwit Major 1.00pm

Clwb will start as slight favourites, having won the two league encounters this year, and after losing out to St Joseph's in the league, Gareth Williams’ troops will be eager to pick up some silverware.

Only a few seasons ago Clwb were still classed as a District side in Division Six South Central, along with the likes of Wattstown, whose winning performance from last season they will be hoping to replicate.

However, Major will be determined to stop them and commemorate their 125^th Anniversary year in style. They have proved to be a great Cup side so far this season and they will be hoping for a bit more magic when they take to the field Sunday lunchtime.

Fairytale is banded about quite frequently in sport but, for either of these sides, a win on Sunday would be just that. I know Clwb have beaten Major twice already this season but I’m not sure it will count for much on Sunday.

 Verdict- Llantwit Major by 3 points 

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Fardre march on in Plate

Two East’s Llantwtit Fardre once again upset the form guide as they bagged a place in the semi-finals of the Swalec Plate, dispatching first division outfit Llangennech 31-21.

Heading into the encounter against One West’s Llangennech, Fardre had previously seen off holders Heol y Cyw and One East outfit Glamorgan Wanderers.

After taking a while to get into the match Fardre soon acclimatised, with fly-half Jason Pocock once again the catalyst for the win as the player/coach amassed 16 points from the tee, while Adam Harcourt, Elliot Davies and Scott Burrows all crossed for the visitors.

Rhiwbina's Dan Murphy in action against Nant Conwy

Meanwhile fellow Two East outfit Rhiwbina are also just one win away from a day out at the Millennium Stadium as they Squirrels saw off 2012 runners up Nant Conwy at Caedelyn, running out 36-19 winners, scoring six tries in the process.

The North Walians made life difficult for the Squirrels at times and continued to attack until the final whistle, but the formidable Rhiwbina pack, with Dan Murphy putting in an outstanding performance, were just too strong for the visitors.

The hosts opened the scoring with a Louis Millar try but Nant soon cancelled that score out with a touchdown by Emrys Evans.

The Squirrels remained on top before the break with Gareth Clwyd-Jones and Chris Fido both crossing the whitewash.

After the break, the outstanding Gareth McCarthy continued to terrorise the Nant defence, setting up hooker Jamie DeAbreu's touchdown.

Fido then bagged for his second of the afternoon following great work by the pack with Murphy again leading the way.

The visitors did try and mount a comeback when Euros Jones went beneath the posts, but Rhiwbina made sure of victory when they shunted back the Nant pack from a 5 metre scrum and the referee was forced to award the Squirrels a penalty try, converted by McCarthy.

With the home faithful already toasting their team’s success, it was Nant that had the final say with Carwyn Roberts grabbing a late consolation.

However, there was no such upset at Glynneath where the One West leaders overcame Maesteg Quins 19-13 in a titanic battle.

In the day’s other quarter-final clash, Two West’s Amman United were unable to field a side in their match-up against Merthyr, handing the Ironmen a walkover.

In the Swalec Bowl, Four South East’s Clwb Rygbi Cymry Caerdydd’s dreams of completing a League and Cup double are still on, after the Cardiff outfit progressed to the last four of the competition thanks to a 35-18 home win over Nantymoel.

Gareth Williams’ troops produced a strong second half display to shake off their league rivals ‘Moel, crossing four times in all through Sam Rogers, Richard Read, Deian Thomas and Amlyn Griffiths.

Meanwhile, fellow Four South East outfit Llantwit Major also clinched a place in the final four with a 30-21 home success over Pyle.

The boot of Ryan Evans once again proved pivotal as the fly-half claimed 20 of his side’s points from the tee, while wings Marcus Pearce and Rhys Belmont crossed the whitewash.

There is to be no fairytale for Six South East’s Hartridge after the lowest league side that was left in the competition went down 30-15 to Four East’s Old Illtydians.

Finally, Llandudno made certain of a North Wales representative in the last four of the Swalec Bowl by beating Division Five South West visitors Ystradgynlais 24-10.

