First Half to Forget Leaves Pooler Too Much to Do

Pontypool’s final home game of the season was against Merthyr on a Wednesday evening. Conditions were ideal for rugby with the game starting in daylight although the gathering gloom meant that the floodlights were needed in the latter part of the first half.

Gathering gloom was an apt description of the way the Pooler fans felt as the first half progressed. While Merthyr started with purpose and aggression, Pooler seemed strangely lethargic. We have seen this at times this season but this time it lasted for the whole forty minutes. In fairness Merthyr played well while the home side suffered from a lack of possession and territory. The Merthyr scrum was dominant and Pooler gave away far too many penalties.

Right from the off Pooler were on the back foot and Merthyr scored a try through Hoskins after ten minutes or so. This was converted by Thompson and Merthyr led 0-7. Pooler could well have conceded more points in the first quarter as the away side laid siege on their line but their defence was heroic and just about managed to stem the tide.

At the start of the second quarter, Pooler had the temerity to launch their first attack and Merthyr were left short-handed with a yellow card for Bradbury. Sadly, their time in the Merthyr twenty-two did not lead to any points and the action was soon back in the Pontypool twenty-two. Even with fourteen men, Merthyr managed to create space for Thompson to score a try that he converted himself (0-14)

The referee finally got fed up with the collapsing scrums and showed a yellow card to Pooler prop Williams. This was shortly followed by a yellow card for Stratton as Pooler battled furiously to keep Merthyr out. The numerical advantage that the away side had eventually told  and there were tries for Bradbury and Hoskins that both went unconverted as a painful first half for Pooler was coming to a close (0-24).

There was a glimmer of a chance for Pooler to register some points on the board right at the end of the first half but alas that came to nought. In Pooler’s attack, Merthyr prop Whiting was shown a yellow card so at least Pooler would start the second half against fourteen men although they had a mountain to climb at 0-24.

One suspects that Pooler received a severe mentoring during the half time interval and despite playing up the slope in the second half we had to believe that things would improve drastically.

Well things certainly did get better and Pooler started on the front foot and after five minutes or so a break by Jarvis saw Pooler in the Merthyr twenty-two. The ball was moved left and Lewis touched down for a much-needed try. The conversion failed but at least Pooler were up and running (5-24).

Pooler made wholesale changes at this point with the bench being virtually emptied. This gave fresh energy and a few minutes later Pooler were again on the attack. The ball was spread right to Walker Price who kicked ahead. The ball bounced over the Merthyr try line with Price leading the chasing pack. He was adjudged to have been unfairly impeded and the referee awarded a penalty try. Hoskins was shown a yellow card and the home side could sense a miraculous recovery was on the cards (12-24).

The optimism was short-lived as, after another scrum penalty against Pontypool, Merthyr took up an attacking position in the home twenty-two. Some slick handling by their backs saw Meaclem score a try in the left corner. The conversion failed but Merthyr’s lead was back up to seventeen points with twenty minutes left (12-29).

Back came Pooler as they certainly did not regard the cause as lost. This time, it was substitute flanker Herbert who pierced the Merthyr defence to score their third try. Jarvis converted and it was back to “game on” with the score 19-29 and most of the final quarter remaining.

Not long after, Jarvis made a break from in his own half but in the ensuing ruck he was sin-binned. This was, I think, the sixth yellow card of the match and had the effect of blunting Pooler’s attacking prospects. Despite being short-handed, Pooler continued to put pressure on Merthyr as the went in search of a bonus point or two.

Pooler pounded away using their forwards but time was ticking away. Finally, Moa crashed over the line after lengthy series of forward drives following an attacking lineout. Jarvis converted but this was unfortunately the last action of the match. Final score Pontypool 26 : Merthyr 29.

Pontypool did redeem themselves after a  poor first half showing. They did not quite manage to overhaul Merthyr’s substantial lead in the second half but grabbed two bonus points which is at least some reward for a tremendous comeback against tough opposition. Those two points mean that they have overhauled Pontypridd in the table and currently occupy a hugely creditable fifth place. Whether they hang on to that position will be determined in the last match of the season. Pontypool travel to RGC while Merthyr, who are two points behind, are away in Swansea.

Come on Pooler! 

Pooler Hang Tough but It’s Not Enough

A Gwent derby is usually a tight and hard fought affair and over the years there have many such matches between Pontypool and Ebbw Vale. Somehow when two valley teams meet each other it seems even more fierce no matter what league position the protagonists hold. So it was that Pontypool visited Ebbw Vale on a Thursday evening in a televised game.

This game certainly lived up to expectations in terms of aggression and commitment with the local rivals going at it hammer and tongs right from the off. No one could say that the technical quality was of the highest order with errors and penalties dominating a scrappy first quarter. What was abundantly clear was that Ebbw Vale had dominance in the scrum where Pontypool conceded three penalties. Fortunately for Pooler this only led to them conceding three points through a Lloyd penalty. That left the score at 3-0 after twenty minutes bossed by the home team.

Pooler equalised a couple of minutes later through a Jarvis penalty (3-3) and brought on Kelleher-Griffiths to shore up the scrum. This made the battle more evenly contested but both sides were guilty of not being able to take the few chances that were created. The Ebbw Vale backs looked the livelier outfit and as the first half drew to a close they struck. Meek made a break from around halfway and although he was tackled Ebbw spread the ball from the ensuing ruck and Rees-Weldon was able to scamper over in the right corner. The conversion failed but the home side were able to leave the field at half time with a narrow 8-3 lead.

Pooler started the second half in fine style and worked their way down into the home twenty two. A slick planned move from a lineout saw Matthews break and find the supporting Morgan Lloyd with a clever pass. Lloyd dotted down and Jarvis converted which meant that Pooler were in the lead 8-10.

Both teams have fine goal kickers in Jarvis and Lloyd but both found the conditions difficult to master with each missing shots that they would normally expect to convert. Nevertheless, Lloyd did manage to convert a penalty for a high tackle fifteen minute into the half which put the home team back in the lead (11-10).

The hard-fought skirmishes continued with Ebbw Vale perhaps looking the more likely to score. The benches were used to bolster both teams with the final result very much in doubt. With ten minutes remaining, it was the Ebbw Vale backs who broke the deadlock. Lloyd made a good break and he was finally brought down in the Pooler twenty-two. Ebbw Vale recycled the ball and found Phillips on the right wing. He touched down in the corner for Ebbw’s second try and although the conversion failed the gap in the scores had grown to 16-10.

