Bridgend Athletic RFC

Match Reports 2009 - 2010 

DIV 1 WEST – 28^TH OCT 2009 

“BRIDGEND WIN BATTLE OF THE ATHLETICS” 

Before today’s match, the west Wales visitors were just two places, but a huge 6 points above the Bridgend team – a gap which the home team could not allow to grow as they risked being cut adrift from the mid-table sides. The “Ath” were also aware that the Carmarthen side had beaten their Ravens neighbours earlier this month.

Kicking off towards the town end, the home team quickly made their intentions known, with an interception by outside half Steve Lewis in the visitors 22. With the try line at his mercy he unluckily spilled the ball, but fortunately he was to get further try scoring opportunities later in the game. This knock on was followed with a scything break from scrum half, Luke Hopper again being foiled close to the line. The “Ath” were dominant in these early stages and were rewarded after 10 minutes when centre Hywel Davies charged down a desperate clearance kick, which he then gathered to score. Lewis converted. Last season’s regular promotion centre partnership of Davies and Rob Coles were linking up for the first time this season and played like they had never been apart.

The home team forwards were embroiled in a battle royal with their visitor counterparts, their will to win exemplified by young second rows, Jamie Docherty and Tom Penry-Ellis. The front row of Matthew Norman, Adrian Phillips and Rod Jones were supporting everything and the back row of Sean Williams, Chris Whitcombe & Dan Apsee hunted all that moved to provide their backs with room to play. On their only visit into the home half of the pitch in the first quarter, a penalty opportunity was successfully kicked by visiting full back, Ricky Williams to narrow the lead. The home team was displaying a maturity in gaining good field positions and the kicking of outside half, Lewis, pinned the visitors in their own half for long periods. Nevertheless, the visitors came to Newbridge Fields expecting to win and as the half wore on, they came more and more into the game. With just 5 minutes of normal time remaining in the first half, point scoring sprung to life.

First the visitors took advantage of an accidental collision of two Ath players fielding a probing attacking kick, resulting in the ball being carried over the try line and yielding a five metres scrum for the visitors. This time, the west Wales team engineered a successful drive from the scrum, with the much traveled No 8, Gareth Bennett getting the touch down, converted by full back, Williams to take the lead 7-10. A narrow drop goal miss from home outside half Lewis followed before a mercurial reverse pass from his inside half, Hopper released centre, Coles who sidestepped passed outstretched defensive arms to touch down under the posts. Lewis converted. With their tails up, touchline fans were watching some vintage Athletic play. Gathering the ball on the halfway line, No 10, Steve Lewis set off on a mesmerizing run, weaving around player after player. With 10 metres to run, the try line suddenly opened up and he touched down to his & the home team’s great delight. Playing what many thought was his best game for the Club, the conversion was a formality. It was surprising that the half had been played without injury, but in the final seconds the impressive Whitcombe was replaced by Matthew Hillman. Those few minutes of magic gave the home fans a 21-10 lead to cheer at half time.

The second half continued with the Bridgend team’s forwards supplying good ball for Lewis to tactically dictate play with both effective running and kicking. Throughout, Lewis had received an excellent service from his combative partner, Hopper. The visitors missed a chance to close the gap when full back Williams could not convert a penalty kick for a floor offence. This kickable penalty was a rare sight, as Abertillery referee, Sean Brickell was allowing the game to flow from two sets of players, who clearly wished to move the ball at every opportunity. Rather unusually, there were only two kickable penalty chances throughout the game, both for the visitors.

After 10 minutes, further uncompromising play from the forwards resulted in fresh legs entering the fray. Prop, Norman was replaced by Dai Price and hooker, Adrian Phillips whose experience was beneficial to many of his young colleagues had been invaluable, was replaced by former captain, Simon Mustoe. Regrettably the latter lasted just two minutes when a knee injury forced him off the field for Phillips to return. The second half, which was to produce just one score, was as hard as the first had been, with both sides giving everything to a fine match and home captain, Rod Jones constantly encouraging his forwards and leading from the front. One of the best chances was to come to centre, Rob Coles following a delicate chip for him to chase at the midway point, but he was beaten by sheer numbers. Shortly after, the visitors full back, Williams was sent to the sin bin following some niggly play with frustration beginning to creep into the visitors game – this was unsurprising as the tackling of the home team three quarters was unrelenting, with both wings, Johnny Nation & Rhodri Davies and full back, Lindsey McCausland along with their centres & halfbacks up to the task. There was still more to come from the home team, albeit much against the late run of play.

As the “Ath” have witnessed on other occasions this season, the game is played for a full 80 minutes. The visiting pack sensed they could come out on top if they pressured persistently on the home goal line. This they set out to do with drive after drive for the try line, held out by the magnificent and well organised defence. It did seem that this was about to crack – but then, more magic. After his unlucky knock on when attempting an interception in the early minutes of the game, this time, in the final minutes, Steve Lewis held on to the ball and sprinted the full length of the field, leaving despairing chasers in his wake. The Halloween match date had been perfect for such wizardry. The seven points booty took the score to 28-10, which included a valuable bonus point. It moved the team one place up the table and closed the points gap on the visitors from 6 points to 1 point. Steve Lewis had contributed 18 points, but even more encouragingly the backs had added 4 tries to the low previous harvest of only 5 backs tries in the league so far this season.

Head Coach, Paul Yardley was “delighted with the performance” and suggested that “Steve Lewis’s playmaking had frightened the defence. All the forwards were magnificent, especially the young second rows who came of age”. He went on to say that “now that the team understand the speed of Div 1 rugby, the coaching team will be upping the bar and taking it forward again”. The Athletic’s next match in two weeks at high flying Bonymaen will be a test as to how far they have come. The Club is grateful to John David for sponsoring the match.

AUTHOR – DAVID BURT

Bryn Wanderers 6pts   Bridgend Athletic 2nds 36pts

Sat 31^st Oct 09

Bridgend Athletic RFC 2nds proved too strong for the recently reformed Bryn Wanderers in this friendly match played at the Welfare Ground in Bryn

However, after early pressure, it was the Wanderers who opened the scoring after 20 mins through a penalty by No10 John Williams.

This seemed to spur the Athletic into increasing the tempo of the game. A deft kick, from halfway, by Athletic No 10 Tom Cole, was chased by fullback, Micheal Hathaway, who won the chase for the touchdown. Cole converted. Cole and Williams exchanged penalties before Hathaway scored his second try, converted by Cole to make the half time score 17pts to 6 in favour of the Athletic

The Athletic pack, containing prop Ian Holman and his son, last seasons youth hooker, Nathan, were now gaining control allowing the Athletic backs to run at their tiring opponents.  Full back Hathaway grabbed his try hat trick, wing Chris Harries rounded off a slick backs move to race 40 metres for a try and Nathan Holman stormed through the home defence to score a try in the final minutes.

Athletic man of the match was flanker Aled Guy

An interesting statistic was that with the Athletic fielded father and son in the front row, this was reciprocated by Bryn, when the son of their tight head prop came on as a replacement hooker making it a family affair in the front rows

Final score Bridgend Ath 2nds 36 Bryn Wanderers 6 

Felinfoel 27 Bridgend Athletic 15

Asda League – Div 1 West – Oct 24th 2009 

Last season the Athletic stood out in Div2 West, just as Maesteg are this season. However, all three Borough teams can vouch for the higher intensity and organisation of the game in Division 1.

For thirty minutes the Athletic playing against a very strong wind were highly competitive and even led 8-3 at this time. However two tries in three minutes saw the home Felinfoel side go in at the interval with a 15-8 advantage.

Felinfoel opened the scoring with a penalty after 5 minutes from full back Justin Lewis. The Athletic responded in the tenth minute. Lock Jamie Doherty won the ball at a 5 metre line out for lock Dan Apsee to peel around the front of the line out to cross in the corner. They added to this lead with an excellent 35 metre penalty into a very strong wind from outside half Steven Lewis.

On the half hour the game turned. The home side showed great composure in ball retention as they went through a number of phases on the Athletic try line before finally cracking a brave defence with a try from their captain No 8 Stuart Jenkins Two minutes later following another  missed tackle a break from centre Matthew Brayley sliced open the Athletic for full back Lewis to cross. Lewis converted both tries to put his side 15-8 ahead at half time.

With such a strong wind advantage the Athletic had every right to feel optimistic about the outcome. This optimism looked justified when in the 50^th

minute full back Lyndsey McCausland gathered a clearance kick forty metres out and ran strongly at the opposition warding off two tackles. An inside pass saw right wing  Johnny Nation appearing on the left running at a good angle to take an inside pass and run 20 metres to cross under the posts Lewis added the conversion to tie the scores at 15-15.

However, that was where the opposition were able to raise the intensity of their game. They used their forwards to good effect with players standing off the rucks and running at the Athletic at pace. In contrast the Athletic were more static at the rucks just trying to inch forward keeping the ball very tight to the contact area. The efforts of keeping out Felinfoel in the first period seemed to be showing, as they struggled to get the ball from the opposition and failed to match the intensity as Felinfoel upped the pace of the game. They were also guilty of some poor ball retention and attacking options.

It was no surprise when full back Justin Lewis crossed for his second try when the home side created an overlap. His conversion made the score 22-15. The Athletics’ chances of hanging on for a bonus point were dealt a blow, when they had to play the final 10 minutes with replacement hooker Adrian Phillips in the sin bin following a technical defence. Another overlap from a missed tackle saw wing Jason Howells, who had turned out for Llanelli the previous week, cross in the corner for a bonus point try for the home side, and deny the Athletic a losing bonus point.

Flanker Chris Whitcombe stood out for the Athletic making a number of tackles. Unfortunately not all his team mates can say the same, as missed tackles led to a few Felinfoel tries. The scrum with the starting line up of front row Rhodri Jones, Simon Mustoe and Matthew Norman was solid throughout.

The Athletic have had far too many yellow cards for technical offences this season, and conceded vital tries when their numbers have been reduced. Often the offences have been in meaningless parts of the field. The coaches need to address this problem, as it is hard enough to compete in Division 1 West with a full complement of players on the field. They also need to look at how they can inject more pace in their moves.

This Saturday the Athletic host Carmarthen Athletic, before a two week break due to Autumn Internationals.

Bridgend Athletic RFC 18 v  Narberth RFC 24:

Swalec League Division 1 West; Sat 17^th October 2009

So far this season, rugby supporters have been blessed with Autumn sunshine on every Saturday and this was no exception. It is these conditions that Bridgend Athletic needed to exploit in the early part of their league campaign but results have been very much a mixed bag. This week’s opposition were West Wales team, Narberth who had made a surprisingly poor start to their season and were languishing near the bottom of the table with only one win to date. That win had been at Bridgend Ravens on the opening day of the season and Bridgend was to prove a happy hunting ground for them on this occasion as well.

Both sides opened at a furious pace with the ball being moved into space at every opportunity. Narberth had the better of these early exchanges territorially though both sides tackled and harried at the breakdown causing turn overs or forcing penalties. On two occasions Narberth missed out on scoring opportunities in the first ten minutes as the right wing John Morgan was bundled into touch five metres from the home try line and then the visitors were called back for a forward pass with the line at their mercy.

The home team weathered the storm well and fought back gamely as good work by fly-half Steve Lewis and young Youth Team centre James Olds released Jonny Nation to carry the ball into the Narberth half and when another bout of interpassing down the right caused the Otters to give away a penalty Lewis stepped up to give the Athletic the lead. From the kick off the Athletic retained possession well and left wing Rob Coles surged into the visitors 22 and the indefatigable Sean Williams was right there to take the scoring pass for a try which Lewis converted.

The Athletic continued to press and appeared to be getting the upper hand and only a despairing high tackle by Narberth full-back Mathew Davies saved the day. It did not save him though and he was sent to the sidelines for 10 minutes by referee Mr Perkins. This set back seemed to fire-up the Narberth players and they drove the Athletic back into their half and some concerted driving play and hard running first of all forced Olds to kill the ball at a maul and then second row Jamie Doherty slowed down play close to the Ath line. Both players went to the bin. Narberth kicked to touch and drove over from the resulting lineout using their man advantage to good effect. Half time score: Bridgend Athletic 10 Narberth 5.

From the start of the second half Narberth went on the offensive and only spirited counter surges by the Athletic kept them at bay. Eventually the pressure told and a converted try put Narberth two points clear. The visitors maintained their stranglehold and kept the Athletic penned in their own half and two long range penalties by their fly-half Craig Jones just missed. The penalty count was very much in Narberth’s favour due to the desperate defensive work of the home team and things went from bad to worse when visiting No 8 Colin Davies drove over for another converted try.

Time was running out and the Ath stormed back with some searching attacks of their own and with two scores needed they took a penalty to reduce the deficit to six points. Things were getting desperate now and when Narberth turned the ball over and counter attacked to score wide out the game was up. Just as time was due to be blown Lewis made a break and hard-working second-row Tom Penry-Ellis was on hand to take the scoring pass that at least secured the losing bonus point. Final score Bridgend Athletic 18 Narberth 24.

Once again there is much to do on the training paddock as many observers felt that although the two sides were well matched it was Narberth who displayed the greater composure on the ball and had a little more fire in their bellies at the contact area. Next week the Athletic visit high flying Felinfoel for yet another tough encounter.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV19 pts v  Llanharan 2^nd XV 10 pts

Saturday 17^th Oct 09

This top of the table clash came up to expectations regarding the high standard of the rugby played.

Following end to end rugby with both sides just being stopped short of the line it was the Athletic who opened the scoring with a penalty by outside half Tom Coles.

The Athletic were making the most of their opportunities in the first half mainly due to the midfield defence of centres Tom Goodwin and Hywel Davies and turnovers by the back row of Aled Guy, Stuart Edbrook and Liam Griffiths. Following such a turnover, a scintillating break by Athletic scrum half Stuart Kenny resulted in an offload to supporting outside half Tom Coles to score a try close to the posts. Tom Coles converted. Lee Simms kicked a penalty to make the half time score 13 pts to 0 in favour of the Athletic.

Unfortunately, Tom Coles struggling with a calf injury left the field but was more than ably replaced by the experienced Richard Dyke at outside half.

The second half continued in the same vein with Llanharan failing to get continuity to their game due to the Athletic defence. Lee Simms extended the Athletic lead to 19 points kicking two penalties. Llanharan finally got their game together in the final quarter with a well taken try by centre Nicky Burke. The Ath were absorbing the pressure until outside half Lloyd Thomas crossed to reduce the deficit to 9 points. The Athletic controlled play for the last five minutes earning a well deserve 19 points to 10 victory.

Bridgend Athletic man of the match was flanker Stuart Edbrook.

Builth Wells RFC 17 v  Bridgend  Athletic RFC 18:

Swalec League Division 1 West; Sat 10^th October 2009

Bridgend Athletic made the long journey to mid-Wales brimming with confidence despite being disrupted by a number of early season injuries. The home team were bottom of Division 1 West with only one losing bonus point to show from their previous five league outings and the dry sunny conditions were surely in the visitors’ favour.

In fact, for the first five minutes it was all Athletic as they attacked straight from the kick out and a series of attack set Builth on the back foot. From a scrum on the 22 metre line the Athletic looked certain to score only for a despairing tackle be converted to a Builth penalty for holding –on. Little did we know that this was going to set the tone of the whole game for Bridgend Athletic. The relieving kick sent the teams to half-way and from the next play, after an exchange of kicks typical of the modern game, the ball settled in touch on the visitors 22. Full back MacCausland tried to take it quickly only for the Athletic to be caught in possession in mid-field. Builth turned the ball over and good orthodox passing set up a score in the corner which was well converted.

This set-back seemed to unsettle the Athletic and their play continued to be uncertain and error strewn. Play was bogged down in the middle third of the field with mistakes being made by both sides. Builth eventually had a run of phases that took them towards the Athletic 22 without looking dangerous but a sudden surge by the home scrum-half took him half through a gap before off loading to his supporting full back who raced under the posts through some half-hearted defending. The resulting conversion made the score 14-0 and the Athletic had it all to do.

The visiting team were making great efforts through current captain Rod Jones and former captain Simon Mustoe along with flankers Chris Whitcombe and Tom Morgan but mistakes continued to happen and good positions were squandered either by poor handling or by the more effective groundwork of the Builth pack.  Despite this the Athletic kept mounting attacks and eventually forced themselves into their opponents 22 and when quick ball reached fly-half Steve Lewis he was quick to spot a mis-match with opposition forwards and scooted over 5 metres from touch. Lewis converted his own try to pull his team back into the game and more sustained pressure immediately after resulted in two penalties that Lewis again kicked to make the half-time score Builth Wells 14  Bridgend Athletic 13.

The second half was even more disjointed than the first and perhaps both teams could be accused of lacking composure and trying too hard. Both had opportunities to run the ball and made breaks but all too often the last pass was forced and the mistake made or slow support resulted in turn-overs. Bridgend Athletic centres Sean Owens and James Olds made a number of probing runs but found it difficult to release hard-working wings Johnnie Nation and Rob Coles into space. Likewise Builth were effective in breaking from scrums but lacked the guile to build on this success.

The Bulls extended their lead to four points with a well taken penalty and the Ath continued to play with desperation. Even the introduction of Norman and Phillips in the front row and Doherty at lock could not energise the visitors and the game seemed destined to slip away from them despite the energetic surges by No 8 Dan Apsee.

It was with only minutes left that coach Paul Yardley played his “get out of jail” card. The Athletic won a penalty 15 metres from the home line and as heads turned to decide what to do the competitive Luke Hopper tapped and darted over before Builth could get organised. There were a few more nervous moments in the dying seconds but the Ath managed to hang on to move their record to 3 and 3 with this 17-18 victory.

This performance will be food for thought for all concerned. It was not the set-piece that was a problem; the line-outs were solid through Sean Williams and Tom Penry-Ellis and Carl Gregory continued to anchor the scrum well. It was in loose play in both attack and defence that question marks were raised. At least with a win under their belts coaches Yardley, Williams and Apsee can begin on a positive note to raise the team’s self belief as they prepare for the visit of Narberth, another team below them in the table. This game is being sponsored by Bridgend Athletic Old Boys and all former players are warmly invited to attend and renew old friendships while encouraging the current players.

Bridgend Athletic 15 Cwmllynfell 8

Asda League – Div 1 West – Oct 3^rd 2009

Bridgend Athletic showed great character to turn a 5-3 half time deficit playing with a strong first half wind in their favour, into a 15-8 victory over Cwmllynfell.

The team showed 6 changes – two positional from the side that lost to Tonmaawr.They gave a first team debut to youth centre James Olds and Sean Owens started his first game of the season in the unfamiliar role of full back. Former Athletic and Ravens hooker Adrian Phillips came on as a second half substitute for Simon Mustoe following his mid week transfer from Tonmawr.

The Athletic started with a strong wind advantage, and took the lead after 5 minutes through a wide angled 40 metre penalty from centre Stuart Morris. Cwmllynfell responded from the restart applying pressure through rolling mauls for hooker Aled Williams to put the visitors 5-3 ahead. Morris in attempting another long range penalty pulled his groin and was forced to leave the field to be replaced by Robert Coles. Cwmllynfell were denying the Athletic possession and ground out the half to lead 5-3 at half time.

Rod Jones side had it all to do in the second half. They raised their game and when last season’s youth scrum half Aled Thomas making his 1^STXV debut as

a half time replacement for Luke Hopper, charged down a clearance kick Cwmllynfell conceded a penalty. The Athletic kicked to touch and from the line out Thomas and flanker Chris Whitcombe interchanged passes before lock Dan Apsee forced his way over in the corner. The Athletic on a number of occasions fell foul of the New Zealand referee questioning his decisions. From one of these lapses of discipline Cwmllynfell outside half Nicky Thomas levelled the scores at 8-8 with a penalty in front of the posts. The Athletic pack in a role reversal now had the upper hand. Props Carle Gregory and Rod Jones were powerful ball carriers, with Jones also initiating a few turnovers at the ruck and maul. Cwmllynfell veteran flanker Jim Morgan had often in the past proved a thorn in the Athletics’ side. Today 19 year old Athletic flanker Tom Morgan wrapped him up in a series of tackles. Fellow flanker Chris Whitcombe and No 8 Dan Apsee also showed a high tackle count, with wings Lyndsey McCausland and Rod Davies also weighing in with a number of big hits. Nineteen stone lock Jamie Doherty – a late starter to rugby – is now growing in confidence and starting to be a valuable member of the squad. His second half replacement young Tom Penry-Ellis will also benefit from having game time.

Centre James Olds made an excellent break from inside his own half and the pressure exerted by the Athletic forced Cwmllynfell to concede penalty 5 metres out under the posts. The Athletic showed their confidence in their pack by declining the easy three points on offer to go for a scrum. From the scrum they patiently went through the phases until lock Sean Williams eventually forced his way over under the posts. Outside half Steven Lewis added the conversion to put the Athletic 15-8 ahead on the hour.

The final quarter was strongly contested. Outside half Steven Lewis kicked well against the wind to take his side up field away from the danger zone. Full back Sean Owens was also showing a will to attack and caused some problems in the Cwmllynfell defence. The Athletic came away with a morale boosting win that takes them up to eighth in the table. The coaching team can take heart from this second half performance and the fact they have competition for places at every position on the field.

 They have a chance to build on this win when next week they visit fellow promoted side Builth Wells who are at the basement of the table. This is followed by a home fixture on October 17^th against Narbeth, who are surprisingly below the Athletic with only a win over the Ravens to date this season.

The Athletic Old Boys are sponsoring this game, and welcome all former players to join them at this reunion.

Tonmawr RFC 25 v  Bridgend  Athletic RFC 3:

Swalec League Division 1 West; Sat 26^th September 2009

On yet another September Saturday with the sun shining strongly and the home pitch above the Afan Valley in excellent condition the Athletic continued their league campaign at Division favourites, big-spending Tonmawr.

Despite being competitive and tenacious throughout the Athletic had to learn the hard way that you cannot hope to compete at this level if you play for over half an hour with one player less than your opponents. Especially one with the tight forward strength and well-organised backs of the home team.

The early exchanges were scrappy with both teams losing good positions due to infringements and a couple of wayward penalty attempts by Stuart Morris for the Athletic and Warren Davies for Tonmawr ensued. The Athletic were playing tenaciously and when the home team took exception to young flanker Tom Morgan’s foraging in the loose a scuffle took place in which a few punches were thrown and Morgan and Tonmawr’s hooker, Harvey were asked to take a 10 minute cooling off period by the referee, Mr Kirkhouse. Eventually the home team infringed once too often and Morris sent a kick sailing through the posts from 45m out.

The Athletic were looking the sharper of the two outfits with captain Rod Jones, Sean Williams and Ben Howe in fine form. Tonmawr were disrupted further when lock Hywel Davies and scrum-half, ex-Athletic product James Donovan suffered injuries that necessitated them taking no further part in proceedings. Nevertheless it was Tonmawr who now began to dominate the tight at both scrum and line-out and soon evened the scores with a well taken penalty by Davies.

The Athletic lost three successive line-outs on their own throw and with captain Jones being shown yellow for some clumsy footwork at a ruck Tonmawr took the lead through experienced fly-half Austen Howells’ penalty. Tonmawr continued to dominate both scrum and lineout and spent the last few minutes of the half camped on the visitors line but a great defensive effort well led by Simon Mustoe and Morris repelled the attack for the teams to turn around with the score Tonmawr 6 Bridgend Athletic 3.

Tonmawr started the second half as they had finished the first by exerting pressure on the Athletic line where they forced two five metre scrums and launched attacks which ultimately came to nothing as a penalty sent them back to half-way. The Athletic appeared to relax for a moment and lost another lineout. Howells lofted a huge kick to the Athletics posts which was not cleared by the defence. The ball popped into the hands of home wing Gareth John who crossed close to the posts for an easy conversion attempt from Howells.

The Athletic had it all to do and brought on fresh legs in the form of Hillman and Sainsbury for last year’s Youth team flankers Morgan and Howe and the strong running Sean Owens at centre to replace the ever reliable Tom Goodwin. Unfortunately, they suffered a further setback when Rod Jones was shown a second yellow card for another ruck infringement and they were reduced to fourteen men for the remainder of the game.

This proved too much for the Bridgend side. Tonmawr kicked to the corner and set up a driving maul and with sustained and controlled forward play forced their way over for a try again converted by Howells. The Athletic were sticking gamely to their task and strong runs by Owens and Apsee drove the home team back only for possession to be kicked away – perhaps through a lack of confidence.

It was the home side who had the final say with a series of drives from scrum and lineout which eventually outnumbered the Athletic defence for Number 8 Robert Hill to trundle over unopposed for the final score of the game. This latest setback pointed up the need for the Athletic to maintain control of possession when so much effort has gone into gaining the ball and that they must trust to their handling and running skills to raise the tempo against other teams in this strong division.

Final score: Tonmawr 25 Bridgend Athletic 3.

Sat 26^th Sept 09 - Bridgend Athletic 2nds 34pts  Tondu 2nds 13 pts

Bridgend Athletic 2nds ground out a well deserved victory over Tondu 2nds at Newbridge Fields with last year’s youth scrum half Aled Thomas scoring a hat trick of tries

Tondu opened the scoring when scrum half Matthew Sage pressurised the Athletic half backs and intercepted an attempted pass to race in 20 metres to score. Daniel Rowe converted

The Athletic immediately responded and following a classic blind side move Aled Thomas dived over in the corner for the first of his tries.