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Swalec Bowl Weekend Review

Llantwit Major continue to rewrite their club’s history books as the Four South East side booked their place in the last eight of the Swalec Bowl with a 25-13 home win over Beaufort.

The prolific boot of Ryan Evans was once again on song for Llantwit, as Evans bagged 20 of his side’s points through six penalties and also added the extras to Laurence Howley’s second half touchdown.

Darren Joy’s team will now face Pyle in the next round after the Four South West side won a thrilling encounter with league rivals Cwmgors 31-28.

Jamie Johns bagged a brace for Pyle while Dave Woods also went over, but it was the clinical goal kicking of Joe Gallifant that saw them through as the fly-half fired home four penalties and two conversions to seal the victory.

Two North’s Llandudno were the most emphatic winners of the day as they shrugged off the long journey to defeat Tredegar Ironsides 47-5.

Llandudno helped themselves to seven tries through Josh Williams (2), Dave Davies, Nick Eavlam, Nick Maxwell, Ameron Davies and Bobby Davies.

In an all Four East clash Old Illtydians ground out a 16-7 home win over Abertysswg.

Tom Wheeler bagged the hosts' only try while Adam Staniforth added eleven points from the tee.

Old Illtydians will now travel to Six South East pacemakers Hartridge in the last eight of the competition.

Finally, Cowbridge and Nantymoel will be hoping it’s a case of third time lucky this Saturday when they will again attempt to play their last 16 encounter.

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Swalec Bowl Round Four Review

Llantwit Major created club history at the weekend when they secured a spot in the last 16 of the Swalec Bowl with a 12-3 home victory over 2012 winners Glyncoch.

Major, celebrating their 125^th year, are in hunt of silverware to mark the special occasion, 50 years since their last notable trophy win when they claimed the Silver Ball.

The clash was a typical cup encounter with both sides making uncharacteristic errors that saw the teams locked 3-3 at the interval. After the break, however, a mistake in the Glyncs' backline saw the ball fumbled - the hosts hacking through and with the visitors' defence at sixes and sevens, wing Marcus Pearce capitalised to cross for the decisive score.

Although both sides hail from Division Four South East, the Glyncs started as favourites due to their cup pedigree and impressive league form, but being viewed as the underdogs helped Llantwit Major says Team Manager Neil Evans.

“Preparation was key for us as we hadn’t played since December 21, so we trained well. But, the night before the match, the WRU released a preview basically saying Glyncoch shouldn’t worry about playing us and that was the team talk done and dusted. We didn’t need any more incentive.”

Meanwhile, a number of Division Six sides caused upsets in the competition, with Six East’s Tredegar Ironsides producing the shock of the fourth round, as they dispatched Four East highfliers Ynysddu 15-13 to book a last 16 place.

The Ironsides outscored their hosts by two tries to one with touchdowns from Darren Philpotts and Matthew Edwards, while Ryan Hill added the extras to one and a penalty to clinch a famous win.

Another side celebrating a shock victory are Hartridge, after the Six South East leaders blew away Four East’s Oakdale 26-10.

However, there was no giant killing for St Clears as the Five West side were comprehensively put to the sword by Division Four’s Lampeter, going down 60-8, while Six West’s Burry Port gave Four South West’s Cwmgors a run for their money before succumbing 31-28.

Moving north, in an all Division Two clash Mold ran out easy winners as they comfortably saw off Shotton Steel 43-0.

Aaron Jones was the hero of the day for Mold as he bagged a hat-trick, while John Shirley, Ryan Kirby and Luke Jones also went over.

In the battle of the Four East highfliers, it was hosts Abertysswg that came out on top with the slenderest of victories over Nantyglo, winning out 11-10.

Elsewhere, in an all Five East clash, Beaufort came out on top as they dispatched Caerleon 22-12.

Matt Jordan was the star of the show for Beaufort as the fly-half landed 17 of his side’s points from the tee, while Michael White crossed for the game’s only try.