Pooler were still within a converted try but although they huffed and puffed they could not find the penetration or continuity to crack the aggressive home defence. Ebbw Vale also created a chance or two in the last few minutes but when the final whistle was blown the score remained the same. Final score Ebbw Vale 16 : Pontypool 10.

Over the eighty minutes Ebbw Vale were the better side and deserved their victory. Pooler created little in attack but never stopped contesting with fierce intensity. They do come way with a losing bonus point which is some reward for all their effort. Ebbw Vale go on to the play-offs and good luck to them there. Pooler have two more league matches with the next one against Merthyr at home next Wednesday. This is closely followed by the trek to RGC on the following Saturday. Fifth place in the Premiership is very much up for grabs which would be a brilliant effort for the first season back at this level.

It has finally been confirmed, to nobody’s surprise, that Cardiff will take the tenth place in the new Elite League for next season. When you look at the ten teams involved it does seem that the Welsh Valleys are poorly represented. At the start of the blog, I mentioned how local derbies between Valley clubs were particularly hard-fought and eagerly anticipated. Well in the Elite League there will now just be Ebbw vale and Pontypool representing the valleys. No Pontypridd, no Merthyr, no Neath it is a crying shame. I never liked the idea from the start and now I like it even less!

Come on Pooler let us finish the season in style!. 

Pooler Tough It Out

We are now into the last three weeks of the season with Pontypool only having four matches left. The first of these was a home fixture against RGC who had made the long journey from North Wales. It was a dull grey afternoon with a strong wind blowing into our faces as we took our places on the Bank. Thankfully there was none of the rain that has been so prevalent in the year so far.

Pooler kicked off playing down the slope and, unlike recent matches, got off to a fast and furious start. Within a couple of minutes, some purposeful rugby resulted in a break by Mahoney that was supported by scrum half Lloyd. Lloyd threw a pass to right wing Powell who still had a lot to do but showed his power to force his way over in the corner for a try. The conversion failed but Pooler had registered the first points of the afternoon (5-0).

It was soon clear that Pooler had the edge in the scrums and it was from a penalty at a scrum that Jarvis added another three points from a penalty (8-0). This was quickly cancelled out by a penalty from RGC kicked by Dion Jones which brought the score to 8-3 with fifteen minutes played.

With a dominant scrum and a lineout that was functioning well, Pooler had plenty of possession and territory. As the first quarter ended, another penalty awarded against RGC saw Pooler kick for the left corner. The ensuing lineout was driven by the forwards for Scarfe to touch down for their second try. This time the conversion by Jarvis was successful for Pooler to build a 15-3 lead.

In the second quarter RGC came much more into the game with their lively backs looking dangerous and their forwards a handful in the loose. Both sides were guilty of handling errors and Pooler started to leak penalties. A penalty for offside was converted by Dion Jones (15-6) and Pooler were soon having to defend a series of attacked from the North Walians. The defence was stout but just past the half hour mark it finally cracked. Young RGC outside half Ford jinked his way over to score a try near the posts. Jones converted and RGC were snapping at Pooler’s heels at 15-13.

Pooler produced another great try just when they needed it with time running out in the first half. Right wing Powell burst out of his own half  and found Bancroft steaming up inside him in support. Bancroft cruised in for Pooler’s third try  which although unconverted gave Pooler breathing space at 20-13.

There was still time for RGC to signal that they were not going away with a third penalty from Jones to leave the score at half time 20-16. It was still anyone’s game and Pooler would have to work hard if they were to record a victory against their doughty opponents.

The third quarter was scoreless with both sides guilty of making too many errors and defences on top. Both sides spurned good attacking positions and the game was very much still in the balance and the players and crowd were beginning to feel frustrated. The benches were used by both sides to try and gee things up.

As the fourth quarter started, an awful high tackle from RGC prop Hone left Pooler prop Drake prostrate on the ground. The referee immediately showed Hone a yellow card when most thought a red card would have been more appropriate. There was a delay of around fifteen minutes while the unfortunate Drake received medical attention before being carried off on a stretcher. I am glad to say that Drake has since recovered with no lasting damage.

The delay seemed to breathe new life into Pooler The absence of Hone meant uncontested scrums which took away one of Pooler’s areas of dominance. Club captain Matthews had joined the fray shortly before the delay.  He picked the ball up from the base of a static five-metre scrum but still had the power to force his way over for Pooler’s fourth try  a couple of minutes after the resumption. Jarvis converted and Pooler were in the box seat with a 27-16 lead and the try bonus point secured.

The game was still not won with almost twenty minutes remaining. RGC still looked dangerous at times and it took some great defence to keep them out. Pooler too had their chances but could not seem to find the continuity to change possession into points. It was stop-start stuff and I have to confess I found myself wanting the referee to blow the final whistle.

With a couple of minutes remaining, Pooler were awarded a penalty in front of the posts and Jarvis duly slotted it (30-13). A few more skirmishes later, the referee brought the game to an end with Pooler clinching the victory they deserved. Final score Pontypool 30 : RGC 13.

Pontypool had to fight hard for this victory against a combative RGC team. Keeping RGC scoreless in the second half in the conditions was no mean feat. At times Pooler showed flashes of great rugby but could not find the rhythm and continuity that they desired consistently. They can be pleased with their set pieces but discipline remains an issue. A great win though so congratulations to everyone.

Next match for Pooler is a local derby with a visit to Ebbw Vale on the 18^th April. Ebbw Vale have been having a great season so this will be a tough test for Pooler. The match will be televised on S4C Clic.

I did watch the Ospreys on the TV last and congratulations to them for their fine victory against Sale in the European Challenge Cup. It seems that there is still some life left in the Regions with a vociferous crowd at the Brewery Field shouting the Ospreys home. I must admit I have given worrying about what is going to happen in Welsh rugby next season – perhaps there will be yet another rethink of the rethink of the review who knows.

In the mean-time let’s look forward to Ebbw Vale on the 18^th.

Come on Pooler!

Second Half Surge Seals Pooler Victory

Easter seems to have crept up out of nowhere. As we stood on the Bank at Pontypool Park that was bathed in sunshine, we reminisced about Easters gone by when Pontypool played as many as four games in five days . It seems hardly credible that so much rugby was played in such a short time period with rugby tours being the order of the day. The match against London Welsh in particular used to draw a large crowd to Pontypool Park.

