Warren Peace

 The cold snap put an end to my plan to watch Pontypool play Narberth. The game was called off early due to a frozen pitch. Indeed, the fixture list of the community game was decimated. That meant it was couch time.

The big news in Welsh rugby was the sacking of Wayne Pivac and the return of Warren Gatland. I suspect there will be more of a spring in the step of potential Welsh internationals as they attempt to impress the new gaffer in the short time available before the Six Nations squad is put together. Early promising signs came in the Dragons creditable draw with the Lions in South Africa and Cardiff’s thumping of Brive.

I wonder what will happen to Gatland’s Law? It is worth considering how many players have benefited from playing in England. The entire probable Welsh first choice back line has done a stint across the border:

Liam Williams, Louis Rees-Zammit, George North, Nick Tompkins, Josh Adams, and Dan Biggar. You could also add Rhys Webb (time in France) or Aled Davies at scrum half. Then there are Alex Cuthbert, Callum Sheedy and Ioan Lloyd to name but a few others. In the pack you can think of Faletau, Rowlands, Francis, Moriarty, Reffell, Young, Carre etc. The list goes on. With tongue in cheek, you could almost a suggest a spell away from Wales should be a requirement in player development.

The other news is that the WRU are actually talking turkey with the “regions” again. Will peace break out? An uneasy truce is the best we can hope for maybe. There is a vast amount of mostly empty talk about governance, structures and pathways which sounds like it comes straight out of a business management textbook. I know I should be more interested in the pontifications and ramifications but it leaves me cold. Four top-line competitive professional clubs in Wales does seem to be a big ask however. I also wonder if I were a young lad would I rather play every week for my local team with my mates or be part of an academy where playing opportunities are limited. I firmly believe that any pyramid structure needs risks and rewards to be vibrant and that ringfencing does stifle ambition.

As I have said before, being a simple soul, all I want to do is to watch my local team play on a Saturday afternoon – home and away if possible. I am still emotionally attached to watching Wales in the flesh but the attraction is waning with my advancing years, the spiralling costs and the amount of loutish behaviour amongst the “fans”. At the moment I really do not have any desire to watch my "region" play other than on the TV instead of Strictly Come Dancing or something similar.

So, it’s back to Pontypool for me. Weather permitting Pooler are due to play at Beddau next weekend.

Welcome back and good luck Warren.

Come on Pooler!

Rosser Crosses for a Hat Trick as Pooler Take the Spoils

You may say I am a bit of a dinosaur but it is with great relief that I could get back to some proper Welsh club rugby on a Saturday. The disappointments of the Autumn Series and all the controversy and arguments about coaches and regions could be forgotten as I took my place in the shed in Bedwas. Blessed relief!

It was a cold grey day at Bedwas as Pontypool took the field for their latest Championship match. The last match against Bargoed had been a stunner with tension right until the final whistle.  I rather hoped this would be easier on the old ticker but with a local derby you just never know.

This time it was Pooler who made a really fast start. In the first minute, Walsh ran the ball back from his own twenty two and passed the ball to the flying right wing Rosser who outpaced the cover defence to score in the right corner. The conversion from Jarvis followed and Pontypool were leading 0-7 within two minutes. Pooler were pegged back when they were penalised a few minutes later with Wilkins successful from the tee (3-7).

Pontypool were looking powerful and full of intent. They were quickly back into their stride and worked their way back into the home twenty two. A planned move by the backs saw Mahoney scythe through the Bedwas defence without a hand laid on him to score under the posts. The conversion was a formality and it was now 3-14.

Pontypool started to get on the wrong side of the referee and a series of penalties at the breakdown saw the initiative pass to Bedwas who duly obliged with a fine try by right wing Anderson which was expertly converted from wide out by Wilkins (10-14).

The second quarter was dominated by Pontypool. The forwards showed their power and had the measure of their opponents whilst the backs, orchestrated by Jarvis, looked lively. On the half hour, a strong forward drive was followed by a break by Mahoney who fed left wing Powell who scored Pooler’s third try which was converted by Jarvis (10-21).

A pushover try from a scrum with Price getting the touchdown as the half finished brought up the bonus point and with the conversion Pooler had a healthy 10-28 lead. In truth, Pontypool could have and, indeed should have, scored a couple more tries but for handling errors close to the Bedwas line.

The second half started with a bang as substitute back row forward Ieuan Jones made a powerful burst and fed Rosser who scored in the right corner. The conversion missed narrowly but Pooler had stretched their lead to 10-33.

Five minutes or so later, substitute scrum half Dai Jones making his first appearance for Pontypool sniped around the short side of a maul and fed Rosser who completed his hat trick with a try in the corner. This time Jarvis did not miss the conversion (10-40).

The match then entered the doldrums with Pooler struggling to gain the continuity that they craved. In the spirit of Xmas, the referee became a bit of a pantomime villain with the Pooler faithful who dominated the crowd. Pooler gave away far too many penalties some of which were difficult to fathom. The loudest cheers of the day came when Pooler were awarded a rare penalty. The high penalty count against them has been a feature of the season so far and will surely be an area of concern for the coaching team. Fair play to Bedwas, they stuck to their task manfully and made things difficult for Pontypool with some gritty defence.

With the last play of the game Pontypool finally managed to cross the whitewash for their seventh try. Ieuan Jones picked up from the base of a scrum and fed Matthews who scampered over near the posts. Jarvis duly converted and the final score was Bedwas 10 : Pontypool 47.

This was a convincing victory for Pontypool who, in truth, never looked like losing after their early try. With a bit more precision, the win could have been even more convincing. The three week gap from their last fixture surely did not help and at least there are two more games on successive weekends before Xmas to look forward to.

Pontypool remain unbeaten with a maximum forty points from eight games. They remain in second place in the Championship two points behind Neath who have played a game more. Arch rivals Bargoed are now eleven points behind Pooler having also played eight games. Pooler are in a strong position but there is still no margin for error with tough fixtures at Neath and Bargoed to come.

Next week Pooler entertain Narberth at the Park. There have been many exciting clashes between the two clubs and this should be no different. I’m looking forward to it.

Come on Pooler!

