National finalists (From Penarth Times)

National finalists

CONGRATULATIONS must go to Dinas Powys RFC U-10s for reaching the National finals of Wales rugby tournament.

They were amongst the best of 16 teams in Wales to compete at Cardiff Arms Park. They played three games drawing two and winning one. The first was against Mold and ended in a 7-7 draw with captain Lewis Dunleavy showing great strength, taking four players over the line to score, his brother Joshua kicked the conversion. Unfortunately Mold scored in the last minute to draw the game.

Next came Bury Port, a big physical side, but the boys showed that size isn't everything, beating them in every aspect of the game, physically and mentally showing a mature attitude, and when under pressure good work from the forwards gave Lewis a good platform to link up with partner Gavin Cooper who missed two players out to find speedy Adam Turner with a perfect pass, he went around his winger to score a try that any winger would be proud of. Joshua converted one again.

However, Dinas let their opponents back into the game to force a draw. Aberavon Green Stars were the final opponents, by which time Mold had won two games, knocking Dinas out of the competition on points. The boys were not aware of this and gave their all, saving the best until last. Lloyd Thomas touched down twice, the first a great opportunist try taking the ball from a line-out to gallop in unopposed. The second was a team effort, moving the ball across the back line from Lewis, Gavin, Kyle, Adam and Thomas for Lloyd to beat three men to score the try of the day.

Rhys Evans then showed his skills beating people at will with his speed. Kyle Foat also scored a good try set up by Aaron Driscoll. Joshua Dunleavy converted all three.

The club would like to thank Dragon Rugby for an enjoyable day and their sponsors Ken Thorne, Mark Hopkins, Owain Thomas and a special thanks to the Pembertons for their support on the day as well as all the parents.

Registration for 2002/3 is at the club on Sunday, September 15 at 10am. New players welcome for U-8s and U-15s.