Those days are long gone and we had a home fixture against Bridgend as the only Easter fare. We were hoping that Pooler could build on last week’s victory at Neath and avenge their narrow defeat at the Brewery Field earlier in the season.

Bridgend kicked off playing down the slope and were quickly into their stride. Their backs looked sharp and cut the Pooler defence a couple of times but it was the forwards who  put the first points on the scoreboard. Less than five minutes had gone when a lineout drive was clinically executed with Bridgend hooker Yardley to touching down for a try. Hodgkins converted and yet again Pooler were starting sluggishly (0-7).

Pooler rallied quickly and just a few minutes later were in the Bridgend twenty-two. Bridgend conceded a penalty and ever alert scrum half Lloyd took a quick tap and the ball was moved to Marcus Jones who powered over the line. Jarvis converted and Pooler were level (7-7). Sadly, Jones was injured in the act of scoring and was replaced by Harry Jarvis who was making his debut.

The rest of the first half was evenly contested as both sides set out to play open rugby. The away backs looked dangerous but several promising moves broke down with handling errors as the Pooler defence closed in. For Pooler the forwards were to the fore with the back row looking particularly lively. The pitch was a little slippery after the recent monsoon which did make quick changes of direction a bit precarious.. Both sides created good attacking positions but the only further score of the first half was a penalty from Jarvis which gave Pooler a narrow half time lead (10-7).

It had been an entertaining first half with the match evenly contested but a feeling that the Pooler forwards were beginning to get on top.

It was the home side that immediately took the initiative in the second half. A penalty from Jarvis increased their lead to 13-7 in the first couple of minutes. Pooler soon worked their way back down the field and into the Bridgend  twenty-two. The forwards hammered away and eventually the away side’s defence cracked and Sweet touched down for a try. Jarvis converted and Pooler had built a useful lead at 20-7.

Bridgend were swift to counter but tried to smash their way through the Pooler defence rather than use guile. The Pooler defence seemed more comfortable with this and looked rock solid. Pooler looked to have more teeth in attack. As the third quarter came to an end, Pooler struck again. They again worked their way down field with purpose and finally breached some brave goal-line defence when scrum half Lloyd touched down for their third try of the afternoon. Jarvis converted and the 27-7 lead looked enough to clinch the win.

Pooler were looking well on top and were now seeking the bonus point try. The all-action flanker Herbert made a great break and after running thirty metres or so fed the supporting Mahoney who dived over the line to score the all-important fourth try. Jarvis converted and Pooler were now 34-7 to the good with ten minutes or so remaining.

Pontypool were not finished and piled more misery on to Bridgend. They had a lineout close to the Bridgend line in Goff’s corner. A short throw and a front peel saw hooker Scarfe force his way over in the corner for Pooler’s fifth try. The conversion failed but the lead had now grown to 39-7 with very little time remaining.

Bridgend had certainly not given up and their backs showed just how dangerous they could be when Howley scoring a late consolation try from a sweeping passage of play. Hodgkins converted with the last act of the game. Final score Pontypool 39 : Bridgend Ravens 14.

In the end this was a resounding victory for Pontypool after a very competitive first half. It was the Pooler forwards who held sway after the interval with a very vibrant performance in the loose with the back-row and hooker Scarfe to the fore. They were probably conceding weight to the opposition but revelled in the dry conditions. It was also pleasing to see that the discipline had improved considerably with far few penalties conceded. All in all, a very satisfactory afternoon – well done everybody. Congratulations also to Harry Jarvis who looked a very lively performer on debut.

Next match for Pontypool is a home game against RGC next Saturday. Pooler find themselves in a creditable sixth place in the Premiership with fifth place within their grasp. Making the play-off is now probably beyond them but is still mathematically possible with four games remaining.

Come on Pooler!

Thrills and Spills as Pooler Take the Spoils at the Gnoll

Pontypool were back in action after the Six Nations Championship with a visit to the Gnoll in Neath. Watching Pooler in 2024 seems to have been severely rationed so it was good to get back to it on a bright sunny day after the trauma of a distinctly underwhelming set of Welsh defeats. Bright and sunny it might have been but there was a keen edge to the wind.

It was Neath that made the early running and soon left wing Griffiths was haring down the touchline from his own twenty two. The Pooler defence finally managed to pull him down but in the ensuing breakdown they transgressed and Williams kicked the penalty to give the home side a 3-0 lead with only a few minutes played.

Pooler got into their stride a lot quicker than in some of matches of late and played some good positive attacking rugby. Backs and forwards combined and eventually Mahoney saw a gap and powered through to score. Jarvis converted and Pooler took the lead (3-7)

Back came Neath and centre Charles bumped off would-be tacklers galore as he raced to score under the posts. With the conversion from Williams, Neath were back in the lead (10-7). The game had the look of an open entertaining encounter with both sides willing to throw the ball about.

A critical moment came just before the half hour when the first scrum took place. It was immediately clear that Pooler held the whip-hand in this phase. A series of scrums led to a series of penalties as Pooler pressurised the Neath line. Eventually the referee had seen enough and awarded Pooler a penalty try. As the players disentangled themselves, there was some skulduggery from Neath prop Powell. This was spotted by the officials and led to a red card (10-14).

Pooler took full advantage of Neath’s reduction to fourteen players when a couple of minutes later Herbert drove over after powerful carrying by the Pooler pack from a lineout in the home twenty-two. Jarvis converted and things were looking rosy for Pontypool at 10-21.

Did Pooler relax or did Neath step up their game – possibly a bit of both – but suddenly the game turned on its head. The Neath number 8, Morgan, brushed weak Pooler tackling aside to power over the try line from at least twenty metres. Williams converted and there was a distinct feeling that the momentum had switched to the home side (17-21).

Minutes later, the home side were attacking down the left side again and nearly scored. This time the referee felt that Matthews had unfairly prevented Neath from pressing home their attack and found himself in the sin bin. Almost immediately afterwards the Neath backs put left wing Griffiths in for a try in the corner. Williams converted and Neath had regained the lead ( 24-21).

Things go worse for Pooler when they lost Mahoney to a yellow card after some unnecessary argy-bargy. Fortunately, there was little time for Neath to take advantage of their numerical supremacy before half time. HT Neath 24 : Pontypool 21.