Daniel Rowe kicked a penalty to make the half time score 10pts to 5 in favour of Tondu

The Athletic started the second half pressurising Tondu and a fine break by John Nation carried on by No 8 Gareth Bartlett led to a second try by Aled Thomas to even the scores. The Tondu defence was now being severely tested by the attacking pace of the Athletic and Nick Hinton gathered a loose clearance kick to run in under the posts, Aled Thomas converted

This was followed by a try by strong running Chris McGrath

Daniel Rowe kicked a penalty for Tondu but the Ath continued with the pressure resulting in try for and conversion by Aled Thomas and a fine try by flanker Aled Guy in the closing minutes of the game  

Bridgend Athletic RFC 20 v  Corus RFC 24:

Swalec League Division 1 West; Sat 19^th September 2009

On yet another glorious September afternoon the Athletic entertained Corus in their third league game of the season. It was defeat by Corus that resulted in the Athletic’s relegation to Division 2 18 months ago and the home side were keen to make amends. Also in the ranks of the visitors were two former players from Youth and Senior ranks, 21 year olds Scott Robinson and Simon Evans. While the Athletic are always pleased to see products of the club in action for other teams it would prove to be a bitter sweet return as these two contributed 19 points to the visitors between them!

Corus are renowned for having one of the biggest packs in Division 1 and the Athletic coaches had devised a game plan to try to offset this huge physical advantage. Part of that plan was to match their opponents early on and then to expand the game into the open spaces. The early exchanges were indeed fairly even but at an Athletic scrum 40 metres from their own line the visitors’ juggernaut pack drove back the lighter Athletic eight and turned the ball over. The Corus No.8 picked up and ran at the defence who all bought a simple dummy for him to run unopposed all the way to the line for the opening score converted by Robinson.

Corus renewed the pressure from the kick-off and harried the home defence mercilessly. Bridgend Ath No 8 Jonny Jones who was so influential against the Ravens had to leave the field and was replaced by the dynamic Matthew Hillman. Corus continued to exert pressure until a loose kick out of defence fell to Evans who coolly dropped a goal. It was now the Athletic’s turn to exert some pressure of their own only for a relieving kick by Corus to be missed by full-back MacCausland looking into the sun. As centre Rob Coles was caught in possession he gave away a penalty which Robinson again converted. The Athletic were 13 points down with less than twenty minutes gone: not the start they wanted!

At last the Ath began to sustain longer periods of pressure and when Robinson was caught in possession by the scavenging Chris Whitcombe, the visiting flanker dived in to seal off the ruck. Stuart Morris kicked the goal from 47m. Each side had a missed kick at goal followed by a monster kick from half-way by Robinson which bounced over off the crossbar. With half-time approaching, the splendid Sean Williams took a great catch from the kick out and the Athletic forwards drove forward doggedly and forced Corus to concede a penalty which was kicked by Morris. The home team were pleased to have turned around only ten points down.

There must have been strong words from the coaches at half-time as it was an invigorated and altogether more purposeful Athletic team that tore into their opponents from the restart. A number of good opportunities were created but Corus were often able to drive their way out of defence through their well drilled and physical pack. Against the run of play and as the result of a loose tap by the Athletic at a lineout, Corus poured through towards the home line and the ball was quickly transferred to Evans who darted over from twenty metres to put the visitors 17 points clear as Robinson converted.

But the Athletic refused to roll over and a great bout of interpassing and hard running resulted in the tireless Williams racing over for Morris to convert. The Athletic continued in this high tempo mode and their opposition were visibly wilting under the pressure. Another slick interchange of passes set up a ruck fro which returning fly-half Steve Lewis drew the Corus back line and a flat pass to Dan Apsee allowed the flanker to gallop over from twenty five metres out and score with a dive that would have done credit to young Olympian Tom Daly. Morris’s conversion made the score Athletic 20 Corus 21 and the home supporters sensed an unlikely victory.

But Corus were not to be denied. They rallied resolutely and forced a penalty to extend their lead to four points. Despite a valiant effort in the closing minutes the Athletic could not regain the impetus they had had earlier in the half and Corus hung on for victory with the Athletic gaining a losing bonus point.

The Athletic can take heart from their second half performance as they prepare to visit aspirational Tonmawr next week but cannot afford to give any opposition a headstart in this league.

Mid Glam District League Div 1  Sat 19^th Sept 09

Bridgend Athletic RFC 2nds 68pts    Kenfig Hill RFC 2nds 3 pts

Bridgend Athletic 2nds proved to strong on the day running in 10 tries against Kenfig Hill 2nds.

The Mules started the stronger and forced a penalty to take a 3 point lead after 5 minutes. However this was short lived as the Athletic pack took control and from then on it was backs to the wall for the Kenfig Hill defence. Scrum half Aled Thomas opened the Athletic account with an opportunist solo try converted by Tom Coles.

Further tries by S Owens, Tom Howells and Johnny Nation gave the Athletic a 26 pts to 3 half time lead.

The Athletic started the second half with the same purpose resulting in second tries for Owens and Nation and tries for Carle Ellis, Nick Hinton, Chris Harries and Tom Cole.

Outside half Tom Cole kicked 9 conversions

Bridgend Athletic RFC 20 v  Bridgend Ravens RFC 13:

Swalec League Division 1 West; Sat 12^th September 2009

A glorious September afternoon at Newbridge Fields provided the setting for this first ever clash in league rugby between newly promoted Athletic and relegated Ravens. A large crowd of over 1500 of all ages and containing lots of youngsters and families were there to witness this event and firmly countered the allegation that there is no interest in rugby in Bridgend.

As expected the game proved an uncompromising affair throughout and was contested in great spirit by both teams. The early encounters were a little tense with both teams being penalised for offences at the breakdown and when the Ravens forced a drop-out the Athletic infringed at the next breakdown and fly-half Hancock slotted over the opening score. From the resulting kick off the Athletic applied pressure to the Ravens and a loose kick was carried back strongly and the Ravens conceded a penalty for full-back Stuart Morris to level the scores.

Now it was the turn of the Ravens to apply pressure and force a lineout on the Athletic 22 only for Sean Williams to win the lineout against much taller opposition. The ball was moved determinedly into the visitors half where they again conceded a penalty at the breakdown for Morris to step up and convert. Almost immediately Ravens had a chance to level the scores when second –row Jamie Doherty infringed but the relatively easy kick was missed by Hancock who was certainly showing the pressure as a few errors crept into his game. The Athletic were now playing with confidence as wing Rhodri Davies and No 8 Jonathan Jones ran strongly at the visitors defence and flankers Whitcombe and Morgan harried their opponents mercilessly at the breakdown.

It was from a turn-over at the breakdown that scrum-half Luke Hopper moved the ball to Youth fly-half Craig Baker to put a long kick deep into Ravens territory and when the ball was over thrown by the visitors another infringement at the breakdown led to Morris kicking his and the Athletic’s third penalty goal. Just before half-time the Ravens launched an attack forcing Morgan to kill the ball and be given a yellow card for his pains. Fortunately, the kick was missed again by Hancock and the teams turned around with the score Athletic 9 Ravens 3.

It was the Athletic who started the second half strongly and from good work at the scrum by Rod Jones, Simon Mustoe and Carl Gregory the ball was carried strongly by Morris into the heart of the Ravens defence and this time the visitors captain, flanker Matthew Davies, was penalised and shown the yellow card. Morris made no mistake with his kick. Once again an error at the ruck following the kick-off led to Ravens centre, Gareth Howells, step up to make the score 12-6 in the Ath’s favour.

At this stage the Athletic went back on the attack with centres Goodwin and Coles both probing the defence and left wing MacCausland twice chipping the defence only to be denied by the Ravens’ scrambling defence. The pressure told when the Ravens were penalised for holding on as they tried to drive out of their 22 and Morris was successful with his fifth kick.

The experienced Marcus Sainsbury replaced the splendid Morgan to add new drive and physicality to the Athletic play and when the home team won quick ball Morris drove in to the defenders and the ball was recycled. Slick passing from Hopper to Williams to Baker got the ball to Davies who crashed over in the corner. Morris failed to maintain his perfect record with the conversion.

With ten minutes left on the clock Dai Price, Wayne Fookes and Dan Apsee replaced Rod Jones, Gregory and Doherty only for a flare-up to lead to Price from the Athletic and Owen Williams of the Ravens being sent to the sin-bin. As the clock ticked towards full-time the Ravens battered their way towards the home line and forced their way over for a consolation try converted by Howells.

The Athletic celebrated an historic victory and looked the more adventurous side throughout attempting to play in the “Bridgend” style whereas the Ravens constantly tried to batter their way through with the physicality of centre Mike Davies, scrum–half Lloyd O’Connor and young flanker Bill Carey exemplifying this approach.

Bridgend Athletic would like to thank all those who came along to support their teams and extend their gratitude to all Athletic members who helped with the organisation of the day. Well done to all!

The Athletic travel to Corus next Saturday whilst the Ravens play Felinfoel in an attempt to notch up their first win of the season. It doesn’t get any easier in this league!

The club would like to thank former Athletic players Phil Pook and Mike Rees of SDL Partitions Ltd for sponsoring the fixture.

District League Div 1

Tonmawr 2nds 22  Bridgend Athletic 2nds 22

Bridgend Athletic 2nds travelled to Tonmawr for their first league match of the season. They expected a tough encounter after last seasons games and were proved right

Tonmawr pressurised from the start and had the greater of territory and possession. Slightly against the run of play a turnover involving flankers Aled Guy and Matthew Hillman resulted in the ball being spread across the back line for winger Levi Jenkins  to race in for a fine try. Tom Cole narrowly missed the conversion. Tonmawr replied scoring from a rolling maul to make the score 7points to 5  Tonmawr dominated early in the second half with a try, penalty try and a penalty to leave the Athletic trailing by 22 pts to 8. However the Athletic did not give up and started to gain the upper hand. Possession started to flow and two devastating breaks by man of the match, flanker Ben Howe resulted in first prop Matthew Norman crossing for a try and then Tom Penry Ellis in close support scoring under the posts. Tom Coles converted both to level the scores

Abercynon RFC 26 v Bridgend Athletic RFC 33

Sat. 15^th August 2009

Bridgend Athletic travelled to Division 2 East Abercynon for the first of three pre-season fixtures on Saturday. Despite having more than 30 players at every training session, injuries and unavailability meant that only twenty-six players made the trip and this was reduced to 23 when Mike Hathaway, Rod Davies & Jamie Doherty all succumbed to injury in the warm-up.

The early exchanges were little more than a case of both sides feeling their way until, from a lineout, Athletic�s Stuart Morris attacked the defensive line and a well timed popped pass to Hywel Davies put the centre in space. He made forty metres before passing inside to supporting flanker Ben Howe whose inside pass saw fellow flanker Tom Morgan gallop over from twenty metres out. Morris converted.

Athletic continued to exert pressure and looked particularly dangerous through full-back Lindsay MacCausland on the counter-attack when Abercynon cleared their lines. But it was Abercynon who struck back after retaining possession through a number of phases. The home team won a lineout 15 metres from the Athletic line and drove a maul determinedly towards the try line. The maul was pulled down and the referee, Mr Lewis, awarded a penalty try. The conversion levelled the scores at 7a-piece.

The remainder of the first half-hour period of three saw a great deal of ineffective kicking by both sides to see out time.

The second period proved far more entertaining and Bridgend Athletic started strongly. The ball was moved well and a penalty kick to touch set up a lineout which was driven forward dynamically. From the resulting maul Stuart Kenny�s loose pass was cleaned up by Tom Goodwin who made the ball available and it was quickly transferred to fellow centre Rob Coles who broke a tackle and passed inside to the supporting Morris who touched down close to the posts and also succeeded with the conversion.

The Athletic were in control now and continued to probe their opponents defence which stood firm and when the ball was lost in the tackle Abercynon kicked ahead, the bounce defeated MacCausland and Abercynon pounced to score an unlikely try. Ath continued to attack and another break by Coles again supported by last year�s successful Youth captain Ben Howe saw Tom Penry-Ellis in his trademark position reach out to score as he was tackled just short. Morris again converted.

Further Athletic pressure from a scrum allowed Howe to grab the loose ball and pass inside to fellow flanker Aled Gray to cross over wide out. The Athletic relaxed and it was Abercynon�s turn to disrupt an Athletic put-in resulting in a penalty which the home team kicked to touch 20m from the corner. Once again they set up the driving maul and again the Atrhletic were powerless to stop their opponents scoring. The conversion made the score Abercynon 19 Bridgend Athletic 26 at the end of the second period.

Abercynon made a determined start to the third period and spent some time camped on the Athletic line but determined and aggressive defence drove the home team out of the danger zone. Unfortunately the Athletic conceded a few silly penalties which allowed Abercynon to continue to exert pressure but once again the visitor�s defence was strong. When Abercynon tried to slide a kick behind the Athletic the ball was blocked, Sean Williams dived on the loose ball and off-loaded to captain Simon Mustoe who kicked ahead. Wing Chris Harries won the chase for the touchdown although Rob Coles may have been guilty of a little nudge on the covering full-back. Morris converted well from wide-out.

The lack of match fitness was certainly telling on both teams at this stage although the Ath continued to try to attack and Coles was denied two opportunities as passes were called back by the referee. It was Abercynon who finished strongly and another period of sustained pressure allowed the centre to wriggle free of a tackle to score the last try under the posts.

Final Score Abercynon 26 Bridgend Athletic 33

This was a good run-out for both sides and the Athletic clearly have strength in depth in the back-row and at prop despite being without one of last season�s stalwarts Tim Lunn who is recovering from a head injury. All at Bridgend Athletic wish Tim a speedy recovery.

Match Reports 2008 - 2009 

IST XV - SWALEC LEAGUE DIV 2 CHAMPIONS

SWALEC CUP - 5TH ROUND

2ND XV - DISTRICT LEAGUE DIV 1 CHAMPIONS

2ND XV - DISTRICT CUP WINNERS

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 10 Tondu 2^ND XV 6

District League Div 1 Play Off Final � Sat May 9th

In a repeat of the previous week�s District League Cup Final the same two sides Bridgend Athletic and Tondu 2^nd XV�s contested the District League Division 1 play off final at The Old Parish ground Maesteg.Again it was a nail biting affair with the result in the balance until the final whistle. The outcome was the same with the Athletic following up a 9-7 win in the Cup, with a 10-6 win in this League final.

The Athletic started with their oldest ever front row with a combined age of 123 years, and forced to actually play three props in the front row. Senior prop Jeff Bartle assumed the hooking role supported by Nigel Hemmings and the youthful 38 year old Adrian Kelly. The Athletic had the best of the early play with the pack dominating the more youthful Tondu eight. However, when influential No 8 Gareth Bartlett was sent to the sin bin Tondu took advantage and pressed the Athletic. Their pressure paid off with a penalty kicked by outside half Jonathon Humphries. The Athletic were then struck a blow, when following a break, their leading try scorer Richard Dyke pulled up with a hamstring injury to be replaced by Johnny Nation. The return of powerful No 8 Bartlett led to a series of barnstorming runs and good support from the fellow back row forwards flankers captain Liam Griffiths and Owain Davies put the Athletic on the front foot. Lock Huw Morris supported by Tom Howells was giving a master class in the line out, enabling half backs Stuart Kenny and Sean Owens to keep the Athletic going forward. On the half hour Owens levelled the scores with a well struck penalty from 42 metres. The remainder of the half was a fairly even affair.

The Athletic refreshed from their half time break again took the initiative. Having destroyed a Tondu scrummage close to the Tondu try line, they were awarded a penalty 5 metres out. Captain Liam Griffiths opted for a scrum. With the Athletic going for a pushover try Tondu infringed to prevent the try, and the Athletic were awarded a penalty try. Owens converted to bring his points tally to 131 for the season.

Tondu responded with a second Humphries penalty to reduce the deficit to 10-6 with 25 minutes left to play. As the Athletic pack tired the younger Tondu side took control. For the remainder of the match it was desperate defence from the Athletic to keep out Tondu, as their young back division sought to find an opening. Full back Chris Thomas stopped at least two certain tries. Centres Carle Ellis and Johnny Nation and wings Simon Stoker and Chris McGrath also tackled heroically. Injuries saw the Athletic forced to use threee more substitutes as wing Andrew Tyler, Flanker James Groom and prop Ian Holman joined the rear guard action. The introduction of Holman actually increased the front row�s combined age by a year.

Despite their best efforts Tondu failed to breach a very determined defence, and the Athletic were relieved to hear the final whistle and return down the valley with their second trophy in a week.

The Athletic 2^nd XV would like to thank coach Tony Griffiths, Team Manager Ian Holman, Baggage man Andrew Morgan and Club Secretary Roy Huntley for their support during the season.

In all during the season the team played 16 fixtures winning 13, losing 2 and drawing 1.They accumulated 458 points for with 217 against, and a favourable try tally of 65-23.

Sean Owens was the leading points scorer with 131. Richard Dyke and Chris Thomas were leading try scorers with 7 apiece, others were  Sean Owens 5, Simon Stoker and Gareth Bartlett 4, and Chris Moody, Owain Davies, Carl Ellis and Chris Harris with 3.

Captain Liam Griffiths played in all 16 fixtures, followed by Tom Howells 15, Adrian Kelly 13, Andrew Guy, Nigel Hemmings, Stuart Kenny, Chris McGrath 12,Sean Owens, Chris Thomas, Gareth Thomas, Richard Dyke and  Huw Morris 11. In all 70 players turned out for the 2^nd XV.

Kidwelly 19 Bridgend Athletic 27

Swalec League Div 2 West � Sat May 2^nd

The sun certainly shone on Bridgend Athletic on Saturday May 2^nd. That day will certainly go into the record books as the most successful single day in the club�s playing history. The 1^ST XV were presented with the Div 2 West Champions Cup following their win at Kidwelly, the 2^nd XV won their District Cup Final against Tondu and the Youth A side added the District Cup to their Webb Ellis Welsh Youth Cup and Ospreys Div  A Champions Trophy following a win against Porthcawl. Also the newly formed Athletic Youth B side won at Pencoed to give them a chance of winning their league.

The already promoted to Div 1 West Athletic 1^ST XV went to Kidwelly needing victory to put the icing on the cake to go up as League Champions. Their task was formidable with Kidwelly a very much in form side and in 3^rd position in the league. They had only lost two home fixtures all season � the last defeat being six months ago. Kidwelly certainly produced the goods on the day matching the Athletics� 15 man approach in a game that was a delight to watch, and in doubt until the 75^th minute. In truth the final margin of 27-19 in favour of the Athletic could easily have been reversed with the chances created by both sides.

 Kidwelly drew first blood with a 5^th minute penalty from outside half Leighton Walters. This was cancelled out by Athletic outside half Stuart Morris responding in kind in the eighth minute. Morris then kicked his second penalty to bring up 500 league points for the Athletic. Walters and Morris then exchanged further penalties to put the Athletic 9-6 ahead. With the open style of play from both sides it was surprising no tries had been scored. Kidwelly had failed to turn two clear overlaps into points, and Athletics� centre Hywel Davies had three times cut through the home side defence, which then recovered in time to prevent the Athletic scoring. This situation was rectified in the 38^th minute. Kidwelly crossed the Athletic line only for superb defence by flanker Chris Whitcombe, preventing the ball being grounded. However from the resultant scrum Kidwelly made a number of forward charges before lock William Russel finally broke the try deadlock. Walters converted. From the restart Kidwelly were penalised and Morris slotted his fourth penalty with the final kick of the half to leave Kidwelly 13-12 ahead at half time.

The Athletic enjoyed the advantage of a fairly stiff second half breeze and applied early pressure.5 minutes into the half the Athletic were awarded a five metre scrum. Solid scrummaging from props Rod Jones and Wayne Fookes gave the scrum impetus allowing No 8 Dan Apsee to pick up and drive into the home defence, locks Jamie Doherty and Jonathon Stoker also made probes before quick ball via the half backs saw full back Robert Evans (the son of former Welsh full back Gwyn Evans) take the ball on the burst to cross for a try on his Athletic debut. Morris converted to put the Athletic 19-13 ahead. In a two minute spell from the 55^th minute the game was then turned on its head. Firstly scrum half Sean Owens was sin binned for a technical offence, then two minutes later his captain hooker Simon Mustoe was also yellow carded and joined him in the bin for another technical defence. Walters punished the Athletic for both offences with two penalty goals to level the scores.

With only 13 players it was backs to the wall and sheer guts and determination needed by the Athletic to keep Kidwelly out. Every man jack in the Athletic side despite looking tired from three games in a week gave their all. None more so than wing Johnny Nation who twice faced with three players, made such determined hits on the man in possession, that he was unable to release the overlap players. The Athletic were forced to reorganise bringing on prop Tim Lunn and sacrificing lock Stoker to cover Mustoe in the bin .They weathered the storm and when restored to 15 men took the lead. Morris for the umpteenth time in his 18 year Athletic career again came up with the goods, slotting a 40 metre penalty from the touchline to bring up a personal 239 points for the season.. Morris was again the hero with 5 minutes remaining and Kidwelly deep in Athletic territory. He received the ball and found touch a few metres from the Kidwelly try line, with a monstrous 65 metre clearance kick. Outstanding flanker Sean Williams not for the first time in the match stole the line out possession from Kidwelly. The ball was handled by all the Athletic back line through half backs Owens and Morris, centres Davies and Tom Goodwin and finally full back Evans and right wing Lyndsey  McCausand who put left wing Nation over in the corner for his sixth try of the season. With 5 minutes remaining and two scores ahead at 27-19 the Athletic supporters could now relax a little. Kidwelly would not lie down and for the remainder of the game tried their best to be party poopers, but the Athletic defence held firm. Replacement back John Dohery and flanker Matthew Hillman also featured during the game. Morris who played throughout with a painful hamstring was given the Man of the Match award. Flankers Sean Williams and Chris Whitcombe, hooker Simon Mustoe and centre Hywel Davies were also in contention, though all 18 players used played their part in an excellent well refereed advertisement for Welsh rugby.

Sportingly the Kidwelly team stayed on the field to applaud the Athletic during their presentation of the Div 2 West League Champions trophy by a representative of the WRU.

What a difference a year can make. Last May there was despondency in the club as they lost the final game of the season to also lose their Division 1 West status. Working with 90% of the same squad coaches Paul Yardley, David Williams and new coach former Wales B centre John Apsee, along with new Team Manager Paul Hearne restored self belief in the squad, and maintaining the Athletic philosophy of 15 man rugby, guided the team back to Division1of the Swalec Leagues.

The club would like to dedicate this achievement to the memory of life member, club treasurer and fixture secretary Barrie Morris, the father of outside half Stuart, who followed and contributed massively to the Athletic Club, with both on and off field administration for many years, before passing away in February this year.

Finally on a happier note the club would like to congratulate Lee Byrne on becoming the first person to represent the Athletic and become a British Lion. Lee played in all age groups from Under 9 to Under 16, the Youth team and a season and a half in the 1^st XV before his talent saw him move onto Llanelli, the Scarlets, Ospreys and Wales  via another local club Tondu. Lee presented his second Wales jersey to the club, and is always willing to turn up and present prizes at functions. We wish him personally and the Lions all the success in South Africa.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 9pts      Tondu 2^nd XV 7pts 

Enoch Lewis Mid Glamorgan District Cup Final � Llanharan � Sat May 2^nd 

^{The Mid Glamorgan District cup final was a closely fought match between probably the two strongest teams in the district. The sides meet again, next Saturday at Maesteg RFC in the district league play off final, Tondu 2nds at the top of the league and Bridgend Athletic 2nds in second place. The Athletic pressurised in the opening quarter but resolute defence by Tondu restricted the Athletic lead to two penalties by Carl Ellis.  It looked as though the Athletic were beginning to control the match as their scrum and lineout began to dominate. However, Tondu rallied and finished the first half by far the better team. An astute kick by Tondu full back M Dyke caused all sorts of problems in the Athletic defence resulting in Dyke intercepting a hurried clearance to score under the posts. Dyke converted to make the half time score 9 pts to 7 in favour of Tondu.}

^{The second half followed a similar pattern with the Athletic exerting the most of the pressure, but were frustrated in gaining momentum due to the Tondu defence.  Barn storming runs by Lee Grabham, Chris McGrath and Tylan Mafi regularly broke the gain line but momentum was halted by the Tondu cover defence. . Athletic substitutes Gareth Bartlett and Huw  Morris also made an impact but the only score of the second half was a third penalty by Ellis. Tondu had the final chance to win the match with the last kick of the match with a penalty kick at goal. Thankfully for the Athletic the long range attempt went wide of the posts allowing the Athletic team to celebrate a hard fought victory and lift the district cup.  On the result of this match next Saturdays league decider should be a cracker. Man of the match elected by the District was the Athletic outside half Richard Dyke}   

Bridgend Athletic 41 Cwmafan 3

Div 2 West � Swalec League � Tues 28^th April

Bridgend Athletic return to Division 1 West following a 41-3 win over Cwmafan. They top the Div 2 West table with 74 points, with fellow promoted team Builth Wells on 72 points. Both sides conclude their season�s this Saturday May 2^nd. If the Athletic win at Kidwelly they will be promoted as champions. The Athletic have hit form at the right time scoring 114 points and conceding only 28 in their last three fixtures. They have from 21 games played scored 496 points for 284 against with 65 tries for and 31 against

Despite the score line the Athletic were made to battle throughout against a big Cwmafan eight. Outside half Stuart Morris kicked three penalties in the opening quarter. The game was tight with Cwmafan responding with a penalty in the 38^th minute from scrum half Gareth John. A typical moment of Athletic magic then turned the game. Centre Robert Coles was given the ball on his own 22 and beat six players in a mesmerising run before offloading to the supporting No 8 Dan Apsee to race the final 20 metres to the try line. With the final kick of the half Stuart Morris converted to put the Athletic in the box seat at 14-3.

