Fixture

Ystalyfera entertained an in-form Seven Sisters, in a first home fixture since October. Weather was dry with a southerly wind.

Home side kicked off and from a resultant line out wing Emyr Myers completed some good fielding. With game in Seven Sisters’ half a penalty was awarded for offside and Outside half Gareth James converted in the 3^rd minute – score 3 – 0. The first scrum of the game resulted in a penalty for the visitors, but the home pack was playing well winning some good ball. Seven gradually moved play into the Ystalyfera half where in turn the home side defended well. Ystalyfera took an opportunity to attempt a catch and drive which was adequately stopped. Both teams were at this point seeking to find weaknesses and a healthy contest ensued. Seven Sisters then made a fast break, an excellent tackle by ‘Fera lock Jesse Patton saving the day. The game was open and entertaining for the supporters. In the 39^th minute Seven Sisters had the chance to attempt a catch and drive move, prop Ian Watts getting the first Try of the game, score 3 – 5. Bolstered by their score, the end of the first half saw the Seven Sisters backs increase their efforts with fast movements, Ystalyfera centre Stephen Myers getting yellow carded for handling the ball on the floor. Full back Stephan Castle however made an impressive catch and clearance to close proceedings.

Second half saw the Ystalyfera forwards make a determined start, only for Seven Sisters to breakaway and gain a penalty in the 45^th minute, this converted by Dan Norton – score 3 – 8. The visiting forwards then applied some pressure on the home defence but the ‘Fera pack stood true. After an attack from behind a scrum in the 53^rd minute, Ystalyfera were penalised with a handling infringement, and with an added 10 yards for backchat Dan Norton increased the visitors lead with a long kick – score 3 – 11. Jesse Patton was then yellow carded for a high tackle. Ystalyfera now bagan to make great effort to improve their score. Return yellow cards against Seven Sisters allowed the home side to keep play in the away 22. Pressure was now intense with scrums and penalties keeping the game tight up front. A set of 5 metre scrums eventually left the referee with no other option than to award a penalty Try to Ystalyfera in the 75^th minute. This was converted by Gareth James raising the score to 10 – 11. Ystalyfera continued to press after the re-start and a last gasp penalty awarded to the home side was missed by Stephan Castle, ending the game.

This was a well played match by both sides, with plenty of drama and emotion for both sets of supporters.

Penalty count was 14 by Seven Sisters and 16 by Ystalyfera.