It had been an entertaining first half that was for sure with the lead changing hands five times. It was hard to choose a winner but surely Neath being permanently down to fourteen and the power of the Pooler scrum would be enough to get things done.

Pontypool made some changes at half time and started the second half with purpose. There was frustrating period of around ten minutes when Pooler leaked penalties when they got into promising positions. It was clear, however, that Pooler were gaining the upper hand in possession and territory. Neath defended stoutly and their backs were still menacing when they got the ball but the breakthrough would surely come for the away side.

It was Mahoney who did the necessary soon after returning from his yellow card.  He scored his second try as he burst through the Neath defence. Jarvis converted and Pooler had secured a bonus point and, more importantly, had taken back the lead (24-28).

Pontypool remained on top but continued to leak penalties. The four point lead felt precarious as Neath were certainly not going to back off. It was not until the fourth quarter that Pooler managed to turn possession into points. Some great running and passing from the backs saw substitute wing Marcus Jones score in the left corner. Jarvis converted with aplomb and the Pooler fans felt a little more comfortable with an eleven point cushion at 24-35.

Pooler remained the dominant force but continued to frustrate. Finally, after Neath were reduced to thirteen men by a yellow card for their substitute prop at a scrum, Pooler scored their sixth try. This was scored by Scarfe who was lurking with intent on the right wing. The conversion failed and this was the final act in an all-action game. Final score Neath 21 : Pontypool 40.

Any win at Neath is a good and hard-earned win so congratulations to Pontypool. It was an entertaining game and Neath though reduced to fourteen men after half an hour made things extremely difficult for Pooler. Keeping Neath scoreless in the second half was no mean feat. Pooler will know that their discipline let them down at times but they did play some great rugby when they put pace on the game. It would be nice to think that we could play Neath next season but as things stand this looks rather unlikely. They are a fine club and I wish them well whatever happens.

Next up for Pontypool is a home game against Bridgend. This should be another cracking encounter.

Come on Pooler!  

That Puts the Tin Hat on It

I am not quite sure whether you win the wooden spoon or lose it but Wales certainly earned it with a woeful display against a well-drilled Italian side.  The final score line of 21-24 is flattering as Wales scored two very late tries when the game was already lost and the Italians had relaxed at 7-24.

Where do I begin? First, we must congratulate the Italians who played with verve and look transformed from the serial losers of a few years ago. They have a developed a good all round team with strong forwards and exciting backs. They must be delighted with this year’s Six Nations campaign with two wins and a draw and a narrow defeat by England. Yes, it can be done with only two professional teams.

Wales were awful yesterday particularly in a woeful first half. They had possession and territory but virtually the whole team was guilty of making a series of cock-ups that the under-elevens would be dismayed by. The only thing that functioned well was the lineout the rest was way off the required standard. The only surprise was that Wales only conceded eleven points.

The second half was little better with Italy scoring a brilliantly conceived try to lead 0-17. Wales continued to misfire much to the frustration of the crowd. They still had enough possession but the Italian defence seemed to know exactly what they were going to do and forced errors. There was a total lack of innovation – haven’t the coaching team got any bright ideas?

Wales finally got on the scoreboard with a try by Dee to make it 7-17 but really it was too little too late. Incredibly the front row was not substituted and looked out on their feet which didn’t help. Grady came on in the centre and made a considerable impact as did Rowlands in the second row. Sadly, Wales conceded two kickable penalties which foiled any chance of a late Wales victory. The Italians gleefully converted the penalties to open up an unassailable 7-24 lead with only a few minutes remaining.

There was time for Rowlands and Grady two bag a couple of consolation tries but by then the Welsh fans were already streaming out into a soaking wet Cardiff seeking a stiff drink. Played five lost five and the wooden spoon. Can it get much worse than that?

I do feel sorry for George North. This was his last game after a glittering career. He was one of the few Welsh players who played to something like his best and must have been devastated to leave like this. Thanks George you have been a credit to Wales and good luck for the future.

So, what now for Wales? On the positive side they have blooded several promising young players. The question is will they manage to reach the levels of the illustrious names that they will replace. I certainly hope so. I can’t help feeling that there need to be some changes in the coaching set up as the team seems short on ideas and the rest of the world is rapidly leaving them behind. The poor form of the Welsh regions is certainly not helping and the poor performance of the Welsh team will make the finances that much tighter. It is a depressing picture.

Congratulations to Ireland on winning the Six Nations Championship they were the best team. France secured second place with a last gasp victory over a resurgent England.

Now it is back to club rugby for me and Pontypool’s visit to Neath next weekend. It should be a good game between these old rivals.

Come on Pooler!

Wales Wilt as French Power Tells

 A lot has been said about the crushing 24-45 defeat Wales were handed by the French last weekend. I have to admit that, after a bright beginning from Wales was quickly cancelled out, it looked to me sitting in the stand that a French victory seemed inevitable.

The French ball carrying was immense and hardly ever was one Welshman able to stop a rampant Frenchman on the gain line let alone knock him back. This kind of pressure usually tells and that it was exactly what happened. As the Welsh team tired, France were able to bring on more heavyweights from the bench which eventually broke Welsh resolve and what had been a reasonably close match ended up as a bit of a rout. It is hard to know what more Wales could have done with the hand that they were dealt. They were brave and scored three good tries but the French were just too powerful.

Tactically it is hard to see why you would kick the ball to possibly the best winger in world rugby in Penaud. He always made ground particularly as the energy in the kick chase ebbed away. Wales did try to move the ball and this proved reasonably effective. In the last ten minutes or so, however, this looked far too pedestrian with ball been shovelled on to men standing still – easy meat for the French defence.

The sixteenth player that Wales expect in the support of the crowd also ebbed away and the thousands of French supporters out-sung and out-cheered the Welsh. A sobering experience for sure.

Did anything good come out of it for Wales? There is of course much promise amongst the new members of the squad and we are told to be patient. It is hard to keep smiling when your team loses so many times. Yes, plenty of green shoots are evident but will they flourish in the harsh environment of test rugby. I sincerely hope so. We will need some pretty powerful fertilizer if we are to harvest a bountiful crop.

Wales now face the resurgent Italian team in Cardiff on Saturday with the prospect of a wooden spoon looming. Surely it is time for them to step up but the Italians will be a mighty tough nut to crack and are brimming with confidence.