Wasteful Wales in Tale of Woe

There are many ways to contrive to lose a rugby match but throwing away what should have been a match-winning lead is one of the least palatable. This is exactly what Wales did in the Principality Stadium against Australia. Playing some of their best rugby, they built up a twenty one point lead against admittedly an understrength Aussie outfit and led 34-13 with just a quarter of the match left. They had been helped by Australian indiscipline which had led to two yellow cards, that is for sure, but still there was some impressive high speed off-loading rugby to admire.

What we do know about the Aussies is no matter who is playing for them they never think a game is a lost cause and they never give up until the final whistle. Watching from the stand, it was alarming to see how quickly the momentum switched to the Wallabies. A combination of yellow cards and what seemed to be unfathomable substitutions for Wales gave the Aussies just the opening they needed. Seemingly in the twinkling of an eye, the lead had disappeared and the players were shaking hands with Wales losing 34-39. Meanwhile in the stands, the Welsh supporters were shaking their heads in disbelief. All around there were mutterings about the future of the Welsh coaching team who had presided over this debacle.

To make matters worse, when we left the stadium it was absolutely peeing down with rain and I got thoroughly soaked making my way to the transport home. Such is the lot of the longsuffering Welsh supporter these days I am afraid. As the prices rocket, even I, an avid fan for sixty years or so, was left wondering if I really wanted to go on doing this.

I really don’t feel like analysing the match - I will leave that to those with sharper rugby brains than me. I will seek my solace in watching Pontypool which is altogether more enjoyable. Speaking of which, Pooler will be back in action against Bedwas next weekend as they continue their battle to gain promotion from the Championship.

I did get a little cheer when I caught the end of the England v South Africa test. Eddie’s crew looked to be well beaten and Eddie looked more than a little crestfallen.

It was sad to see the Welsh football team lose to Iran on Friday. They too lost right at the end but Iran did look the better side on the day. A win against England might still see them qualify out of the group but it does look unlikely. They have done remarkably well to reach the World Cup in Qatar whatever happens.

So, it’s Bedwas here we come.

Come on Pooler! 

Georgia On My Mind

Wales plumbed the depths yesterday in giving a performance that was as drab as the kit that they were wearing. In saying this, I must not take anything away from a stirring performance from the visiting Georgia team. Once Georgia realised that they had the beating of Wales they seized their opportunity and made Wales look distinctly second best in the second half. Georgia were everything Wales were not – they were fully committed, strong and fit and had a game plan.

Sure, Wales started well enough taking an early lead through two tries from Morgan but then lost their way completely with far too much poor kicking and set pieces that disintegrated. The Georgians surely could not believe their luck.

A yellow card for Cuthbert gave Georgia the opportunity to score a well-worked try of their own which closed the Welsh lead to two points. It was nothing more than they deserved that a penalty in the last few minutes from Matkava won the match 12-13.

This was by no means a Welsh second team but they were outplayed in most aspects of the game. This is the third game of the Autumn series so the Welsh management team have had plenty of time to work out some kind of game plan by now. I am left wondering what that is. Any casual observer of rugby could have told you that the Georgian scrum would be strong and that in the end played a major part in the Wales downfall. Surely heads must roll some time soon.

Next weekend Wales have to face Australia who really pushed Ireland hard. With a squad and coaching team in disarray, Wales could be in for tough afternoon. Maybe, just maybe Wales can produce a performance that will stun us. I certainly hope so but I will not be holding my breath.

Of course, rugby will have to take a backseat now with the football World Cup about to kick off in Qatar. From a rugby perspective this can only serve to magnify the problems with the game in general in Wales. I wish Cymru well.

Congratulations to Georgia on a well-deserved victory.

Come on Wales – you have to be better than this!  

Stunning Pooler Comeback After Early Bargoed Storm

A goodly crowd gathered at Pontypool Park for a top of the table Championship clash between Pontypool and old rivals Bargoed. Conditions were absolutely perfect with hardly a breath of wind and the pitch in great condition on a dry, unseasonably warm, November afternoon. This was a match that Pontypool really couldn’t afford to lose if they were to keep their promotion hopes on course. Bargoed knew that a win at Pontypool would bolster their hopes of promotion significantly. Yes, this match meant a lot to both sides.

Pontypool played up the slope in the first half and were immediately put under pressure by a Bargoed side bristling with intent. Bargoed took an early lead with a penalty from Jones (0-3) and for the rest of the first quarter they were in complete control. True Pontypool did not help themselves with an indifferent kicking game and a heap of scrum penalties but Bargoed played some brilliant rugby.

After ten minutes, Rice scored a cracking try after the away team broke out from their own twenty two. Jones converted from the touchline with an excellent kick (0-10). Not long afterwards Bargoed scored a second try when their backs broke through for Williams to score in the left corner. The try was again expertly converted by Jones and things were looking bleak for Pooler with Bargoed building a substantial lead (0-17). Things got worse when Pooler were penalised at a ruck and Jones added another three points. Pontypool were 0-20 down and not at the races as the first quarter ended

Pontypool were fluffing their lines and needed to find some inspiration from somewhere or they were in danger of being blown away by a rampant Bargoed side. The inspiration came from right wing Rosser who made an excellent break down the touchline and found Lewis in support and he touched down for some much needed relief for Pooler. Jarvis converted and thing looked a little less bleak and the shellshocked home fans began to find their voices (7-20).

The Pontypool scrum had been under a lot of pressure and had been a source of penalties for Bargoed. Fortunately, the number of scrums dropped significantly in the second quarter and Pooler were able to get a toehold in a game that looked like it was slipping away from them. A Jarvis penalty closed the gap further with five minutes to go before halftime (10-20).

Pooler were desperate to get some more points before the break and they were rewarded with a great try. The Pontypool backs moved the ball left and created just enough for Smith to score in the left corner. Another brilliant conversion from Jarvis and the gap was now only three points as the half time whistle was blown (17-20).

This had been a fantastic comeback from Pooler when the game had been looking to be slipping away from then. It was now anyone’s game but Pooler had built up momentum. This really was a cracking match so we were sure to be in for thrills and spills in the second half.

Pooler took first blood early in the second half with a Jarvis penalty that brought the sores level (20-20). This did not last long as, a couple of minutes later, Bargoed came roaring back with a try when flanker Davies was found lurking on the left wing by some slick passing.  Davies powered over in the left corner and Jones converted and Bargoed were back in the lead (20-27).