Finally, Four South East highfliers Clwb Rygbi Cymry Caerdydd also ensured safe passage in to the next round thanks to a 39-17 home win over close rivals Llandaff.

The draw for the last 16 of the competition:-

Swalec Bowl, Round 5

Cowbridge v Nantymoel

Hartridge v Laugharne

Lampeter Town v Clwb Rygbi Cymry Caerdydd

Llantwit Major v Beaufort

Old Illtydians v Abertysswg

Pyle v Cwmgors

Tredegar Ironsides v Llandudno RFC / Menai Bridge

Ystradgynlais v Mold

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Swalec Bowl Round 4 Preview

The road to Swalec finals day and a date at the home of Welsh rugby continues on Saturday with a number of mouth-watering ties in round four of the Bowl competition.

Burry Port will be hoping to spring another Cup surprise on Saturday when they entertain Cwmgors in Round Four of the competition a side two divisions higher than the Six West outfit.

Last time out the Six West side put paid to Four West’s Trimsaran, and Director of Rugby Gareth Gravell is looking forward to welcoming the Cherries to the Park for the tie.

“We’ve been going well in the league so far this season. We were delighted to get the home draw and hopefully we can use that to our advantage on Saturday.”

Burry Port recorded a club record 123-3 success in the league earlier in the season over Fall Bay and Gravell is optimistic the confidence in the squad can help them to bag another upset.

“It will undoubtedly be a big test for us. Cwmgors are going well in their division but the boys are full of confidence and we are expecting a big crowd, and hopefully we can get the win.”

Another lower league club looking to spring a surprise and book a last 16 spot in the competition are Hartridge, who travel to Four East highfliers Oakdale.

Hartridge currently sit top of Six South East and are unbeaten so far this season, and Club Secretary Bill Berry is quietly confident they can produce a shock on Saturday.

“We believe we’ve got a strong enough side to really go and cause Oakdale problems on Saturday. We know it will be hard going but there is definitely a quiet confidence in the club at the moment and hopefully we can live up to that on Saturday.”

The Newport side are still a junior member of the WRU but Berry admits things are going well at the club, on and off the pitch.

“We are really delighted with the way our season is going at the moment, we have a strong first squad and have great numbers turning out for our second XV. More importantly, we also recently set up a junior side so things are definitely looking up for us."

Meanwhile, Six West’s Tregaron and Six East’s Tredegar Ironsides will also be looking to belie their lower league status when they take on Laugharne and Ynysddu respectively.

Glyncoch resume their bid to regain the title they won back in 2012 when they travel to fellow Four South East side Llantwit Major.

The Glyncs have had a fairly safe passage through to this stage of the competition so far with a bye, a walkover and a 102-7 victory seeing them through so far. Llantwit will undoubtedly prove to be a sterner test for the Pontypridd based outfit this weekend and will fancy their chances on home turf.

In one of the tastiest clashes of the round, Four East leaders Nantyglo travel to Abertysswg.

Nantyglo Team Manager Paul Cooper believes the contest is too close to call.

“Both sides are going well in the league, despite neither of us having played much rugby recently due to the weather, but I’m certain both teams will go out there and give it their all.”

Glo reached the quarter-final stage last season and Cooper admits the club would like to go all the way this season.

“I think if we can get over the hurdle of Abertysswg, who are a very good side and are extremely tough to beat on their own patch, then we can really kick on and start thinking about a Cup run.”

Despite the lack of game time, Cooper believes Nantyglo will be well prepared for the clash.

“We’re at full strength and the lads are fresh and are really up for the match. We’ve been looking good in training and we are really looking forward to the game.”

Elsewhere, Five South West pacemakers Ystradgynlais entertain league rivals Abercrave, and Clwb Rygbi Cymry Caerdydd welcome Llandaff in an all Four South East match-up.

A full list of the Swalec Bowl Round 4 fixtures can be found here. 

