Rugby

A RESOUNDING 32-7 win at Neyland maintained relegated Cardigan’s bid for promotion at the first time of asking in League 3 West A.

As sporting contests throughout the area were victims of the weather the strip at King George V Playing Field passed an inspection and although conditions made it rather difficult both sides endeavoured to play attractive rugby.

Some years ago the Cardigan pitch was notoriously boggy but hard work over many years by stalwarts led by local farmers turned things around until today there is a quality playing surface.

A bonus point win saw the Cardis take over second spot behind Milford Haven who romped to a 48-0 win over basement boys Llangwm and are four points clear of the field having played a game less than their chief rivals.

With only the champions going up, Cardigan head coach Colin Horscroft said he was fully aware that after losing two games earlier in the season his charges cannot afford to slip up again and he is plotting another victory from the visit to Laugharne this Saturday.

The Pembrokeshire All Blacks put up a spirited performance and fought until the final whistle but they were outgunned up front and forced to defend in numbers for lengthy periods.

Home fullback Alun Jenkins showed his blistering pace with two quality tries during the opening 40 minutes and impressive openside flanker Kieran Hurley – son of former club second row Kevin Hurley – also got in on the try act. Left-winger Llyr Jones converted the two scores and landed a penalty.

Winger Ben Goodridge got a try for the visitors, converted by outside half Patrick Bellerby.

The homesters banked a bonus point with a try from Llyr Jones and outside half Llyr Tobias crossed for a fifth try as Cardigan dominated the final stages.

The League 1 West game between Crymych and joint leaders Felinfoel at Parc Lloyd Thomas was postponed due to an unfit pitch.