Outstanding lock Sean Williams charged down a kick ahead on his own 22, regathered and fed hooker and captain Simon Mustoe. Mustoe ran into the 22 and set up quick ball. Half backs Sean Owens and Morris moved the ball quickly and flanker Chris Whitcombe threw out a long pass eagerly seized on by full back Lyndsey McCausland who raced over for his eleventh try of the season. Sean Owens converted to put the Athletic 21-3 ahead. Excellent scrummaging by the front row of youth team prop Matthew Norman, Mustoe and prop Wayne Fookes put pressure on the Cwmafan scrum on the Athletic 22. From poor possession centre Hywel Davies intercepted and ran to half way before handing on to speed merchant Robert Coles to run in his 17^th try of the season. Owen converted and added a penalty to stretch the Athletic lead to 31-3.

The Athletic then introduced youth team No 8 Tom Morgan for his senior debut. One of his first acts was to pick up from a 5 metre scrum and force his way over for a debut try and gain his team a bonus point. This quickly became a brace of tries as he supported a Mustoe break to cross in the corner for the Athletics� fifth try.

All 19 players used contributed to the win. Youth prop Matthew Norman up against a heavier opponent was outstanding in loose and tight and will be a much needed acquisition in Div 1 West next season. Scrum half Sean Owens in his second appearance at scrum half again showed excellent speed of the mark, strength in being able to hold the ball under pressure and the ability to get the back line moving. All these attributes have helped the backs to be able to express their talent.

Bridgend Athletic 37 Loughor 15

Swalec League � Div 2 West � Sat April 25^th

Coming into this game Loughor and Bridgend Athletic were 2^nd and 3^rd in Div 2 West � both on 64 points. Loughor led on try count, but with the Athletic having two games in hand. Loughor had won the reverse fixture by 15-13.They were also boosted by the return from injury of their influential captain former Bridgend scrum half Steve Wake.

The coaches had been working hard in recent weeks on the forwards providing quick ball to play 15 man rugby at a very high tempo. All this work bore fruition as all 19 players used stuck to the plan and the bigger and heavier Loughor outfit could not live with the pace of the game. The Athletic turned in their best performance of the season running in 6 tries to win by 37 points to 15. The Athletic now need to win one of their remaining games at home to Cwmavon on Tues April 28^th and away to Kidwelly on Sat May 2^nd to return to Div 1 West at their first attempt. Winning both games will guarantee they go up as champions of Div 2 West.

Instrumental in the plan was the massive influence of lock Sean Williams in the pack and young scrum half Sean Owens making his first actual start in a game this season. Owens showed no respect for reputations as he tore huge holes time and again in the Loughor defence with his speed off the mark, and provided his half back partner the highly experienced Stuart Morris with quick possession to release the potent Athletic back division. Last week�s Welsh Youth Cup winning full back Mike Hathaway also started a senior game for the first time this season, and showed he will be challenging next season for a first team spot.

Within 5 minutes of the start centre Robert Coles had twice broken through the away defence � but try scoring passes failed to go to hand. Morris broke the deadlock with a penalty goal. Quick thinking by Owens inside the Loughor 22 saw him take a quick penalty and release Morris who broke two tackles to cross wide out for his ninth try of the season. Outside half Craig Bamfield reduced the deficit with a penalty. The Athletics� second try was a joy to watch. Slick interpassing in midfield by centre Hywel Davies and No 8 Dan Apsee saw Owens released. When stopped close to the line the whole Athletic eight drove him forward for lock Jonathon Stoker to hand on to flanker Chris Whitcombe to dive over. Morris converted to put his side 15-3 ahead. Just before half time the Loughor pack gained a foothold in the Athletic 22 and wing Rory Saunders took a pass on the burst to cross under the posts. Bamfield�s conversion was the final act of the first half, to reduce Loughors� deficit to 15-10.

The Athletic again started the second half in whirlwind fashion and were awarded a penalty in front of the posts inside the Loughor 22. Eyebrows were raised when hooker and captain Simon Mustoe elected for a scrum. From the scrum the Athletic continued to press. All looked lost when Loughor gained possession and cleared from their line. However, wing Lyndsey McCausland gathered theclearance 35 metres out on the touchline and ran strongly before interpassing with fellow wing Rod Davies and diving over in the corner for his tenth try of the season .Mustoe�s faith in his fellow front row colleagues props Rod Jones and Alun Minifey and his decision to keep their forward momentum had been justified .Replacement wing Tom Goodwin then got in on the act. Some excellent forward play involving prop Rod Jones and flanker Matthew Hillman saw the backs released and Goodwin diving over in the corner for his first try of the season, and securing a bonus point with his side�s fourth try. The Athletic used their remaining replacements with lock Jamie Doherty, prop Tim Lunn and flanker Stephen Chappell coming on fresh. Loughor responded with a pushover try from their large pack to bring them back into the game at 25-15.Having got the feeling of crossing the whitewash Goodwin then repeated the act. Flanker Chris Whitcombe charged down an attempted clearance kick and fed Owens. The back line was released with Goodwin again diving over in the same corner spot. The Athletic continued to press with Sean Williams, Dan Apsee and replacement lock Jamie Doherty influential and from a five metre scrum quick ball saw win Rod Davies cross from a training ground move Morris converted to bring up 450 league points for the Athletic in 20 games.

It is all to play for in the remaining two games this week, with Division 1 rugby beckoning next season.

While the prospect of facing Bridgend in Div 1 West next season beckons, the club genuinely hopes that Bridgend can rally and win their two remaining fixtures this season, and retain their Premiership status. It will be a sad day for the borough with no side in the Premiership.

The club would like to thank Mr Steve Fuller of Fuller Automotives and Mr Ian Pelsoe for sponsoring the fixture.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 36 Llanharan 2^nd XV 12

District League Div 1 � Sat April 25^th

Bridgend Athletic defeated their Llanharan counterparts by 36 points to 12 to qualify for the final league play off against Tondu on May 9^th at the Old Parish, Maesteg. This weekend May 2^nd they also play Tondu in the final of the District Cup at Llanharan. The Athletic have recorded a league double over Tondu � but that will count for nothing in one off games with trophies at stake.

The Athletic played 10 league games winning 7 losing 2 and featuring in a 28-28 draw at Llanharan earlier in the season. Captain Liam Griffiths team have 298 points for with 168 against and a favourable 41-17 try differential. Griffiths and lock Tom Howells played in all 10 league games. Half back Sean Owens is leading points scorer with 126. Richard Dyke and Chris Thomas have scored 7 tries apiece, Owens has scored 5 tries and Gareth Bartlett and Simon Stoker 4.

In today�s game coach Tony Griffiths and Team Manager Ian Holman selected what is  expected to be the bulk of the side that will feature in the two games with Tondu. Athletic try scorers were prop Wayne Fookes, Lock Lee Grabham, flanker Gareth Batlett, outside half Richard Dyke, full back Chris Thomas and centre Carl Ellis. Ellis converted two of the tries and full back Chris Thomas accounted for a third conversion.

Bridgend Athletic 33 Gorseinon 7

Swalec League � Div 2 West � April 18^th 2009-04-19

Bridgend Athletic received a major pre match boost prior to the game with news that their Youth side had won the Webb Ellis Welsh Youth Cup Final for the second time in three years, following a 30-18 win over Whitland at the Millenium Stadium.The Athletic 1^ST team then brought their promotion aspirations back on track with a bonus point 5 try 33-7 victory over Gorseinon.

The coaches had worked during the week on the pack hunting as eight and hitting rucks and mauls to secure quick ball for the Athletic backs. This paid off with four first half tries to put them 26-0 ahead at half time. The first came after 15 minutes when a series of probing attacks resulted in the ball moving along the line for No 8 Dan Apsee to put centre Robert Coles clear for his sixteenth try of the season.Outside half Stuart Morris converted. Following further forward pressure outside half Stuart Morris made an excellent break and handed on to the supporting flanker Chris Whitcombe to cross under the posts. Morris added the conversion. Coles then made a 50 metre run from inside his own half to put wing Nick Hinton over for his ninth try of the season, and bring up 400 league points for the season. Morris converted. The bonus point try soon followed as No8 Dan Apsee picked up from a 5 metre scrum and created space for scrum half Hywel Davies to squeeze over in the corner to give the Athletic their half time 26-0 advantage.

The front row unit of props Carl Gregory and Rod Jones and hooker Simon Mustoe were solid in set piece and providing ball from the loose. Lock Jamie Doherty was also prominent along with flanker Chris Whitcombe and No 8 Dan Apsee.Outside half Stuart Morris and full back Lyndsey McCausland were both prominent in attack and defence.

Gorseinon showed plenty of spirit after the break. Their pack upped their game, but was aided by some of the Athletic 8 forgetting their first half work ethic, preferring to stand out amongst the back division rather than concentrating on their ball winning role. One of the forwards who remained in their true position prop Rod Jones was rewarded with the Athletics� fifth try. Morris converted to bring up his 200^th point of the season. Goprseinon were rewarded for their efforts with the final try of the game from outside half Andrew Steel converted by scrum half Dan Wilcox.

The club would like to thank Mr Evan David for his continuing support in sponsoring the fixture.

Next Saturday the Athletic entertain fellow promotion contenders Loughor and on April 28^th host Cwmavon in a 6.30pm kick off. They then conclude their season with a trip to Kidwelly on May 2^nd.

At present Builth Wells have 68 points from 20 games, the Athletic and Loughor have 64 points from 19 and 21 games respectively. Others with an outside chance of promotion are Kidwelly on 57 points from 19 games and Ammanford  53 points from18 games. The Athletic have it in their own hands to secure promotion, starting with the opportunity to kill off Loughor�s challenge at home this Saturday.

All players from both senior squads are requested to be changed  ready in Newbridge Fields next Saturday April 18^th at 1.15pm for Team photos for season 2008-2009.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 56 Nantyfyllon 2^nd XV 6

District League � Sat April 18^th

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV kept their chances of winning the District League alive with a seasonal double 56-6 victory over their Nantyfyllon counterparts. The forwards laid the platform for the backs to run in seven of the eight tries. The front row of veteran props Adrian Kelly and Nigel Hemmings and hooker Gareth Thomas were prominent in the tight and loose.

Athletic try scorers were centre Chris Thomas 2, wing Simon Stoker 2, outside half Sean Owens, scrum half Stuart Kenny, flanker Andrew Guy and wing Chris McGraph.Sean Owens converted 5 of the tries and kicked 2 penalties to move his second team seasonal tally to 121 points.

The 2^nd XV  have reached the final of the District Cupwhere they will play their Tondu counterparts on Sat May 2^nd.

Builth Wells 37 Bridgend Athletic 0

Swalec League Div 2 West � Sat April 11th

Builth Wells and Bridgend Athletic started the game level on 59 points apiece and following a low scoring 9-7 Athletic home win, the Ahletic were hopeful of coming away with a result. However, for only the second time this season they failed to gain any points from a fixture as the home side romped home with 5 tries in a comprehensive 37-0 victory.

The game was competitive for the first quarter with both sides having opportunities to score. However some poor tackling let in Builth for their opening try. This raised their game and they took control up front, with a good line out and rolling maul. At half time they led 18-0.

The Athletic with very limited possession were trying to run the ball from deep inside their own half � but came up against a well organised defence. The team could not be faulted for effort- with captain Simon Mustoe and lock Jamie Doherty the pick of the pack - but came up against a side on top of their game.

It is still all to play for at the top Builth Wells have 64 points, Loughor 63 and the Athletic 59. This Saturday Builth and Loughor play each other, while the following Saturday the Athletic entertain Loughor. The Athletic have a game in hand on Builth and two games in hand on Loughor

The team have to raise its spirits this Saturday, when they entertain Gorseinon, which on paper the Athletic should win. However, it is not on paper that games are decided.They have to declare the Builth game a bad day at the office and start afresh their promotion challenge.

Gilfach Goch 2^nd XV 10 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 50 

Friendly � Sat April 11^th 

Bridgend Athletic 2^ND XV turned around 10-10 at half time and then put in an excellent 15 man second half display to run out 50-10 winners in a friendly at Gilfach Goch..

Lock Huw Morris, No 8 Lee Grabham and flanker Liam Griffiths provided good quality ball. In outside half Sean Owens and centre Richard Dyke the Athletic have a blend of youth and experience that Gilfach could not handle. Lock Ryan James playing out of position at centre and wing Chris McGraph were both very powerful runners.

Sean Owens scored two tries and added 4 conversions. .Chris Mcgraph crossed for two tries and added a conversion. Richard Dyke, full back Paul Miles, wing Andrew Tyler and flanker Liam Griffiths crossed for one try apiece.

Bridgend Athletic 17 Waunarlwydd 20

Swalec League � Div 2 West � Sat April 4^th

Bridgend Athletic suffered a hangover from playing a third game within the space of 7 days. Midweek they had gone 4 points clear at the top of Division 2 West following a Tuesday night 24-18 victory away to Cwmavon. Waunarlwydd who they had comfortably defeated away earlier in the season, followed up a victory over previous table leaders Builth Wells by defeating Bridgend Athletic by 20 points to 17.

It was a strange starting line up for the Athletic showing 5 changes from the side that won the previous Saturday at BP. The Athletic were playing like a team of strangers. Waunarlwydd were dominating possession, when against the run of play the Athletic opened the scoring on the half hour mark. From a line out on the Waunarlwydd 22 the ball was slipped from scrum half John Doherty to inside centre Hywel Davies. Davies broke through a number of tacklers before handing on to captain and hooker Simon Mustoe to cross for his seventh try of the season. Outside half Stuart Morris converted and kicked a penalty right on the stroke of half time to give his side a 10-0 interval lead.

Waunarlwydd with the breeze at their backs soon reduced the deficit to 10-3 with a penalty from outside half Lee Jones. The same player took advantage of an Athletic mistake running the ball out of their own 22 to race over for a converted try to level the scores. Another Athletic mistake saw centre Matthew Watts race clear under the posts. Lee Jones added the conversion to put Waunarlwydd 17-10 ahead.

At last the Athletic introduced their regular flanker Chris Whitcombe, lock Jamie Doherty and centre Tom Goodwin into the game. Second team prop Gareth Thomas also came on. This had an immediate impact on the Athletics performance. They started to gain the initiative up front and Goodwin helped the back line move more smoothly. A series of forward probes sucked in the Waunarlwydd defence allowing lock Dan Apsee to cross for his first try of the season. Morris converted to level the scores at 17-17. It was all Athletic pressure now � but Waunarlwydd broke out of defence and won a penalty which Jones converted. During the last five minutes the Athletic were also awarded two penalties. Unfortunately Morris saw both efforts including the last kick of the game bounce back into play off the uprights. Instead of two points for a drawn game the Athletic had to content themselves with a single losing bonus point.

This Saturday the Athletic visit fellow promotion candidates Builth Wells whom they narrowly defeated 9-7 at Newbridge fields in the reverse fixture. Only the right selection and a major effort from all the squad will suffice to defeat the Bulls on their own turf. Intriguingly Builth Wells, Loughor and Bridgend Athletic share top spot with 59 points apiece, but the Athletic have a game in hand. Over the next three weekends all three teams play each other.

The club would like to thank joint Match Sponsors Mr Andrew Jenkins of A.J. Tarmac and Mr David Howells of David Howells Transport for sponsoring the game.

Cwmavon 18 Bridgend Athletic 24

Swalec League � Div 2 West � Sat Tues 31^st March

Bridgend Athletic went to the top of Div 2 West with a bonus point 24 -18 mid week victory away to Cwmavon.

Athletic tries were scored by Robert Coles, Marc Bennett, Lyndsey McCausland and Rod Jones. Stuart Morris converted two of the tries.

BP Llandarcy 18 Bridgend Athletic 20

Asda Lague Div 2 West � Sat March 28^th

Bridgend Athletic boosted their promotion aspirations with a very hard-fought for 20-18 win at BP Llandarcy. This win completed a seasonable double over probably the best set of forwards they have faced in the league. The club now have 53 points with Loughor and Builth Wells both on 54 � but having played two more games than the Athletic. The Athletic have still to play Builth Wells away and Loughor home. One of the fixtures in hand is away to Cwmavon on Tuesday March 31^st � so by this coming weekend the Athletic could head the table.

The opening try of the game came after 10 minutes and was down to the efforts of Athletic captain hooker Simon Mustoe. He charged down an attempted kick ahead on half way and with the Llandarcy back division in pursuit ran half the length of the field to dive over in the corner for his sixth try of the season.. The coaches deny they had strategically placed a can of strongbow at the spot he scored. Outside half Stuart Morris landed an excellent touchline conversion against a tricky breeze to put the Athletic 7-0 ahead. Indiscipline querying a refereeing decision cost the Athletic three points, as outside half Danny Jones landed an easy penalty inside the Athletic 22.

Five minutes before half time quick possession from a ruck saw the ball reach centre Tom Goodwin via half backs Hywel Davies and Morris. Goodwin, the best Athletic back on the day, threw a dummy and broke through the home defence on a side stepping run before unselfishly putting wing Rod Davies over under the posts. Morris converted to stretch the lead to 14-3. However on the stroke of half time the powerful Llandarcy pack at last breached the best defence in the league. They went through a remarkable 17 phases to crack the Athletic, resulting in a try for flanker Matthew Phillips. Jones converted to cut his side�s deficit to 14-10 at half time.

Morris kicked an early second half penalty to extend the Athletic lead to 17-10. However the Athletic were making an uncharacteristic series of unforced errors. A number of dropped passes and wayward kicks and failure to appreciate taking the ball back into the 22 before kicking to touch. This gave the Llandarcy forwards  a number of opportunities to try and repeat their first half try by going through the phases inside the Athletic 22.Fortunately man of the match flanker Chris Whitcombe and his fellow back row forwards Dan Apsee and Matthew Hillman were on top form, and along with the rest of the team�s excellent tackling managed to keep their line in tact.

Jones did reduce the Llandarcy deficit to only 4 points with a second penalty, before Morris also kicked his second penalty to extend the lead to 20-13. Another direct kick to touch from just outside the Athletic 22 again led to a period of Llandarcy pressure inside the Athletic 22. This time they sucked the Athletic defence into the rucks and created space to create an overlap for their full back to cross in the corner for a 78^th minute try. Fortunately the conversion from the same spot as Morris first half effort did not have the same result, and the Athletic held out for what could be a defining fixture in the season.

Following a mid week away fixture at Cwmavon, the Athletic welcome Waunarlwydd to Newbridge Fields this Saturday. Waunarlwydd visit on the back of defeating league leaders Builth Wells last Saturday.

Kenfig Hill 5 Bridgend Athletic 27 

Semi Final � District Cup � Sat March 28^th

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV deservedly reached the Final of the District Cup defeating their Kenfig Hill counterparts by 27 points to 5.

The forwards provided the platform controlling both the set pieces and loose with flanker Owain Davies outstanding. The backs took full advantage with a series of attacks with players running at the home defence from all angles. Centre Tylon Mafi was prominent.

The four Athletic tries came from Owain Davies, No 8 and captain Liam Griffiths, full back Johnny Nation and centre Tylon Mafi. Scrum half Sean Owen converted two tries and notched a penalty.

BRIDGEND ATHLETIC 38 PENCLAWDD 3

ASDA LEAGUE � SAT MARCH 7^TH

Bridgend Athletic were lucky to come home with a win at Penclawdd,but on a day when conditions were not ideal for running rugby the supporters were treated to an excellent game of rugby from an Athletic side featuring five changes from the Pencoed game, and although the score suggests an easy win Penclawdd kept coming at the Athletic from start to finish and only outstanding defence kept them from scoring.

Penclawdd kicked off with a stiff breeze behind them, within minutes of the start the Athletic won a line out on the Penclawdd 22 ,the forwards initially drove the ball forward before releasing the ball to the backs who created the overlap for Mark Bennett to score out wide.Both sides were creating periods of pressure and an infringement at the ruck gave a penalty to the Athletic,which Stuart Morris kicked to take the lead to 8 points. Back came Penclawdd and Paul Tucker the Penclawdd outside half kicked a penalty goal after an Athletic infringement. The Athletic were awarded a penalty from the kick-off which Stuart Morris converted to take the score to 11-3.Both sides were playing good rugby and the scores remained the same until 2 minutes before half time, when  centre Tom Goodwin on his own 10 metre sold a dummy to his opposite number and raced up field to be tackled inside the Penclawdd 22 from the ruck the ball was recycled and driven up to the Penclawdd 5 metre line, an infringement by Penclawdd gave away a penalty which Simon Mustoe took quickly and drove over for a try to give the Athletic a 16-3 half time lead.        

The Athletic now had use of the wind and they quickly used it to their advantage to pin Penclawdd into their 22 and from a forward drive the ball was again worked to the backs to who put Rhodri Davis clear to dive into the corner, which Stuart Morris converted. The Athletic tails were up now and were exerting constant pressure on Penclawdd and with good ball provided to the backs Rob Coles was able to make a break to put Mark Bennett in for his second try to take the score to 28-3.         

Penclawdd now entered a period of pressure and only resolute defence kept them out. From one such attack inside the Athletic 22 Rhodri Davis ripped the ball from the Penclawdd players to set up an Athletic attack. The ball was worked to Hywel Davis who made ground before passing to Dan Apsee who carried the ball to halfway before releasing Rob Coles to outpace the defence for the fifth try of the match. The final score of the match came from the boot of Stuart Morris who kicked his third penalty of the match at the final whistle.

Flanker Chris Whitcombe was voted Man of the Match for the Athletic.

Bridgend Athletic 16 Pencoed 26

Asda League Div 1 West- Sat 28^th Feb 2009

Pencoed gained revenge for an earlier season home defeat by deservedly coming away from Newbridge Fields with a 26-16 victory.

Both teams observed a minute�s silence before the game in respect of the passing of club stalwart Barrie Morris, whose funeral took place the day before. His son outside half Stuart was a late withdrawal from the side with a hamstring injury. This denied him the chance of linking with his former partner John Doherty, who was recalled to the side following scrum half Luke Hopper�s travels to America for the remainder of the season. In his place Youth team outside half Craig Baker was given a senior debut. Two other late withdrawals saw Youth full back Mike Hathaway play on the wing and Youth utility forward Matthew Norman take his place on the bench, and come on as a second half replacement. Another Youth team debutant was prop Lewis Davies brother of centre Hywel and only the late withdrawal of another brother Rod prevented 3 brothers starting together.

Outside half Mark Davies put the visitors ahead on 15 minutes. Within a minute Baker responded in kind with his first senior points for the Athletic. Almost straight from the restart the Athletic conceded another penalty for Davies to restore the Pencoed lead. Davies and Baker exchanged further penalties before on the stroke of half time Baker dropped a neat goal to leave the sides tied at 9-9 at the interval.

Pencoed then scored the first try of the game in rather fortuitous circumstances. An attempted drop goal from Davies was sliced badly wide. The ball landed in the Athletic in goal area and took an enormous bounce sideward over the head of an Athletic defender before coming to rest just inside the in goal touchline. Pencoed wing Glen Hiscocks was alive to the situation and nipped in to touch down. Two more Davies penalties stretched the visitors lead to 20-9. A rare Athletic excursion into Pencoed territory saw a slick move involving centre Hywel Davies and lock Sean Williams combine to put Baker over for a try under the posts. He added the conversion for a remarkable sequence of penalty, try conversion and drop goal on his senior debut.

The Athletic were being pinned in their own half. Despite a number of strong runs by centre Robert Coles they were generally well marshalled by the Pencoed defence. Often in moving the ball inside their own 22 players became isolated and this resulted in conceding a sixth penalty from Davies and a last minute drop goal for a match haul of 21 points to deny the Athletic a losing bonus point.

The Athletic pack will have to have a good look at itself. Only hooker and captain Simon Mustoe, lock Sean Williams and flanker Chris Whitcombe stepped up to the plate on the day. Scrum half John Doherty looked after his young partner Baker taking the responsibility of poor possession on his own shoulders. Baker showed that long term the outside half position will be in good hands, while centres Hywel Davies and Rob Coles showed on the few occasions they received good possession what a threat they could have been.

The club are grateful to Kelly and Gary Reffell of Cabo Roche Wine Bar for sponsoring the game and Alan Howell for sponsoring the Match Ball.

This Saturday 7^th March the Athletic entertain Penclawdd hoping to get their season back on track.