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Swalec Bowl Round Two Review - 26th October

Llandaff North ensured they did not bring their woeful league form into the Bowl yesterday afternoon as they progressed through to the third round.

The North beat Cardiff Saracens 45-3 in their first victory of the season thus far after losing all 6 of their Division Four South East fixtures.

Captain Dominic Scobie set his side on their way with two tries as did Gareth Hanson while Dai Thomas and Richard Ham also went over.

Cefn Fforest were not troubled too much as they also went through beating Cwmcarn 38-3 scoring five tries in the process.

Kris Meredith, Robert Landruggan, Luke Vye-Parminter, Craig Gallent and Shaun Roach all touched down for the Fforest.

Fishguard got their campaign off to a flying start by comfortably dispatching Pembroke Dock 40-7.

The Seagulls, who lost to Wattstown at the Millennium Stadium in last season’s Bowl final, ran in five tries with Gareth Adamson, Matthew George, Owain Morgans, Mark George and Simon James all touching down.

Clwb Rygbi Cymru Caerdydd won the battle between the top two sides in Division Four South East, knocking out leaders St. Josephs 15-5.

The Joes had won the league clash between the pair earlier this season but Clwb gained their revenge in a hard-fought encounter scoring twice through second row Scott Conway and winger Amlyn Griffiths with fly-half Oliver Jenkins kicking the rest.

Cwmavon recorded a big win against Crynant triumphing by 48 points to 7 scoring eight tries in the process.

Daryl Thomas, Ashley Davies, Luke Gronert, John-Michael Petty, James Simpkins, Nathan Dare, Jay Baker and Adam Summerfield all crossed for the Reds.

Meanwhile there were huge wins for Colwyn Bay who trounced Bangor 70-12 and Treharris who thrashed Tref-Y-Clawdd 72-0.

The full list of results can be found on the All Wales Sport website.

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Swalec Plate Round One Review - 26th October

Kidwelly recorded the result of the day in the opening round of the Swalec Plate by putting Pontyberem to the sword and winning 84-0.

The Black and Ambers scored 12-tries in an easy afternoon with full back Dafydd Lewis grabbing a hat-trick, Jason Smith and Richard Rees getting a double and Liam Thomas Andrew Kirkbride, Andy Francis and Stuart Morris all crossing for their side.

Morris also recorded a 100% record with the boot by landing 12 out of 12 conversions.

Undefeated Division Three South East leaders Ystalyfera progressed through to the next round at the expense of Resolven winning 47-13.

The Fera’s forwards were too big and powerful for their opponents to handle and scored 7 tries thank to Ashley Clatter, Owain Morgan, Emyr Myers, Arwel Williams, Peter Abraham and Damien James who bagged a brace.

Wattstown produced the biggest shock of the day by knocking out Gilfach Goch who are two divisions higher.

The Ducks of Division Three South East scored a Nathan Bruford try deep, deep into injury-time to send their Division One East opponents packing.

Cardiff Quins and Rhiwbina both saw off higher league opposition with the Quins knocking out Llanishen and the Squirrels beating Ynysybwl.

Current holders and Division One East leaders were not to be on the end of a cup upset as they easily saw off Tylorstown 27-3 thanks to tries from Chris Howe, second rows Jordan Hawkins and Craig Bessant and winger Paul Songhurst.

The full list of results can be found on the All Wales Sport website.

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Mighty Ducks bite back to win Swalec Bowl

A brilliant second half performance ensured Wattstown overcame their early jitters to put Fishguard & Goodwick to the sword and win the Swalec Bowl 27-17.

Wattstown lift the Swalec Bowl as their vanquished opponents look on.

It was an interesting encounter, and Wattstown simply grew in confidence the longer the game went on to record a slightly more comfortable victory than the scoreline suggests. In fact, they had a mercurial 10 minutes either side of half-time to thank for their victory in which they notched 20 points.

