Seconds go all out for a first class showing (From Penarth Times)

Seconds go all out for a first class showing

WITH the Firsts forced to kick their heels for yet another weekend, it was the turn of the Old Penarthians Seconds to take centre stage last Saturday when they entertained Rhiwbina in a Cardiff and District league match at Cwrt-y-Vil.

The presence of several senior players in the line-up did serve to spark Penarthians and they proved to be too strong for plucky opponents as they triumphed 38-10, scoring a nap hand of tries in the process.

Touchdowns from the hosts came from Mark Smart, Huw Williams, Gareth Boulton, Gareth Welford, and an individual escaping the attention of secretary Tony Crimp, while outside half John Aubrey weighed in with a full house of conversions supplemented by a further penalty goal.

It may well have been that the bitterly cold conditions brought the best out of the Old Boys for they showed little inclination to hang around, moving the ball in excellent fashion for much of the afternoon.

Indeed, it said much for the ambition of the players that all five scores came from excellent movements that were conceived well away from visiting territory.

Mark Curtis proved that he had recovered from the injuries that have appeared to hamper his recent endeavours, as he produced an outstanding performance up front to earn the hypothetical award of man of the match.

But there were also fine displays from Paul Kemp whose presence served also to bring a lively contribution from brother Tony playing out of position on the flank.

Behind the scrum, Adrian Penny produced a workmanlike display at inside half and was always looking to keep the opposing cover at full stretch, while John Aubrey played with increasing confidence to complete the useful half back combination.

In the centre, Gareth Welford showed considerable enthusiasm in both attack and defence, while Huw Williams was a thrustful winger, once astounding his father with an unexpected side step that would have done justice to Shane Williams.

Behind them all and calling the tune without ever soiling his own hands, David Pilcher proved to be an excellent general, well able to pass on the verbal benefit of his considerable experience.

This was an encouraging performance from the Seconds and could give them every encouragement for the games ahead.

Nevertheless, it has to be said that the excellent Mark Smart, an outstanding performer in the senior back row this term, lacked something in finesse in his efforts from centre and might well be advised to revert to the pack in his future outings!

Saturday sees the Firsts back in action as they entertain Ferndale in a match re-arranged from earlier in the campaign.

Penarthians were only narrowly defeated when the sides met in January and it is to be hoped that Simon Hennessey's men will be able to muster sufficient enthusiasm and determination to ensure that the tables are turned at Cwrt-y-Vil on this occasion. Kick off is scheduled for 2.30 pm.