Bridgend Athletic 20 Ammanford 25

Asda League � Sat 31^st Jan

Ammanford R.F.C arrived at Newbrdge fields as one of only two sides to have beaten the Athletic this season and left having completed a double,but the Athletic team and coaching staff were left wondering how the game got away from them after scoring five tries but having two tries ruled out for forward passes.                                                             Ammanford kicked off with a stiff breeze behind them and quickly took advantage of the wind as the Athletic found it difficult to clear their lines,and this allowed Ammanford outside half Bromham  to score close to the post and convert his own try.from the restart the ball was kicked directly to touch and form the scrum an infringement by the Athletic led to a penalty which was converted by bomham.At this point the Athletic got their driving and running game together and a great drive by Simon Mustoe set up a ruck and the ballwas passed out for Lee sims to dive over Carl Ellis converted to bring the score to 7-10.Unfortunatly for the Athletic,Ammanford scored again just before half time,a kick over the the Athletic defense held in the wind and Ammanford centre Gareth Jewel gathered the and raced for the line amazing defense by John Nation and Robert Coles held the centre up over the line,but from the scrum a Ammanford set up a series of rucks and were able to drive over Jewel for a try converted by Bronham.                                                                                          With the wind behind them in the second half the Athletic were soon on the board from a penalty by Ellis. Despite having a try disallowed the Athletic kept pressing and and a fine break from halfway byLinsay McCausland led to a rty scored by Rhodri Davies in the corner to bring the scoreto 15-17. Despite huge pressure from the Athletic and another disallowed try after a searing run from the base of the scrum       by Dan Apsee   and Luke for Rhodri Davies to dive over in the corner only to be called back for a forward pass.Ammanford then were able to set up a lineout 10m out from the Athletic line after a kick return was sliced into touch and from the pressure set up by their forwards replacement centre Jason Lewis came from deep to receive     a short pass which allowed him to slip between two defenders to score out wide.The Athletic were not finished and Robert Coles made a break from inside his own half and raced to the Ammanford line and handed on to Lee Sims in support to dive over which brought the score to 20-22.A late penalty from Ammanford became the final score.                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Saturday 31^st January 2009

Pencoed RFC 2ndXV  7      Bridgend Athletic RFC 2^nd XV   48

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV proved too strong in this district league match against their Pencoed counterparts. The Athletic stated their intent from the start launching attacks from all parts of the field and raced into a quick 10 point lead. Pencoed responded with well worked try to bring the score to 10- 7 and the prospect of a close encounter looked on the cards with the home side spending long periods close to the Athletic line. However, this was not to be as the Athletic absorbed the pressure  and then started to dominate all phases running in tries from Lee Grabham, Richard Dyke, Joe Williams, Simon Stoker (2) Shaun Owens and Tom Morgans. Shaun Owens kicked 2 conversions and 3 penalties.

Bridgend Athletic 7 Swansea 35

5^th Round Swalec Cup � Sat Jan 24^th

All 21 players used by Bridgend Athletic could walk away from their 5^th Round Swalec Cup tie with their helds held high. Their 35-7 loss to Premiership rivals Swansea was as good as any other Div 2 or Div 1 club�s performance on the day against Premiership rivals.

Prior to the game a minute�s silence was observed by the Athletic senior and youth sides and their opponents Swansea and Merthyr Youth. This was in respect for former Athletic coach Alan Griffiths who died suddenly the previous weekend.

The Athletic started brightly and strong running centre Hywel Davies was causing problems to the opposition defence. From one of the openings from his surging runs a dropped pass prevented an early Athletic breakthrough. Both sides were playing 100mph rugby, with the ball seeing plenty of air. The first score was thirty minutes coming when Osprey�s scrum half Rhodri Wells slipped over from a tap penalty following a 5 metre line out. Outside half James Dixon converted. Quick thinking taking a lineout to himself on his own 22 saw Athletic wing Lyndsey McCausland run strongly along the touchline over half way. A well timed inside pass to centre Robert Coles saw the Athletic flier race the remaining 40 metres to cross under the posts. Outside half Stuart Morris converted. The last 5 minutes of the half involving the Swansea linesman saw two controversial decisions go against the Athletic. First scrum half Luke Hopper � having his best game for the Athletic- started a move 35 metres out and was on the end of it to dive over in the corner for what looked like a very good try to all Athletic supporters in that area of the pitch. However, a late flag indicated he had put a foot in touch! Two minutes later the same linesman flagged a foot in touch from a ruck on the Athletic 22. Swansea played on and were awarded a penalty. Wells took it quickly and raced over unopposed with the Athletic still expecting play to be recalled for a line out. However, the flag was no longer raised. Dixon converted and the Athletic instead of a potential 14-7 half time lead, found themselves adrift by the same margin.

This was a cruel blow to the Athletic as they had matched Swansea in most areas in the first half. The scrum with props Wayne Fookes and Tim Lunn and hooker Simon Mustoe standing their ground against much heavier opponents was solid. Locks Jamie Doherty and Jonathon Stoker competed again with more physical opponents. Athletic Man of the match flanker Sean Williams and No 8 Dan Apsee were outstanding throughout. Flanker Lee Sims showed considerable courage to battle on with an injured bicep.

Salt was rubbed into the Athletic wound as two minutes into the second half No 8 Stephan Jones dived over from a 5 metre tap penalty award. Dixon converted to stretch the lead to 21-7.Thoughts of a rout came to mind � but Simon Mustoe�s team continued to play and fight as though the score was still 0-0.Following an excellent crunching tackle from wing Nick Hinton, full back Simon Evans and flanker Sean Williams combined on a surging run, but the move was halted just short of the Swansea try line. A good flowing Swansea move after 55minutes saw wing Leigh Bevan cross for a fourth Swansea try � again converted by Dixon. The Athletic rang the changes. Outside half Stuart Morris, centre Hywel Davies and flanker Lee Sims were forced to leave the field through injury. They were replaced by Johnny Nation, Rod Davies and Chris Whitcombe. Tactical changes saw props Alan Minifey and Carle Gregory and flanker James Davies also take the field. The new recruits did not lessen the Athletics� efforts � but Swansea had the final word when their replacement scrum half Phillip Tucker stole over in the closing stages for the visitor�s fifth try, converted by Dixon.

The Athletic coaches and management were delighted with the battling and skilful performance of the Athletic team. Their tackling was outstanding. Backs coach John Apsee is convinced the experience and performance on the day will give the team the confidence and self belief to succeed in their quest for promotion from Division 2 West this season. This starts with a home fixture this Saturday against Ammanford. On a wet and windy Friday night last November, Amanford were the first side to defeat the Athletic this season with a narrow 13-7 win.

The club are grateful to Mr Jerome Matthias of Centre Great for sponsoring the fixture. They would also like to thank all at the club who worked so hard to set up the field, provide catering at the field and refreshments and food in the clubhouse. As well as the team they all helped the day to be a memorable occasion for the Athletic.

Mumbles 0 Bridgend Athletic 18

Swalec League � Div 2 West � Sat 17^th Jan 2009

Bridgend Athletic recorded a seasonal double over Mumbles with an 18-0 away victory, to compliment the earlier home 27-10 win. With leaders Builth Wells losing at Ammnaford Loughor and the Athletic move ahead of them on the same number of points 43 at the top of the table. However, Loughor are top by virtue of scoring more tries.Builth Wells trail by two pints in third position.

Both sides had been inactive for three weeks and it showed particularly in the first half. The Athletic playing up the slope had far more possession and territory, but a combination of errors and good Mumbles defence limited them to a 3-0 half time lead courtesy of a Stuart Morris penalty.

The pattern was largely repeated at the start of the second half. However, the Athletic elected to play well inside the Mumbles half. Long clearances from defence by outside half Stuart Morris and full back Simon Evans kept Mumbles deep inside their own territory. Mumbles did try and break the stranglehold by opting to run out of defence and worryingly for the Athletic did on occasions break the first line of defence � but rarely got beyond the Athletic 10 metre line.

Mumbles had been warned about persistently killing the ball and their centre was finally yellow carded and Morris kicked his second penalty. Two minute later on the hour the Athletic at last breached the Mumbles defence. Full back Simon Evans fielded a clearance kick about 60 metres out, and set off on a jinking run into the Mumbles half. Wing Lyndsey McCausland carried on the move before linking with prop Rod Jones who found flanker Lee Sims on his shoulder to cross near the posts. Morris converted to bring up his 150^th point for the season.

With 10 minutes remaining the ball was worked away by scrum half Luke Hopper to outside half Morris. Clever interplay between Morris and centre Hywel Davies saw Morris throw a long pass to wing Lyndsey McCausland. McCausland did well to pick it off his toes at speed and beat three men before passing back inside for Morris to cross in the corner. This brought up the 250^th league point for the Athletic in 11 games. It also moved Morris onto 8 tries alongside McCausland , Simon Evans and Nick Hinton in pursuit of centre Robert Coles 12 seasonal tries.

Head Coach Paul Yardley was generally pleased with the way the Athletic played, following the long lay off, in controlling territory and the patience shown by the pack in retaining possession. Flanker Lee Sims was voted Man of the Match, while full back Simon Evans, wing Lyndsey McCausland and strong running centre Hywel Davies were the pick of the backs.

This Saturday Jan 24^th the Athletic have a plum home 5^th Round Swalec Cup Tie against Swansea, in a match sponsored by Centre Grate. On the adjacent pitch the Youth have a Welsh Youth Cup Tie against Merthyr � so Newbridge Fields should be bouncing that day.

This will be the second time the club have met Swansea in a Cup Tie. Back in 1989 they went down 28-6 after only trailing by 6-3 with 15 minutes to go. The club have also met Cardiff, Newport and Maesteg away in the equivalent competition. In the only home tie againstpremiership opposition they recorded a famous victory over Newbridge. Every Ath player will have to play at the peak of their game to eeat this feat - but history shows that on the day everything is possible.

Bridgend Athletic RFC

Season 2008-2009 - Review Sept - Jan 3

All Bridgend Athletics� weekend fixtures fell victim to frozen pitches, including a home local derby with Pencoed.

At virtually the mid point of the season the Athletic are in a handy position to push for one of the two promotion positions to regain Division 1 status.

Builth Wells top the Division 2 West table with 40 points, with Loughor and the Athletic both one point adrift on 39.All three teams have played 10 games and there is clear daylight with the fourth placed team. The Athletic have defeated Builth Wells 9-7 at home � but lost 15-13 away at Loughor.

In the league the Athletic have played 10, won 8 and lost 2 fixtures with 232 points for and 112 against, and a favourable 30 -12 try tally. In all competitions they have played 16, won 14, lost 2 with 490 points for and 170 against, with a favourable try tally of 71-18.They have reached the 5^th round of the Swalec cup and have a plum home tie against Swansea on Jan 24^th.Previously the Athletic have played Swansea, Cardiff and Newport away in the same competition, and claimed the scalp of Newbridge at home. Hopefully another home giant killing act can take place this season. With enough ball they possess a back line that on its day can trouble any defence.

This year�s coaching set up comprises head coach Paul Yardley, forwards coach David Williams and backs coach John Apsee.

Three players lock Jamie Doherty, prop Wayne Fookes and hooker Simon Mustoe, in his fourth consecutive year as captain, have played in all 16 fixtures, while lock Sean Williams, prop Tim Lunn and centre Hywel Davies have only missed one game. Prop Tim Lunn and scrum half Luke Hopper are new comers to the club � while Jamie Doherty has made the step up this season from second team rugby.31 players including Youth Team members Matthew Norman, Ben Howe and Mike Hathaway have turned out for the first XV this season. There is keen competition for places in most positions.

Outside half Stuart Morris is the leading points scorer for the club with 143 points � including 7 tries. Centre Robert Coles has crossed for 12 tries with full back Simon Evans and wings Lyndsey McCausland and Nick Hinton having crossed the whitewash on 8 occasions. Simon Mustoe with 4 tries is the leading forward try scorer.

The 2^nd XV have won 6 of their 8 games played to date. For the first time the Athletic are running two Youth Teams and have 50 players on their books. The �A� Squad captained by Welsh International flanker Ben Howe are unbeaten and top Div A of the National League. The �Rags� are mainly last season�s Under 16 side and are unbeaten in the league and top their League Div G. The Mini & Junior Section with teams from all age groups fro 7-16 are as strong as ever � both on and off the field.

Following a disappointing 2007-2008 season when the senior club were relegated in the final match of last season, there is a new feel good factor in the club. The team now have it within their own destiny to regain their Div 1 status.

Loughor 15 Bridgend Athletic 13

Div 2 West - Sat Dec 27th � 2008

Second placed Bridgend Athletic visited third placed Loughor � but a narrow 15-13 defeat saw their positions reversed. However both sides are now on 39 points � just one point behind leaders Builth Wells. All teams have played 10 fixtures to date.

The Athletic started brightly but failed to take their chances. Loughor on their first in road into the Athletic 22 used their heavier pack to good effect. They went through a number of phases keeping it tight before their experienced captain scrum half Steve Wake dived over for the first try. Outside half Peter Smiriglia added the conversion. The Athletic were enjoying more possession, but unfortunately poor tactics and an off day from both half backs failed to get their back line moving effectively. Loughor did make a break out of their half and only a great try saving tackle from centre Robert Coles saved the day for the Athletic. In the final minute of the half Loughor again kept it tight in the Athletic 22 and No 8 Neil O�Kelly dived over from a quickly taken tap penalty to put Loughor 12-0 ahead at half tme.

The Athletic were again enjoying better possession in the second half. Stuart Morris put their first points on the board with a 30 metre penalty. The Athletic attacked from deep. Wing Lyndsey McCausland made ground, before handing on to full back Simon Evans. Evans looked like he was going to cross in the corner � but was halted by a last ditch tackle. From the ruck scrum half Luke Hopper fed outside half Morris who found hooker and captain Simon Mustoe on his shoulder to plunge over for his fourth try of the season. Morris added the conversion to reduce the deficit to 12-10. Shortly after this the Athletic were reduced to 14 players with lock Jonathon Stoker sent to the sin bin. Despite this the Athletic continued to attack and were rewarded with another penalty which Morris slotted to put the Athletic 13-12 ahead.

The lead was short lived as centre Ben John kicked a Loughor penalty to put the home side 15-13 ahead. Playing with 14 men the Athletic found it difficult to get the possession required to mount serious attacks on the Loughor line. They were also electing to play from deep � when putting the ball up field into the home 22 may have proved more productive with the chance of a kickable penalty. However, in the final minutes they did have opportunities to move the ball wide with Loughor props and second rows opposing the Athletic back division � but to the consternation of the travelling supporters and coaches they elected to keep the ball tight and eventually lost both possession and the opportunity to head the table.

For the Athletic flankers Sean Williams and Lee Sims along with Mustoe stood out in the pack � while wing Lyndsey McCausland was the most potent among the Athletic back division.

Head Coach Paul Yardley said� I was disappointed by our decision making on the day, which I feel ultimately cost us the game. Coaches can set a game plan � but rely on players on the day to have the vision to make it work and make correct decisions in match situations.�

This Saturday Jan 3^rd the Athletic face a tricky local home derby match against in form Pencoed. The earlier fixture at Pencoed saw the Athletic narrowly win by 10 points to 3.The club are grateful to Kelly and Gary Reffell of Cabo Roche for sponsoring the fixture.

Bridgend Athletic 72 Chepstow 3

4^th Round Swalec Cup � Sat Dec 20^th

It was Christmas come early for the Athletic as they sailed into the fifth round draw of the Swalec Cup, scoring 11 tries in a 72-3 victory over Chepstow. It was the third 50 point plus win in the competition, and they have so far registered 200 points for and only 30 against in the four rounds to date.

The Athletics� first try came after 5 minutes. From a ruck scrum half Sean Owens fed outside half Stuart Morris. A long missed pass saw full back Simon Evans enter the line at pace to break the defence and hand on a scoring pass to wing Lyndsey McCausland.Morris converted and added a penalty to put the Athletic 10-0 ahead. Chepstow responded with a penalty from lock Ian Griffiths. Full back Simon Evans gathered a clearance kick on his own 10 metre line. He then seemed to ghost through the Chepstow defence in an amazing run before again providing McCausland with his second try. Next came a very popular try. From a ruck 25 metres out lock Jamie Doherty, an ever present in his first season of 1^st XV rugby, picked up and ran strongly to cross for his first Athletic try. Slick passing between half backs Owen, Morris and Coles in a narrow 5 metre area inside the touchline, saw Coles put wing Johnny Nation clear on a thirty metre dash to the try line. Morris and Coles were again instrumental in releasing Nation a few minutes later for his second try and fifth of the season, in only three starts. Morris converted. The sixth and final try of the half ended a try drought for centre Robert Coles as he ran 60 metres for his eleventh try of the season. Morris converted to put the Athletic 39-3 ahead at half time.  

Chepstow had pressurised the Athletic line for the final 10 minutes of the first half and again started the second half in the same vane � mainly using their large pack as battering rams. However, they encountered a determined and well organised defence. The back row of Lee Sims, Chris Whitcombe and James Davies and Morris acting as an extra forward were determined to keep their line in tact. Locks Doherty and Jonathon Stoker were disrupting the away side line out, with the front row of Wayne Fookes, Simon Mustoe and Tim Lunn and his replacement Alan Minifey not giving ground to a heavier Chepstow pack The Athletic weathered the storm, before adding to their try tally. A flowing back move saw centre Hywel Davies creates space to release McCausland on a thirty metre run for his hat trick. Coles then ran in his second try, before Simon Evans after providing two earlier tries, crossed the line himself. Morris converted the three tries to bring up the sixty point mark.

By now three Youth players lock Matthew Norman, flanker Ben Howe and centre Mike Hathaway had come onto the field of play. Hathaway and Howe making their senior debuts. Both were involved in the next Athletic try as Morris crossed for his seventh try of the season. Full back Simon Evans completed the try scoring with his second try of the game. He joins McCausland and Nick Hinton on 8 tries for the season. Morris converted for a match haul of 22 points � bringing his season�s total to 163.

The club are grateful to their Old Boys section for once again sponsoring the game.

This Saturday Dec 27^th the Athletic currently in second place in Div 2 West � 2 points adrift of leaders Builth Wells � but with a game in hand � visit third placed Loughor. There is a supporter�s bus for this fixture.

As a result of this important fixture the Club Boxing Day Extravaganza has been switched to Sunday Dec 28^th � only paid up members will be eligible to be entered into the free prize draw.

Gorseinon 8 Bridgend Athletic 31

Div 2 West - Sat Dec 13th � 2008

Despite scoring 5 tries to secure a bonus point 31-8 win at Gorseinon the players, coaches and supporters of Bridgend Athletic were overall very disappointed with the display. It was a case of after the Lord Mayor�s Show as the previous weekend the Athletic had halted top of the table Builth Wells unbeaten run, only to visit Gorseinon at the other end of the table and fail to motivate themselves to repeat their efforts of the previous week. This bonus point was the sixth in nine fixtures for the Athletic and moves them into second place within two points of leaders Builth Wells, but with a game in hand.

The Athletic attacked from the outset and in the seventh minute crossed for their first try. From a ruck inside the Home side�s 22 half backs Luke Hopper and Stuart Morris quickly moved the ball to centre Robert Coles, who rounded his opponent to present a try on a plate for full back Nick Hopson. In the thirteenth minute Morris chipped through and the ball ran over the Gorseinon goal line. It looked a routine minor, however the ball hit the full back�s leg and squirted away from him. Wing Nick Hinton was rewarded for his persistence in chasing a lost cause as he dived on the loose ball for the Athletics� second try.

The Athletic then failed to capitalise on this start. They allowed Gorseinon to attack. The Athletic boast the meanest defence in the league and with Man of the match Marcus Sinsbury, captain and hooker Simon Mustoe and lock Sean Williams to the fore they kept the Athletic line in tact. The Athletic were also guilty of trying elaborate handling moves from deep inside their own half, resulting in an unusual amount of errors and dropped passes which kept them under pressure. Gorseinon were finally rewarded with a 40^th minute penalty from full back Andrew Steel to leave the Athletic 10-3 ahead at half time.

The Athletic again started the second have in lively fashion and from a series of drives at the Gorseinon line scrum half Luke Hopper picked up and sprinted out wide to score his sixth try of the season. Morris added the conversion to put the Athletic 17-8 ahead. One of the Athletics� failings in concentration just after scoring struck again as Gorseinon went up field from the restart and No 8 Colin Steel drove over the line to reduce the deficit to 17-8.

At last an Athletic back move came to fruition. Centre Hywel Davies made a break from 45meteres out and threw a long pass to wing Nick Hinton. Hinton showed a clean pair of heels to race 35 metres and dive over in the corner for his second try of the game. Morris kicked the touchline conversion. It was also Hinton�s eighth try of the season and gained his side a valuable bonus point. Another excellent handling move resulted in a deserved try for centre Hywel Davies, who had constantly probed the home defence. Morris added the conversion to make the score 31-8. The game then deteriorated into a pattern less display from both sides, and it was a relief to hear the final whistle and retreat to the warmth of the clubhouse.

This Saturday Dec 20^th the Athletic entertain Chepstow in the 4^th round of the Swalec Cup, before visiting fellow promotion contenders Loughor on Sat Dec 27^th.

The Athletic Old Boys are sponsoring the Chepstow Cup Tie, and two of their most illustrious old boys Welsh Full back Lee Byrne and Wales U21 scrum half Rhys Webb are expected to attend.

Llantwit Major 2^nd XV 7 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 20

Friendly � Sat 13^th Dec

On a heavy pitch it took the Athletic 40 minutes to finally break the Llantwit Major defence when lock Tom Howells crossed for the opening try.

A brilliant 40 metre break from Youth flanker Ben Howe presented wing Rhodri Davies with the second try. Scrum half Sean Owens added the touchline conversion. Centre Johnny Nation gathered a clearance kick on half way and sprinted clean through the Llantwit Major defence to score the Athletics� third try. A Sean Owen penalty completed the Athletic scoring. Llantwit Major responded with a converted injury time try.

Ben Howe was nominated Athletic M.O.M.

Bridgend Athletic 9 Builth Wells 7

Div 2 West � Swalec League � Sat 6^th Dec

Builth Wells visited Bridgend Athletic boasting a 100% record with 8 wins from 8 starts and leading the table. The Athletic were in 3^rd place with 6 wins from 7 starts. In a very tight game it was the Athletic who prevailed with a very narrow 9-7 victory.

                                  From the kick-off the Athletic had the best of both territory and possession, and despite Stuard Morris crossing near the posts, the try was not awarded as the referee adjuged that the ball was held up. The Athletic continued to press and only a series of penalties relieved the pressure on the Builth line.  The deadlock  was broken after thirty minutes when Builth were penalised at a ruck on the Builth 10m line and Stuart Morris slotted over the penalty.Four minutes later he kicked another penalty after another Builth infringement which remained the only scores until half time.

The second half started as the first began with constant Athletic pressure,but the Athletic were wasting scoring chances they should have taken. Builth finally got out of their half and from a penalty on halfway they kicked for position and from the lineout set up a series of driving mauls and succeeded in crossing the Athletic line but the ball was held up. This resulted in a number of scrums on the 5m line which eventually led to a pushover try which was converted to put the visitors 7-6 ahead.

 From the restart the Athletic again went on the offensive and were again held out by stout defense, but from a kick out of  defense the ball was fielded by Lyndsay McCausland who passed the ball in-field to Simon Evans who promptly lined up a drop for goal from 35 metres which squeezed over the bar. This proved to be the final score despite a late penalty to Builth in the final minute which just dropped short. 

The victory moves the Athletic to 3 points adrift of Builth Wells � but have a game in hand.                                                                                                              

Caernarfon 18 Bridgend Athletic 22

3^rd Round �Swalec Cup

Having disposed of Blaengarw and Heol Y Cyw in earlier rounds, Caernarfon were looking to take a third borough scalp when they entertained Bridgend Athletic in the third round of the Swalec Cup. The Athletic were made to fight all the way to restore the prestige of the borough with a narrow 22-18 victory.

Caernarfon possessed a very good pack and made the Athletic fight for possession. From the kick off the Athletic put Caernarfon under pressure. They opened the scoring with a try from full back Nick Hopson who received the ball from a ruck 40 metres out, and crashed over in the corner. Outside half Stuart Morris converted to register 100 points for the season. Caernarfon came roaring back at the Athletic and scrum half Bryn Jones levelled the scores with a try converted by outside half Kelvyn Morris. With Stuart Morris in the sin bin the Athletic still contrived to play open rugby. From a scrum inside their own half scrum half fed Nick Hopson on the blind side. He fed wing Nick Hinton who sprinted 50 metres to restore the Athletic lead with his sixth try of the season. Caernarfon responded with their second try scored by No 8 Rhys Evans following a charged down kick to level the scores at 12-12 at half time.

The home side then took a 15-12 lead with a penalty goal fro Kelvyn Morris. Stuart Morris then also crossed for his sixth try of the season following another charged down kick, and his conversion put the Athletic 19-15 ahead. This lead was reduced to a single point with a second Morris Caernarfon penalty following a sustained period of pressure on the Athletic line. However the Athletic then picked up the pace and dominated the final quarter. With 5 minutes remaining Morris kicked a penalty to give his side a 22-18 advantage. The Athletic kept the home side pinned inside their own half for the remaining few minutes to enter the fourth round draw alongside the Premiership clubs.

Wing Nick Hinton was voted Athletics� �Man of the Match�, while flankers Chris Whitcombe and Marcus Sainsbury were the Pick from the pack.

Ammanford 13 Bridgend Athletic 7

Div 2 West � Fri Nov th � 2008

On a dark and dismal rainwept Friday night Bridgend Athletics� 10 match winning sequence was blown away at Ammanford. The home side were better able to use their sloping pitch and the elements to their advantage and ran out 13 � 7 victors.

The omens were not good for the Athletic when open side flanker Marcus Sainsbury was injured in the pre match warm up, forcing the Athletic to play with a hooker in the back row and without a recognised open side wing forward.  Their substitute options were also reduced from 4 to 3.

Ammanford started strongly and from early pressure from a line out scrum half Ioan Jones burst through a gap for the opening try. Outside half Dean Bronham converted and then kicked a penalty to put the home side 10 � 0 ahead.