There was a physical opening to the game with both sides looking to assert some dominance and keen not to let themselves down on the big stage. It was also a little nervy, with Wattstown’s Ian Jones and Fishguard’s James Griffiths missing penalty attempts.

But the latter then ignited a personal scoring spree on 12 minutes as he put the Seagulls ahead with a penalty.

Four minutes later he took control once more. Collecting the ball in the middle of the pitch he drove at Wattstown and dodged tackles with his quick feet, much to the delight of the travelling 1,200 faithful who had come up from West Wales. Finding himself one-on-one with the covering defender he ignored the support outside him and sold the dummy to dive over under the posts and add an easy conversion.

After a scrappy period, The Ducks hauled themselves back in to it on the stroke of half-time. First, Richie Lewis used his own quick feet to dive over on the left after a period of pressure on 38, before Jones landed a fabulous drop goal in injury time to make the half-time score 8-10 to Fishguard.

Wattstown continued that momentum after the break and within a minute crossed again. A flowing move ended out wide with Matthew Davies feeding David Gibbs for the easiest of scores, but Jones again missed the conversion.

Just six minutes later, huge No8 Brendon Lyons, who had been sin binned for a dangerous tackle in the first half, powered his way through for a score to make amends, with Jones this time landing the conversion to make it 20 points in 10 minutes for the marauding Ducks.

The game then quietened down before an enticing ending to once again set pulses racing.

On 68, and Fishguard down to 13 men with Romeo Colella and David Evans in the bin, Wattstown substitute Nathan Bruford wriggled his way through for a fourth score, which he converted himself for 27-10.

The Seagulls did put sustained pressure on the Wattstown line late on, and in injury time Ed Bendall found his way over out wide to make the scoreline more respectable. Griffiths converted to make the final score 27-17.

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Swalec Finals Preview

Swalec Bowl 

Wattstown v Fishguard & Goodwick

First up at the home of Welsh rugby tomorrow will see Four South East champions elect, Wattstown, up against Four West’s Fishguard and Goodwick. In a straight up battle, will it be easy for the East side or a case of West is Best?

Wattstown didn’t enter the competition till round 4, having received a bye in the first round and then two walkovers. From then on, they dispatched Llantwit Major, Tycroes and Nantyglo, before narrowly edging out Blaenavon in the semi-finals.

Fishguard also had a bye in the first round but then won out against Pantyffynnon, Pembroke, Aberaeron, Shotton Steel and Pontycymmer, before squeezing past Four East’s Cilfynydd in the last round.

This is a huge occasion for both sides and it may come down to which team handles their nerves better on the day.

Swalec Plate

Rhydyfelin v Heol y Cyw

I thought there would be an all One East final this year but to be truthful, I didn’t think it would feature either of these two sides.

Both of their league matches this year have been excruciatingly close with Rhyd sneaking the one at theirs by a point, while there was nothing to separate the sides at the Cockerels' base.

Heol y Cyw ended Penallta’s defence in the last 16 and had the better of One West title contenders, Cwmllynfell, to make it through to the final.

Rhydyfelin surprised many, including myself, in their semi as they comfortably saw off Cup favourites Ystrad Rhondda.

This will undoubtedly be a great day for both clubs, but there can be only one winner. I think there will only be one score in it but I think Rhydyfelin will just take the victory.

Swalec Cup

Pontypridd v Neath

The showpiece of the day will see two of the most fiercely supported clubs in the Welsh game go head to head, and I’m sure their vociferous followings will make it an atmosphere to remember.

A lot can be made of history and the nostalgia of reminiscing of a bygone era, but in this day and age, you must feel that this match is Ponty’s to lose.

They have eviscerated practically all before them in the league this season and will undoubtedly be driven to right the wrongs of their Cup heartache against the Keys last year. However, if they take the side they have dispatched 64-15 and 36-3 lightly, they could be in for another nasty shock.

Neath, like Ponty, is a club steeped in history and will be waiting to pounce if McIntosh’s men blink. As the old adage goes, league form counts for nothing in the Cup and stranger things have happened in sport. 