Come on Wales!

Deadly Drovers Sink Pooler with First Half Blitz

The Premiership’s outstanding leaders, Llandovery, were in town on a chilly Friday evening and after the corresponding away fixture Pontypool knew they were in for a testing encounter. The Drovers had been scoring points for fun of late and with the TV cameras present they would be looking to continue their impressive form.

The one thing Pooler could not afford was a sluggish start and, quite frankly, they were blown away by an awesome display of pace and power by the visitors. Llandovery scored three tries in the first thirteen minutes with Pooler barely getting a sniff of the ball. A brace of tries for Abraham and a try from Davies were created by excellent support play and deadly finishing. The tricky wind meant that only one try was converted but the Drovers had raced to a 0-17 lead.

As the first quarter ended, Pooler finally got some field position and capitalised on it with a try from Scarfe who burst through the Drovers defence after a thrust by Mahoney. Jarvis converted  and Pooler were at least off the mark at 7-17.

Sadly, this was a brief respite as normal service was resumed just afterwards with the away side continuing to boss the game. On the half hour, Aaron Warren crossed for a try in the left corner which was converted by Hughes (7-24). Shortly afterwards Aaron Warren seized on a loose ball in his own half and stormed down the left touchline outpacing the Pooler defence. He could have scored himself but chose to pass inside to the supporting Adam Warren who scored under the posts . The successful conversion made the score 7-31 with Pooler left befuddled and bemused.

There was still time for more agony for Pooler when Abraham crossed in the right corner for his hat trick. The conversion failed but Llandovery were completely in control at 7-36. To all intents and purposes, the game was over but the crowd had been treated to a superb display by the league leaders. With their green shirts they reminded me of Ireland at times.

Pooler were playing for pride in the second half and no doubt were reminded of this in the changing room. Pooler playing down the slope started the half with real purpose. Within the first couple of minutes, they had established themselves in the Drovers twenty two. Scrum half Morgan Lloyd took a quick tapped penalty and scooted over for a try. Jarvis converted and the score was now 14-36.

Pooler continued to press and the Drovers looked taken aback by the ferocity of their challenge. A few minutes later pooler were back in the Drovers twenty two and this time Lloyd sniped around the blind side to score his second try. The conversion failed but the scoreboard was looking far healthier at 19-36. Could we dare to dream?

Back came the visitors and this time it was forward power that told. They kicked a penalty to touch and rumbled over from the ensuing lineout with Davies touching down in the left corner. The try was expertly converted by Maynard and Llandovery now led 19-43 as we went into the final quarter. As usual there had been mass substitutions and it was good to see a debut for the Canadian lock Kelly for Pooler.

Pooler still had ambitions to get a bonus point for a fourth try and went on the attack. The game became quite open as a consequence. From a ruck near halfway Morgan Lloyd spotted a gap and raced clear to score under the posts with the try converted by Jarvis. This was a hat trick for the livewire scrumhalf and delivered the bonus point (26-43).

It was Llandovery who had the final say with another try for Davies from a driving lineout. The conversion missed and left the final score Pontypool 26 : Llandovery 48.

Pooler were handed a real lesson in the first half with Llandovery playing brilliant rugby. The Drovers are a good side with plenty of pace behind, clever halfbacks and a tough pack of forwards. On this evidence they thoroughly deserve to sit on top of the Premiership. Pooler showed great spirit and not a little skill to “win” the second half and grab a bonus point but were clearly second best.

The next match for Pooler is away at improving Neath in a couple of weeks. The two sides know it each other well so sit should be an enthralling match.

Wales take on the French on Sunday afternoon with a few surprises in the selection. Let us hope that the changes come up trumps and Wales record a first victory in the Six nations Championship. I ma not holding my breath though.

Come on Pooler!

Come on Wales!

 

Spirited Wales Cannot Hold Back the Green Tide

As virtually everyone predicted, Wales lost to Ireland in Dublin with the final score 31-7 in favour of the rampant Irish who seem for all the world to be heading for a second successive grand slam.

Wales spent virtually the whole of the first half in defence with little meaningful possession of their own such was that the measure of control that the Irish held. The Welsh scrum was under severe pressure and penalised frequently. Despite the obdurate Welsh defence, the Irish forwards came up with two tries and with two conversions and a penalty the Irish were good value for a comfortable 17-0 lead.

In the second half, Wales came out with attacking intent and with a decent share of possession closed the gap to 17-7 with a penalty try. Ireland were reduced to fourteen men with a yellow card and the game became far more keenly contested with Wales gaining good field position and possession . The glaring difference between the two sides soon became apparent. The Wales attack looked blunt and one -dimensional as they hammered away at the Irish line with forward drives. The Irish defence was far too strong and far to savvy to let this trouble them. When the Irish attacked, however, they were far more incisive and scored two further tries - the second with the last play of the match. Both tries were converted and Ireland ended up 31-7 to the good with the try bonus point in their pockets.

The scoreline was perhaps a little flattering and does not reflect the Welsh efforts particularly in the second half but this a very good and ruthless Irish team with few, if any, weaknesses. Wales with their raft of young inexperienced players will surely learn from this defeat but will recognise how wide the gap is at the moment.

For Wales, it is a home game against France next. It represents a great opportunity for the young Welsh players to continue to make their mark against a much-vaunted French team.

In Murrayfield, a Van der Merwe hat trick of tries put paid to the pie-in-the sky English triple crown and grand slam aspirations as Scotland won 30-21. The game was plagued by a huge number of handling errors which made for plenty of thrills and spills but neither side seemed able to control the game. Neither side should trouble the Irish on this evidence.

Today, France take on Italy. The way things are looking, Wales could well be heading for a wooden spoon showdown against the Italians in Cardiff in the last match of their Six Nations’ Championship. Sad but true.

No game for Wales or Pooler for a couple of weeks so it’s back to the crochet.

Come on Pooler!

Come on Wales!

Pooler Grind Out Much Needed Win

It was good to be back at Pontypool Park after what seems like an age. Pooler were playing Cardiff in the Premiership and once again it was like old times. Whilst it was dry when we arrived, the weather forecast had predicted heavy rain by three o’clock so we opted to take a seat in the stand. It was great to see that the stand was jampacked and an excited atmosphere was building.