The Athletic responded when centre Hywel Davies burst through a tackle for his opening try of the season. Outside half Stuart Morris converted. The Athletic were then disrupted by injuries. First full back Simon Evans left the field, then Davies with a bad cut followed. With only one back substitute the Athletic were forced to reshuffle and actually had three second rows on the field. Ammanford took advantage of the disruption and Bronham extended their lead to 13-7 with a second penalty.

The Athletic then exerted tremendous pressure to try and preserve their unbeaten record. However a combination of dropped passes, missed penalties and frantic defence by the home side kept them out.

The Athletic pack in general played well with a lot of line out ball won by the three locks used Sean Williams, Jonathon Stoker and Jamie Doherty.

This Saturday the Athletic face a long haul to Caernarfon for a third round Swalec cup tie. Caernarfon have defeated local sides Blaengarw and Heol y Cyw in the first two rounds, so the Athletic will be looking to restore the prestige of the borough.

WRU DIVISION 2 WEST � SAT NOV 1ST

WAUNARLLWYDD  15 BRIDGEND ATHLETIC 44

Third placed Bridgend Athletic travelled to 4^th placed Waunarllwydd for an important fixture between the two clubs, both with ambitions to return to Division 1.  The Athletic made a promising start showing its intent from the outset with its forwards taking the ball to the opposition and the backs looking sharp.  Other than a long range

Missed penalty into the wind from outside half Stuart Morris and exciting touchline interpassing between fullback Simon Evans and right wing Lindsay McCausland, it took 20 minutes for either side to score.

With both sides playing high tempo rugby, spectators were enjoying a treat, the away fans particularly enjoying a half break from the tightly marked centre Rob Coles.  He skipped the ball to wing McCausland who released it to full back Evans to cross out wide.  The lead lasted just a few minutes before Waunarllwydd outside half Lee Jones cleverly chipped over the visitors midfield for full back Jordan Clayfield to eventually scramble over in the corner. The Athletic immediately hit back with Evans second try.  From a lineout, a training ground move saw quick ball move to number 8 Dan Apsee before an excellent break from outside half Morris, released Evans to step inside his opposite number to score.  This time the influential Morris converted.

The Athletic pack  was performing well with young second row Doherty playing his  best game for the seniors with a towering performance in the line out and adept at taking opposition drop outs. His co second row Sean Williams was everywhere and a real thorn in the side of the home team.  Left wing Nick Hinton was equally powerful, running hard and bursting through tackles requiring more than his opposite number to halt him.  Playing such a fast and open game always leads to some risks and when home full back Clayfield intercepted in his own 22 metre area he transferred the ball to right wing and Waunarllwydd best player, Alan Pope, who scored under the posts to bring the scores to 12 -12.  Penalties from Jones and Morris left the score at an equal 15 points to both sides at half time and all to play for.

Again the visitors showed their intent from the off with lively scrum half Luke Hopper probing for opening. One such break put the visiting forwards into the corner, but they were thwarted from scoring by a knock on.  Wayne Fooks and John Stocker replaced Tim Lunn and Doherty early in the second half. After just five minutes Hopper was rewarded for his endeavour when he scythed through a gap to score. The Athletic back row of Marcus Sainsbury, Apsee and Chris Whitcombe were prominent both in attack and defence, quickly halting any counter attacking by the home team.  Classy Centre Hywel Davies was also having a fine game, constantly retaining possession and expertly off loading the ball to maintain Athletic attacks. Following a handling offence in the ruck Morris kicked another penalty to open the gap in the scores to 15 � 23 points.

Half way through the half Hopper broke through the ruck on the home 22 and sped to the corner to cross wide out.  The reliable Morris added the extra points.  By this time the Athletic pack was enjoying a period of dominance, something which does not happen often at this Swansea West Club.  Prop Phil Price was giving his opposite number a torrid time. With ten minutes remaining, strong running wind McCausland made a thrilling run before flicking a pass to the supporting Apsee who then passed on to Captain Simon Mustoe to dive over for his third try of the season to become the clubs leading forward try scorer. Second row Stoker who had joined the fray in the second half and who was having an excellent game, had earlier delivered an accurate cross kick for his backs to chase.

The final score came with just a few minutes remaining, when the industrious McCausland charged down the home full backs clearance kick to cross for the Athletics� 50 th try this season.Morris added the extra points, his clever use of the elements in the second half with a barrage of booming high kicks had put the home defence under extreme pressure.

This excellent bonus point away win will hopefully pave the way for another win away at Ammanford on Friday evening when the Bridgend team plays one of its games in hand. So far it a perfect 10 wins from10 starts this season, the club has scored 335 points and conceded 106.  Bridgend Athletic has another away draw in the cup this time in North Wales at Caernarvon. 

Unfortunately popular hooker Stuart Nation will miss the rest of this campaign following a shoulder reconstruction operation. Everybody wishes him well.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 9  Tonmawr 2^nd XV 23 

This was a  physical tight  encounter at Newbridge Fields which saw Tonmawr emerge vicorious. The Athletic led 9 points to 7 at half time thanks to three penalties from Sean Owens. They then conceded two tries in the second half, The first scored from an attempted drop goal which rebounded off an upright allowing Tonmawr to catch and drive over. 

Pick of the forwards were Vince Moody and Adrian Kelly while the Athletic man of the match was outside half Sean Owens 

New Dock Stars 9 Bridgend Athletic 56

2^nd Round Swalec Cup � Oct 25^th 2008-10-26

As in the first round Swalec Cup Tie against Cardiff Medicals the Athletic again notched up over 50 points. This time New Dock Stars, Llanelli were the recipients of a 10 try assault as the Athletic back line notched up ten tries between them, to record a 56-9 victory and progress to the third round stage of the tournament. To date the Athletic have won all 9 fixtures and notched up 291 points for with 91 against, and have crossed for 44 tries while only conceding 9.

New Dock Stars with the wind at their backs kicked off long into the Athletic 22. Scrum half Luke Hopper gathered and fed wing Nick Hinton. Hinton was halted, but from the ensuing ruck the ball was passed along the back line for full back Lyndsey McCausland to cross in the corner. Again the Athletic made use of New Dock Stars efforts to use the wind. This time hooker Scott Baldwin gathered a clearance kick and charged up field flipping a pass out of a tackle for wing Johnny Nation to cross for the Athletics� second try. The Stars reduced the deficit with a penalty from outside half Clark Jones. Jones then missed a second penalty attempt. From the resulting 22 drop out lock Sean Williams gathered and made good ground before the ball was transferred between the centres Hywel Davies and Nick Hopson for Hopson to cross in the corner. This was Hopson�s first 1^st XV game since transferring back to the Athletic from Maesteg. Stars responded with a second Clark Jones penalty.

Stars conceded a penalty from Athletic pressure 5 metres from their try line. Stuart Morris took a quick tap penalty and charged over for a try which he also converted. A few minutes later Morris crossed for his second try and fifth of the season, when he passed to centre Davies and looped around for the return pass. Clark kicked a third penalty to leave the Athletic 27 � 9 ahead at half time.

The Athletic pack were now well on top and from a ruck on the Stars 10 metre line the ball was passed to wing Nick Hinton who brushed off six tacklers to cross for his fifth try of the season. From the restart the Athletic forwards swarmed up field and forced a scrum 5 metres from the Star�s try line. The Athletic won the scrum and Morris put Hywel Davies over for his opening try of the season. Morris converted to extend the Athletic lead to 39-9.The Athletic then turned over the ball for Lyndsey McCausland to enter the line for his second try. The Star�s could not contain the rampant Athletic back division and great handling saw Johnny Nation claim his second try. Another excellent move saw Morris, McCausland and Davies put Nation over for his hat trick and the Athletic reach double figure tries. Morris converted to make the final score New Dock Stars 9 Bridgend Athletic 56.

This Saturday 1^st Nov the Athletic return to Asda League Div 2 West action when they travel to Waunarlwydd, before playing a rearranged league match at Ammanford on Fri Night Nov 7^th.

Saturday 25^th October 2008

Treorchy 2^nd XV 14 -  Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 44

 The Athletic 2^nd XV proved too strong in a friendly against their Treorchy counterparts and ran in 8 tries in a 44 to 14 victory

The Athletic 15 man approach resulted in tries being shared equally between backs and forwards, prop Gareth Thomas and flanker Owain Davies with a brace of tries each with further tries scored by centre Richard Dyke, wing Chris Harris (2) and full back Chris Thomas. Stephen Hughes converted two of the tries

In a very close choice, with many strong performances to choose from, No 8 Liam Griffiths was voted man of the match.

Bridgend Athletic 29 B.P.Llandarcy 3

Div 2 West � Swalec League � Sat Oct 18^th.

Bridgend Athletic maintained their 100% record in all competions this season with a bonus point winning 29-3 margin against BP Llandarcy. This leaves the club in 3^rd place in Div 2 West.� two points behind Loughor with a game in hand and seven points behind the only other unbeaten side Builth Wells � but with two games in hand.

Playing into a stiff breeze the Ath;letic soon showed their ambitions. Awarded a kickable penalty 35 metres out No 8 Dan Apsee took a quick tap penalty. Scrum half Luke Hopper fed outside half Stuart Morris. A long pass from Morris gave room to full back Simon Evans to step inside the full back and cross for his fourth try of the season. It also brought up the Athletics�100^th league point of the season. Morris converted. Morris extended the lead with a 15^th minute penalty. BP reduced the deficit with a penalty from outside half Chris Jones. An intricate passing movement involving half backs Hopper and Morris and centre Hywel Davies saw fellow centre Rob Coles make an inside break and race past the full back for his tenth try of the season. Morris converted to put the Athletic 17-3 ahead at half time.

Again a combination of half backs Hopper and Morris saw centre Davies scoop a pass off his toes and put wing Nick Hinton into space. Hinton rode a tackle on the try line to cross wide out. Morris again converted. An excellently placed grubber kick by Morris saw full back Evans gather and feed the supporting Hinton for his second try and fourth of the season. It also earned the Athletic a bonus point.

Although the score looks decisive the Athletic were made to �fight� for every point. BP played some good rugby, but unfortunately marred their performance with what can kindly be put as over vigorous play both on and off the ball. This saw them given two yellow cards and culminated in their lock and captain deservedly seeing red. The Athletic suffered one yellow for retaliation.

The Athletic pack stood their ground with impressive performances from flanker James Davies, No 8 Dan Apsee, lock Sean Williams and front row Simon Mustoe and Gareth Thomas making his first team debut. Prop Wayne Fookes , lock Jamie Doherty flanker Chris Whitcombe and wing Rod Davies also gave solid performances.

Following an off day at Penclawdd the backs were back to their best and both in attack and defence had the measure of their counterparts, resulting in them being responsible for all four Athletic tries. There is an air of confidence in the club this season with good competition for places. This was further enhanced this week by centre Nick Hopson returning from Maesteg and utility back Huw Williams signing after a stint at Rhosslyn Park while studying to become a doctor. Coach David Williams asked about the future said �let�s bring it on�.

The club would like to thank Mr J.H.Apsee & Sons for sponsoring the Match and Mr Carl Cerrigan for sponsoring the Match Ball.

Next Saturday the club visit New Dock Stars in Llanelli for a second round Swalec Cup Tie.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 23 Tondu 2^nd XV 8

District League � Div 1

Bridgend Athletics� 2^nd XV pack turned in a massive performance in aiding their team gain a decisive 23-8 victory over local rivals Tondu..

Flanker Owain Davies was named man of the match, while gaining good support from No 8 Marcus Sainsbury and Anthony Guy. Locks Neil Thomas and Lee Grabham  - both with considerable 1^st XV experience showed they could still play at that level. The front row consisted of Youth hooker Nathan Holman sandwiched between veteran props Nigel Hemmings and Adrian Kelly.

Full back Chris Thomas crossed for a brace of Athletic tries and the team were also awarded a penalty try. Outside half Stephen Hughes kicked two penalties, while young Nathan Holman converted the last minute penalty try.

Penclawdd 25 Bridgend Athletic 26

Div 2 West - Sat Oct 11th � 2008 

Sometimes you have to win ugly. This was an occasion when Bridgend Athletic found they were trailing 22-12 with 20 minutes left against a very abrasive Penclawdd team, who the previous week had come close to upsetting table leaders Builth Wells. The Athletic showed great determination despite playing well below their potential to fight back, and a converted try five minutes from the end by wing Rod Davies pulled the game out of the fire. It secured a winning bonus point with a 26-25 victory, and preserved the Athletics� season�s 100% winning record.

The Athletic got off to a good start. Wing Johnny Nation charged down a kick on half way, flanker Chris Whitcombe hacked through before outside half Simon Evans appeared to apply the final touches. Evans converted his own try. The Athletic failed to capitalise on this start and a period of stalemate was broken by a penalty for the home side by centre Robert Richards. Penclawdd then took the lead when Andrew Jarrett was driven over the line for a converted try. The lead was further extended when wing Rhys Eaton crossed in the corner. The Athletic immediately responded when outside half Evans made a break before handing on to centre Carle Ellis, scrum half Luke Hopper then moved the ball to No 8 Dan Apsee whose grubber kick ahead saw centre Robert Coles outpace the defence to dive over in the corner. This left the Athletic trailing 15-12 at the break.

Worse was to follow for the Athletic � attempting to run the ball out of defence - a dropped pass saw Penclawdd flanker Damion Williams pounce on the loose ball and cross for an opportunist try. The conversion by Richards stretched the home side�s lead to 10 points. Sensing an upset the Penclawdd supporters were cheering and encouraging their team to really get amongst the Athletic. The Athletic were dominating play � but rugged defence aligned to poor options and a number of handling errors frustrated the Athletic faithful. The introduction of impact players lock Jonathon Stoker and flanker James Davies breathed new life into the Athletic. Stoker making his first start of the season acted as a strong ball carrier, with Davies making strong tackles.

 At last the backs held onto the ball and good work by centre Carle Ellis and wing Johnny Nation saw Coles cross for his second match try, and nine in four consecutive games. Evans conversion brought the Athletic back to 22-19. Indiscipline during a rare home side attack led to a Richards�s penalty extending his side�s lead to25-19.

With time running out the Athletic were laying siege to the Penclawdd line. Hooker Simon Mustoe was leading his side by example driving hard into the home side�s defence. Finally Coles made an outside break and worked a neat scissors to put wing Rod Davies over under the posts. Evans added the conversion. The Athletic denied the home side possession in the final minutes to record a hard fought victory, without their customary attacking composure.

Flanker Chris Whitcombe was the Athletic M.O.M. with Simon Mustoe, Sean Williams and Dan Apsee prominent in the forwards and Luke Hopper and Johnny Nation the pick of the backs.

With Loughor surrendering their 100% record only the Athletic and Builth Wells now remain undefeated in Division 2 West.

This Saturday the Athletic entertain BP Llandarcy in a match sponsored by J.H Apsee &Sons..

Bridgend Athletic 36 Kidwelly 13

Swalec League � Div 2 West � Sat Oct 13^th

Bridgend Athletic continued their winning ways with an excellent 36 � 13 win against Kidwelly. The five tries they scored also secured a bonus point. The win moves the club to third place in the table with a game in hand on the top two clubs.

Facing a strong wind the Athletic pack rose to the challenge. Lock Jamie Doherty set the tone making an excellent catch from the kick off. The whole Athletic pack drove him forward, and they produced their best display of the season to deny Kidwelly the possession to take advantage of their first use of the elements. The scrum was solid with the front row of Wayne Fookes, Simon Mustoe and Tim Lunn also lively in the loose. Locks Doherty and Sean Williams won good line out possession. The Back row of Chris Whitcombe, Dan Apsee and James Davies were first to the loose ball.This first class possession allowed the backs to repeatedly cut through the Kidwelly defence.

 Athletic outside half Stuart Morris and Kidwelly wing Leighton Walters exchanged early penalties. The Athletic backs mainly through wrong options had squandered three guilt edged scoring opportunities, before their Man of the Match centre Hywel Davies again broke the first line of defence handing a try on a plate to co centre Robert Coles. Morris converted to notch up 50 points for the season. Next an excellent handling movement in which half backs Luke Hopper and Morris and lock Sean Williams were involved saw wing Rod Davies make an excellent 30 metre run before handing over to fellow wing Lyndsey McCausland who put hooker Simon Mustoe over in the corner. A loose Athletic clearance kick was gathered wide out by wing Leighton Walters. Walters lined up the posts and dropped an excellent 40 metre goal to leave the visitors trailing by 15 � 6 at half time and facing the elements in the second half.

A dropped pass under considerable pressure inside the Kidwelly 22 saw Morris pounce on the ball and hand a try scoring pass to Athletic full back Simon Evans.Morris converted. Another good back movement saw Coles cross for his second try (and seventh in three games) and secure a bonus point for his side. Morris converted. Kidwelly responded with No 8 Chris Eldred diving over from a 5 metre scrum. Walters converted.

The Athletic responded when veteran replacement No 8 Lee Grabham burst through the middle and handed on to flanker James Davies to cross under the posts. Morris added his fourth conversion..

The club are thankful to their Old Boys for again sponsoring a game. They also held a reunion afterwards at the clubhouse and enjoyed watching some old videos of themselves in Athletic shirts.

This Saturday the Athletic visit Penclawdd hoping to maintain their 100% record at the home of the cockle pickers in the Loughor Estuary.

Bridgend Athletic 50 Cardiff Medicals 0

Swalec Cup � Sat Sept 27th 2008

Bridgend Athletic maintained their 100% start to the 2008-2009 campaign with their fifth successive victory as they ran in 8 unanswered tries to defeat Cardiff Medicals 50 � 0 and progress to the 1^st Round stage of the Swalec Cup.

Last week�s hat trick hero centre Robert Coles was again on fire as he carried on his rich vein of form, crossing for two tries in the opening seven minutes. The second was a classic. Outside half Stuart Morris kicked high over the head of the Med�s wing. Ath winger Lyndsey McCausland caught the ball in full flight on half way and raced into the 22 before drawing the full back and giving an excellent inside scoring pass to Coles. Morris converted both tries. An excellent passing movement involving half backs Luke Hopper and Morris and centre Hywel Davies and Coles saw Coles make a break and turn try provider for wing Nick Hinton. The fourth Athletic try was scored by Morris who jinked and used his power to cross the try line and add the resultant conversion, to leave the Athletic 26-0 ahead at half time.

Flanker Scott Baldwin drove hard into the Medical�s defence to set up a ruck. Quick handling saw wing Lyndsey McCausland racing over in the corner. From a scrum inside the Medical�s 22 No 8 Dan Apsee picked up and fed the ball to scrum half Luke Hopper who bravely dived over in the corner. Unfortunately he was hurt in riding the tacklers and replaced by nineteen year old Shaun Owen making his 1^st XV debut. Owen nearly repeated Luke�s feat making an excellent blind side break, but was hauled down with the try line in sight.

The Athletic were not to be denied and hooker Simon Mustoe threw in a line out to lock Sean Williams and in a rehearsed blaster move took the return ball to drive through the defence to cross under the posts. Morris converted. Owen started the move for the final try on half way. Morris and Hywel Davies carried on the move before another Coles break provided last season�s top try scorer full back Simon Evans with his first try of this campaign. Morris converted to bring up the half century of points and reach 46 points for the season with a match haul of 15 points.

Coach David Williams was pleased with the performance to date of the team, but concedes there are still areas that need improvement. He was particularly pleased that the Athletic kept a clean sheet. Cardiff Medicals had had a number of scoring opportunities as they kept running at the Athletic throughout the game. Although the backs have scored 11 of the 12 tries in the last 3 games, without the forwards efforts they would not have the possession to unleash their undoubted talents. The starting front row of props Wayne Fookes and Tim Lunn and hooker Stuart Nation were always in the ascendancy in the scrums. Emergency lock James Davies had an excellent game supporting regular lock Shaun Williams. The back row of Dan Apsee, Chris Whitcombe and Scott Baldwin were always in the thick of the action.

The club are grateful once again to David Burt & the Friends of BARFC for once again sponsoring a club fixture. The sponsors awarded joint man of the match to scrum half Luke Hopper and his replacement Shaun Owen.

This Sat Oct 4^th the Athletic return to Div 2 West action at home to Kidwelly. The Athletic Old Boys are sponsoring the game and holding an Old Boy�s reunion at the clubhouse after the game.

28 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 5 Pencoed 2^nd XV 37

Div 1 District League

The Athletic 2^nd XV unbeaten record came to a halt as a beefed up Pencoed side ran out 37- 5 victors.

No 8 Gareth Bartlett scored the lone Athletic try. Captain Liam Griffiths tried his best to stem the tide and was Athletics� Man of the Match.

Bridgend Athletic 27 Mumbles 10

Swalec League Div 2 West � Sat Sept 20th 2008

Bridgend Athletic maintained their 100% start to the 2008-2009 campaign with a second successive Division 2 West league victory, following their two pre season victories over Div 2 East opposition. Centre Robert Coles took the plaudits with a hat trick of tries in a 27-10 victory over Mumbles.

Mumbles started brightly and applied early pressure, which the Athletic comfortably absorbed before countering and winning a penalty, which outside half Stuart Morris stroked over from 40 metres. From the restart Mumbles appeared to be on the way to crossing the Athletic try line, before flanker Lee Simms amazingly caught their wing a metre from the Athletic try line. Mumbles however were soon on level terms with a penalty from former Swansea outside half Lee Davies.

Ouside half Stuart Morris put a grubber kick ahead from half way. Athletic wing Rod Davies hurried the Mumbles defence into an error and centre Robert Coles was on hand to pounce on the loose ball and dive over. Morris converted. From a scrum on half way half backs Luke Hopper and Stuart Morris quickly transferred the ball to centre Carle Ellis. A clever rehearsed move with centre Coles, saw Coles race between two defenders and sprint 40 metres to the try line.Morris converted to put the Athletic 17-3 ahead at the break.

Mumbles hit back after the interval retaining possession for long periods. Following a number of phases they eventually created an opening for centre Jonathon Thomas to dive over. Wing Benny Fisher converted to reduce the deficit to 17-10. Mumbles continued to dominate possession at this stage. Former Fijian World Cup No 8 Kim Koloi was proving a handful. However the Athletic coaching team of John Apsee, David Williams and Paul Yardley have spent many pre season sessions concentrating on defence. This paid off as despite their monopoly on possession rarely was the Athletic try line in danger. When it was the excellent back row of Lee Simms, Dan Apsee and Chris Whitcombe were to the fore in preventing the last line being breached. Despite being outweighed the front row of Tim Lunn, Simon Nation and Wayne Fookes battled hard. Locks Sean Williams and Jamie Doherty hampered by a shoulder injury gave their all. Full back Simon Evan was again steady in defence dealing with some probing kicks ahead by Mumbles, and wing Rod Davies brought off a try saving tackle.

Mumbles eventually ran out of steam and ideas to break down the Athletic defence. The Athletic introduced some fresh legs with team captain and hooker Simon Mustoe, flanker James Davies and centre Hywel Davies joining the action. Morris increased the Athletic lead with a penalty. Another excellent back move created the third Athletic try. Centre Carle Ellis made a powerful run before handing on to half backs Hopper and Morris. Morris threw out a 20 metre pass to wing Nick Hinton who ran powerfully to within 5 metres of the try line before passing inside to the ever present Coles, who crossed for his try hat trick. Morris converted to extend the lead to 27-10.The Athletic had two opportunities to gain a winning bonus point, but a misplaced pass and finally a dropped pass with the last move of the game left them having to settle for four points instead of 5.

This Saturday Sept 27^th the Athletic host Cardiff Medicals in a preliminary round Swalec Cup tie. The following Saturday Oct 4^th they return to league action, when The Athletic Old Boys are holding a reunion and sponsoring the Kidwelly fixture.

Llanharan 2^nd XV 28 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 28

Div 1 District League

Two of the top sides in District Division1 Llanharan and Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV�s played out a thriller. Each crossing for four tries, with a last minute penalty try from Llanharan ensuring the spoils were even in a 28 all draw.

For the Athletic tries were scored by wing Chris Thomas and centres Johnny Nation and Richard Dyke. Dyke with 3 tries joins Robert Coles as the club�s leading try scorers. Outside half Saun Owens converted 2 of the tries and kicked 3 penalties.

McCausland and Nation (playing again following a long injury lay off) were awarded joint Athletic man of match rewards, while out of retirement No 8 Lee Grabham and his seond half replacement Gareth Bartlett were strong ball carriers for the Athletic. Coach Tony Griffiths said all 20 players used on the day were a credit to the Athletic.

Pencoed 3 Bridgend Athletic 10

Div 2 West - Sat Sept 13th � 2008

For the first time in four years local sides Bridgend Athletic and Pencoed renewed league rivalries. Such have been the changes in Athletic personnel that only current captain hooker Simon Mustoe, in his fourth season leading the side and his predecessor outside half Stuart Morris who was club captain for seven seasons, had played in the previous local derby. As expected it was a very hard fought game with the Athletic emerging 10-3 victors.

With the wind at their backs the Athletic opened up and dominated the early phases. After 10 minutes Stuart Morris opened the scoring with a penalty from half way. The Athletic backs were proving a handful forPencoed and on three occasions breaks from full back Simon Evans, centre Robert Coles and wing Nick Hinton should have led to tries. It was not until 30 minutes that the Pencoed try line was eventually breached. An excellent passing move involving Simon Evans, Hywel Davies, Luke Hopper and Sean Williams saw Stuart Morris bulldoze his way through the final 10 metres to the try line. He converted his own try to put the Athletic 10 � 3 ahead.