It was now Pooler’s turn to apply the pressure and they started to look more like their normal selves. They worked their way deep into the Bargoed twenty two and set up a series of forward drives. The referee adjudged that Bargoed had prevented a try being scored by foul play and had no hesitation in awarding a penalty try and a yellow card for Johnson. We were all square again at 27-27 with a quarter of the match to go.

Pontypool continued to be in the ascendancy but Bargoed always looked dangerous. The benches were emptied and it was Pooler who seemed to benefit most. Their scrum now more than held its own and they kept pressing and with seven minutes to go they got their reward. The backs moved the ball left after a lineout and a brilliant miss pass gave Smith just enough space to score a try in the left corner. The conversion from Jarvis hit the very top of the left hand post but it was adjudged to have missed. Pontypool had taken the lead for the first time and secured a bonus point (32-27).

With a few minutes to go Pooler were awarded a penalty that would surely have put the game beyond Bargoed’s reach. Agonisingly, the ball hit the post and stayed out and we were in for a tense finish.

Before we knew it Bargoed were camped on the Pooler line as they strove to snatch the game at the last. Somehow Pooler managed to get possession and send Rosser scurrying down the right wing. The Bargoed defence just about managed to prevent a try but were forced to drop out from their own line. Pooler attacked again and with the last play of the match Pooler prop Kelleher-Griffiths plunged over near the posts. Jarvis converted and an epic encounter came to an end with the final score Pontypool 39 : Bargoed 27.

What a brilliant game of rugby with the result in doubt right to the end.  Both sides gave everything in a game that had everything and was played in a good spirit. This was how rugby was meant to be! It was hard luck on Bargoed to leave with no points but it has certainly improved Pooler’s league position. Bargoed will no doubt look forward to their chance to exact revenge on their own patch. They will have two chances with the league game plus a cup tie.

Congratulations to Pontypool for a brilliant comeback. The next game will be at Bedwas in three weeks’ time. So, another local derby to look forward to.

Wales played Argentina in the evening and managed to hang on for a 20-13 win. They did play much better than the previous Saturday but the opposition was not so formidable. It was sad to see them playing so negatively towards the end as they tried to cling on to their lead. It would have been nice if they had run some of the ball that was kicked to them rather than kick it back. Still, I suppose they were desperate for a win against a team that had, after all, beaten England the previous weekend. It is telling that the accolades are given to players who make the most tackles these days.

Congratulations to Italy who beat Australia after beating Samoa the previous week. They will be a handful in the Six Nations I think.

Next week Wales face the tough and uncompromising Georgians. Too many changes might lead to an upset.

Well done Pooler!

Come on Wales! 

An All Too Familiar Story

Wales play the All Blacks in Cardiff.

Wales lose heavily - this time 23-55.

Wales try hard and hang on to the New Zealanders’ coat tails for an hour or so before the visitors run away with it.

Wales are out-muscled and at times it looks like men against boys.

Sadly, this time the All Blacks did not need to anything very special. There were no fireworks even though it was November 5^th. They basically pressured Wales into making mistakes, got into the Wales twenty two, and used the power of their forwards to create a score. The favoured adjective by rugby experts was that they were “clinical”.

Enough said, I think.

Principality Stadium Inflation watch – price of a ticket £95, price of a pint £6.50, price of a pasty an eyewatering £7.50. Hard to argue that this is value for money!

Wales play Argentina next week but I will be at Pontypool Park to watch the Pooler take on Bargoed. This really is “Le Crunch” or “El Classico” or just bloody important. I can’t wait.

Come on Pooler!

Come on Wales!

Pooler Get Their Mojo Back

Things are very tight at the top of the Championship with Pontypool, Neath and Bargoed currently setting the pace in the race for the two promotion places to the Premiership that are available. Pontypool have a slight edge as they have yet to face defeat although they came mighty close to that against Ystrad Rhondda last weekend. You really do get the feeling that the current top three sides will be battling it out to the death until the end of the season. Of course, we can never rule out the WRU throwing a spanner in the works and changing the rules at the last moment.

It was in this context that Pontypool visited Glamorgan Wanderers knowing that they needed a convincing victory to keep the pressure on in the Championship race. A good sized crowd, with Pooler fans in the majority, had gathered at the Memorial Ground in Ely on a dull unseasonably warm afternoon.

Glamorgan Wanderers kicked off and exerted some early pressure but Pooler quickly gained control. Sweet opened Pooler’s account after five minutes or so when he brushed defenders aside to gallop over for a try. Jarvis converted and Pooler were looking hungry for more (0-7)

Pooler continued to attack for the rest of the first quarter but found the Wanderers defence difficult to crack. Their cause was not helped by a misfiring lineout and the odd mistake as they worked to get their high speed offloading game going. Towards the end of the quarter the Wanderers lost Wootton to a yellow card for an offence at a ruck.

As seems to be often the case, Pooler cut loose in the second quarter and played some scintillating rugby as the backs and forwards often weaved bewildering patterns with top class support play. They scored four converted tries to build an unassailable lead. Anderson scored a try to start the ball rolling (0-14). This was followed a few minutes later by Fleming-Jones touching down from a concerted forward drive (0-21).

There was scarcely time to draw beath before Smith was racing down the left wing. He kicked ahead just before he was tackled and Lewis won the chase to touch down for Pooler’s bonus point try (0-28). There was still time for a surging break by Lewis that found Babos, running the classic scrum half support line, to receive his pass and cross for Pooler’s fifth try. The remarkably accurate boot of Jarvis had converted all five of Pooler’s tries and at half time they held a comfortable 0-35 lead.

Pooler started the second half in a similar vein when after a couple of minutes Sweet rounded off an excellent team try that Jarvis converted (0-42) Ten minutes later Fleming-Jones scored his second try of the afternoon from a lineout close to the Wanderers’ line. A rare sight indeed saw the conversion from Jarvis just fail (0-47)

The next twenty minutes saw both teams emptying their benches and this seemed to have a positive effect on the home side who stepped up their defensive effort and managed to apply pressure on Pontypool in attack. Pooler’s attacking efforts became a little disjointed but their defence was still watertight.

With ten minutes to go Pooler finally broke out with another fine try started from within their own twenty two. Some great passing and support play saw Mahoney score and Jarvis convert to bring up the half century (0-54).

