Fixture

Llanidloes in mid-Wales was the venue for the Welsh National Plate Semi-Final between Ystalyfera (unbeaten in Division One West Central + West Wales Cup Finalists) and Nant Conwy (top of League One North with a single defeat). Conditions were cloudy and cold with a slight breeze across the pitch. Many supporters had made the long journey to support their relative sides, and an interesting contest expected.  

Ystalyfera kicked off and immediately got the first line-out. A catch and drive took play into the Conwy 22, and the ‘Fera fed the ball along the line. A charged down kick gave Conwy the first penalty for offside, and a line-out in the Ystalyfera half of the field ensued. A second penalty for Conwy for a maul infringement moved the North Wales side closer, but the ‘Fera forwards won a turnover, a subsequent scrum offence getting Ystalyfera their first penalty. The early part of the game continued as an eager tussle for control of the ball between the sides. To surpass the ‘Fera forwards’ increasing advantage, Conwy started a kicking game. Ystalyfera full back Steffan Castle was forced to clear the ball, and from a quickly taken line-out in the 10^th minute quick passing allowed flanker Ifan Pyrs to cross over for the first Try. This was converted by Arthur Lennon: score 7 – 0. Resumption of play saw Ystalyfera win further penalties in the scrum. Attempting to run the ball at the Conwy defence the ‘Fera were unfortunate in dropping the ball a number of times. With the Ystalyfera forwards choosing to drive the ball up front instead, Conwy contained the attacks and when gaining possession, kicked to relieve any pressure. The game progressed in the Conwy half in much the same way, with the North Walian’s keeping all of Ystalyfera’s efforts at bay. On the half hour Conwy took an opportunity to make an attack in the ‘Fera half, and a fair effort had to be defended well by the Ystalyfera back line. Play soon returned to the Conwy half with much the same result, the half ending with some frustration on the Ystalyfera side and contentment for the leaders.

The second half began with a set of kicks by both sides, seeking some territorial advantage. Needing to gain a score Ystalyfera lifted the pace of the game, moving the ball back and fore across the field. Conwy remained aware and countered in turn, effectively kicking out of defence at every opportunity. The Ystalyfera forwards were now most apparent in their strength up front, and Conwy had to move their possession quickly out to the backs. In the 55^th minute a penalty chance was given to Conwy and Arthur Lennon dutifully converted, much to the relief of the Conwy supporters, lifting the lead to 10 – 0. Ystalyfera were certainly not giving up and substitutions were made to attempt a change in proceedings. Conwy however were now growing in confidence and by keeping their winning formula, played out the remainder of the half with growing ardour. Ystalyfera fought on until the end but no score was forthcoming and Conwy ended victorious.

A hard contest played out by two well organised sides was deservedly won by Nant Conwy. They took full advantage of the opportunities as they arose and Ystalyfera were unable to react as effectively. Good luck to Nant Conwy in the final, Ystalyfera having other ‘fish to fry’ before the end of this memorable season.

The penalty counts were

11 for Ystalyfera – 4 in scrum, 1 holding ball when on the floor, 4 offside, 1 dangerous tackle and 1 line-out offence.

14 for Nant Conwy – 1 offside, 3 holding ball on floor, 1 high tackle, 2 holding player in tackle, 1 dangerous tackle, 4 in scrum, 1 line-out offence and 1 not 10 yards.