WWRU Division Two

Penybanc Panthers 53 Abergele 3

Penybancs Panthers played host to Abergele knowing victory was essential if they were to stay ahead of their nearest league title rivals Bargoed.

Having put 60 points past the visitors earlier in the season, some of the Panthers might have been forgiven for thinking the result was a done deal, but in fairness to the visitors they gave everything and ensured that the hosts were forced to work for the victory.

The opening 10 minutes proved a physical ding-dong and it took a slick move by Hannah Jones to break the deadlock when she crossed for the opening score on ten minutes.

It took a further 28 minutes of intense physical rugby before the Panthers crossed the whitewash again when winger May Joan Acreman went over after a well work pattern of play in the home backs. Skipper Catrin Rees added the extras.

Shortly before half=time Abergele were awarded a penalty and went for the points to bring a tight first half to a close with the score 12-3 in the Panthers favour.

Having squandered numerous chances in the opening half, the Panthers put on a more clinical performance after the break as they went in search of what could prove a vital bonus point.

The coaches’ plea was soon answered as Jodie Williams crossed the try-line within two minutes of the restart and Rees added the extras.

Just four minutes later Nerys Jenkins, who had a great game, ripped the ball from Abergele and stormed her way to a fine solo try, Rees who was in fine form with the boot converted.

With the bonus point in the bag, the Panthers began spreading the ball and taking chances.

Their expansiveness paid off when on 59 minutes winger Danielle Davies scored a fine solo, out-sprinting the entire visiting back-line from halfway. The metronomic Rees converted.

Player of the game Greta Jams, a constant thorn in the Abergele side, released Williams on 67 minutes and she wasted no time in claiming her second score.

Abergele finally admitted defeat when Jams rounded off a fine personal display by crossing for a great try. Again Rees converted.

Jones stepped up to round the afternoon of nicely for the Panthers, racing home on 79 minutes. Rees added the extras to secure a 53-3 victory.

Coach Hywel Thomas said: “The score flattered us today. It was definitely not our best performance, but to score eight tries against a determined and heavy side then we have to be pleased.

“We’re at the business end of the league now and it’s great that we are still in control of our own destiny.”

The Panthers next play on Sunday, November 30, at Lampeter.