Division Two West Central

Cwmgors 10 Pencoed 19

Cwmgors came down to earth after their opening day victory, but the Cherries Fixture Secretary Jeff Bright was delighted with his side’s performance against a very powerful Pencoed side who he expects to be challenging for honours this season.

A higher grade of rugby is proving an enjoyable challenge for Cwmgors, who were always in the hunt despite their early-season injury woes.

The visitors’ forward power was evident early on, and they rumbled over for two tries. One of which was converted, to earn a 12-0 advantage.

But Cwm came back well, and after carving out a few half-chances which they were unable to finish, some excellent groundwork from the forwards created the opening for hooker Cerith Dennard to go over in the corner.

Midway through the second half, the visitors’ defence was put under strain as they Cherries found their rhythm, and good forward play coupled with a neat backline move was rewarded with a try for full back Mike Hodges.

Cwmgors defended like Trojans, with man of the match lock Liam Jones outstanding.

But sheer brute force saw Pencoed bully their way over for an inevitable penalty–try and a 19-10 lead soon after.

With a minute to go, the Cherries were given the chance to land a losing bonus-point, but Steff Rees’ long-range penalty from the halfway line came in agonisingly short, just inches under the bar.

Despite the result, Cwm’s faithful witnessed an encouraging all-round team performance, which bodes well for the rest of the season.

Cwmgors Seconds, who after some time have been able to field a team season, were beaten by Loughor.

The Cherries will be at home again on Saturday, when they entertain Maesteg Celtic.