THIS local derby in the Admiral League Division Two West Central was a game of contrasting halves.
Unusually, both teams enjoyed their best periods playing up the Cherry Park gradient. The early territory belonged to Bryncethin, playing down the slope with the breeze at their backs. Sustained pressure in the Pencoed 22 saw No 4 Sam Jervis drive over from close range.
The Pencoed response was immediate, full back Jack Picton putting the ball into the home half where a chasing Josh Richards capitalised on a Bryncethin mistake to send centre Shane Izatt racing away to score. Alex King added the conversion. King was soon again in the action with a long diagonal run which took play deep into home territory. Pencoed retained possession and good combined play saw Picton go over. Pencoed looked dangerous on the counter and only a forward pass ruled out another score.
Sustained pressure, however, saw match official Matthew Tabor awarding them a penalty try and Pencoed led 5-19 at the interval. With the slope and elements in their favour during the second half, Pencoed looked set for a win. However, the ‘Cherry and Whites’ had other ideas and proceeded to win a glut of possession during this period to deny Pencoed the opportunity to sustain a foothold in their half.
The home side were enjoying their best period of the match and Nathan Morgan scored at the posts, Efan Ellis converting. Soon after they brought matters level with a try from No8 Emyr Hunnam. Ellis levelled matters with the conversion.
In the closing moments, both teams had their opportunity to win the match with very kickable penalties. Alas, it was not to be for either side. Both clubs will reflect on a match which could have been won. Dan Watkins was player of the match.
Report by club president Terry Rees.
Photos by club photographer Julie Hancock (https://juliehancock.org
Pencoed Youth were comprehensive winners over Pyle Youth by 55 – 5 to top their section table in the Ospreys league. They will now enter an extended format of fixtures within the Ospreys region. Sam Bilgram Coates man of the match.
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