Before the match, there were tributes to Pooler greats Malcolm Price and John Harris who had passed since the last home match. The teams lined up on the field and it seemed strange to see Cardiff wearing red jerseys with Pooler in their traditional red, white and black.

Cardiff kicked off playing down the slope and proceeded to dominate possession from the start.  Pooler played second fiddle as the visitors mounted a series of attacks. Cardiff scored a good try as their backs carved through the Pooler defence for Cross to touch down. The conversion failed but Cardiff had taken a deserved early lead.

Cardiff continued to be on top and we wondered whether Pooler were going to concede more points in the early stages as they had on a number of previous outings. Pooler defended well, however,  and kept their line intact. A bit of argy bargy between the two teams seemed to wake Pooler up and they began to assert themselves as the first quarter came to an end. There was a long delay as Pooler lock Hill received treatment before leaving the field and being replaced by Johnson. Let us hope for a speedy recovery.

In the second quarter, the Pooler scrum started to make itself felt and won a penalty that Jarvis converted (3-5). The rain arrived as promised and it made conditions very difficult for the players and the error count rose for both teams.

Just after the half hour, Pooler skipper Matthews picked up the ball from the back of a scrum on the Cardiff twenty-two. He charged at the Cardiff defence like an angry rhino bumping would-be defenders aside. He was eventually stopped but found Morgan Lloyd in support and the scrum half scuttled over for a try near the posts. Jarvis converted and Pooler led 10-5.

In the last few minutes of the first half, Pooler conceded a penalty at a maul and James took a successful shot at goal for Cardiff. There was no further scoring so the half time whistle saw Pooler with a narrow lead at 10-8.

The rain was getting heavier and heavier and the pitch was becoming more and more slippery. This was hardly a recipe for good rugby and the third quarter was testament to that. Whilst Pooler had an advantage in the scrum, the Cardiff driving lineout was quite potent. It was nip and tuck between the two sides as the forwards battled it out. It was certainly not a day for running rugby with mistakes galore from both sides. It comes as no surprise that the quarter was scoreless with Pooler retaining their narrow 10-8 lead.

So, into the fourth quarter with the game still very much in the balance. An excellent successful penalty from Jarvis increased Pooler’s lead to 13-8 and relieved some of the tension. A few minutes later, a speculative kick ahead from Morgan Lloyd bounced wickedly near the Cardiff line. Neither the chasing Powell from Pooler nor the Cardiff defence could grab it. Up steamed Pooler hooker Peter Lloyd who grounded the ball for a try. Jarvis converted and it looked like Pooler had a winning lead at 20-8.

Pontypool visibly relaxed and brought on a raft of substitutes as the game drew to a close. Cardiff knew that a losing bonus point was on offer and cranked up a last effort. This was rewarded by a second try for Cross in the left corner after he had won the chase after a kick ahead. The conversion failed leaving the final score Pontypool 20 : Cardiff 13.

Pontypool really needed that win after going through a lean period of late. They have now done the double over Cardiff which is a brilliant achievement. Conditions dictated how the game was played and Pooler adapted the better with a dogged display after a shaky start. Well done Pooler!

Next up for Pooler will be the visit of Llandovery on March 8^th to be played under lights. Llandovery have proved to be the outstanding team in the Premiership this season and have only lost once so far. What a chance for Pooler to show what they are made off!

We got the news this week that Pontypool will play in the Elite League next season along with eight other teams from the current Premiership. Somewhere along the line, a tenth team will join but it is not yet clear who that is. I suppose it will be either Cardiff or Pontypridd who both turned up their noses at the concept earlier on. I do feel sympathy for Neath who are not included due to not matching the WRU criteria. So, there we have it Pooler will be playing against the same teams, in the same places probably against most of the same players next season. The difference will be there will be three less teams in the league. Is this really progress? It feels similar to what has happened before but at least this time Pooler are at the top table rather than being outside looking in with no way back in for the foreseeable future. One thing is certain Pooler will give their all to be successful.

I was abroad in England for the narrow defeat that Wales suffered against England last week. Despite the loss, it is encouraging to see the talented young Welsh players grabbing their opportunities. It bodes well longer term but next Saturday the visit to Dublin will be a searching examination. Ireland are full of confidence and packed with power and not a little skill. It is going to take something special to derail them from a second grand slam. Sadly, I don’t think Wales have the wherewithal to do it. In a two horse race anything can happen but…..

Come on Wales

Come on Pooler!

Thrilling Comeback by Wales but Just Too Much to Do

What a thriller at the Principality Stadium. Wales almost pulled off the most unlikely of victories after falling 27 points behind. In the end they ended up agonisingly just a point short.

Wales were abject in the first half while Scotland were business-like and ruthless. The Wales kicking game which was the mainstay of their tactics was poor and presented no real threat to the Scots. This added to unreliable set pieces and handling meant that this was really poor stuff. No surprise then that Wales found themselves 0-20 down after the first half. Indeed, it could have been worse if Scotland had taken all their chances.

The Welsh management team had to do something to try and salvage some pride. Wholesale changes were made at half time. Almost before those changes had taken effect, Scotland’s van der Merwe was galloping down the field to score a splendid solo try which left Wales at 0-27 and surely dead and buried.

Scotland relaxed and suddenly Wales came to life. Prompted by Tomas Williams and spearheaded by Wainwright  they hit their straps. A seismic shift in momentum occurred and it was all Wales. They threw caution to the winds with an invigorated display from the pack providing plenty of possession for the backs. This was far more like it and the scoreboard starting moving in the right direction to the excitement of the home fans. In an inspired half an hour, Wales scored four tries and with three successful conversions were within a point at 26-27. Scotland looked shellshocked and had received two yellow cards during this time. There were still around ten minutes remaining for Wales to complete the seemingly impossible.

Frustratingly Wales went back to the kicking game and got pinned in their own half by some strong Scottish defence so it wasn’t to be. The Scots had overcome the Cardiff bogey but had been given an almighty scare.

Wales ended the match with two bonus points and outscored Scotland four tries to three. The stark difference in performance between the two halves will give Warren Gatland plenty to think about when he considers team selection for the match in Twickenham next weekend. There were some encouraging signs from the young squad when the tactical shackles were removed and they had nothing to lose. Surely there are some clues here about the way forward.

