A beautiful November morning saw the Dolgellau U16's team extend their winning record with the fourth victory in a row.
On a day when we remember our friend and club Secretary Selwyn Goldsworthy, it was fitting that the home team boys stepped up and put in their performance of the season against a capable Bangor side.
Dolgellau showed their intent from the kick off, gathering the Bangor ball and forcing the play in the opponents half. The forwards laid the platform and Dafydd Roberts crossed for a try following a nice show and go from just inside the 22. Points were added by Henri Tomos Roberts (Captain).
Dolgellau controlled the areas of play well with Dafydd Roberts punishing the quick Bangor defensive line with some outstanding kicking out of hand.
A second try was added after about twenty minutes of play when Dolgellau back pressure forced a handling error by Bangor. A hack through and chase by Henri from just outside the 22 resulted in Henri winning the race for the ball. The additional points were added putting Dolgellau 14 points to the good.
Bangor came back at Dolgellau in the last ten minutes of the first period and were unlucky not to have scored in the right corner following a quick ruck and driving maul. The ball was held up by the Dolgellau forwards and the home team managed to clear from a short period of open play following the Bangor scrum.
Another incursion close to the Dolgellau line moments later saw Bangor drop the ball to deny the score. Nevertheless, the visitor attack was relentless. The Dolgellau front eight led by Jac Kelly (pack leader) were outstanding in shutting out the attack before relief came with the end of the first half.
The second period saw Bangor trying to assert themselves on the game but hard work by the Dolgellau boys started to pay dividends and gain the upper hand. The back row were outstanding in the loose and it was good to see every player contesting early at the breakdown areas. Jake Hinge, crossed from close in following a ruck near to the Bangor line. Henri added the additional points to put Dolgellau firmly in the driving seat at 21:0.
The strength in depth from the bench kept pressure on Bangor with those coming on adding fresh legs and no drop off in team performance.
To their credit, the Bangor boys fought to the end but a fine breakout try by Jake Hinge from close to our 22 put pay to any chance of a come back. Henri kept his 100% record on the day with conversions to end the score 28:0.
It was, without doubt, the best display of rugby of the season and a fine display of team spirit. The work done on the floor was outstanding but the game was controlled at 10 with top draw tactical kicking and some hard chasing. Dafydd Roberts takes the man of the match honours but can thank the pack for providing such a good platform.
We are grateful for the kind words and respect shown by Bangor during their visit and look forward to the possibility of a return fixture later in the season.
Tries: D Roberts, HT Roberts, J Hinge (2)
Conversions: HT Roberts (4)
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