Penarth Youth RFC make a winning start to the season (From Penarth Times)

Penarth Youth RFC make a winning start to the season

7:50am Thursday 13th September 2012 in Sport

PENARTH Youth had a successful pre season tour to Cornwall, where they played last year's county champions Wadebridge.

Penarth struggled in the early stages and were 12-0 down after 15 minutes, however after finding their second wind they pulled level by half time through tries from Nik Boudier and Charlie Halpin, Tom Smith adding a conversion.

The second half saw both sides playing running rugby and Penarth eventually winning 37-26 through further tries from Charlie (2), Spud Reid, Tom Murray and Kieran Carpenter.

Then on the Wednesday the youth played Rhiwbina away, in the first round of the cup. Tries through Matt Allen (2) and a penalty and conversion from Tom Smith saw the youth through by 15-14.

Good performances up front from Harry Roberts, Matt and Allen Nik Boudier, coupled with resolute defence paved the way for the win. However, the score should have been greater if the opportunities were taken.

PENARTH YOUTH 34 COWBRIDGE YOUTH 5

PENARTH Youth RFC then entertained Cowbridge in their first home match of the season.

The forwards dominated the game from the outset. Early pressure allowed an early try from Harry Roberts converted by Tom Smith which seemed to set the tone for the remainder of the half.

Harry Roberts and Nic Boudier added 2 further tries in the first half following nearly identical drives from line outs which remained unconverted. Only ill discipline and a yellow card allowed Cowbridge to relieve pressure, but Penarth went into half time with a healthy 17-0 lead.

The second half followed a similar pattern as the first, where the home defence caused several turnovers and gave Penarth the territory and possession to dominate the first 30 minutes of the second half. After 5 minutes Ollie Laity benefited from a remarkable kick that bounced off his opposite number's head and fell into his hands to run a try in from 20 metres.

Nic Boudier scored his second try of the game following another drive from a lineout. Penarth's final try of the game came from a Cowbridge line out that was caught and driven from 20 yards out and scored by Hugh Evans.

The last 10 minutes Cowbridge dug deep and applied their own pressure, but the defence held out. However penalties allowed continued pressure which allowed them to score. The final score was 34-5.

Penarth Youth are home again next, against local rivals Barry.

Any Youth players wishing to strengthen the squad are welcome to attend training on Tuesdays or Thursday at 6.45pm or contact Gareth on 07528 568616 or or Richard (Bagsy) on 07917 064991 for further details.