11/10/09 HOME FIXTURE V Rhydfelin U16

CRICC welcomed back former player Gwilym Edwards who was lining up at 15 with his new club. Rhydfelin were missing several first team players but have a fine record and looked to have the upper hand early on with a powerful set of forwards putting pressure on the CRICC eight. However, the CRICC pack soon showed their determination and mounted several attacks against their heavier opposition.

In a first half dominated by attack and counter-attack, strewn with errors and set-pieces, first blood went to the visitors. A penalty awarded against the home side for an infringement allowed the mercurial Edwards to set up an early lead.

Edwards was also involved in a typical rapier like run through the CRICC defence later in the game, joining the line and cutting through before being stopped short of the try-line.

From a defensive clearance kick, Rhydfelin gathered and counter attacked. A huge hit from Josh Bowen then gave possession back to CRICC. As the ball travelled along the back line, a hopeful chip and chase enabled Bobo and Robbie Glastonbury to put pressure on the covering winger. The bouncing ball fell kindly to Glastonbury who dashed over for a crucial try. Rhys Williams converted and CRICC led 7 – 3.

The second half was evenly balanced for the first ten minutes, but Rhydfelin slowly began to dominate up front. As the second half progressed, CRICC were camped deep inside their own half putting up a brave, determined defensive effort as Rhyd threw everything at them.

A scrum V late in the game gave Rhyd the lead. A pick up and drive following several attempts on the CRICC line gave the visitors a narrow lead which they held until the final whistle.

An excellent performance from the whole team today. Defensively very strong and had a few opportunities to create chances early in the first half. On a few occasions, moving the ball along the line would have created problems for the opposition.

Rhydfelin came with a very good reputation but CRICC were more than equal to the task.

FINAL SCORE: CRICC 7 - 10 RHYDFELIN