Ultimately, I think it will be the Valley Commandos' day but the match may be closer than many people think. 

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Swalec trophies semi-final round-up

Carmarthan Quins came within two points of upsetting Premiership leaders Pontypridd in the first Swalec Cup semi-final to be played, as Ponty scraped through to the final.

Having only just stuttered past Ebbw Vale in the previous round by a single point, The Valley Commandos were pushed just as close by the Quins before taking their place in a third final in as many years via an 18-16 win.

Both sides crossed the whitewash twice. No8 Dan Godfrey and hooker Huw Dowden made it a productive day for the Ponty pack, while Alex Pickersgill and James Dixon replied for the Quins.

Dai Flanagan kicked eight points, with his conversion of Ponty’s opening try the deciding factor in this encounter.

They now await the winner of today’s other semi-final between Aberavon and Neath.

The final of the Swalec Plate will be an all-One East affair as Rhydyfelin upset the odds to see off Ystrad Rhondda, while Heol y Cyw downed Cwmllynfell in an East v West semi-final.

Rhydyfelin, who started as underdogs against high-flying Ystrad, proved too strong for their league counterparts with a 17-3 triumph.

Captain fantastic Keiron Phillips earned himself a few drinks in the clubhouse after the game, grabbing a hat-trick of tries to send his side through to the Millennium Stadium and a big day out in Cardiff, leaving Ystrad licking the unwanted wounds of crashing out at the semi-final stage for the second year running.

Heol y Cyw complete a surprise line-up as they pulled off another shock in defeating Cwmllynfell 19-15 in a day for the underdogs.

They out-scored their One West rivals three tries to two with touchdowns from Gareth Howells, Luke O’Driscoll and Mike Huckridge to earn their place in Cardiff, and give their fans something to look forward to at the season’s climax.

Fishguard will meet Wattstown in the final of the Swalec Bowl at the home of Welsh rugby after they came through their respective semi-finals.

Division Four South East leaders Wattstown scraped past Four East’s Blaenavon by the narrowest of margins with a 16-15 victory. Mike Tinson grabbed 11 of his side’s points through a touchdown and two penalties, while Chris Davies also went over to give their supporters the victory they craved.

In the other semi-final, Cilfynydd staged a fierce second half fightback, but Fishguard held out for an equally narrow 22-20 win. The West Walians crossed three times through Simon James, Ed Bendell and James Griffiths to take their place in the final.

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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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Swalec Trophies Semi-final draw

Swalec Cup

Ebbw Vale/Pontypridd v Carmarthen Quins

Neath v Aberavon

Swalec Plate

Rhydyfelin v Ystrad Rhondda

Cwmllynfell v Heol y Cyw

Swalec Bowl

Wattstown v Blaenavon/Penlan

Cilfynydd/Cambrian Welfare v Fishguard & Goodwick

*Semi-final fixtures to be played the weekend of Saturday April 13

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Wattstown and Fishguard progress to last four of Swalec Bowl

The inclement weather put paid to two of the four scheduled Swalec Bowl matches, with Wattstown and Fishguard both keeping their Millennium Stadium ambitions alive.

Four South East outfit Pontycymmer made the long trip west to Fishguard, but were booted out 19-16 at the Moor.

James Griffiths was the star of the show for the Seagulls as he landed four penalties and converted Ed Bendle’s touchdown to kick his side in to the semi-finals.

There was another nail-biter at Wattstown as the Four South East title contenders edged past lower league Nantyglo 18-16.

The Ducks ran in two tries courtesy of Ben Evans and Glen Slater, while Dano Roberts added three points and Michael Tinson kicked five more. Sion Thomas grabbed all of Nantyglo’s points through a converted try and three penalties.

The two postponed fixtures, Blaenavon against Penlan and giant killers Cambrian Welfare’s showdown at Cilfynydd, will take place next weekend.