Shortly afterwards, Pooler’s Powell was sinbinned for a late tackle as the home side pressed. There then followed a series of inconclusive scrums to everyone’s frustration. The referee wisely chose that moment to blow for time a few minutes early on my watch. Final score Glamorgan Wanderers 0 : Pontypool 54.

This was much more like it from Pontypool with some superb open rugby that cut the Glamorgan Wanderers’ defence to ribbons at times. It is a timely return to form with the crunch game against Bargoed just two weeks away. Pontypool will have home advantage and must make that pay against key rivals.

There is no game for Pontypool next week as Wales will be taking on the All Blacks in Cardiff. The All Blacks have looked a little more vulnerable than normal but still set the benchmark for successful test rugby. The Wales team selection will be the subject of much debate but whoever plays let’s hope we can put on a good show and maybe, just maybe…..

Congratulations to the Dragons who look like they are managing to turn things around. Of course, they have had many false dawns but it would be nice to see them challenging to be the top Welsh Region – not that that is a particularly lofty aim at present.

Come on Pooler!

Come on Wales!

Pooler Squeeze Home by the Skin of their Teeth

There are few better places to see the trees in their autumn colours than Pontypool Park. Even though it was a grey day with rain threatening the Park looked a picture. Pontypool entertained Ystrad Rhondda in their latest Championship match and, on recent form, few expected other than a Pontypool victory. As we all know, in a two horse race it is often not as simple as that.

Pontypool kicked off playing up the slope in the first half and played some enterprising rugby for the opening minutes but failed to make any impact on the scoreboard. It was very soon evident that Ystrad Rhondda were a well-organised and highly motivated team who had come to Pontypool to take the spoils. Nevertheless, it was Pontypool who scored first when Ieuan Jones broke from a five metre scrum to power over after about a quarter an hour of highly competitive rugby. Jarvis converted to give the home side a 7-0 advantage.

Ystrad Rhondda had much the better of the rest of the first half. Pooler failed to make much impact on a well disciplined defence and the Ystrad Rhondda backs looked the livelier in attack. The scrums were a real thorn in the referee’s side as virtually every one of many had to be reset.

Ystrad’s kicking game was also more effective and it was from a loose Pontypool kick that the away team’s winger Webber ran the ball back from within his own twenty two. The cover finally got to him after a mazy run but he was able to kick ahead and the chasing Rowley got the ball down for a try. Although the try was unconverted, you could sense that Ystrad’s confidence had been boosted (7-5).

With Pooler unable to string much rugby together in the second quarter, Ystrad took full advantage with a penalty from Truelove and just before half time scored a well-constructed try by Morgan which was converted by Truelove. This gave the visitors a fully deserved 7-15 lead at the interval.

No doubt with the coaching team’s advice ringing in their ears, Pooler came out for the second half having made no less than four changes to their line up. The one thing they needed to do was to get off to a good start but exactly the opposite happened. The visitors ran back another loose Pontypool clearing kick and Morgan went over for his second try in the right corner. An excellent conversion from Truelove gave Ystrad a commanding 7-22 lead.

Pontypool had to respond quickly and that is exactly what they did. A few minutes later they were hammering away at the visitor’s try line. A yellow card for Ystrad’s Davies certainly helped as Pooler drove a lineout and Matthews plunged over for a try. The conversion from Jarvis sailed between the posts and Pooler were back in touch at 14-22 with more than half an hour remaining.

A few minutes later, however, Truelove landed another penalty to give the away side an eleven point lead at 14-25. This was going to hard going for a disjointed Pooler team.

The rest of the game was really dominated by Pooler’s increasingly desperate attempts to try and crack a strong Ystrad defence which gave them little breathing space. As the minutes clicked down, so Pooler’s efforts became more and more frantic and their error count increased. The Pooler supporters were beginning to give up hope as we got into the last ten minutes.

Pooler continued to attack and Ystrad began to leak penalties which Pooler used to keep the pressure on with kicks for the corner. After some powerful driving by the forwards, Matthews finally managed to touch the ball down for a try which Jarvis converted. The Ystrad lead had been cut to just four points with little time remaining.  They would, however, be without Williams who was yellow carded due to the high penalty count.

The crowd really got behind the home team and Pooler responded by taking play back to deep within the Ystrad twenty two. Pooler continued to use their forwards to drive and more penalties were awarded against the away team. Eventually, the referee had seen enough and awarded Pontypool a penalty try. Pooler had taken the lead in the dying minutes (28-25) when it looked like they had been heading for defeat.

The disappointment was all too much for Ystrad’s Morgan who argued just a little too vehemently with the referee and was shown a red card. The visitors were down to thirteen men but such had been their fighting qualities you would still not put it past them to sneak a draw with a last gasp penalty. Pooler however were not about to let this one slip. Full time Pontypool 28 : Ystrad Rhondda 25.

This was a real tough test for Pontypool against highly motivated and skilful opposition. For most of the match the visitors looked the better side and can consider themselves unlucky not to come away with a victory. The well prepared Ystrad defence did not allow Pooler any room to play the expansive rugby that they would like to play. No doubt there will plenty of analysis done on the whys and wherefores of a disappointing performance in the Pontypool training sessions.

Pooler can take solace from a fighting comeback and a bonus point victory in a league where every single point is precious in the race for promotion. So well done for that.

Next up for Pooler is a visit to Glamorgan Wanderers next Saturday. Pooler can expect another stern examination of their promotion credentials there.

Come on Pooler!

Pontypool Breeze Through in the Cup

I must confess that, due to domestic commitments, I did not make the trip down to Narberth to watch Pontypool in the first round of the WRU Championship Cup. It does seem a bit strange to have a cup competition that is limited to one division of a league. I understand that it is for health and safety reasons but it was always part of the romance of the cup that the smaller clubs got a chance to test their mettle against the big boys. Who can forget Penclawdd beating Newport? – not many of the older Pooler fans I warrant.

I kept in touch with proceedings in Narberth via the excellent flow of tweets and then read Ray’s comprehensive match report. By all accounts, this was a classic “wind game”. Pooler “won” the first half 3-38 playing with the wind and then Narberth “won” the second half 21-7 when they got their turn. This resulted in a final score of Narberth 24 Pontypool 45 with Pooler scoring seven tries. Any away win at Narberth is a great result and Pooler now find themselves in the quarter final.

