Caernarfon were cruelly denied a victory at the death in this pulsating league fixture.
From the off Caernarfon had struggled to gain parity in the scrums but were shading the lineout and defending admirably in numbers to thwart any Pencoed intrusion into Cofi territory.
Annes Sion on her debut was a revelation as regards tackling and commitment throughout. On the half hour mark centre Dyddgu Hywel fielded a high ball and counter attacked with venom, drifting and sidestepping her way to within yards of the line. With good forward support, Ceri Ogwen offloaded to captain Cenin Eifion who grounded with the Pencoed defence in disarray.
This spurred the Pencoed attack to up their game and a touch of fine individualism by wing Hannah Seward, when she chipped over her opposite number and won the chase to the try line was just reward for their efforts during the first forty minutes. Robin Wilkins added the extras to edge Pencoed ahead on the stroke of half time.
Caernarfon remained committed during the second forty and clawed themselves back into the lead when Sera Bailey struck a sweet penalty from 30 meters. With the weather deteriorating good hands were called for and one such instalment from fullback Jade Mullen paid dividends when she collected a difficult pass and was driven with aplomb towards the try line to score. Wilkins was again successful with the conversion to extend Pencoed’s lead.
Not to be denied the Cofis hit back, with permit full back Emily Oliver prominent in gaining valuable meters on numerous occasions and ensuring that the ball was presented to the oncoming support. Such inspiration put the Cofi attack on the front foot and finally saw a five-meter penalty awarded. The initial drive was halted but Sera Bailey snapped up the ball and wriggled her way beyond the try line for a fine score that she also converted.
Caernarfon were then left to consolidate their one point advantage for the final six minutes, but sadly after heroic tackling the dreaded whistle sounded and during the last play a penalty call resulted in the trusted Wilkins boot making the homeward journey that much more painful for the Cofi crew.
Both teams had given their all and the referee had assisted by explaining each decision and giving instructions and encouragement when needed.
Regional rugby takes over for the next two months before a Heineken type league structure will resolve who features in the latter stages of the various cup competitions. Sadly such a format will offer Caernarfon nor Pencoed any favours.
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