However, this spurred on Pencoed and they had much the better of the last 10 minutes of the half, resulting in outside half Jamie Murphy reducing the half time deficit to 10-3 with a well struck penalty.

The second half resumed as the first ended. Pencoed with wind advantage kept the ball up field inside the Athletic half. The Athletic were forced to mount a rear guard action to keep the home side out. The game was mainly fought at forward and half back as Pencoed were reluctant to spread the ball wide. On the few occasions they did they had no change out of centres Hywel Davies and Robert Coles or wings Nick Hinton and Rod Davies. Excellent defence by the whole Athletic 8 and half backs Luke Hopper and Stuart Morris won the day for the Athletic. The Athletic scrum with four front row forwards used props Wayne Fookes, Rod Jones and newcomer Tim Lunn and hooker Mustoe scrummaged well often turning the Pencoed scrum. The back row used  Dan Apsee, Chris Whitcombe, James Davies and replacement Lee Simms all tackled manfully to keep the home side out. There were glimpses of the Athletics� potent backline with Coles, Hopper and Hinton making strong runs � but found a well organised Pencoed defence lying in ambush.

Head Coach Paul Yardley stated � locks Sean Williams and Jamie Doherty were outstanding, while Mustoe and Morris were a strong influence on the team. Today was all about winning � performance secondary, and it was encouraging to see the boys dig in and grind out a win.�

Next Saturday the Athletic entertain Mumbles at Newbridge Fields, and are once again grateful to J.H.Apsee and Sons for sponsoring the fixture.

On Sat Oct 4^th the Athletic Old Boys are holding a reunion at the club and sponsoring the Kidwelly fixture.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 34 Maesteg Quins 2^nd XV 32

District League - Division 1

Following their success at Nantyfyllon the previous Saturday the Athletic 2^nd XV hosted another Llynfi Valley side Maesteg Quins. The outcome the was the same though on this occasion it took a late Sean Owens penalty to secure a very narrow 34-32 victory. They also again secured a bonus point following last week�s 7 tries with 5 on this occasion.

Richard Dyle came out of retirement to bag a brace of tries, with single touchdowns for Gareth Bartlett, Stuart Kenny and Sean Owens. Owens converted three of the tries as well as kicking the winning penalty for a match haul of 14 points to follow his twelve at Nantyfyllon. The Quins crossed for 3 tries and kicked one conversion and 5 penalties.

The entire Athletic team played well, with centre Owain Davies and prop Chris Cadogan making debuts, while centre Richard Dyke, prop Adrian Kelly and centre Richard Dyke have decided to come out of retirement and help out the Athletic 2^nd XV.

Nantyfyllon 2^nd XV 7 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 47

Distict League Div 1 � Sat Sept 6^th 2008

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV got their season off to an excellent start running in 7 tries to defeat their Nantyfyllon counterparts by 47 points to 7. The pitch at Maesteg park was in excellent condition unlike the Athletics� Newbridge Fields pitches which were completely submerged when the River Ogmore overflowed on Friday.This caused the postponement of the 1^st XV fixture with Cwmavon.

The first Athletic try came in the tenth minute. Lock Jack Whiskeard won a line out throw from Ath hooker Simon Mustoe. He returned the ball to Mustoe who looped around the back of the line out before giving a short pass to centre Hywel Davies to crash over. Outside half Sean Owens converted. Unfortunately Whiskeard then suffered a serious knee injury that held up play for 25 minutes while an ambulance arrived.

Scrum half John Doherty set his line in motion on half way. Hywel Davies and Sean Williams linked to send lock Tom Howells racing into the Nanty 22, before releasing flanker Aled Guy. Owens converted. Next fellow flanker Sean Williams picked up a loose ball and scampered home from 22 metres. Owens converted to give the Athletic a 21-0 half time lead.

A flowing back line move from half way saw centre Nick Ninton race clear for the Athletics� fourth try � again converted by Owens. Nanty fought back with a converted try from Mark Rees. The Athletic were now opening up play from all areas of the field and some excellent handling saw hooker Simon Mustoe and wings Rod Davies and Chris Harris cross for a further three Athletic tries. Owens converted two to record 6 conversions in the game.

For the Athletic full back Gareth Ruffel was sound in defence, while experienced scrum half John Doherty gave outside half Sean Owens an excellent service. The youngster took full advantage to dictate play with excellent line kicking and also bringing the three quarters into play. Props Gareth Thomas and Matthew Norman scrummaged very strongly against physically larger opponents. Replacement lock Ryan Evans was very mobile and No 8 and captain Liam Griffiths kept his side driving forward.

This Saturday Sept 13^th the 1^st XV travel for a Division 2 West local Derby at Pencoed.The 2^nd XV entertain Maesteg Quins at Newbridge Fields.

Abergavenny 14 Bridgend Athletic 38

Pre � season friendly Sat Aug 30^th - 2008

For their second pre season friendly the Athletic �took a trip up to Abergavenny and the weather was fine�. They met another Division 2 East side and followed their 19-14 win at Ynysybwl, with an excellent 6 try display in defeating Abergavenny by 38-14.

Abergavenny in contrast to the jumbo pack orientated Ynysybwl attempted to take on the Athletic at their own 15 man running rugby. The game was again played in 3x30 minute periods.

The Athletic coaching and management team can take a lot of positives from the two games when they start their league campaign at home in Division 2 West to Cwmavon this coming Saturday. New team manager Paul Hearne was �very encouraged for the coming campaign�.

From the players on view to date there is strength in depth in most positions. At full back Lynsey McCausland has turned in two excellent performances. Chris Thomas also produced a competent performance during his period on the field. Wings Nick Hinton and Chris Harris are mounting challenges to Rod Davies who returned after a long injury on the sidelines. The club were delighted to welcome back centre Robert Coles following a horrific rugby career threatening broken leg and ankle last January.

Robert showed courage and tenacity and with a few games under his belt should again pose questions of most defences in Division 2 West. Hywel Davies has also showed up prominently at inside centre in both games, while usual flanker Lee Simms and Carle Ellis have also shown they can challenge for a centre spot. At outside half Stuart Morris was rested as a precaution carrying a knee injury. In his absence Carle Ellis did a splendid job for two sessions. Also new scrum half Luke Hopper also showed his versatility by playing a session at scrum half and outside half � scoring a try in both games to date. Stuart Kenny also showed up well at scrum half.

In the front row new prop Tim Lunn showed he is a strong scrummager and can work alongside encumbants Wayne Fookes and Alun Minniffey. The Athletic will be looking to add to these three as over a long campaign it is necessary to have good cover in this vital position. There is keen competition at hooker between Simon Mustoe and Stuart Nation. In the second row last season�s regular Sean Williams is looking for a partner. Late rugby starter Jamie Doherty is looking to add to the long run of the Dohery family in an Athletic shirt. He has made huge strides in fitness and rugby skills since starting out with the second XV last season, and has the physical attributes required for a lock position. Matthew Norman and Tom Howells have also played in the trial games and hopefully Jonathon Stoker can recover from injury to boost up the number of locks available for selection.

In the back row flanker James Davies has put in two huge games to look to join encumbant back row players Chris Whitcombe and Dan Apsee for the first league games. Lee Simms can also play at wing forward while Liam Griffiths, Rhys Jones and newcomer Aled Guy have suggested they would not let the Athletic down.

In blazing sunshine Abergavenny started the game at great pace and dominated the first ten minutes getting on the scoreboard with a converted try. The Athletic at last woke up and took great heart when strong scrummaging drove the home scrum five metres backwards when threatening the Athletic try line. Following a period of pressure in the Abergavenny 22 flanker James Davies made an excellent break and popped up the ball to fellow flanker Chris Whitcombe to cross under the posts. Carle Ellis converted to level the scores .A mid field break by centre Robert Coles released wing Nick Hinton on a fifty metre sprint to the try line. Ellis converted. A break from centre Hywel Davies was carried on by lock Sean Williams who put wing Chris Harris over in the corner. Ellis converted with an excellent touchline drop goal. This put the Athletic 21-7 ahead after the end of the first third.

The Athletic made 9 changes for the second third, and possession and territory wise were second best for twenty minutes as the new regime settled .Abergavenny took advantage and reduced the deficit to 21-14 with a converted try.Gradually the new look Athletic ground their way back into the game and were rewarded at the end of the session. From a scrum 5 metres from the Abergavenny try line half backs Stuart Kenny and Carle Ellis quickly transferred the ball to centre Hywel Davies whose half break sent co centre Lee Simms under the posts. Ellis converted to make the score 28-14 at the end of the second quarter.

The Athletic again rang the changes and completely dominated the final session playing some outstanding 15 man rugby. Scrum half Stuart Kenny, lock Sean Williams and wing Rod Davies combined to put full back Lynsey McCausland over. Davies and Kenny were also instrumental in putting outside half Luke Hopper over in the corner for the sixth and final Athletic try.

The excellent pre season for the Athletic is however tinged with sadness. Following a short illness former lock Gerwyn (Big �G�) Phillips passed away during the week. The club extends its sympathy to wife Linda, sons Tom, Daniel and Chris and brothers Arwel, David and Meirion. The brothers along with Gerwyn actually all played at the same time for the Athletic and son Tom is a current U16 player and Chris has also represented the club. The funeral was arranged for 2.45pm Wed 3^rd Sept at Coity Crematorium and then a gathering at the Athletic clubhouse.

Ynysybwl 14 Bridgend Athletic 19

Pre Season Friendly � Sat Aug 23^rd 2008

Bridgend Athletic visited Division 2 East side Ynysybwl for the first of two pre season friendlies. They used a 22 man squad with all players participating in the game. The game was keenly contested and very beneficial to the coaches in assessing both the fitness and ability of the players on view. It was also a confidence booster for the club as they overcame a much bigger pack in securing a 19-14 win.

 Three new players made their Athletic debuts � scrum half Luke Hopper, flanker Aled Guy and prop Tim Lunn, while youth team lock Matthew Norman, fellow lock Jamie Doherty and wing Andrew Tyler also made first team debuts.

The first Athletic try of the 2008-2009 season came after 10 minutes. Excellent interplay, just outside the Athletic 22, between outside half Stuart Morris and centre Hywel Davies saw the ball transferred to full back Lynsey McCausland who created an overlap for wing Nick Hinton. Hinton ran strongly for 45metres before finding lock Sean Williams in support on his inside for the bragging rights for the first Athletic try of the season. Morris converted. The second try was created by an excellent defence splitting run from hooker Stuart Nation. Debutant scrum half Luke Hopper picked up the ball and outpaced the home defence to cross in the corner. Morris showed the summer break had not dented his kicking ability, slotting the conversion from the touchline. Wing Chris Harris also made a strong run but ran out of space and was forced into touch.

Both sides then rang the changes. An even larger home pack took to the field. They dominated long phases of possession. This gave the Athletic a chance to prove their defensive qualities. All five back row forwards on view Rhys Jones, Liam Griffiths, James Davies, Aled Guy and Lee Simms were up to the task. The front row used - props Wayne Fookes, Alun Miniffey and Tim Lunn scrummaged well against heavier opposition and hookers Nation and Simon Mustoe did not lose any strikes on their own put in. Locks Williams, Doherty and Norman jumped well against taller opposition in the line outs. Scrum half Stuart Kenny also performed bravely until forced to leave the field with a split lip.

Ynysybwl eventually got on the score sheet. A quickly taken tap penalty 5 metres from the Athletic line saw their wing cross in the corner. The Athletic responded quickly. A tap penalty was taken inside the Ynysybwl 22. The ball went left then right back along the line for Morris to force his way over to stretch the Athletic lead to 19-7. Ynysybwl hit back when their centre made a break inside his own half and sent the wing racing in under the posts for a converted try. A crunching tackle from wing Andrew Tyler stopped another promising home team attack in its tracks.

The Athletic finished the game looking the fitter side and nearly added to their try tally when a break by McCausland saw centre Carle Ellis just hauled down a few metres short of the try line.

Coaches Paul Yardley, John Apsee and David Williams were in general very pleased with the team performance. Their only disappointment which they made quite clear to the team, were momentary periods of indiscipline � mainly questioning the referee and hands in the ruck, which resulted in a heavy penalty count against the Athletic. This could prove crucial in proper league games.

The Athletic visit another Division 2 side Abergavenny this Saturday Aug 30^th. They hope to have another five of last season�s first team squad available for this game. 

Match Reports 2007 - 2008   

Bridgend Athletic 11 Corus 24

Sat May 3rd � Asda League Div 1 West

Bridgend Athletic lost the relegation battle with Corus by 24 points to 11, and will now play in Division 2 West next season. This was disappointing as having finished 4^th in last season�s Division 1 West, a number of players attracted Premiership sides. In fact there are former Athletic players in 6 Premiership sides. A new and very young Athletic side � with 14 home grown players in the starting line up against Corus  - were generally forced to compete with bigger and more experienced Division 1 West opponents. Although the Athletic finished the season with 9 losing bonus points they were unable to gain the two more victories that would have sustained their Division 1 status.

The Corus game watched by a large crowd at the South Wales Police ground was a real relegation battle for Division 1 survival. Prior to the game the Athletic held a one point advantage over the Port Talbot side. A far heavier and experienced Corus pack eventually took its toll on the Athletic. Every Athletic scrum was difficult for the youngsters, as superior weight advantage meant the Athletic were always back peddling and unable to launch any quick attacks. Clean line out possession was also made difficult as Corus also held a significant height advantage.

The Athletic started brightly and took the game to Corus. However in their first significant attack Corus took the lead with a good try from wing Mark Harvey. The home side immediately struck back with a twelfth minute penalty goaled by centre Stuart Morris. After half an hour the Athletic conjured up an excellent try. Full back Simon Evans gathered a clearance kick in his own half. He set off on a side stepping run until eventually held up on the Corus 22 metre line. Quickly recycled ball from half backs Hywel Davies and Stephen Lewis saw lock Sean Williams break through the visiting defence to put flanker Matthew Hillman over in the corner. The Athletic went in at half time holding this 8-5 advantage.

Morris extended the lead to 11 � 5 with his second penalty. Corus then changed tack and started kicking for position inside the Athletic 22, and using their physical advantage to grind down the Athletic pack. They struck with 3 close range tries in a 10 minute spell to kill off the Athletic. Prop Alex Sheehy forced his way over for two of the tries, with scrum half Chris McDonald also on the score sheet. Centre Nick Jones converted two of the tries to open up a match winning 24-11 lead.

The Athletic did not give up and pounded away at the visitors� line during the final 10 minutes. Corus were repeatedly guilty of killing the ball during this period to stop the Athletic � resulting in two of their players being sin binned. The 13 point deficit however meant the Athletic had to run the penalties awarded them, and were unable to cross the try line.

It is hoped this bunch of players will stick together and fight their way back into Division 1 West � as happened two seasons ago. They have youth on their side and can emulate their predecessors in bouncing back. Perhaps these youngsters will benefit from competing at a slightly lower level and recovering their confidence and winning habits, before again taking on many teams stacked with Premiership and higher rugby experience.

The club would like to thank the South Wales Police Club for allowing them use of their ground. They would also like to show their appreciation to club physio Mr Bob Lewis of R.W Lewis Property Maintenance for once again sponsoring an Athletic fixture.

The Athletic Player of the Year Night is being held on Bank Holiday Sunday May 25^th at the OCLP Club.

Bridgend Athletic 27 Dunvant 15

Asda League � Div 1 West � April 26th

Following the events of last Saturday all roads lead the South Wales Police ground at Waterton Cross for a winner takes all relegation decider between Bridgend Athletic and Corus. Prior to the Saturday fixtures Corus and the Athletic were both on 28 points, with Corus ahead on number of wins. This position was reversed as the Athletic gained five points with a bonus point victory over Dunvant, with Corus claiming four points for a victory at Llangennech. To stave off relegation the Athletic have to win or draw, while Corus must win.

Ironically it was Dunvant who created the above scenario by defeating Corus in mid week to finally eliminate their own relegation worries. Dunvant have never won at Newbridge Fields and they met a young Athletic side determined to give their all for the cause. Five of last season�s Welsh Youth Cup winners started the game with another coming on as a replacement. In sunny energy sapping conditions all 20 of the squad played some part in the victory. The Athletic were hampered by club captain Simon Mustoe being unfit to play a full part in the game and starting on the bench. Substitute captain Stuart Morris also failed a late fitness test, so lock Jonathon Stoker led the Athletic for the first occasion.

The Athletic took the lead with a penalty from outside half Stephen Lewis in the fifth minute. After a quarter of an hour wing Rhodri Davies took the ball from his brother centre Hywel Davies and broke the defence from the 40 metre line. He was held just short of the line. Quick ball from scrum half Stuart Kenny saw last season�s youth prop Alun Minifey dive over for his first senior Athletic try. Lewis converted. Unfortunately Rhodri was then forced to leave the field with an ankle injury. Centre Scott Robinson then made a similar break to Davies from half way out. He found full back Simon Evans on hand and last year�s youth outside half dived over for his eighth try of the season. Lewis added the extras. Dunvant reduced the deficit to 17-3 with a penalty from outside half James Thorner. Excellent centre play between Davies and Robinson saw the ball transferred to wing Lynsey McCausland - another product of last season�s youth side. He made ground and passed inside for Robinson to cross and become the third player from last season�s Welsh Youth Champions to cross the try line. This gave the Athletic a morale boosting 22-3 half time lead.

Dunvant came back into the game and a rolling maul saw flanker Lloyd Harris driven over the try line. The Athletic pack well led by debut captain Jonathon Stoker did not allow Dunvant back into the game. Mustoe came off the bench following an injury to hooker Simon Nation, to add his experience to the cause and flanker Marcus Sainsbury also helped the youngsters with his know-how in the back row, before giving way to Chris Whitcombe. Last season�s Welsh Youth lock Kyle Maiden was securing excellent line out ball, before giving way to his fellow lock from last season�s Youth Team Tom Penry-Ellis. No 8 Sean Williams and flanker Matthew Hillman again put in a high work rate. Prop Carle Gregory showed remarkable courage to come back from a broken leg sustained early in the season to shore up the scrum, before his replacement Wayne Fookes completed the game. The Athletic restored their points differential when Lewis charged down a clearance quick. The ball was quickly transferred via centres Davie and Robinson to replacement wing Tom Goodwin who�s well timed inside pass saw Hywel Davies cross in the corner. That try which secured a bonus point could well be a season�s defining moment. Dunvant responded with a late try from No 8 Rory Gallagher converted by Thorner.

The club would like to thank Club Chairman Mr Terry Coles of J.G. Plant for once again sponsoring a fixture, while Sian Noble of Coors Brewery sponsored the Match Ball.

The club would urge everybody associated with the club from former players, supporters to the current age group teams within the club to come out in force this Saturday May 3^rd at Waterton Cross to boost the young team�s efforts to hang onto their Division 1 status.

The club will be holding its Player of the Year Night at the OCLP Club on Bank Holiday Sunday May 25^th at 5pm.

Corus 18  Bridgend Athletic 17

Asda League � Div 1 West � Sat April 19^th 2008

In a potential relegation battle Corus with home advantage defeated Bridgend Athletic by a single point running out 18 � 17 victors. This leaves the clubs level on 28 points, but Corus with one more win than the Athletic hold pole position. Corus also have a game in hand on the Athletic. On the run in they have three away fixtures at Dunvant, Llangennech and the final game of the season away to the Athletic. The Athletic are home to Dunvant this Saturday, before the likely relegation decider at home to Corus at the South Wales Police ground on Saturday May 3^rd. Dunvant are not out of the relegation woods themselves � but have the opportunity to help themselves and the Athletic in mid week by defeating Corus in their rearranged game.

The Athletic with a strong wind at their backs took the game to Corus, and following a 10 minute period of pressure took a 7 � 0 lead. A good forward drive saw the ball moved quickly to centre Stuart Morris via half backs Stuart Kenny and Stephen Lewis. Morris passed inside to co centre Scott Robinson, who used his strength to break a tackle and sidestep over the try line. Morris converted. The Athletic failed to cash in on their early superiority, and gradually the heavier home pack started to dominate possession. They were rewarded when from a close drive in the 35^th minute scrum half Chris McDonald dived over in the corner. Morris gave the Athletic a 10-5 half time lead with a penalty in the dying minutes of the half.

Corus with the wind at their backs started strongly and five minutes into the half reduced the deficit to 10-8, with a penalty struck by outside half Simon Daniel. Two tries from No 8 Cameron Davies and centre Rhys Williams opened up an 18-10 advantage. It looked as though the Athletic would leave Port Talbot empty handed. However inspired by driving performances from No 8 Sean Williams and flanker Matthew Hillman they forced their way deep into Corus territory. With three minutes remaining outside half Stephen Lewis received the ball 30 metres out and elusive running saw him glide past four opponents to cross near the posts. With main kicker Morris off the field injured he slotted his own try to earn the Athletic what could be a vital losing bonus point � their ninth of the season. This shows how close they have been on numerous occasions this season to securing 4 points in fixtures instead of the 1 consolation point. Just turning three of those nine narrow defeats into victories would have seen them secure in Division 1 West this season.

Cwmavon 2^nd XV 0 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 27

Friendly � April 19^th 2008

The Athletic 2^nd XV fixture at their Cwmavon counterparts ground only lasted 35 minutes. Unfortunately the referee pulled a hamstring and there was nobody available to take his place.

Prop Adrian Kelly crossed for two Athletic tries, with single touchdowns for centre Carle Ellis and No 8 Rob Howell. Outside half Paul Miles converted two of the tries and kicked a penalty.

Bridgend Athletic 17 Merthyr 22

Sat April 12^th 2008 � Asda League Div 1 West

Bridgend Athletic failed to record a seasonal double over Merthyr and ease their relegation worries. A 20 -17 away win was reversed with the visitors running out 22-17 victors at Newbridge Fields, and having to settle for their eighth losing bonus point of the season.

Merthyr kicked off with a strong wind at their backs. The Athletic made a complete hash of collecting and clearing the kick deep inside their 22, allowing Methyr to attack their try line, for former Wales and Pontypridd centre John Bryant to force his way over under the posts. Outside half Craig Dummett converted to put the visitors 7-0 ahead in the first minute. The Athletic to their credit then showed good defensive work to keep their line in tact. The last 5 minutes of the half then produced a spate of points.

Firstly Dummett increased the Metrhyr lead to 10 � 0 with a penalty. Immediately the Athletic responded. Nineteen year old centre broke past the veteran Bryant and a well timed inside pass saw full back Simon Evans galloping thirty metres for his seventh try of the season. Morris converted to reduce the deficit to 10 -7. The old malaise of the Atletics� inability to defend restarts again struck. Two players got in each other�s way and the ball was spilled. Athletic No 8 Dan Apsee was deemed to have killed the ball at the resultant ruck on the try line, and was despatched to the sin bin. Merthyr opted for a five metre scrum from the resultant penalty with an 8-7 man advantage in the scrum. No 8 and captain Ross Coombes picked up and forced his way over. Despite Athletic protests that they had held him up preventing the ball being grounded, the try was awarded. Demmett�s conversion meant a morale boosting half time deficit of just three points now became ten., with the Athletic also having to contest the opening 10 minutes of the second half a man short.

The 14 man Athletic held out until Apsee returned. A period of Merthyr pressure resulted in wing Gethin Thomas crossing for a try to extend the Merthyr lead to 22 -7. The Athletic struck back with a well worked try. Apsee won line out ball just outside the Merthyr 22. The ball was quickly moved by half backs Stuart Kenny and Morris in a rehearsed move to wing Rhodri Davies who burst through a gap and raced over in the corner. Morris converted to reduce the deficit to 22-14. With eight minutes remaining the Athletic were brought right back into the game as Morris registered 227 points for the season with a 40 metre penalty. However the Athletic failed to breach the visitor�s defence and had to be content with a losing bonus point.

Despite the Athletic feeling aggrieved at one of Merthyr�s tries they don�t seem to have learnt all season how to concentrate and defend restarts following their own point�s successes. Also they had a few scoring opportunities where some poor handling and passing let them down.

They now have three fixtures to save their Division 1 West status. All games against fellow strugglers who find themselves in the same perilous position. This Saturday they visit Corus, followed by home fixtures against Dunvant and Corus again.

The club would once again thank the �Friends of Bridgend Athletic� and its promoter Mr David Burt for sponsoring the fixture.

Bonymaen 29 Bridgend Athletic 12

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat 5^th APRIL 2008

Following an earlier 23-16 home win over last season�s champions Bonymaen, Bridgend Athletic visited Pond Mawr with hopes of easing their relegation worries. In fact a win would have drawn them level in the table with Bonymaen.

With a very strong wind at their backs the Athletic took a third minute lead through a 40 metre penalty from centre Stuart Morris. However, the home side then monopolised possession keeping the ball very tight. They forced the Athletic to concede penalties which outside half Neil Cunuiffe converted to open up a 6=3 lead. Morris levelled the scores and then gave the Athletic the lead with a monster 65 metre penalty from two metres beyond the Athletics� 10 metre line. A further Morris penalty gave the Athletic a 12-6 half time lead.

The lead was never going to be enough as Bonymaen continued to dominate possession, and use their wind advantage. Apart from breaks from centres Morris, Scott Robinson and flanker Matthew Hillman the travelling support had nothing much to cheer them on a cold and blustery day at the top of the Swansea valley. The limited possession enjoyed by the backs was mainly wasted with poor kicking options and a series of handling errors.