I did watch a bit of rugby on the TV and really enjoyed the local derby between Gloucester and Bristol Bears. It was real nail-biting stuff with Gloucester just edging it. This was certainly a better watch than Cardiff v. the Dragons although admittedly I did know the final score in this match before I watched it. There was a decent win for the Scarlets in front of a sparse crowd and a hard fought draw for the Ospreys against the Sharks. Professional rugby is in turmoil in England and Wales with the finances just not adding up. Does that sound familiar? - perhaps we can get Kwasi Kwarteng in to help.

Times are also tough in the community game in Wales with many clubs not being able to raise a team on a Saturday. For Pontypool, this meant no game against Tata Steel last weekend which is a real shame. The sad reality is that consideration will have to be given to clubs in close proximity amalgamating. This will mean that a history of close rivalry may have to be laid aside. I can only imagine how difficult and emotive this might be.

The Welsh women had a narrow victory against Scotland in the World Cup but had a harsh reality check when New Zealand thumped them by fifty points overnight. The final pool game against Australia will be crucial if they are to progress.

Next Saturday Pooler are back in league action with Ystrad Rhondda the visitors to Pontypool Park. Ystrad have proved lively opponents over the years particularly on their own patch. Let us hope for decent weather and an entertaining encounter. The Championship is going to be a close run race and Pooler cannot afford to drop a single point even at this stage of the season.

Come on Pooler!

Pooler Pile up the Points

There was a different atmosphere at Pontypool Park from the battle against Neath the previous Saturday. Pooler were entertaining Trebanos one of the clubs at the bottom of the Championship. Few expected anything other than a convincing Pontypool victory but of course you never know. Pooler had taken the opportunity to make a number of changes so that other players in their talented squad got game time.

The weather could not quite decide whether it was hot or cool and dry or wet. I suppose a typical autumn day with the trees just starting to don their autumn hues. There cannot be many more picturesque grounds that Pontypool Park in the autumn.

Right, so to the match. Trebanos made a lively start as Pooler started in low gear playing up the slope. It was, however, Pooler who struck first after about a quarter of an hour with a try from a driving lineout. Debutant hooker Jenkins got the touchdown and the try was duly converted by Jarvis (7-0). Trebanos hit back with a fine long range penalty by Hawkins as the first quarter drew to a close (3-7). At this stage there were no obvious signs of the carnage that was to follow.

In the second quarter, Pontypool cut loose scoring no fewer than five tries as they ran the ball at every opportunity. Skipper Herbert started things off with a powerful break and the supporting players did the rest for Jarvis to touch down and then convert (14-3). Next it was the turn of Smith to show his power as he burst through the defence for a try again converted by Jarvis (21-3).

A few minutes later it was the complete Pooler back row that thundered down the field with Stratton crossing for the bonus point try which was converted by Jarvis (28-3). In a frenetic couple minutes at the end of the half, Pooler continued to pile on the agony for Trebanos as their backs showed their pace resulting in tries for Nove and Jarvis both of which were converted by Jarvis. With the half time score at 42-3 you wondered what the final score could be as this was a clear mismatch.

The second half continued in a much similar fashion with, despite the brave efforts of the Trebanos defence, the Pooler penalty count being the only brake on their scoring potential. Stratton scored his second try as he just about managed to get to the line after a thirty metre or so gallop which sadly resulted in him being injured (47-3) .

Points continued to pile up at the rate of a point a minute as Trebanos wilted and the strong home bench was utilised. An interception by Langdon saw him cruise in for Pooler’s eighth try that was again converted and brought up the half century (54-3).

An astute cross field kick over a bunch of players having a bit of an argument found Nove. He passed inside to the supporting Jenkins who tried to return the favour. Somehow the ball ended up in Jenkins’ arms and he dotted the ball down for his second try. The conversion brought the score to 61-3 at the end of the third quarter and if this was a boxing match the referee with stop the fight.

Pooler kept going relentlessly and piled on the agony with a further three tries. Nove grabbed his second and then Regan scored from a scrum five on the Trebanos line (75-3). There were players from both sides suffering from cramp as the match had been played at a high pace. One player who certainly did not have cramp was replacement back row forward Price who showed an excellent turn of speed when he received the ball on the right wing. His try from close to the half way line and the subsequent conversion brought proceedings to a close with the final score Pontypool 82 Trebanos 3.

Whilst Trebanos never stopped trying, this was a clear mis match and is the third time that Pontypool have topped fifty points in four outings this season. This puts them firmly at the top of the Championship table as the only undefeated team. There will be tougher matches down the road that is for sure but Pontypool can be well satisfied with their start to the season.

Next week Pooler are due to visit struggling Tata Steel. Tata Steel suffered the ignominy of losing by a hundred points to Cross Keys on Saturday. Since Pooler beat Cross keys by fifty points or more you have to wonder about what will happen in what appears to be another mismatch.

I did catch a bit of regional rugby over the weekend and witnessed disappointing displays from Cardiff and the Scarlets both of whom lost games they should probably be winning. The Dragons at least played with fire and not a little skill as they were narrowly beaten by the Sharks. Regional rugby is in turmoil – somebody needs to get a grip!

I look forward to my weekly dose of Pooler and let others argue the toss about the professional game which seems to be getting less and less appealing.

Come on Pooler!

Pontypool Edge Gripping Contest

This is what Welsh club rugby is all about. Two teams going at it toe to toe with nothing left in the tank at the end of the contest. So it was that Pontypool entertained Neath in their latest Championship match on a glorious afternoon in Pontypool Park. The recently mown pitch looked perfect and a gentle breeze blew across the pitch. A good crowd had gathered to watch two teams who would surely be slugging it for promotion to the Premiership. You could feel the nervous tension as the kick-off approached.

A poignant minute’s applause for Eddie Butler and ardent Pooler supporter Alan Gwatkin only served to rack up the tension. I think we all knew that, even this early in the season, this was going to be a key fixture.

Neath played down the slope in the first half and, after a brief attacking flurry from Pooler, exerted control on proceedings through their powerful forwards. The visitors dominated the contest both in terms of possession and territory with their set piece looking strong. It took a tremendous effort from the home defence to prevent them from scoring a try. At the end of the first quarter all Neath had to show for all their hard work was a solitary penalty from Williams (0-3).

