News

Bridgend Sports Under Twelves 19 Valley Ravens Under Twelves 5

The season came down to this one match, the Osprey District D final,  which was  against one of the Sports Under Twelves  biggest rivals, The Valley Ravens.

The sun was shining at the Gnoll, Neath and  as the supporters were gathering,  the nervous tension built. However,  with the pre match formalities completed, the young players from both sides had the chance to absorb the unique atmosphere of the inaugural District  D GMG  Junior Finals Day.

It was a nervous first half for both sides as they fought out a very tight and tense first half. The Sports dominated territory, but the Ravens had most of the ball. Both defences were excellent. Halfway through the first half the Sports gathered their composure to set up some good phases. The  forwards carried towards the Ravens line. Dan Harris was held short and Gruff Robert's picked up and dived over for the first try of the game. Jack Sperduty was unlucky with the conversion 5-0

The Ravens came back strong ,as expected and levelled the scores on the stroke of half time with the final play of the first half as they broke through and scored in the corner. The  conversion hit the post. It was all square;  5-5 at halftime.

With a large squad the Sports were able to add fresh legs to the fifteen with seven changes on a very warm day and on a wide Gnoll pitch. This was to prove decisive in the second half.

The second half started as closely fought as the first, but as confidence grew,  the game was becoming more open. The Sports  backs were getting plenty of ball and Evan Keepins cleverly popped the ball up to Ben Evans, who has been outstanding throughout the season with his attacks, he managed to break through a couple of tackles and with his pace was able to out run the Ravens defence and score in the corner. Jack Sperduty converted for a 12-5 lead.

The third and final try was the best of the day. The forwards carried and presented good quick ball for the ball to go all the way through the back line for Wil Davies to score a cracking try in the corner. Jack Sperduty again converted for a 19-5 lead.

The Ravens tried in vain to get back into the game, but the Sports defence held its own to snuff out any attack.

With the final whistle blown it was brilliant to see the players celebrate. Great credit must also go to the Valley Ravens for their excellent effort and great sportsmanship at the end of the game as all  Ravens players and coaches congratulated the Sports players to uphold the fine traditions and values of this great sport.

The final was a great advert for Rugby with  excellent rugby on display. Every player put maximum effort and commitment into the game.

Bridgend Sports  forwards were physical, carried well and rucked as a unit. The backs kept their composure, held a good defensive line and passed out wide

Bridgend sports RFC are immensely proud of what the side has achieved not just at the final but throughout the season.

The squad are now looking forward to Under Thirteens rugby next season.