The inevitable happened as the possession of the home side was turned into points. Tries from Andrew Cousins and Neil Brookes � both converted by Neil Cunuiffe, and a further three Cunuiffe penalties sent the Athletic home to lick their wounds. After such a good performance by the pack the previous week against third placed Narbeth, it was particularly disappointing that virtually the same unit failed to front up on the day.

This Saturday the Athletic entertain Merthyr in a 3.15pm kick off. They will be looking for a rare seasonal double to avoid the trap door to Division 2 West opening a little further.

Bridgend Athletic 2nds 24 Treherbert 2nds 15

� Friendly � April 5th

The Athletic 2^nd XV produced a fine team display to defeat their Treherbert counterparts. An early penalty saw Treherbert take the lead until Liam Griffiths romped home for the opening try. Moments later a flowing move which involved virtually the whole team saw Kevin Williams touch down in the corner for the Athletic to move into a 10-3 lead. Treherbert scored a try either side of half time to move into a 15-10 lead. This however only spurred the Athletic forward and following a powerful drive from Steve Hughes, quick ball from Paul Miles allowed centre Carle Ellis gallop through the home defence for a try, which Miles converted. By now the game had become a one horse race and replacement Will Alston pounced on a chip ahead from wing Chris Harris for another Athletic try which Miles converted. Jamie Doherty stood out for the Athletic with a Goliath like performance up front.

Bridgend Athletic 20 Narbeth 34

Asda League � Div 1 West � March 29^th 2008 

Bridgend Athletic recorded a double over Narbeth last season. However their success last season has seen wholesale changes with Premiership clubs attracting 9 players. In fact Bridgend fielded an entire Athletic front row a flanker and had a second row on the bench against Llandovery last Saturday..

A young side have struggled to meet Division 1 demands this season, and unfortunately met the form team of Division 1 West Narbeth. They visited Newbridge Fields on the back of seven successive victories including an away win at leaders Tonmawr.The Otters played a high tempo game throughout with Wales Under 20 No 8 Lloyd Phillips causing problems with his strength and pace, and a back division too pacy for the Athletic.

However, there were a lot of positives on the day for the Athletic � especially in the pack who had parity on the day with the West Wales outfit. Youth prop Alun Minifey in only his second senior game stood up well against an experienced former Scarlets counterpart. Fellow prop Carle Gregory in his first start since a double leg fracture at the start of the season was outstanding, and a major ball carrier along with lock Jonathon Stoker for the Athletic. The remaining members of the pack lock Sean Williams, hooker Stuart Nation and back row forwards Chris Whitcombe, Dan Apsee and Matthew Hillman all worked hard throughout. Scrum half Stuart Kenny making his first appearance since a pre season shoulder operation also had a very good game and along with centre Stuart Morris was the pick of the Athletic back division.

The Athletic had first use of a strong wind and for 10 minutes pressurised the Otter�s try line without success. However the West Walians broke out of defence and were awarded a penalty goaled by outside half Aled Davies. Within two minutes Stuart Morris restored parity with an excellent 35metre penalty from the touchline. The rest of the half was a nip and tuck affair with neither side able to penetrate stubborn defences.

Just after half time Morris kicked another excellent touchline conversion into the wind to give his side a 6-3 lead. This was short lived as a Lloyd Phillips break was finished off by Narbeth centre Nick Jones and converted by Aled Davies. Within two minutes the lead was extended to 15-6 by wing Andrew Jones. When five minutes later Jones raced over for his second try, which was successfully converted, a 22-6 lead looked as though it could turn into a rout.. Hooker and club captain Simon Mustoe then joined the fray and the forwards upped their game to pressurise the Narbeth pack. Wing Lyndsey MacCausland gathered a clearance kick inside his own half. Good interpassing involving centres Morris and Scott Robinson saw No 8 Dan Apsee racing over in the corner. An excellent conversion saw Morris bring up his 200 points for the season.

A minute of madness with an attempted clearance to touch skewing straight across the 22 into the arms of the grateful Lloyd Phillips, undid a lot of the earlier hard work by the Athletic pack. The resultant converted try restored the Otter�s confidence and a minute later the No8 crossed for his second converted try to give his side a 34 � 13 advantage. To the Athletics� credit they did not give up and took the game back to Narbeth. Their pressure paid off when Morris forced his way over the try line. He converted his own try to cap an excellent personal performance with a match haul of 15 points.

The Athletic now have five games to preserve their Division 1 status � four against fellow relegation candidates, starting this Saturday at Pond Mawr against last season�s champions Bonymaen.. If they show the same commitment as against Narbeth then coaches Huw Hathaway, David Williams and Paul Yardley believe all five remaining games can have a positive result.

The club would like to thank Mr Evan David for once again sponsoring an Athletic fixture.

 Waunarlwydd 19Bridgend Athletic19

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat March 22^nd 2008

For the second successive season the Athletic fought out a drawn game at Waunarlwydd.

In season 2006-2007 the Athletic raced into a 19-3 lead only for the home side to fight back for a 25-25 draw. In a role reversal Waunarlwydd opened up an early 16-3 lead, with the Athletic finally forcing a 19-19 draw.

Waunarlwydd opened the scoring driving hooker Andrew Edwards over the try line from a five metre line out. Outside half Lee Jones converted the try. Jones was also responsible for three almost identical penalties as the referee ruled the Athletic defensive line was offside inside their own 22. Stuart Morris kicked an Athletic penalty to leave his side trailing by 16 points to 3 after only 30 minutes play. The Athletic then fought back and on the stroke of half time brought themselves back into an error riddled game. The forwards set the platform for the try with a 20 metre rolling maul. Quick ball between half backs Hywel Davies and Stephen Lewis saw centre Stuart Morris make a half break before releasing fellow centre Scott Robinson into space. Robinson drew the Waunarlwydd full back and put the Athletic full back Simon Evans racing over near the posts. Evans is the Athletic leading try scorer with 6 touchdowns this campaign. Morris converted to leave the Athletic trailing 16-10 at half time.

Morris reduced the deficit to 16-13, before another Jones penalty reopened Waunarlwydd�s 6 point lead. Two further Morris penalties brought the scores level with 15 minutes remaining. However both sides lacked the invention to kill off the game and both face a fight to retain their Division 1 status next season.

On the positive side for the Athletic Youth team prop Alan Minofe made a promising senior debut, and fellow prop Carle Gregory returned as a late replacement following a six month lay off, after sustaining a double leg fracture last September. Replacement wing Lynsey McCausland also showed great determination and skill.

The Athletic now have 6 games to preserve their Division 1 status starting this Saturday with a visit from third placed Narbeth. They have further home games against Merthyr, Corus and Dunvant. On the road they visit Corus and Bonymaen. The Corus fixtures could well decide which of these teams will be playing Division 1 rugby next season. Coaches Huw Hathaway, Paul Yardley and David Williams are urging an extra effort and commitment in training from all players, not to throw away their hard earned Asda Division 1 status.

Llanharan 2nds 10 Bridgend Athletic 2nds 17

District League � Div 1 � Sat March 22nd

The Athletic came away with the victory in this competitive local derby. Llanharan took an early lead through a converted try, but the Athletic back line began to play with some fluidity and centre Carle Ellis smashed his way over for a try that was converted by outside half Paul Miles.

The Athletic stepped up a few gears in the second half and a Llanharan infringement saw Miles kick a penalty to put the Athletic into the lead. Llanharan restored parity shortly after with a penalty, but it was wing Will Alston who sauntered round the home defence for the decisive score which Steve Hughes converted. Up front Jamie Doherty and Liam Griffiths gave good accounts of themselves, while behind Stuart Kenny and Tylan Mafi proved to be a constant threat; in another impressive Athletic team performance.

Llangennech 24 Bridgend Athletic 16

Asda League Division 1 West � Sat 16^th Feb 2008

Ill discipline cost the Athletic dearly in their Division 1 West fixture at Llangennech. They played 20 minutes of the game with only 14 players with two players on separate occasions in the sin bin. During those periods Llangennech scored 15 of their 24 points. Having fought back to 21-16 with two minutes remaining the Athletic then conceded a last minute penalty in front of their posts to come away empty handed, when at least a losing bonus pint was on the cards.

A North Wales referee officiating in his first Division 1 level fixture proved over officious throughout the game for both sides, and the game between two attractive running sides was spoilt as a spectacle by the constant stop start as the referee�s whistle became the main feature of the game. This was highlighted from the start when half a dozen penalties were awarded in the first 10 minutes. Llangennech outside half Adrian Thomas and the Athletic centre Stuar Morris cancelled each other out converting two of the penalties awarded. No further points were scored and a drab half ended all square at 3-3.

Within two minutes of the resumption of play the home side crossed for a try by centre Neil Reynolds. Two Thomas and one Morris penalties took Llangennech 14-9 ahead. A good back movement then resulted in centre Andrew Mead crossing for the second home try, which Thomas converted to put Llangennech 21-9 ahead. Outside half Stephen Lewis made an excellent break only to be hauled down just short of the home try line. However he was not to be denied and another break took him clean through the home defence to cross under the posts. Morris converted to reduce the deficit to 21-16 with two minutes remaining.

The Athletic made a mess of the restart and put themselves under pressure inside their own 22. Attempts to run out of defence were thwarted, leading to a last minute penalty for not releasing the ball in a tackle. This could prove costly in the scheme of things, as the Athletic need every point they can muster to stave off the threat of relegation.

The next Athletic fixture is on Saturday 1^st March when Cwmllynfell are the visitors to Newbridge Fields. The Match is being sponsored by Mr Evan David.

Match Report � Sat Feb 16th 

Bridgend Athletic 2nds 19 Bedwas 2nds 10

The Athletic cruised to a fine victory in a physical battle which saw three yellow cards at Newbridge Fields. The Athletic took an early lead through penalties from Paul Miles and two from Simon Evans. Bedwas however went in at half time 10 � 9 up through a converted try and a penalty.

The second half was a different story with the Athletic moving through the gears up front and the back row of Lee Simms, Tom Penry-Ellis and skipper Liam Griffiths began to dominate their opponents. It wasn�t long before a solid Athletic scrum in the opponents half provided the excellent ball for the backs to execute a training ground move to perfection, sending wing Will Alston over the whitewash. Bedwas began to throw everything at the Athletic, but a superb second half defensive display ensured the visitors left with nothing. Simon Evans added a further penalty to cap a fine victory.

Bridgend Athletic 3 Pontypool 15

Friendly � Jan 26^th 2008

January has seen a young and inexperienced Bridgend Athletic team pitched against the three leading contenders for promotion to the Premier Division. Having played away games against the main contenders Tonmmawr and Carmarthen Quins from their own Division 1 West, they met the top side in Division 1 East Pontypool in a home friendly. Pooler are looking to return to  their former glory days, when they had the legendary Welsh front row of Faulkner, Windsor and Price and arguably the most feared pack in the British Isles. However, this new Pontypool have based their game on a 15 man approach, and with the Athletic also accustomed to the same approach a very high tempo game ensued.

Pontypool had much the best of the opening quarter with the Athletic struggling for possession. However, the youngsters with five players under 21 in their pack fought manfully to prevent the Pontypool side getting on the score sheet. Wing Tylan Mafi was very prominent in defence, three times ripping the ball away from the Pontypool pack and launching counter attacks. The back row of Dan Apsee, Matthew Hillman and Tom Penry-Ellis tackled bravely to keep their line in tact. The Athletic were now coming more into the game, but a lack of composure and experience failed to capitalise on two good try scoring opportunities. Their inexperience was further punished when with a minute to half time they made a hash of attempting to run a penalty out of their own 22. Pontypool won a line out 5 metres from the Athletic line and prop Martin Savage was driven over the Athletic line to give the visitors a 5-0 half time lead.

Lock Kyle Maiden was winning good line out possession and the Athletic front row of Wayne Fookes, Rhodri Jones and both hookers used Stuart Nation and Simon Mustoe were holding their own against a far heavier Pontypool pack. The Athletic launched a series of attacks which forced a penalty inside the Pontypool 22 and centre Stuart Morris reduced the deficit to 5-3.However, Pontypool struck back with a try from wing Dan Robinson to increase their lead to 10-3. The Athletic had a golden opportunity to equalise. Full back Stephen Lewis entered the line at an excellent angle and broke clear into the Pontypool 22. With only the full back to beat and two men outside he opted for a long missed pass which went to ground. The Athletic with limited opportunities against the strong sides with much bigger packs, have to be more clinical in converting the chances they do create, if they are to topple the better sides. Pontypool made the Athletic pay with a third try scored by centre Phil Price to end up 15-3 winners.

The Athletic can take a lot of positives from the game and now have a three week break, with the start of the Six Nations before travelling to fourth place Llangennech on February 16^th.

Maesteg Celtic 2^nd XV 19 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 29 

Friendly � Jan 26^th - 2008-01-27

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV won a hard physical encounter away to their Maesteg Celtic counterparts.

No 8 Shane Gray making a rare appearance was the pick of the Athletic team, while their four try scorers were centre Andrew West, wing Chris McGrath, flanker Kyle Coulter and full back Paul Miles. Miles converted three of the tries and also kicked a penalty.

Carmarthen Quins 45 Bridgend Athletic9

Asda League Division 1 West � Sat 19^th Jan 2008 

The rugby fortunes of Bridgend Athletic and Carmarthen Quins have certainly changed from last season, when the Athletic defeated the Quins at home by 36-14 and lost an epic battle in the wind away by 40-30 after surrendering a half time 30-0 lead.

The Athletic due to player movement and long term injuries are only able to field 7 of last season�s squad, whereas Carmathen have heavily recruited with an eye to returning to the Premiership. They easily have the best pack in Division 1 West, and in both games this season have held a stranglehold over the inexperienced and youthful Athletic pack. They followed an earlier season 31-6 victory at Newbridge Fields, with a 45-9 win in gusting rain at their home ground.

The home side turned their forward domination into a 19-3 half time lead. With the Athletic temporarily reduced to 14 men at the start of the second half, they soon increased their lead to 26-3. Stuart Morris who had kicked an excellent 30 metre penalty into the wind to conclude the first half, then kicked two long range 45 metre penalties to reduce the deficit to 26-9. A second sin bin offence saw the Athletic reduced once again to 14 men. The Quins took full advantage crossing for two more converted tries. The Quins flanker Jim Morgan once again was a constant thorn in the Athletic side. He had earlier in the season played against them in his final game for Cwmllynfell, and scored two tries on that occasion, and added to that tally for his new club in this fixture. A sixth try concluded the Quin�s scoring.

The Athletic had played the game on the back foot and battled bravely to stem the tide, none more so than flanker Chris Whitcombe, scrum half Hywel Davies and centre Morris who all tackled bravely throughout the game.

The coaches and supporters were disappointed with the result and overall competitiveness of the team, but can take heart from the fact the club have now concluded fixtures with the two main contenders for promotion, Quins and Tonmawr. Every other team in the league the Athletic have either defeated or come away with a losing bonus from. Next up for the Athletic in the league is a visit to 4^th placed Llangennech on Feb 16^th after the first two Wales Six Nations fixtures.

A minute�s silence was observed before the game out of respect to a former Athletic player and former club chairman Peter Morgan, who passed away earlier in the week. The club extends its condolences to his wife Angela and children Alison, Sarah and Stephen.

Bridgend Athletic 26 Whitland 6

Asda League � Division 1 West - Sat Jan 12th 2008

Rugby is an unpredictable game. Last week the Athletic lost heavily at Tonmawr. In Tonmawr�s previous home fixture, Whitland became the first side this season to beat them. However Bridgend Athletic turned the form tables on their head. Showing six changes from the previous Saturday ,they defeated Whitland by 26-6 to record a seasonal double over the West Wales side, and in the process secure their seventh bonus point of the season. However, this was their most enjoyable, as it was gained for scoring 4 tries, and not for losing within seven points of their rivals. The win also moved the Athletic from 10^th in the table up to 7th leap frogging Dunvant, Whitland and Merthyr in the process. Coaches Huw Hathaway, David Williams and Paul Yardley hope this is a defining result for the season, and not another false dawn, as following good wins against Bonymaen and Merthyr, the team let themselves with below par performances at Dunvant and Tonmawr.

Whitland applied early pressure, but excellent defence from the Athletic with flankers Chris Whitcombe and Steve Chapel prominent kept them at bay. A loose clearance kick by Whitland saw flanker Chris Whitcombe gather the ball 40 metres out and release centre Stuart Morris. A well timed pass released co centre Scott Robinson into space, and the youngster ran strongly side stepping the full back to cross near the posts. Morris converted.

Outside half Emyr Williams reduced the deficit to 7 � 3. A mad five minutes before half time saw lock Kyle Coulter and then hooker and captain Simon Mustoe sent to the sin bin. Mustoe�s dismissal saw Whitland awarded a penalty five metres from the try line in front of the posts. Surprisingly they opted for the three points delivered from a penalty by Williams, instead of going for a potential 7 points with a scrum against the Athletic, short of two forwards.

The thirteen Athletic men held out with a massive defensive effort. The Athletic 13 then shocked the visitors, when wing Rod Davies broke out of his own 22 and handed on to outside half Stephen Lewis. Lewis chipped ahead; Davies regained possession and put replacement hooker Stuart Nation over in the corner. The Athletic were then restored to full strength. Morris pounced on a loose ball and hacked ahead. Wing Dylan Mafi chased well and put the Whitland full back under pressure for Morris to pick up the ball and dive over for his first try of the season. He added the conversion. The final bonus point winning try came from another break out of defence. Dan Apsee won turnover ball inside his own 22, threw an outrageous dummy and the Whitland pack parted like the Red Sea to see the No 8 race 10 metres clear. He just reached the try line diving over in the corner for his first try this season, before the pursuing Whitland defence could reach him. Morris added the icing on the cake with a touchline conversion.

The Athletic pack was now on top. Lock Kyle Coulter was his usual abrasive self, while it was good to see fellow lock Jonathon Stoker back in action after a three month injury lay off. Props Wayne Fookes and Andrew Brown were prominent in tight and loose. Scrum half Hywel Davies was able to deliver good possession to outside half Stephen Lewis and centre Morris whose well judged touch finders kept Whitland firmly entrenched inside their own half � well away from areas where their bigger pack could cause the Athletic problems. The home side nearly added to their try count when following good breaks full back Simon Evans and wing Dylan Mafi were hauled down metres short of the try line. The Athletic were able to introduce fresh legs for the final quarter with all five replacements Lee Simms, Stuart Nation, Sean Williams, Matthew Hillman and Carle Ellis introduced to the fray.

This Saturday the Athletic visit promotion contenders Carmarthen Quins, where their resolve will be really tested. If the pack can front up and secure sufficient possession, the Athletic have the back division to cause an upset.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 68 Wick 10

District League � Div 1

The Athletic 2^nd XV proved too strong for Wick and ran in 10 tries in a 68 -10 victory.

Centre Nick Hinton led the way with a hat trick, with single touchdowns for Stephen Hughes, Steve Lyons, Tom Penry- Ellis, Rhys Jones, Jamie Doherty, Huw Morris and Carl Moody. Outside half Paul Miles converted 9 of the tries to bring his season�s tally to 57 points. Full back Kevin Williams made his Athletic debut, with Youth Team hooker Nathan Holman also featuring.

Tonmawr 29  Bridgend Athletic 0

Asda League � Div 1 West � Sat Jan 5th

Bridgend Athletic were unable to match their opening day of the season display against the current league leaders of Division 1 West, Tonmawr. On that occasion the game could have gone either way, with the Athletic having to settle for a losing bonus point.

This time a far more experienced and physically more powerful Tonmawr unit kept the Athletic on the back foot and ran out 29-0 victors. Ironically the first two Tonmawr tries were scored by former Athletic players, scrum half James Donovan and hooker Adrian Phillips � the first from a charged down clearance kick and the second from a 5 metre line out. The third try came from a 5 metre scrum when No 8 Richard Hill forced his way over. An Austin Howell�s conversion gave the home side a 17-0 half time lead.

Just after half time a converted try from wing Richard Johnson extended the lead to 24-0. Following this try the Athletic were dealt a real hammer blow which paled the result into insignificance. Centre Robert Coles, who was the Athletics� Player of the Year last season and had not long returned from a spell with Llanelli suffered a horrific injury resulting in a broken ankle and leg and ruptured ligaments. This further disrupted a squad already depleted on the day of the match by illness and injury to full back Simon Evans, outside half Stephen Lewis, lock Jonathon Stoker and No 8 Dan Apsee. Within 5 minutes of the injury Johnson crossed for his second try. At 29-0 down with 30 minutes remaining a cricket score looked on the cards.

However, the Athletic showed enormous courage, character and determination to keep out the rampaging Tonmawr pack, and preventing any further scores. It was good to see wing Rod Davies showing all his old strength, following a lengthy spell on the sidelines with an injured knee. New recruit No 8 Steve Chappel and scrum half Lyndsey McCausland - forced into emergency substitute full back duties, both made creditable Division 1 debuts for the Athletic.

The club now have to regroup and look to complete a league double at home to Whitland this weekend. Ironically Whitland were the first team to defeat Tonmawr in the fixture prior to the Athletic � Tonmawr game. They have been showing good form of late, so a big effort will be required to repeat the away result at the startof the season. The Athletic will have to improve at the ruck area and get far quicker ball than they have in their last two fixtures.

Pencoed 2^nd XV 16 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV

District League Div 1

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV captained by flanker Liam Griffiths played extremely well, but were beaten by a more experienced Pencoed side by 16 points to 7. Both sides scored a converted try apiece, with 3 Pencoed penalties the difference between the sides.

The Athletic try was scored by scrum half John Doherty and converted by outside half Paul Miles.

Dunvant 10  Bridgend Athletic 3

Asda League � Div 1 West � Sat Dec 22nd

Bridgend Athletic have never won at Broadacre. They had opportunities to reverse the trend on this occasion, but had to be satisfied with a losing bonus point going down by 10 points to 3.

The Athletic struck first with a Stuart Morris penalty. The referee who had ignored a reckless high tackle on the Athletic full back Simon Evans-merely awarding the visitors a penalty and just talking to the Dunvnt player involved, then reduced both sides to 14 players with yellow cards for technical offences. During this period a rare period of Dunvant pressure saw wing Steve Evans cross for a try converted by outside half Mark Williams. An uninspiring half saw the home side retain this advantage at half time.

The home side were playing a tight game and retaining possession better than the Athletic, who allowed possession to be turned over too easily on a number of occasions. None the less the Athletic had three golden opportunities to cross for a try, but either lack of support or the final pass went astray. Prop Phil Price; lock Kyle Maiden and No 8 Griff Davies stood out in the Athletic pack. However, the Athletic rely on quick possession from rucks and mauls to release their back division into space. The possession throughout the match was far too slow, allowing the home side to regroup and defend very well.Dunvant sealed the game with a penalty from Williams.

The Athletic now have a fortnight to put things right in training, before visiting league leaders Tonmmawr.

Newport Saracens 19 Bridgend Athletic 12

3rd Round Konica Minolta Cup � Sat Dec 15th

The 3^rd Round Konica Minolta Cup Tie between Newport Saracens and Bridgend Athletic failed to lift itself above the gloomy conditions it was played under. The Saracens scored a 75^th minute converted try and a last minute penalty to secure a 19-12 victory, when the Athletic leading 12-9 failed to kill off the tie.

The first half was even, but the Gwent side kicked 3 penalties by full back Warren Gregg as opposed to one for the Athletic by centre Stuart Morris. The Athletic back line was disrupted after 15 minutes when scrum half Hywel Davies left the field with a shoulder injury. Outside half Stephen Lewis stepped into the breach with centre Stuart Morris moving to outside half.

The Athletic showed more urgency after the break and upped the tempo of the game. Flankers Chris Whitcombe and Matthew Hillman were playing very well. Locks Neil Thomas and Kyle Coulter were securing good line out possession. Morris was taking advantage to keep the home side under pressure with long touch finding kicks. The pressure paid off as the Saracens conceded a succession of penalties. Morris kicked 3 successive penalties to put the Athletic 12-9 ahead. However, they lacked fluency in attack and only a few penetrating runs from centre Robert Coles really troubled the home defence.

A series of wrong options let the Gwent side back into the game and with five minutes remaining a good move saw flanker Larry Williams cross under the posts for a try converted by Gregg. The Athletic were guilty of running up blind allies and finding themselves isolated. One such move saw them penalised in the final minute for holding onto possession after the tackle. Full back Gregg kicked the penalty to end the Athletics� involvement in this year�s cup � two rounds lower than last season when they reached Round 5.

This Saturday the Athletic play a 1^st Div 1 West League fixture at Broadacres, where they have never defeated the home side Dunvant. Dunvant have also never won at Newbridge Fields. Let�s hope the Athletic can complete a hat trick of away victories this season at previous bogy grounds, following excellent away wins at Whitland and Merthyr.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 17 Llanharan 2^nd XV 23 

District League Div 1

The Athletic started the game against Llanharan with only 13 players. Veteran Keith Miles who came along as a spectator went home for his boots and enabled the Athletic to play out most of the game with 14 men.

Despite an excellent team performance the handicap proved too much for the Athletic, and they went down by 23 points to 17. Scrum half Lyndsey McCausland capped an excellent display with a try, while centre Chris Thomas also crossed the Llanharan line. Outside half Paul Miles converted both tries and also dropped a goal.

Merthyr 17  Bridgend Athletic 20

Asda League � Div 1 West � Sat Dec 1^st

Bridgend Athletic moved up two places up the table joining Merthyr on 17 points, following an excellent 20 � 17 away win over the Iron Men.