Tactically there was a striking contrast between the two sides with Neath using a kicking game from their own half and then using their powerful runners to set up scoring opportunities in the Pooler half. On the other hand, Pontypool were looking to put pace on the game and use their three quarters to run at Neath whenever they could. Of course, Pooler needed the ball to do this and possession was in short supply.

Early in the second quarter Pooler drew level from a penalty kicked by Jarvis (3-3) and then attacked from the Neath kick off. The result was a quite brilliant try with well-timed passing by the backs putting runners in space. Smith got to the Neath twenty two before kicking ahead and beating the cover to the touchdown for a try. Jarvis converted from wide out and Pooler held a rather unlikely 10-3 lead.

This lead was short-lived as Neath came storming back. Their forwards rampaged down the field as if they had had been stung by a swarm of wasps. Pontypool could not stop them and scrum half Griffiths dived over for the try that was converted by Williams (10-10).

For the rest of the half, it was again Pooler on the defensive and they held out until the last minute when Neath were awarded a penalty that Williams converted. Neath held a narrow lead at 10-13 when the teams left the field for the half time break.

It was clear that Pontypool would have to step it up if they were going to turn things around in the second half. Whilst they had defended stoutly, they had made too many errors and conceded too many penalties to trouble the well-organised Neath outfit in attack. The coaching staff will have called for a big effort in the second half that was for sure.

Straight from the kick-off, Pontypool went on the attack with the forwards almost taking Neath by surprise with the ferocity of their attacking play. This was what the home fans had been waiting for and they roared their approval. Pooler hammered away at the Neath line and finally Nove plunged over for their second try. The conversion from Jarvis put Pooler back in the lead at 17-13.

Pontypool continued to attack strongly but were hamstrung to an extent by an ever-increasing penalty count as they got on the wrong side of the referee. Eventually their attacking play bore fruit as Jones powered over for a try after a long period camped in the Neath twenty two. Pooler had opened up a 24-13 lead with twenty five minutes remaining.

A loss of concentration from the kick-off lead to a tremendous Neath counterattack. They were stopped just short of the line but it led to a yellow card for Pooler substitute flanker Herbert. Neath continued to press through their forwards and Pooler were repeatedly penalised as they tried to keep them out. In the end the pressure told and Neath scored a try through Crocker that was converted by Crocker (24-20).

The momentum was now clearly with the visitors and soon they were back in the Pooler twenty two. Another flurry of penalties conceded and Pooler were down to thirteen men with a yellow card for Brown. A tremendous defensive effort was ultimately to no avail as Crocker crossed for Neath’s third try for the afternoon. The conversion failed but Neath had stormed back to hold a one point lead with less than fifteen minutes remaining (24-25).

Herbert returned to the field and this was the cue for Pontypool to go on the attack - and how! A huge response followed from the home team roared on by the supporters and Pooler were quickly back on the Neath line. Mahoney crossed for the all important fourth try. The conversion from Jarvis followed and Pontypool were back in front at 31-25.

Pontypool continued to attack and were awarded a penalty which Jarvis failed to convert. Fortunately, from the ensuing drop out he was given another go and this time he did not miss and Pooler now had a nine point lead (34-25) with a few minutes left on the clock.

Neath are made of stern stuff and were soon back on the attack and were rewarded with a try by Welsh international wing Brew in the left corner. The conversion missed narrowly but Neath still had a glimmer of a chance with the score 34-30.

A couple of minutes later, the referee blew the final whistle to the relief of the home fans and Pooler had held on for a hard-earned victory. Final score Pontypool 34 Neath 30.

What a tremendous game of rugby with both sides contributing to a closely fought contest. Pontypool will be mighty glad to come way with a victory that looked unlikely in the first half. They will reflect on their high penalty count and the two yellow cards which could have turned a narrow victory into defeat. This was indeed Welsh club rugby at its best and a fitting epitaph for Eddie Butler who had been involved in many such tussles with Neath over the years. Well done to everyone involved.

I was sad to hear that Ben Jeffreys was stepping down as CEO of Pontypool. He has been a tremendous asset to the club during his tenure. The Jeffreys family have brought stability and success to the club when it was in its darkest hour and Ben has been at the heart of it. He leaves with Pontypool in a good place. Let us hope Pontypool can go the extra mile and gain promotion to the Premiership that has been denied for so long. Best wishes and thanks Ben.

Next week Pontypool entertain Trebanos so there will be no time to relax.

Come on Pooler!

Neon Deon Lights Up Pandy Park

For once it was not pouring with rain when Pontypool visited Cross Keys for their second league match of the season. The sun was shining and Pandy Park was looking a picture nestled under the hillside. Before the game kicked off, there was two minutes silence to mark the passing of Queen Elizabeth that was impeccably observed. The silence was also used to mark the passing of Messrs Gladwyn and Horler from Cross Keys and the Pooler stalwart Eddie Butler.

Cross Keys kicked off and got the better of the early exchanges but could not penetrate the Pooler defence. Pooler were penalised several times in kickable positions but the home side opted to kick for the corner. Finally, Pooler broke out and went close on a number of occasions but found the Cross Keys defence in determined mood.

As the first quarter was drawing to a close, Pontypool burst into life with left wing Deon Smith the catalyst. His strong running and intelligent support play played a major part in three tries in the space of five minutes. He bagged the first himself and Lewis was the beneficiary for the second and third. The third try was actually scored straight from a Cross keys kick off when a rampant Pooler threw caution to the wind and ran the ball back. All three tries were ably converted by Jarvis and Pooler had scorched to a 0-21 lead with some brilliant running rugby.

On the half hour, Pontypool added their fourth try when hooker Scarfe was rewarded for his industry when he touched down after some powerful combined play by the Pooler team that was now well in command. Jarvis converted and the score at half time was 0-28 with the bonus point already in the bag.

The second half had only just begun when there was a yellow card for Cross Keys lock Feeney. Shortly afterwards the depleted home scrum was shunted back in a scrum near their own line and conceded a penalty try (0-35).

The replacements started to come on to the field and the game seemed to lose its shape but it was Pooler who remained the dominant force. After a quarter of an hour of the second half Mahoney broke through to score Pooler’s sixth try which was converted by Jarvis (0-42).

Is this a portent of things to come? - we can dream!

