SULLY Sports RFC travelled to Cardiff to play old rivals CIACs on a wet blustery day, and, after their defeat the previous weekend by league leaders Saracens, they were determined to put on a better show.

The CIACs have not had a good season so far, and have struggled to fulfil all their fixtures, but were able to field a full team, and despite atrocious weather and ground conditions, the game was on.

Although not a classic game, it was good to see the Sports start off well and control events for much of the time, and eventually run out victors by 39 – 10. The whole team played with great passion and belief, none more so than Nathan Szuchnik who was having only his second outing in over a year following a serious injury.

Captain Jon Blake led from the base of the pack with one of seven tries, with the others coming from Jody Velda (2), Rhys Manford, Scott Sandford, Alex Szuchnik and Sam Bowditch. Jake Williams added two conversions.

Sully Sports 2nds, playing only their second game of the season, entertained local rivals Sea View RFC, and both sides found it very difficult in the wet and windy conditions. It was obvious that the lack of game time for both sides, and the conditions, would result in a game devoid of fluidity and skill, despite the willingness and rivalry on the pitch.

Sea View edged the first half and led at the break by a converted try, scored by Nathan Hardy. Playing with the strong wind at their backs in the second period, it was the Sports turn to gain the ascendancy.

Nick Taylor scored a try wide out, and the conversion was missed. In the final quarter of the game the Sports were handed a chance to take the lead with a penalty in front of the posts, but chose to run it and the Sea View defence held firm, but, with time running out, the Sports were awarded another penalty in the same position, Scott Mills stepped up to successfully convert it and clinch a 8 – 7 victory.

Upcoming games and events at the club:

Saturday, November 21 - 1st XV home to Ferndale RFC, KO 2.30pm.

Friday, November 27 – Reunion at Club from 7.30pm for Veterans

Saturday, November 28 – “Hypnotist Nite” Tickets £11 (including meal) available from R Gully, chairman and at the clubhouse.

MJS