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Draws made for Swalec trophies

The draws have been made for the quarter-finals of the Swalec Cup, Plate and Bowl, with all fixtures currently scheduled for March 23.

Neath coach Pat Horgan got his wish for a home draw, with the Welsh All Blacks to host Bridgend Ravens’ conquerors Bargoed.

Elsewhere, Ebbw Vale’s win over Cardiff RFC has been rewarded with a potentially money-spinning tie at home to Pontypridd RFC, while Blackwood will host Carmarthen Quins, and Swansea will host Aberavon.

In the Plate, there are still three fourth round ties to be decided, meaning the quarter-final line-up is not yet complete.

The winner of the Kidwelly/Garndiffaith fixture will host Cwmllynfell, while the victor of Ystrad Rhondda/Kenfig Hill will be at home to Felinfoel.

Rhydyfelin will travel to the winner of Waunarlwydd/Llantrisant, and Heol Y Cyw will host Pill Harriers.

In the Bowl, Division Six South Central leaders Cambrian Welfare will be looking to continue their Cup exploits when they travel to the winner of the yet-to-be-played Cilfynydd /Bettws tie, while Fishguard/Shotton Steel will host Pontycymmer, Blaenavon or Glyncorrwg will be at home to Penlan and Wattstown will welcome Tycroes or Nantyglo.

Swalec Cup quarterfinal draw:

Blackwood v Carmarthen Quins.

Ebbw Vale v Pontypridd.

Neath v Bargoed.

Swansea  v Aberavon.

Swalec Plate quarter-final draw:

Kidwelly/Garndiffaith v Cwmllynfell.

Ystrad Rhondda/Kenfig Hill v Felinfoel.

Waunarlwydd/Llantrisant v Rhydyfelin.

Heol Y Cyw v Pill Harriers.

Swalec Bowl quarter-final draw:

Fishguard/Shotton Steel v Pontycymmer.

Blaenavon/Glyncorrwg v Penlan.

Cilfynydd v Bettws/Cambrian Welfare.

Wattstown/Tycroes v Nantyglo.

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Holders dumped out of all three Swalec trophies in Cupset Saturday

Swalec Cup holders Cross Keys, reigning Plate champions Penallta and defending Bowl Champions Glyncoch all saw their respective Cup defences end in a thrilling day of Cup rugby on Saturday (February 16).

Cross Keys travelled to The Gnoll to face Neath in round two, with the home side registering a 19-12 victory.

The visitors twice took the lead through Dorian Jones penalties, either side of an eighth-minute Bowdy Davies try for Neath, but the Welsh All Blacks slowly took control.

Dean Cummins and Dai Langdon added penalties before half-time, and Luc Jones added a second try after the break before Langdon kicked a drop goal on 71 minutes to round off the score.

Jones registered a third penalty for Cross Keys just before the break, and a Dean Gunter penalty was all the holders had to show for their second half efforts.

It was always going to be an uphill struggle for Keys after scrum half Rhys Dyer saw red for a late tackle and two bookings saw them play much of the game with 13 men.

There was also a Cup shock for neutrals to get excited about at Bargoed Park, where Bargoed defeated an under strength Bridgend 17-13.

Bridgend took a second-minute lead through a Lewis Williams penalty, but Bargoed captain Leigh Meades crossed for a 19^th-minute try, converted by Josh Prosser.

Scott Hicks crossed for the visitors on 47 minutes, but the home side responded with a penalty (50) and a penalty try (55), again converted by Prosser, in a topsy-turvy encounter.

Bridgend scored another try through Rhys Ward-Jones, but Bargoed held on for a famous win their supporters will savour for some time.

Ebbw Vale also picked up a Premiership scalp, with a 16-11 win over Cardiff at the Arms Park.

The home side looked to be in control with two Joe Griffin penalties and a James Murphy try in the first half, with only a Josh Lewis penalty in response for Vale before the hour mark.

