CRUCIAL WIN FOR CRYMYCH

Division One West

Penclawdd 14 Crymych 37

Crymych pulled off only their second win of a difficult season to close the gap at the bottom of the table but they will need a few more of these victories if they are to avoid the drop, starting with a win over Gowerton in a fortnight.

The two teams above them in Tycroes and Kidwelly both suffered defeats on the weekend and with eleven games to go the Preselimen who are still well adrift, have an outside chance as they have five home matches to play and games in hand.

The visitors who were struggling for front row players due to injury and suspension started confidently and went ahead when powerful centre Carwyn Phillips barged his way over and this was converted by co centre Ifan Phillips who added a penalty shortly afterwards to put his team 10-0 ahead.

Further tries followed in the second half as Crymych dominated and skipper Rhys ‘Biki’ Davies who led by example throughout powered his way over for a try and this was followed by a touchdown from number eight Guto Davies. Phillips added another penalty to keep the scoreboard ticking over and the visitors pulled further away when outstanding scrum half Rhys Davies sniped his way over to claim a much needed bonus point.

The Cocklemen gradually made their scrum superiority count despite the best efforts of stand in loose head Zac France-Miller who is normally a back rower and they hit back with two penalty tries in quick succession following scrum infringements. However a try late on by full back Gavin Thomas converted by Phillips wrapped things up.

Next up is a tricky home league fixture against third placed outfit Gowerton followed by a quarter final home tie against Ystalyfera in the WRU Plate. This will be followed by Tenby away and then a home clash with league leaders Felinfoel.