On Friday night the Irish were just awesome as they blew away a dispirited French team. On this kind of form Ireland look well set to win another grand slam. If you were picking a Lions team today you might field the Irish team en bloc!

In Rome, England secured a narrow victory against Italy. I guess a strong England will emerge over the next few weeks but this was not a convincing start. The Italians seemed to have recovered their mojo after the disasters of the Rugby World Cup and look to be competitive and certainly cannot be taken lightly.

So, an interesting first weekend in the Six Nations and no doubt there are some twists and turns to come. Let’s hope Wales can build on that tremendous second half yesterday.

I did watch a fair bit of the Wales U 20 v Scotland match on Friday evening and I was delighted that the players with a Pontypool connection showed up well in a good win for Wales. It was great to see Huw Anderson and Walker Price crossing for tries and some strong work from Jordan Morris. Well done boys.

It is off to Twickers for Wales next weekend. A daunting challenge but one I am sure the squad will relish.

Come on Wales! 

Another Narrow Defeat for Battling Pooler

A visit to the so-called House of Pain in Pontypridd is a tough place to go to try and end the bad run that Pontypool are on. A good sized crowd had gathered for the “battle of the Pontys” on a grey afternoon with hardly a breath of wind. Pontypridd play on an artificial pitch so no worries about the condition of the playing surface. Proceedings started with the marking  of local hero Chris Dicomidis’ four-hundredth appearance for Pontypridd which is a great achievement in these days when players often flit from club to club. More inspiration for the home side if they needed any.

The first ten minutes of the match belonged to Pontypool who played open attractive rugby with backs and forwards handling with gay abandon. The Ponty defence had to work overtime to keep them out. Eventually Pooler got their just reward when Jarvis fed Matthews who bustled over the line for a try. The conversion failed but it was first blood to Pooler (0-5).

From then on, the half belonged to Pontypridd. Their powerful forwards gained the upper hand with the scrum proving a valuable source of penalties for the home side. The penalties gave them field position and put Pooler very much on the defensive. It was only a matter of time before the pressure on Pooler told and, as we went into the second quarter, Ponty opened their account. From a scrum near the Pooler line, home number eight Ward picked up and powered over. Phillips converted and Ponty took the lead at 7-5.

A few minutes later, after more intense pressure from the Ponty forwards, full back Phillips squeezed in for their second try in the left corner. The conversion failed but things were starting to look ominous for Pooler (12-5). As the half was coming to an end, Pooler’s cause was not helped by a head injury to second row Hill who had to leave the field looking decidedly groggy – let us hope for a speedy recovery.

It is not called the House of Pain for nothing as soon Ponty were pounding away at the Pooler line again. This time the home side set up a powerful driving maul from a lineout which the away side could not stop. Jones got the touchdown and Phillips converted to give Pontypridd a convincing 19-5 lead.

There was just time for Pooler to have a quick foray into the Ponty twenty two but a missed penalty and a driving maul that went wrong meant that they could not make any impression on the scoreboard.

A rather chastening half for Pontypool came to and end with the home side holding a deserved 19-5 lead. Pooler, as is becoming a bit of a habit, would have it all to do in the second half.

Things started badly in the second half for Pontypool with a yellow card for Lewis couple with a successful penalty by Phillips as Ponty extended their lead to 22-5. As we know, it is at times such as this that Pooler often start playing their best rugby. Four half time changes with a whole new front row and Morgan Lloyd at scum half gave Pooler fresh impetus. The scrum battle tilted back in their favour and they managed to get decent possession and territory.

It was now Pooler who were doing the attacking and after the forwards had battered away it was Matthews who got the all-important touchdown which Jarvis converted and their cause seemed far from lost at 22-12.

The momentum was temporarily lost when, as the third quarter ended, Pontypridd worked their way down field. After Pooler conceded a penalty, Ponty set up another powerful forward drive with hooker Jones scoring again to claim their bonus point. Phillips converted and the gap was back to 17 points at 29-12.

One thing was certain and that was that Pooler were not going to give up – it is not in their DNA. The fourth quarter belonged firmly to Pontypool as they went in search of a very unlikely victory. Ten minutes into the final quarter they were awarded a penalty try when the home side stopped a driving maul illegally. Not only had Pooler secured an invaluable 7 points but Ponty were a man down with Parry shown a yellow card (29-19).

Pooler continued to press with Ponty battling hard to hang on to their lead. Time was ticking away when Pooler had a scrum close to the Ponty line. Scrum half Lloyd picked up and in a twinkling of an eye had scooted over the line for Pooler’s fourth try bringing up the bonus point. Jarvis converted to bring the score to 29-26 with precious little time left.

Ponty kicked off and Pooler attempted to run the ball from within their own twenty-two. The Pontypridd defence made sure that they could not escape and the home side breathed a sigh of relief when the referee blew the final whistle. Final score Pontypridd 29: Pontypool 26.

Another narrow loss for Pontypool who again left themselves with too much to do. They did give Pontypridd a scare and did bag two bonus points so it is far from doom and gloom. The squad has tremendous spirit and never gives up even if the cause looks hopeless to the outside world. The season started with Pooler claiming narrow victories and now we are seeing narrow defeats – the margins are fine that is for sure.

Next up for Pooler will be Cardiff at home on the 17^th of February which gives the squad a few weeks to lick their wounds and make themselves ready for what will be another tough match.

The Six Nations Championship is just around the corner with Wales playing Scotland in Cardiff next Saturday. It is hard to know what to expect from Wales with a much changed and inexperienced squad. A long injury list will limit Warren Gatland’s options in several key positions so his initial team selection will be fascinating. Scotland are a much more settled side and must start as favourites in my mind despite being the away team. Wales have surprised us before so let us hope for a victory that will give them confidence for the trips to England and Ireland to follow.

Come on Pooler!

Come on Wales!   

More Disappointment for Pooler

I didn’t make the journey to Carmarthen for Pooler’s latest match which was under floodlights on a Thursday evening. As the match was televised, I had a rare opportunity to watch Pooler in live action on the box. It is many years since I have done this but I was soon wishing I was in Carmarthen as an exciting game unfolded.

The first half was evenly contested although Carmarthen seemed to have more of a cutting edge. The score was 13-13 until the last few minutes of the half with both sides having scored a converted try and two penalties. Then Carmarthen showed pace and precision as they put right wing Ford in for a try in the corner. Titcombe kicked a conversion to give the home side a 20-13 lead. Pooler had a great chance to score a try of their own as the half ended with them camped on the Quins’ line. Somehow they let the opportunity slip through their fingers and somehow it seemed to be a crucial mistake.