But then the away side sprung in to life and another Lewis penalty (61), a Polu Uhi try (64), converted, and a further Lewis penalty (72) saw the large travelling contingent in ecstasy.

Elsewhere, Tata Steel briefly held hopes of an even bigger scalp when Gareth Walters kicked a second minute penalty to give them the lead over defending Premiership champions Pontypridd, but the visitors soon kicked in to life and dispelled any supporters’ fears with a 43-6 victory.

They ran in seven tries in total, with wingers Owen Williams and Chris Clayton both crossing for braces.

Blackwood picked up a 32-18 win over fellow Championship side Glamorgan Wanderers at Glan-Yr-Afon, while Newport lost a close game 14-17 at home to Swansea, with Cameron Clement’s 79^th-minute penalty winning it.

Carmarthen Quins edged an equally tight affair with Bedwas 23-21, with another late penalty winning it – this time from the boot of Jack Maynard (77).

Finally, Aberavon sailed through 44-6 against Beddau, in a game which saw Jamie Davies notching his 100^th try for the club.

The end of Penallta’s Plate defence came via a 25-3 reverse at Heol y Cyw in round four.

The home side ran in three tries through Chris Howe, second row Rhys Eskins and full back Paul Songhurst, with Mike Huckridge adding two conversions and two penalties. An Andre Soroko penalty was all Penallta had in response.

Elsewhere, Pill Harriers are also through to round five on a try count after drawing 24-24 with Taibach at The Plough.

Rhys Jenkins crossed twice for the visitors, and Tom Kilbey and Kyle Pyart added scores, which out-did the two tries the hosts notched through Aaron Jones, who also kicked a conversion and a penalty.

In a game of kicking, Rhydyfelin out-scored Loughor 15-12 after extra time with Josh Jones’ five penalties out-doing Tom Davies’ four for the visitors, while Cwmllynfell scored four tries in a 37-15 defeat of Builth Wells and Felinfoel beat Pwllheli 28-18 in a game which saw a red card for both sides.

Division One West Kidwelly also took a belated place in round four due to the recent weather decimation of the fixtures, registering a 20-9 win at Crymych.

TRY TIME: Flanker Rich Rees evades the Crymych defence to break the deadlock for Kidwelly.

Photo courtesy of AlfiePics

Flanker Richard Rees crossed for the visitors around the half hour mark, and outside half Tom Gravell seemingly killed the game off not long after the break with a second score. Both were converted by Gareth Rees, who also added two penalties.

ON TARGET: Fly half Dyfan Dafydd kicked all of Crymych's points

Photo courtesy of AlfiePics

Dyfan Dafydd kicked all the points for Crymych with two penalties and a drop goal, but it couldn’t stop the Division Three West side going out to the side two divisions above them.

There were two other delayed third round fixtures, with wins for Llantrisant and Ystrad Rhondda over Brecon and Treorchy respectively.

Glyncoch saw their Bowl defence halted with a shock 18-15 defeat at Division Six side Cambrian Welfare in a delayed fourth round fixture.

Both sides scored two tries apiece. Zack James and Jamie Wicks crossed for Cambrian, while Gareth Way grabbed himself a brace for Glyncoch.

In the end, it was a Julian Huntley penalty that won it for the hosts, who will be in buoyant mood going in to round five after halting Glyncoch’s two-year unbeaten streak.

Elsewhere, non-league Cardiff Meds have seen their run ended in round five by a 21-7 home defeat by Penlan of Division Four South West.

A Steve Wiggle try was not enough, as Penlan ran in three through Jason Garmey, Rob Green and Robert Di’Lulio.

Shotton Steel are also through to round five via an impressive 40-17 win over Llangollen. Winger John Ketland crossed for a brace of tries, with four other scores being registered and Stephen Ellson kicking 10 points. Hugh Evans also scored a brace of tries for the visitors.

Finally, there were also fourth round wins for Bettws, Glyncorrwg and Wattstown, while Cilfynydd, Nantyglo and Pontycymmer won their fifth round fixtures.

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