Cwmbran Under 16s 15 V Bridgend 5

After winning the toss and electing to play into a gale force wind and heavy driving rain, the higher standards of Welsh opposition at this level over last week’s English challenge became immediately apparent as Bridgend exerted early pressure, their initial probing being expelled by some stout Cwmbran defence.
Cwmbran stuck to their plan and against the elements, and held Bridgend to a scoreless half time interval.
Although the rain had stopped at the start of the second half, it was Cwmbran’s turn to take advantage of the continuing strong wind now at their backs. Cwmbran commenced a campaign of attrition and virtually camped in their opposition 22. Wave after wave of Cwmbran attack was met with a resilient and organised Bridgend defence. It was inevitable that given so much pressure a Cwmbran score would come, and come it did in the shape of Captain & number 8 Hannah Roberts crashing over the line, taking several defenders with her, with supporting players to spare.
The Cwmbran second score came when Hannah pounced for her second try on a loose ball from a Bridgend defensive mix up in their goal area.
The try of the game was undoubtedly the third from Cwmbran when full back Amy Baker entered the line at pace, and raced over in the corner following a backs move involving several players off loading out of the tackle with some slick passing.
Given the swirling conditions, neither of Cwmbran’s goal kickers, Elinor Bond or Sarah Welland could quite find their previous form to extend the lead.
Many a team would have thrown in the towel at this stage, but you cannot keep a good team down, and Bridgend came back strongly at the death to score a well deserved consolation try making the final score 15-5 to Cwmbran.
Hannah Roberts was rewarded for a sturdy Captain’s performance by gaining the Cwmbran player of the match award.
This game was a pleasure to watch and both teams can be proud of their conduct and commitment. The future of the Women’s game in Wales certainly looks good with young ladies of this calibre coming through the ranks