In the second half, things started badly for Pooler with Gwilliam scoring a smart try for the home side that was converted by Titcombe (27-13). Things looked ominous for Pooler but we all know about the tremendous spirit in the side and they were not about to give up that was for sure.

Fresh legs were introduced from the bench and, as Carmarthen sat back, Pooler took the initiative. On the hour, Marcus Jones scored his second try of the evening this time proving too strong for the home defence to hold after he had been put in space by the threequarters. Jarvis converted and Pooler were within a score at 27-20.

More good news followed shortly afterwards when the Pooler backs again were in action and this time it was Price Thomas with an extravagant dummy who dotted down for a try. Unfortunately, the conversion missed but Pooler were well back in the hunt at 27-25.

Carmarthen regrouped and it was they who struck next with another try for Ford but this time the conversion missed. There was still some hope for Pooler with the score 32-25 with around ten minutes remaining.

The Pontypool scrum was looking dominant but somehow they contrived to give away a penalty in the Pooler half. Titcombe obliged from the tee and Carmarthen were now two scores clear at 35-25 with little time remaining. There was still plenty for Pooler to play for - a try would bring up the try bonus point plus the losing bonus point. They came mighty close but in the end had to settle for a Jarvis penalty and a losing bonus point. Final score Carmarthen Quins 35: Pontypool 28.

In the final analysis, Pooler lost narrowly but, in truth, were second best for a large part of the game. Carmarthen Quins were lively and aggressive and Pooler struggled to contain their physicality at times. In addition, the Carmarthen kickers knew how to apply pressure on the Pooler back three by launching high kicks above the floodlights – the benefit of playing on your home ground. As throughout the season, Pooler demonstrated tremendous spirit and found a way to get back into the match when all seemed lost.

Next up will be a home game against Merthyr. The squad will surely benefit from an extra couple of days rest.

Come on Pooler!

Frustration for Pooler

The first game of 2024 found Pontypool playing Aberavon at Pontypool Park on a cool but mercifully dry afternoon. The two previous encounters of the season in league and cup had been close encounters with the spoils shared. There was every expectation that this too would be a tight affair.

Aberavon played down the slope in the first half and right from the off they looked bright and sharp. Pontypool, on the other hand, looked laboured and lethargic and seemed to find it hard to get going. Aberavon had the lion’s share of possession and it was only scrambling defence that kept them from scoring a try in the first quarter. They did however get six points on the board through penalties kicked by Thomas (0-6)

Pontypool did begin to make some impact on the game with their dominant scrum. This was the source of penalties and they managed to put pressure on the visitors’ line where they had a series of scrums and we thought they surely must score. Inexplicably, Pooler were penalised at the final scrum and the opportunity was lost.

Aberavon were still busy and causing the Pooler defence problems. A mazy run by Aberavon fullback Delnevo left the Pooler defence for dead as he scored a splendid solo try. The conversion from Thomas meant that Aberavon were 0-13 to the good after half an hour played.

As half time approached, Pooler did start to work up a head of steam but were finding the visitors’ super quick rush defence difficult to penetrate. Pooler were attacking inside the Aberavon twenty two when a pass was intercepted by Carson who sped eighty metres or so to the Pooler line leaving everyone in his wake. Thomas converted and things were looking grave for the home side trailed 0-20.

This really was an under par half of rugby from Pontypool and the fans were left shaking their heads. No doubt, the half time team talk would have pointed this out quite forcibly. Pooler had a mountain to climb to get back into the game but there would need to be a dramatic improvement if that was going to happen.

What Pooler needed in the second half was to get on the scoreboard quickly to try and generate some momentum. Their prayers were answered when Aberavon made a mess of catching the kick off and conceded a penalty. Pooler opted to kick for the corner and from the ensuing lineout piled on the pressure on through their forwards. After some heavy duty carrying, it was Hill who forced his way over the line for a much-needed try. Jarvis converted and there was a chink of light for Pooler at 7-20 with only a few minutes played.

More good news was to follow. Straight from the kick off Pooler launched an attack with Mahoney making good ground. He fed right wing Jones who galloped over for a try from thirty metres or so. Jarvis converted and within the space of five minutes Pooler had slashed the lead to just six points at 14-20.

The momentum was now very much with Pontypool as they sensed that a sensational catch-up win was on the cards. There followed a frustrating period where Pooler got on the wrong side of the referee at the breakdown and conceded too many penalties which allowed Aberavon to relieve the pressure. The frustration was further compounded by handling errors close to the Aberavon line and let us not forget a strong well-organised Aberavon defence.

At the beginning of the fourth quarter, Aberavon made a rare foray into Pooler territory and were awarded a penalty that Thomas duly converted to put the away side two scores clear at 14-23. Pooler hit back strongly and were soon camped on the Aberavon line with the forwards driving strongly. This time it was Sweet who crashed over for a try. Jarvis converted and it was now a two point game  at 21-23.

Pooler failed to clear from the kick off and Aberavon were awarded yet another penalty. This time it was converted by Davies and Aberavon now led 21-26 with ten minutes or so remaining.

From then on, it was desperate Pontypool attacks against desperate Aberavon defence. Pooler hammered away at the Aberavon line in search of the winning try but as things got frenetic they lost control of the ball and it all came to nought. Final score Pontypool 21: Aberavon 26.

This was so nearly a famous victory for Pontypool who came back from the dead in the second half. In the end, they left themselves too much to do after a really disappointing first half. They outscored Aberavon three tries to two but conceded four kickable penalties that tilted the game in favour of the visitors so yet again discipline was a problem

The next match which is away at Carmarthen Quins is on Thursday evening  so there is not much time to pick the morale of the squad  up after a disappointing performance. The match is televised but it does seem hard on the fans who want to travel to have to go so far on a mid-week night.

The elite league is back in the news with several clubs declaring that they have moved on to the next stage of the application. It still seems difficult for the league to go ahead without Cardiff, Merthyr and Pontypridd. My personal view is that I wish that the idea had never been floated but my opinion counts for nought.

I’ll just keep enjoying Premiership rugby in the meantime.

Come on Pooler!