Fixture

Alltwen kicked off the New Year with an important step in their promotion push, courtesy  of a hard earned win at Pontrhydyfen, that owed much to a brave forward effort and good defence.

In difficult conditions, with a heavy pitch making handling increasingly difficult, Pontrhydyfen were able to take an early penalty goal lead. Alltwen responded in fine fashion with some good combined play between forwards and backs, leading to a try for wing Rhodri Lewis. Jason Richards added the points with a difficult touch-line conversion, which was later to prove crucial. Richards then added a more straightforward penalty, enabling his side to take a 10-3 lead into half-time.

Alltwen had been boosted by the return from injury of skipper Dan Madge, who made a significant impact. However a yellow card for Madge allowed Pontrhydyfen the opportunity to work a try from a driving lineout, bringing the score to 8-10.

In a nip-and tuck encounter Pontrhydyfen then began to take a grip on the forward battle, subjecting the Alltwen defence to a tough examination, particularly in the last five minutes. Helped by good discipline, the visitors held firm albeit relieved to hear the final whistle.

Special mention in despatches has to go to the Alltwen front row of Tristran Davies, Jonathan Evan, replacement Ross Jones and man of the match Tom Hopkin. Obviously something special in the burgers this week, so Gwhryd Mountain Meats deserves a mention.

Hopkin & co are likely to be tested again next week away to South Gower in what could prove another important step in the push for the division title.