Penarth RFC beat Newport ahead of Division 1 debut

AFTER several weeks’ preparation for their début in Division 1 (East Central) Penarth RFC finally took to the field at Ysgol Bro Morgannwg’s 3G pitch to put all they’d learned into practice last Saturday. Of course, this rather under-sells the occasion, as Penarth and visitors Newport (Salop) from Shropshire both fielded three teams for a three-match event that ran from late morning to late afternoon.

When the senior teams took up their positions, what ensued was a fascinating contest of shifting fortunes, but one that the Seasiders were ultimately always in control of. With a stiff breeze across the pitch, some handling errors were inevitable and Newport grabbed an early lead as their right wing smartly took a loose ball on half-way and touched down in the corner.

Penarth soon responded with the sort of physicality that their opponents often failed to match. Rhys Beynon broke several tackles in midfield and raced into the 22 before feeding Alex Thau. It was then left for Tom Griffths to complete the score with a ten-metre drive to the line.

The second try soon arrived and this time, as the wind veered around, it was the pack that took control. Having dominated a scrum, they stayed bound and drove on to the 22, where Griffiths broke free and ran straight though the retreating defence for his second try. Within minutes, a failed Newport line-out fell to the Seasiders and the ball was worked quickly over to the far touchline where Leon Appiah easily outpaced the defence to put his side onto a 21-5 lead.

Not to be outdone, Newport struck back immediately with a try from first phase that was similarly finished by their own left-wing. However, there was no stopping Penarth, as another “stay down” call in the scrum resulted in a try from captain Miles Jones. The pressure was all on the visitors now as Dan Cahalane crashed over to end a multi-phase siege. Newport ended the half in fine style as their left wing completed his hat-trick following forward pressure.

The Seasiders opened second half in imperious fashion as Milo came of the back of a scrum near the ten-metre line and made fully 30 metres before having to feed the unstoppable Owen Lloyd for the sixth try.

After such a bright opening, the match settled down to a slower pace as both sides rang the changes. Newport pulled the score back to 36-22 before some slick handing from the home forwards set up Miles Jones for his second, before Newport came back yet again with a fifth try on the stroke of full-time.

Penarth couldn’t have asked for better opposition before next week’s league season opener as a very skilful and committed Newport side pushed them all the way in a physical, but good-natured encounter.

Penarth: Harry Williams, Ben Litherland, Andy Richards, Rhys Beynon, Leon Appiah (James Crothers), Josh Hurley, Luc Keane-Adams (Ifan Sion), Geraint Williams (Harry Wood), Tom Griffiths (Mason Good), Alan Doyle (Sam Sully), Owen Lloyd, Dan Cahalane (Dom Owen), Evan Jones, Miles Jones ©, Alex Thau (Harri Williams)

Scorers: Miles Jones (2 tries), Tom Griffiths (2 tries), Leon Appiah (try), Dan Cahalane (try), Owen Lloyd (try), Josh Hurley (3 conversions).

Penarth battled to a win (Image: Alun Roach)

SEASIDERS’ DIVISION 1 DEBUT

Having enjoyed an entertaining three-match pre-season finale ably supported by visitors Newport (Salop), Penarth RFC can now look forward to their first season in Division One with some confidence.

They are well provisioned in all positions and bolstered by the influx of players new to the senior side. The opening game of the new season is away at close neighbours Barry RFC. The Bombers had a tough time of it in Division 1 (East Central) last season, narrowly avoiding relegation as Ynysybwl were ultimately sent down.

It’s good to see both clubs competing at such a high level, as the Seasiders were well beaten home and away by Barry as they were on their way to relegation from Division 2 (Eats Central) eight seasons ago. The hosts will be expecting a much better-equipped Penarth side next week.

Head Coach Matt Bolton said: “It’s been a busy preseason, with the players putting in hard work at St Cyres School and enjoying productive sessions at Merthyr Mawr and Barry Island beach.

"Attendance at training has been consistently strong throughout the summer, and we’re pleased to welcome back a number of exciting players who have rejoined the squad after finishing university.

"We hosted a preseason fixture against touring side Newport (Salop) RFC, who brought three teams down. For the first time in many years, we were able to field three highly competitive sides. All three teams played outstanding rugby and secured victories across the board.

"As we look ahead to the season, we’re thrilled to have a very competitive squad, though this will no doubt present some tough selection decisions for the coaches.

"The 1st team will kick off the season with a local derby away against Barry RFC, while our Athletic squad will host Rhiwbina at home.”