Following report kindly supplied by Llangefni RFC.
If ever proof was needed that it`s well nigh impossible to win a game of rugby at this level unless you can secure your own ball consistently at scrum time, this game provided it. Ruthun twice capitalised on scrum turn overs to engineer their 2 first half tries, then in the closing minutes they shunted Cefni off their ball at a 5 metre scrum, thus setting a platform for that third decisive try which deprived Cefni of a merited bonus point.
Cefni had the visitors on the ropes in the 1st 5 minutes, and it seemed that a quick transfer of the ball to the left flank would have reaped dividends. However, the forwards went for one more carry which led to a turn over. When Ruthun attacked into the home 22, Cefni repelled the threat but were then undone on their own scrum put in. Cai Edwards , the Ruthun 9 pounced to launch his pack on a drive towards the line. Deion Lloyd Williams got the touch down and Dyfan Humphreys added the extras for 7-0.
Cefni responded with a fine attack into the away 22, and a penalty enabled Rhys Hughes to grab a 3 pointer: 7-3 . After Cefni attacked through the backs from a line out Rhys Hughes made good ground but the final pass somehow went astray. Cefni were dominating proceedings at this stage, and it was no surprise when Hughes made the score 7-6 with another fine kick.
Then against the run of play, quick use of the ball after a scrum turn over allowed ex RGC centre Mike Jones to make a decisive line break up to the home 22. He linked well with his outside backs and Dyfan Humpreys was able to score a try which he converted for 14-6. Ruthun enjoyed a purple patch before the break, and it took some outstanding defence and a few turnovers to keep them out. Richard Foulkes was finally able to put boot to ball and move play 60 metres upfield ! 14-6 at the break.
Cefni started the 2nd half brightly , and after wing Aled Thomas had broken into the away 22, Ruthun were sanctioned and Hughes made no mistake from the tee: 14-9. Cefni`s pack was causing Ruthun problems with their rolling mauls, and a series of penalties allowed Cefni to camp deep in the away 22. However, they probably drove one line out too many and were pushed into touch. Dyfan Humphreys cleared the danger with a huge kick up to half way.
Cefni were still on the attack, but the momentum swung back towards the visitors, when a Cefni backs move broke down on the away 22. Ruthun profited by making 60 metres upfield where they camped until they got their 3rd try. Cefni defended stoutly and Mike Jones was guilty of dropping the ball with the line at his mercy. However , Cefni were pushed off their ball at the ensuing 5 metre scrum, and a few phases later Cai Edwards found the smallest of gaps to dot down. It was 21-9 and game over.
The whole Cefni back row stood out as they took the fight to Ruthun as they operated behind a beaten scrum. Max Peters was awarded man of the match by his peers.
Next week Cefni travel to Bala knowing that every point is crucial in their struggle for Division 1 survival. The 2nds lost at Pwllheli, but the Youth team had a fine win against Rhyl at home.
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