The play became a bit scrappy and error strewn with both sides feeling frustrated until Pooler took advantage of the tiring home defence. With ten minutes to go, a try by skipper Herbert who supported a break from Mahoney was just desserts for his industry. The try was converted by substitute goal kicker Mahoney who suffered cramp in the act of kicking (0-49).

There were just a couple of minutes left when the powerful running Jones burst through the home defence and galloped over from thirty metres. Jarvis had returned to the field and converted and Pooler were past the half century (0-56).

In the dying moments, Pooler tried to run the ball from inside their twenty two and it all went horribly wrong. Smith the speedy home wing was on hand to pick up a consolation try for Keys that was converted by Berry. Final score Cross Keys 7 Pontypool 56.

This was another storming away win for Pontypool who at times are playing irresistible rugby. In the end they overwhelmed a Cross Keys side that never gave up trying. Next weekend they will face the challenge of Neath at Pontypool Park. Neath have also started the season in great style so this promises to be a real battle in the style of the matches played between these two powerhouses of Welsh rugby over the years.

It was with great sadness that I heard of the passing of Eddie Butler this week. Those of us of a certain age will remember him in his pomp as a key member of the Pontypool team that were serial winners of the Welsh league titles of the time. He was a fine player with his excellent reading of the game and exceptional handling skills. This brought him the recognition he deserved with Welsh caps and the cherished Welsh captaincy as well as appearing for the British and Irish Lions. More recently he won plaudits as an expert commentator on rugby and figured in many other TV productions. He will be greatly missed. Condolences to his family, rest in peace Eddie.

So next week Pooler go into battle against a resurgent Neath. I can’t wait!

Come on Pooler!   

Pooler Put a Marker Down

We’re off! The Welsh Championship kicked off at last for what may or may not be a season of opportunity for Pontypool. As is stands, there will be two clubs promoted into an expanded Premiership at the end of the season and Pooler have every intention of being one of them. The WRU, however, would like to make changes and reduce the Premiership to 10 clubs in a ring-fenced Premiership. Heigh ho, it always seems to be like this with last minute doubts hanging over the season. Hopefully everyone will see sense and we can proceed with the original plan and an exciting Championship season is in prospect.

Pontypool’s opening match was at Maesteg Quins. A match that was sure to test their mettle after impressive wins in their warm up matches.

There was rain in the air in the Llynfi Valley with a stiff breeze blowing across the pitch that looked like a green carpet as Pooler kicked off. The first ten minutes or so was evenly contested as the two sides took each other’s measure. The Quins looked well organised and as we would expect were highly motivated. Their scrum was powerful and a real test for the Pooler eight.

It was Pooler who broke the deadlock with a burst of scoring which saw them cross for three tries in less than ten minutes as the first quarter came to an end. The first try was scored by Pat Lewis after Pooler had applied huge pressure on the home defence with a series of powerful surges. A couple of minutes later Scarfe went over in the left corner after a planned move from a lineout near the Quins line. The third try was scored by Cochrane who bullocked his way over after more good attacking play from Pooler. The second of the three tries was converted by Jarvis and all of a sudden Pooler had a substantial lead of 0-17.

Quins needed to respond and respond they did. The second quarter was dominated by the home side who camped in the Pontypool twenty two. The Pontypool defence was solid but conceded penalty after penalty which ultimately led to a yellow card for Nove. Try as they may the Quins could not get the score that they deserved as the strong Pooler defence held out until half time.

Pontypool will have been glad to go into the break with their 0-17 lead intact. There was still much work to do.

Quins started the second half well and finally got some points on the scoreboard through a Howe penalty (3-17). Gradually the strength and fitness of the Pontypool players wore the home team down. Pooler managed to put more pace into the game and the gaps started to appear in the home defence. Pooler’s powerful bench was also going to make things difficult as the changes were rung.

After around ten minutes of the second half, Pooler got their bonus point try after crisp handling from the backs saw Nove put fellow wing Smith in in the left corner. The tricky wind was making place kicking difficult and the normally metronomic Jarvis missed his third conversion out of four attempts (3-22).

While the Quins never gave up trying, the final quarter belonged firmly to Pontypool. As the quarter began, powerful surges by Sweet and Jones saw the supporting replacement scrum half Babos grab a try. This was converted and the Pontypool lead was now stretched to 3-29.

Ten minutes later Price galloped thirty metres or so to score after a charged down kick. Jarvis had found his kicking boots and converted (3-36). Sadly, Price damaged his shoulder and was forced to leave the field.

With a few minutes left Mahoney burst through a tired defence for Pooler’s seventh try again converted by Jarvis (3-43). There was still time for Babos to score his second try from a tapped penalty and the Jarvis conversion brought up the half century as the final whistle blew. Final score Maesteg Quins 3: Pontypool 50.

Pontypool must be well satisfied with this opening salvo. An opening fixture at Maesteg Quins in the rain was never going to be easy and the final score is surely hard on the home side who for a substantial period of the game were on top. Pontypool did a lot of good things but will know there is room for improvement with even tougher assignments down the road. When Pooler manage to get their offloading game going they look formidable that’s for sure.

Well done to everyone for a great start to the season.

Come on Pooler!  

It Ain’t Half Hot Mun

I have to admit I didn’t make the trip to Llandovery for Pooler’s latest warm up game. By all accounts, it was a real gutsy performance from Pontypool to come from behind and snatch a 14-19 win against Premiership opposition in very hot weather. Preparations for the new season are clearly going well. I am really looking forward to some stern tests against Championship opposition in the months to come.

This hot weather has meant that I have not been sleeping too well. Last night was no exception and I had a terrible nightmare. I dreamt that the WRU had decided to reduce the Premiership to just ten clubs for the 2023-24 season and that it would be ringfenced until eternity.

If this was not bad enough, in the next part of the dream someone from the WRU was saying, “Congratulations Mr. Jones we have decided to give you the job of sorting out Welsh rugby. There is just one proviso Pontypool must never play in the Premiership.”

As you can imagine, I awoke in a cold sweat. Fortunately, the second part of the dream will never come true but as to the first part???

Well done Pooler. We shall prevail!

Pooler Warm Up in Style

 Pontypool’s first warm up game before the start of what should be a really competitive new season was at Bristol based Dings Crusaders. The Crusaders have a magnificent set up with large modern clubhouse and three rugby pitches on the outskirts of Bristol. It was a really warm summer afternoon and the match was played on an artificial pitch so all was set for an entertaining encounter. The game was played as three periods with copious substitutions which were quite difficult to keep track of.

