Fixture

In strong wind and raining conditions, Ystalyfera travelled to Pencoed on the 26^th March for a League Division One West Central fixture. The ‘Fera kicked off with the wind at their backs, getting the first line-out and catch + drive. A charged-down kick brought the first scrum, and after an eventual long clearance, Ystalyfera full back Stephan Castle collected the ball. The referee decided the ball was held too long and the penalty awarded in the 10^th minute was converted – score 3 – 0.The restart was collected by ‘Fera flanker Ashley Carter, who set up an attack where Pencoed forwards were deemed offside. The penalty was kicked over by Outside Half Gareth James – score 3 – 3 after 13 minutes. Ystalyfera lock Jessie Patton made an excellent catch when play re-commenced, and Gareth James kicked a superb line kick for position. After 15 minutes the weather took a turn for the worst, with a heavy cloudburst and driving wind. Playing rugby was now difficult, proven by a clearance kick from Stephan Castle behind his 22mtr line travelling all the way over the Pencoed dead-ball line. This was duplicated with the same result, leaving the home side in an advantageous position. Ystalyfera forwards then made a big assault, the pressure earning ‘Fera another penalty in the 27^th minute, converted by Gareth James – score 3 – 6. With the strong winds the remainder of the first half finished as a kicking contest for position.  

From the re-start Pencoed launched a big attack, being rewarded with an equalising penalty in the 43^rd minute – score 6 – 6. Efforts by both sides were being thwarted by dropped passes and knock-ons in the slippery conditions. Fera forwards worked hard and dominance at the scrums was beginning to bite. In the 59^th minute however, Pencoed got another penalty for offside

- score 9 – 6. Pencoed now began a big effort and Ystalyfera responded. An attack on the home line was stopped in the 65^th minute, by a deliberate knock down. A Pencoed player was yellow carded and despite four players ready to receive a sure winning pass no penalty Try was awarded. Pencoed now applied all their energy to keep Ystalyfera out and despite continued attacks the game ended 9 – 6 to Pencoed.

Penalty count was

11 committed by Pencoed and 13 by Ystalyfera.

Fera breakdown was 3 given for offside, 5 for holding ball/player, 2 side entry, 2 for foul play and

1 for verbal abuse.