Llanelli Warriors 37 Cambrian Select 34 (match 91)

Report from the ever dependable Star

Cambrian produced match programme

Match Report

The Llanelli Warriors staged a rousing comeback to finally swing this all action match in their favour. It was not how it seemed for much of the game though with the Cambrian select having much of the play and producing more than their fair share of quality rugby.
The Cambrian dominated early exchanges with their front row of Jason Bennet, Mark Cotterell and James Dew rampaging about the field. This coupled with towering Les Brown’s presence in the line out helped their quick backs onto the front foot. Ryan Thomas and Gavin Evans got the pick of the select XVs early tries as they raced into a commanding lead. Only stout work from Mike James and Warriors man of the match Tony Whittaker helped stem the tide. As the half drew on the Warriors managed to get a bit more of the game, first a Simon Jenkins penalty and then Jonathan Kerr piledrived himself over the line.
In the second half the Warriors performance continued to improve. The bumper squad they have now assembled meant they were able to bring on players of quality like David Edwards and Roger Thomas. For the Cambrian former Warrior Scott Thomas and Mark Davies were into everything and caused the Warriors plenty of problems. John Kerr took to the field in opposition to his son but to no avail. The Warriors continued to cut away at the Cambrian lead. Lee Barber and Meredith Pugh both drove over from close range after Dai Newson should have scored and then Mat Billo finished off a cracking move to complete a good game. Time was still against them however even after Jonathan Kerr and confidently taken a penalty. Alan Stephens may have preferred the direct route as Stephen Stone found to his cost but with Gilasbey pulling the strings at 10 it was fitting that a classic backs score sealed the match. Quick hands and good continuity gave wing Alan Taylor the smallest of chances but it took it superbly, weaving his way through several defenders to reach the line. Simon Jenkins added his 3rd kick and all the Warriors had to do was hold on through the final phase of play to complete a stunning smash and grab.
An excellent game of rugby the skills on show were at times exceptional with full credit to both sides. The Warriors will be very happy to have overcome such a good team as their 10th season progresses.
Llanelli Warriors: Dai Spriggs, James Davies (Mathew Billo, Alan Taylor), Neil Parker (Paul Jayseabee), Alun Stephens, Dean Gilasbey, Lee Barber, Colin Talcon (Cpt) (David Edwards, Adrian Payne), Jason Jenkins, Mike James (Kevin Procter), John Horwood (Roger Thomas), Simon Jenkins, Dai Newson, Gwilym Lewis.

After the game an enjoyable evening in the Cambrian helped to bolster the Warriors funds for their tour to New Zealand to the tune of £400 from programme sales and raffle. The Warriors would like to thank all involved for their efforts and look forward to the return fixture immensely.