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!