Principality Premiership

Llandovery 46 Carmarthen Quins 10

The Towy Valley derby went the way of the Drovers who outplayed the Quins from first to last to record one of their best wins over their old rivals, writes Huw S Thomas.

Llandovery played with gusto and invention under barnstorming flanker Phil Day to dominate possession and territory and run out conclusive seven tries to one winners.

They had outstanding forwards in Day, prop Wyn Jones and lock Bryn Griffiths who were in the thick of things throughout.

Llandovery coach Lyndon Lewis will move to Aberavon in the close season but his successor Euros Evans saw enough to suggest that the Drovers will be a force next year.

“That was a win that will give an impetus for the rest of the season “said coach elect Evans.

“It takes us up to seventh and we now have a firm aim of finishing strongly to get into the top half of the table and prepare for next year’s campaign in a positive light.”

As for the Quins, the cup semi-final against Bridgend this Saturday takes on extra importance after the heavy defeat.

The Drovers controlled the first half and scored tries through fly-half James Garland, full back Mike Evans and Number 8 Richard Brooks for a 17-0 interval lead.

But yellow cards for Brooks and wing Aaron Warren weakened the hosts and replacement Craig Evans gave the Quins their first points with a close range penalty.

Referee Morris then yellow carded both Craig Evans and lock Matthew Harbut for an off ball fracas before Quins at last upped their game to make Llandovery defend hard.

The Drovers did so with relish and regained their composure to fashion a second try for full back Evans and the bonus point.

A storming run from replacement Richie Rees forced a penalty for Garland and a brilliant sweeping move then sent Lee Rees swerving clear for a fifth home try.

The Quins got a late converted try from flanker Chris Williams only for Warren and rugged centre Rhodri Jones to cross in a breathtaking finale.

This Saturday (April 11) Llandovery entertain Ebbw Vale at Church Bank KO 2.30pm