The first twenty minutes were scrappy as both sides found their feet. Pontypool took time to acclimatize to the conditions and the foibles of the referee and gave away too many penalties. Dings were probably looking the more likely to score but the Pontypool defence was strong and rebuffed all their efforts.

All this changed when Pooler scored a brilliant try from their own twenty two when good passing gave the threequarters a chance to run. After some excellent support play, it was Garin Price who got the touch down for a try that was converted by Jarvis (0-7). A few minutes later the Pooler backs again found the left edge and this time it was Lewis who scored after a dummy following excellent running (0-12).

The forwards were also beginning to get the upper hand and the first period ended with two tries from the pack with Scarfe and Matthews touching down. Neither try was converted but Pooler were well on top at 0-22.

The second period saw much of the same from a now completely dominant Pontypool side. Both sides made substitutions but the outcome remained the same. Pooler continued to rack up the points as the home side struggled to contain their all-action style. It really was brilliant stuff at times from Pooler as they hit their straps after the long lay off. Forward power led to tries by Sweet and Price. Excellent offloading and linking between forwards and backs led to tries for Davies, Stratton and Thomas. Jarvis found his kicking boots and converted four of the five tries and the score had sped to 0-55.

Understandably in the third period on such a hot day Pooler’s performance fell away a bit and let the home side back into the game. Substitutes came and went and the game became much more of a contest. Dings scored two converted tries as their pack gained a foothold in the Pooler twenty two and closed the gap to 14-55.

This stung Pooler into action and they responded with tries from Babos and a second for Davies both converted by Jarvis to stretch the lead to 14-69. It was left to the home side to bring the curtain down on proceedings with a try from a driving maul. Final score Dings Crusaders 21 Pontypool 69.

This really was a fantastic opening salvo from Pontypool with new and existing squad members joining together to play rugby that was breathtaking at times. Yes, there are far tougher encounters coming up down the line when conditions will be far more difficult but this was a great start.

The next test will be a friendly at Llandovery next Saturday who will surely prove to be much stiffer opposition.

It’s great to be back!

Come on Pooler!

 

Decision Day Down South

 Super Saturday cum Decision Day has come and gone and another marathon on the couch. Rugby overload combined with golf and cycling – Duw it’s hard!

At the end of it all, Ireland and England grabbed series wins against New Zealand and Australia respectively so well done to them. Sadly Wales and Scotland came off second best In South Africa and Argentina respectively.

Even though I have a new slimline plaster on my broken wrist, it is still hard work to type so I will revert to my doggerel.

Decision Day

The Irish started in irresistible form

Then they weathered the All Blacks’ storm

Irish power has been much too much

The All Blacks sadly out of touch

 

Eddie’s men hung in there in tough

Aussie flair was just not enough

There’s now no point in turning up

England already won the next World Cup

 

Well done Wales, you did your best

But it’s Springbok power that won the test

Too many penalties, not enough ball

The Boks on top in scrum and maul

Any win for Wales seemed pie in the sky

So they come back home with heads held high

 

Scotland built a substantial lead

But the Pumas are a feisty breed

Their attitude is, “never say die”

And they took the spoils with a last ditch try

 

Wales made South Africa work really hard with the 30-14 win perhaps a little flattering to the Boks. The late withdrawal of Faletau and Anscombe were big blows it’s true but the forward power of the Boks was the deciding factor. The Welsh backs looked threatening when they had the ball but possession and territory were in short supply. Wales looked tired after three tests in a row while most of the South Africa team had been rested the previous week.

No one gave Wales a ghost of a chance in South Africa so to win one test is a positive outcome. The team selection seems to be settling down and Tommy Reffell looks to have cemented his place.

Well done Wales you are not as bad as the doubters thought you were.

Northern Delights

I am still afflicted by that pesky broken wrist so another shortish blog. The broken wrist is a decent excuse for spending quality time on the couch however. This means I watched all four rugby matches from the Southern Hemisphere. In stark contrast to last Saturday, our boys done good. It was a clean sweep of victories for North over South. Most notable were first ever victories for Ireland in New Zealand and, yes, Wales in South Africa.

As last week, to cut the blog short I am turning to doggerel with some indulgence for Wales. So here we go:

Northern Delights

All Black discipline is not the best,

A rampant Ireland storm the test.

 

England start well, like a runaway train,

Back come Oz but there’s penalty pain.

 

The Boks and Wales are firing blanks,

The viewers are thinking “Rugby no thanks”

With kicks the Boks gain a slender lead.

Minutes left, “Go Wales” the faithful plead.

At last Wales awakens, it’s not all done,

A try and conversion, by jingo they’ve won.

 

A scrappy first half under Argentine skies,

Then Scotland pull clear with some excellent tries.

 

Well Wales pulled off a last ditch 12-13 victory with a try by Adams converted from the touchline by Anscombe. It was a low quality, scrappy test match but who cares Wales have at last won in South Africa. A great defensive performance against what was a bit of a makeshift Springboks outfit with the back row outstanding.

That has levelled up the series but Wales can expect a really tough match next weekend when the World Champions will surely be at full strength. We’ve done it once so why not repeat it.

Come on Wales

A Bard Day for the North

I have rather unfortunately broken my left wrist so typing is very laborious. I sat through four games of international rugby yesterday as the pride of the Northern Hemisphere took on the strength of the Southern Hemisphere. As you will all know by now, it was four defeats out of four for the home nations.

As it is difficult to type I will make this short using (bad) rhyme.

 

Summer Internationals Week 1

 

Ireland start well and think they’re in clover,

But all too soon the All Blacks take over.

 

It should be England’s as the Aussies see red,

But it’s still the home side that leaves them for dead.

 

Yellow card fever and a kick that fails,

The Boks sneak home but well played Wales.

 

Argentinian beef is exceedingly tough,

Scotland try hard but it isn’t enough.

 

For the record Wales, lost 32-29 to South Africa with a last-minute penalty from the Springboks costing a draw. Wales exceeded all expectations and confounded the critics but in the end it was their discipline that tipped the scales against them. A whole lot of positives though after the Italian disaster. I hope Thomas Francis recovers quickly as he took a nasty looking bump.

Hard luck Wales but well done. Let’s go one better next weekend.