Betws 20 – Glais 5

Although bringing a big pack to Maes –y-Felin, Glais took the dubious tactical decision to opt for passive scrums from the outset, a decision that upset the rhythm of the homesters who ultimately were denied the bonus point which would have enabled them to close the gap on league leaders Ystradgynlais. Betws, having destroyed the opposition scrums in recent weeks, were deprived of this platform and were unable to build up any momentum as a result.

Betws opened the scoring after 10 minutes when a penalty in front of the posts and 10 metres form the line was quickly taken by centre Gary Davies, enabling wing Rhys Williams to cross in the corner. Despite this, the visitors were dominating the lineouts and they applied pressure with their rolling mauls earning them a number of penalties during the half. Fortunately for Betws, their full back Cerith Davies was off target with three penalty attempts before the home outside half Phil Saunders extended the lead with a penalty for a half time score of 8 – 0.

The second half again saw the home team struggling to gain any momentum and it was mid-way into the second half before they scored when old warhorse Gwynfor Evans secured good lineout possession enabling Gary Davies to break the gain line. Scrum half Dylan Rees was in support to spread the ball wide for wing Mark Thomas to score.

Betws continued to apply the pressure and No 8 and man of the match Dan Howells continued to batter the visiting defence with his strong running. This eventually lead to him creating a gap for Phil Saunders to exploit, with him finding full back Cellan Davies who broke through with a well timed run to score. Saunders added the conversion to make the score 20 – 0.

Glais however hit back immediately with an impressive forward drive and slick handling by the backs that included ex-Llanelli hooker Marcus Thomas at centre saw wing Jamie Rees grabbing a consolation try for the visitors. Replacement wing forward Gavin Thomas then joined the fray for Betws and made an immediate impact. He was almost rewarded with the bonus point try but was unlucky to knock on a metre from the line after a storming 40 metre run. The game however ended with Betws unable to secure that elusive bonus point despite being camped on the opposition line, but the victory ensured that they maintain their challenge on Ystradgynlais for the Division 5 South West title.

The Second XV also maintained their good form with a worthy win in their Llanelli & District league game at Burry Port by 32 points to nil.

PS: Apologies for the lack of photographs in this week’s report. Normal service will be resumed for the next match. (JT)