Considering the foul weather the pitch was in remarkably good conditions and both sides contrived to run the ball, and provide an unexpected spectacle for the loyal supporters of both sides.

The Athletic playing up the slope and against the elements took the lead in the tenth minute. From a ruck 30 metres out, scrum half Hywel Davies fed outside half Stephen Lewis. Lewis made a fine break before offloading to lock Sean Williams to cross for his first try of the season. Centre Stuart Morris converted. Merthyr centre Jonathon Hawkes reduced the deficit with a dropped goal. The Athletic went close to scoring three tries with centre Robert Colesand wings Scott Robinson and Dylan Mafi all going close. However it was the home side next on the scoresheet. Centre Matthew Edwards breaking the Athletic defensive line to cross for a try converted by outside half Ben Grzesica. In the closing minutes of the half the Athletic struck twice. First Stuart Morris kicked a penalty. From the restart hooker and captain Simon Mustoe gathered the ball inside his own 22. No 8 Dan Apsee carried on the move before wing Dylan Mafi, centre Morris and lock Williams inter passed for Mustoe to finish off the move he started with his second try of the season and scored in consecutive games. Morris put over an excellent touchline conversion to end the half. In the space of two minutes the Athletic had turned a 10-7 deficit into a very useful 17-10 half time lead.

The Athletic had the advantage of the elements in the second period. Outside half Stephen Lewis, Morris and full back Simon Evans took advantage of good line out possession from Williams and Kyle Maiden to keep the Ironmen pinned back in their own half. Scrum half Hywel Davies made an excellent break, but was held up just short of the line. Morris extended the lead to 20-10 with another penalty. With 10 minutes remaining the home side broke away and wing Lewis Williams was put clear to cross under the posts. Grzesica converted to set up a grandstand finish. A rejuvenated Merthyr piled on the pressure. The front row of Mustoe and props Andrew Brown were put under considerable pressure in the scrums, but dug deep to hold out a series of 5 metre scrums. The back row tackling of Apsee, Matthew Hillman and flankers Chris Whitcombe and late replacement Lee Simms kept the Athletic line intact. Young full back Simon Evns is also maturing with each game and was prominent in both defence and attack throughout the game.

With the last kick of the game the Athletic supporters heaved a huge sigh of relief when a 30 metre Merthyr penalty just drifted wide of the upright.

The Athletic deserved this victory and will be looking to make it four wins in successive games when they entertain local side Corus this Saturday. Corus come to Newbridge Fields on the back of two good performances against Tonmawr and Whitland, A hard fought game is expected for the large number of Athletic Old Boys who will be present and are sponsoring the fixture.

Pontypool United 15 Bridgend Athletic 41

2^nd Round Konica Minolta Cup � Sat Nov 17th

Bridgend Athletic despite lacking their normal fluidity in their back division were still too strong for Division 3 East opponents Pontypool United, running out 41-15 victors to progress to the third round of the Konica Minolta Cup. The Athletic used 7 of last year�s Welsh Youth Cup winning side throughout the game giving them experience in the intensity of cup rugby. The players involved were full back Simon Evans, wings Scott Robinson and Nick Hopson, scrum half David Pritchard. prop David Price, lock Kyle Maiden and flanker Tom Penry-Ellis.

 The game was a personal triumph for centre Stuart Morris who crossed for a try, and added 3 conversions and 5 penalties for a match haul of 26 points to take his season�s tally to 112 points.

 Morris opened the scoring after 5 minutes with a forty metre penalty. However the home side in their first attack took advantage of yet another knock on by the Athletic to break away for hooker Dan Horsman to score an opportunist try. Outside half Morgan West converted to put Pontypool 7-3 ahead. Morris and West exchanged penalties. The Athletic took a 13 -10 lead when lock Kyle Maiden won a line out inside the home side�s 22. Scrum half Hywel Davies fed Morris on the burst and his strength took him over the try line. He converted his own try. The first half display by the back division was summed up when the Athletic forwards took a rolling maul over 40 metres into the Pontypool 22. The ball was released to the backs. With a three man overlap the ball was passed behind all three players queuing up to score..

 Within five minutes of the restart outside half Stephen Lewis intercepted on his own 10 metre line to race over for his second try of the season. Morris converted to pass 100 points for the season. He then kicked his third penalty. Hooker and captain Simon Mustoe turned over possession inside his own 22 and made ground before handing on to centre Robert Coles who out sprinted the covering defence to cross for his first try of the season, since returning from Llanelli. Another Morris penalty was answered by a try for Pontypool�s replacement flanker Warren Edwards. Morris added his fifth penalty as the home side were struggling to keep out the Athletic pack. Flanker Lee Simms and lock Sean Williams were outstanding throughout the game, and replacement lock Kyle Coulter also made an impact. It was fitting that club captain and hooker Simon Mustoe also capped his best display of the season bursting away from a ruck to cross for the final Athletic try. Inevitably Morris converted.

 The Athletics� next fixture is a visit to Merthyr on 1^st December for a Division 1 West league fixture.

Bridgend Athletic 23 Bonymaen 16

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat Nov 10th 2007

This was the day that Bridgend Athletic shook off their nearly men tag. Following four successive close losing bonus points defeats, they went the extra mile to record a well deserved 23-16 victory. It was also very auspicious occasion to record it against the last two seasons� Division 1 West Champions Bonymaen.

The Athletic fielded their strongest back division of the season with last season�s pivotal mid field trio of outside half Stephen Lewis and centres Robert Coles and Stuart Morris once again operating, following the return from Llanelli of Coles. While the backs scored the three first half tries that gave the Athletic a 20-11 half time lead, the forwards led by example from captain Simon Mustoe, raised their game to provide the necessary possession.

The Athletic took an early lead with a second drop goal of the season from outside half Stephen Lewis. This was wiped out by a penalty from full back Anthony Evans. The Athletic flanker Chris Whitcombe was then confined to the sin bin for a technical offence. From the resultant penalty kick to touch Bonymaen made their numerical advantage count and prop Neil White was driven over the Athletic try line. Last season�s youth team outside half Simon Evans - now playing at full back then picked up a loose ball on half way. He dummied through a gap and raced clear to cross under the posts. Morris converted to put the Athletic 10-8 ahead. Morris then broke from inside his own half. into the opposition 22. Quick passing between Lewis, Coles and Scott Robinson, saw Evans race in for his second try and fourth of the season. Robinson another player from last season�s Athletic Welsh Youth Cup winning side crossed for the third Athletic try. The move started from a 5 metre scrum near the touchline, with the ball swiftly moved along the back division by scrum half Hywel Davies for Robinson to cross in the opposite corner. A late penalty from Bonymaen outside half Paul Warlow left the Athletic with a healthy 20-11 half time lead.

Bonymaen tried to play a tighter game at the start of the second half but saw the Athletic pack equal to the task. Back row forwards Chris Whitcombe, Dan Apsee and Matthew Hillman and scrum half Davies continually knocked back the moves around the fringes of rucks and mauls. Lock Kyle Maiden had his best Athletic game adding aggressive defence and attack to his considerable line out prowess. The front row of Wayne Fookes, Mustoe and Andrew Brown although physically outweighed stuck to their task, not allowing Bonymaen to gain set piece superiority. Having weathered the initial storm Morris extended the Athletic lead to 23-11 with a well judged penalty. The Athletic almost got a bonus point try when Coles gathered a chip ahead from Lewis just outside the Athletic 22 and raced away. He passed onto wing Luke Hathaway who was just bundled into touch by the Bonymaen corner flag. The Athletic appeared to be cruising with long raking kicks from Lewis keeping the visitors penned well inside their own half.

However with six minutes to go Bonymaen broke out of defence to see wing Andrew Cousins cross in the corner. Bonymaen went all out for a converted try to draw the match. With a minute remaining they again had a 5 metre line out advantage, and the opportunity to repeat their earlier catch and drive score. However to the relief of the Athletic team and supporters, the outstanding Athletic forward of the season, lock Sean Williams stole the line out and enabled the Athletic to record a momentous victory.

This Saturday the Athletic visit Pontypool United for a second round Konica Minolta Cup tie, hoping to emulate their Youth team, who earlier this season knocked out the East Wales side�s  youth team from the equivalent youth cup competition.

The club would like to thank Mr Phil McCardle (a former Bonymaen prop) of Argies Coffe.co.uk for sponsoring the match and Coors Brewery for sponsoring the Match Ball.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 6 Caerphilly 2^nd XV 3

Friendly � Nov 10th

 Unfortunately this friendly fixture was abandoned after 50 minutes when a potentially serious neck injury prevented a Caerphilly player being moved from the field of play.

The 6-3 lead for the Athletic at the time was eventually far outweighed with the news that the Caerphilly player was declared to be alright after about 40 minutes by paramedics, having been prostrate on the floor for that period.

Outside half Paul Miles kicked two penalties for the Athletic. Three Doherty brothers full back John, prop Danny and lock Jamie turned out for the Athletic playing together in a team for the first time.

Narbeth 24 Bridgend Athletic 20 

Asda League � Div 1 West � Sat Nov 3rd

Again it was so near yet so far as Bridgend Athletic narrowly lost a very entertaining Div 1 West encounter by 24points to 20 at Narbeth.The Athletic are fast obtaining the title Bridgend L.B.P. as for the fifth time this season they were close enough to their opponents score to secure a losing bonus point.

The game was a role reversal of last season, when the Athletic raced into a 10 minute 17-0 lead crossing for 3 tries in the opening ten minutes. This time the home side started at a very high tempo and within half an hour had opened up an 18-3 advantage with three tries of their own. The first was a try by No 8 Ryan Phillips from a 5 metre scrum. Then centre Steve Martin crossed after slick movements had fully stretched the Athletic defence. The less said about the woeful tackle that led to the third try by wing Andrew Jones the better. Between the second and third tries Narbeth outside half Aled Davies and Athletic centre Stuart Morris exchanged penalties. The Athletic did pull themselves together and an excellent break from half way by outside half Stephen Lewis and then crisp interpassing with full back Simon Evans, saw Lewis cross under the posts. Morris converted to leave the Athletic trailing 18-10 at half time.

Five minutes into the second half a second penalty from Davies extended the Otters lead to 21-10. Within two minutes the Athletic struck back. Centre Robert Coles made a half break and slipped a pass to wing Chris Harris to score a try on his league debut for the Athletic. Morris converted and then added a penalty. From 18-3 down the Athletic were now only trailing by a single point at 21-20. The introduction of No 8 Dan Apsee and lock Tom Penry- Ellis seemed to have tightened up the Athletic forward play, and they were securing more possession for their back division. A break from inside his own 22 by wing Dylan Mafi looked promising, but Narberth managed to halt the move deep inside their half. However, it was the home side that had the final say as outside half Aled Davies secured the game with a late drop goal.

The Athletic can take heart from their second half display. Following massive upheavals with player movement at the end of last season and a current crippling injury list at some key positions, the very inexperienced team are at last starting to gel. They received a massive boost with the return of last season�s player of the year and leading try scorer Robert Coles from Llanelli. This will add very much needed pace to the back division and renew the potent outside half and centre combination of Lewis, Morris and Coles that was the backbone of the Athletics attack last season. Last season�s youth outside half Simon Evans is showing added confidence in his new full back role, where he has the job of replacing a consistent Athletic match winner Marc Bennett, who has successfully moved on to Aberavon.

The club entertain last season�s Division 1 West champions Bonymaen this Saturday. Phil McCardle (a former Bonymaen player) of Argies Coffe.co.uk is the Match Sponsor and Sian Noble of Coor�s Brewery is sponsoring the Match Ball. The following Saturday Nov 17^th the Athletic have been drawn away to Pontypool United in the second round of the Konica Minolta Cup.

Abercynon 2^nd XV 24 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 5

Bridgend Athletic were a poor imitation of their normal flowing style of rugby, and were deservedly beaten by 24 points to 5 in a friendly at Abercynon.

The one ray of sunshine was the fifth try of the season for wing Will Alston.

It is hoped they regain their form for a home District League fixture with Heol Y Cyw this Saturday, before travelling to Pontycymmer for a second round Enoch Lewis District Cup Tie on Nov 17^th..

Bridgend Athletic 19 Waunarlwydd 21

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat Oct 27^th 2007

This was another disappointing overall display by the Athletic. For the fourth time this season they acquired a losing bonus point by finishing within 7 points of their opponents. However, they have lacked the luck on occasions and confidence in a virtually new team to go the extra mile to secure the victory.

This time they were three points from victory going down by 21 � 19 against Waunarlwydd. Last season also saw two very close games with the visitors. In both games Stuart Morris rescued the Athletic with last minute penalties to set up a 23-21 home win and a 25-25 away draw. However, it was not to be third time lucky. Having brought the Athletic to within two points of Waunarlwydd with 4 penalties � one from half way and another 40 metres-his trusty left boot pulled a last minute penalty from wide out a metre wide of the upright.

The Athletic started brightly. From a ruck on their own 10 metre line, half backs Hywel Davies and Stephen Lewis opened up play. Centre Robert Coles released wing Tom Goodwin to sprint towards the visitor�s 22. An inside pass saw flanker Matthew Hillman in support to hand on to hooker Stuart Nation to cross for his first Athletic try in only his second appearance for the club. Morris converted from wide out. It was almost Nation�s last contribution to the game as a few minutes later he was forced to leave the field with a shoulder injury.

Waunarlwydd soon struck back with a try from wing Gethin Lilicrap converted by full back Jonathon Lewis. Within three minutes Lewis struck again as the Athletic defence parted with a gap as wide as the Red Sea, to allow the full back a clear run to the line. In the move leading up to the try wing Tom Goodwin suffered a horrific injury resulting in a broken jaw. He now joins an increasing long term Athletic injury list including scrum half Stuart Kenny, wing Rhodri Davies, prop Carle Gregory and lock Jonathon Stoker. Two Lewis penalties once again saw the Athletic chasing the game as they trailed 18-7 at half time.

The Athletic forwards raised their game in the second half, with prop Phillip Price, lock Kyle Coulter and flanker Lee Simms to the fore.Waunarlwydd were conceding a string of penalties. Morris kicked two to reduce the deficit to 18-13, before Lewis stretched the visitor�s lead to 21-13. Morris gave the Athletic hope with his two long range penalties to reduce the deficit to two points. However his fellow backs were having an off day, and failed to utilise hard won possession from the Athletic pack. It was the pack which forced the last minute wide out penalty, which unfortunately Morris just failed to convert.

The lack of luck was not just felt by the team. On the eve of the game their physio and Match Sponsor for the game Bob Lewis was suddenly admitted to hospital. The club wish both Bob and Tom speedy recoveries.

This Saturday the Athletic face a trip to Narbeth

Maesteg Quins 2^nd XV 7 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 24 

District Cup � 1^ST Round

Bridgend Athletic repeated their 35-3 home league win over Maesteg Quins the previous Saturday, this time triumphing in an away District Cup game by 24-7. It was doubly satisfying as the Quins had defeated the Athletic in the semi final of the same competition last season.

The Athletic pack played extremely well. The front row of Adrian Kelly, Steve Lyons and Nigel Hemmings scrummaged very well. Locks Jamie Doherty and last season�s Youth team lock Rhys.Evans won good line out ball. No 8 Ryan James was excellent and well supported by flankers Carl Moody and captain Liam Griffiths. The excellent ball won by the pack was well used by half backs Danny Williams and Paul Miles who had a very controlling influence on the game.

Wing Will Alston crossed for a brace of tries, with centres Nick Hinton and Stephen Hughes also crossing the try line. Miles converted two of the tries.

Cwmllynfell 32 Bridgend Athletic 26

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat 20^th Oct 2007

Bridgend Athletic again failed to secure their first win at Cwmllynfell, but came very close losing a 32-26 thriller. Both sides are exponents of 15 man rugby and a game well refereed by Barry Gregory could have gone either way. In the closing minutes the Athletic spurned a two man overlap and centre Robert Coles just failed to gather a chip ahead from his own 22 with the way to the line clear.

This was a much improved performance by the Athletic. Prop Phil Price steadied the scrum while young hooker Stuart Nation in his debut for the Athletic showed lots of promise in deputising for injured club captain Simon Mustoe. His throwing into the line out was also good, enabling all three locks used Jonathon Stoker, Sean Williams and Kyle Maiden to consistently secure their own ball. Williams was again the outstanding Athletic player � starting at lock and finishing the game at No 8.

The Athletic were penalised straight from the kick off and went behind to a Paul Davies penalty. Within a minute they were level when Stuart Morris cleared the upright from half way. Cwmllynfell took the lead through full back James Pike winning the race to a chip ahead over the Athletic try line. Morris and Davies again exchanged penalties. Some woeful Athletic tackling saw Cwmllynfell�s powerful No 8 and pack leader Jim Morgan cross for his side�s second try. A good back movement saw wing Daniel Jones cross for the third Cwmllynfell try, and give the home side a 21-6 half time lead.

Within 5 minutes of the restart Sean Williams gathered a Cwmllynfell 22 metre drop out on half way. He made a powerful run through the home defence before providing a try scoring pass for the supporting scrum half Hywel Davies. Morris converted to reduce the deficit to 21-13. However, an Achilles heel of the Athletic this season has been the ability to deal with restarts. Once again they made a hash of the restart and from a resultant ruck Morgan broke away for his second and last try for Cwmllynfell. This was his final game before transferring to Carmarthen Quins. Cwmllynfell will miss his experience � just as Ian Hemburrow used to provide a focus for a young Athletic pack, Morgan has been the cornerstone of the Cwmllynfell 8. Morris and Owen Higgins exchanged penalties, and then a neat drop goal from outside half Stephen Lewis brought the scores to 29-19.

A slick Athletic passing movement saw half backs Davies and Lewis release centre Robert Coles. Coles made an outside break before slipping an inside pass for full back Simon Evans to cross in the corner. It was game on at 29-26 as Morris converted from the touchline. However, the Achilles heel again struck as straight from the restart the Athletic conceded a penalty, which Higgins duly despatched to put the home side 32-26 ahead. Despite opportunities for the Athletic they had to be content with a losing bonus point..

This Saturday the Athletic entertain Waunarllwyd, in a game sponsored by club physio Bob Lewis of Bob Lewis Builders.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 35 Maesteg Quins 2^nd XV 3 

District League � Div 1 � Sat Oct 20^th

An excellent 15 man display of running rugby saw the Athletic run in 5 tries to secure the league points in a 35 � 3 win against Maesteg Quins, in what was a dress rehearsal for this Saturday�s District Cup encounter. In the backs three players who have appeared in 1^st XV colours this season full back Nick Hinton, wing Rhodri Davies and centre Scott Robinson proved their class. Lock James Doherty, No 8 Tom Penry-Ellis and scrum half and captain Liam Griffiths also stood out..

Hinton and Davies both secured try braces. Lock Jamie Doherty also got on the try scoring sheet. Outside half Paul Miles converted all five tries.

Bridgend Athletic 13 Llangennech 19

Sat Oct 13^th � Asda League Div 1 West

Of the Bridgend Athletic side that defeated Llangennech 34 � 7 at the end of last season, due to player movements to Llanelli, Aberavon, Bridgend and Maesteg and injury, only seven of that side took the field in this season�s fixture. The new side are taking time to gel and need to improve fitness levels demanded of Div 1 West. The side made too many unforced errors giving the visitors too much territory, and contributing to their own downfall in a 19-13 defeat.

Llangennech had the best possible start. A chip ahead inside the Athetic twenty two in the first minute took a wild deflection away from the Athletic cover straight into the arms of centre Mark Bowen, who just had to flop over the try line. The visitors continued to press spreading the ball wide, but found the Athletic backs up to the task with many big hits. Centre Tom Goodwin in particular stopped many moves with bone jarring tackles. Having weathered the initial onslaught the Athletic came back into the game. Two Stuart Morris penalties � one a monster from 3 metres inside his own half, gave the Athletic a 6-5 lead. The game was turned on its head in the closing minutes of the first half. The Athletic spilled possession close to the Llangennech line with a clear try scoring overlap. The visitors broke away and were halted just short of their try line. The Athletic made a complete hash of clearing from a 5 metre scrum, and from the resultant visitor�s scrum they drove over for a try by No 8 Gareth Roberts converted by outside half Adrian Roberts. A potential 13-5 half time lead had in the course of a minute turned into a 12-6 deficit.

Llangennech had the better of the forward exchanges at the start of the second half. The throwing into the Athletic line out was poor, often surrendering possession to the visitors. This and poor decision making from some key players, kept the home side on the back foot. However, it was an Athletic attack that gave Llangennech their third try. A telegraphed miss move in the backs led to wing Mike Davies intercepting and racing to the try line from half way. Thomas converted to put the visitors 19-6 ahead.

The Athletic at last woke up and started a move on half way. Full back Simon Evans and wing Rhodri Davies featured prominently, before prop Wayne Fookes popped up to take the try scoring pass. Morris converted and brought the Athletic within 6 points of Llangennech and a losing bonus point. Despite repeated attacks in the closing minute the game was beyond the Athletic�s reach.

The Athletic coaches will be looking for more effort and fitness to stop a potential slump, and be competitive this Saturday at Cwmllynfell � a ground even the best Athletic sides have failed to win at. Only Stuart Morris and Simon Evans came away from the game with performances demanded at this level.

The club would like to thank Match Sponsor John David and Match Ball Sponsor Carl Kerrigan.

Wick 10 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV  27 

Sat � Oct 12^th District League � Div 1

The Athletic 2^nd XV played well to outscore Wick by 5 tries to 1 in a 27-10 Distict League fixture.

No 8 Tom Penry-Ellis crossed for a try brace, wings Dean Jones,Will Alston and replacement wing Andrew West all had single touchdowns.Penry-Ellis converted one of the tries.

Penry-Ellis , centres Carle Ellis and Nick Hinton and wing Andrew West were the prominent Athletic players.

Bridgend Athletic 26 Caerphilly 32

Friendly � Sat Sept 29th

With no league games for three weeks Bridgend Athletic of Div 1 West and Caerphilly from the equivalent East Division arranged a friendly. Both sides used the occasion to give their squads a run out. The Athletic used 22 players with lock Kyle Maiden, centres Scott Robinson and Carle Ellis and prop Dean Greenslade having their first run outs of the season.

Caerphilly won the game 32 -26.The Athletic led 19 � 15 at half time through 4 Stuart Morris penalties � one from half way and a conversion of a try from flanker Tom Penry-Ellis. The try was a typical Athletic effort. Wing Dylan Mafi gathered a loose ball inside his own 22. He chipped ahead before regathering and feeding centre Tom Goodwin. Goodwin made an excellent 40 metre break before off loading to Morris who found flanker Penry-Ellis on his shoulder. The youngster ran the remaining 30 metres for his senior debut try for the Athletic. Caerphilly�s points came from two tries, a conversion and a penalty.

Caerphilly started the second half with a bang and opened up a 32 � 19 lead with three tries and a conversion. The Athletic then rallied through two of their replacements. Centre Scott Robinson broke clear down the blind side and with a well timed pass out of a tackle put wing Nick Hinton over. Morris converted to reduce the deficit to 32-26.

Despite piling on the pressure the Athletic failed to add to their 26 points. The referee blew up a few minutes early following a nasty ankle injury to the Athletic prop Carle Gregory, which prevented him being moved from the field.

Last season�s youth scrum half  David Pritchard again impressed as did all four centres used Stuart Morris, Tom Goodwin, Carle Ellis and Scott Robinson. Hooker Simon Mustoe and No 8 Sean Williams were the pick of the Athletic pack.

Bridgend Athletic 6 Carmarthen Quins 31

Asda League � Div 1 West � Sat 22^nd Sept.

The adage big is beautiful certainly applied in the fixture between Bridgend Athletic and Carmarthen Quins. The Quins with ambitions to return to their former Premier League status have heavily recruited experienced players. The power of their very big pack allied to the tactical kicking of outside half Chris Jones kept the Athletic mainly on the back foot. All 4 Carmarthen tries in a 31 � 6 victory, came from close range after they had pinned the Athletic inside their 22.

The Athletic took a tenth minute lead from a Stuart Morris penalty. They then lost captain and hooker Simon Mustoe to the sin bin for a technical offence. The Quins took advantage from a 5 metre scrum creating an overlap for wing Daniel Gravelle to cross. Jones added the conversion. He then kicked a penalty. The Athletic struck back with Morris adding a second penalty from 5 metres inside his own half. Another 5 metre scrum saw Quins captain Alan Mason pick up and charge over. Jones converted to put the visitors 17 � 6 ahead at half time.

Another short range move saw former Aberavon scrum half Daniel Hawkins dive over under the posts. Mason then charged over for his second try. Jones converted to extend the Quins lead to 31 � 6. With half an hour still remaining the home fans feared a rout. Despite Carmarthen throwing everything but the kitchen sink at the home side, the Athletic held out bravely.

Lock Sean Williams had his third successive impressive performance for the Athletic. No 8 Dan Apsee never gave up trying to take on the Quin�s pack, and fellow flankers Chris Whitcombe and Matthew Hillman, despite conceding physical weight advantage to their opposite numbers tackled bravely. Young scrum half David Pritchard showed considerable maturity, and often disrupted the experienced Hawkins around the base of the scrum, as well as putting in a number of pressure relieving kicks. Wing Rhodri Davies also caused the Quins much trouble with strong runs from limited possession.

The whole back division tackled well preventing any scoring opportunities from the Carmarthen back division. The Quins mainly played to their forward strength after Jones had kicked them into good attacking positions.

This Saturday SEPT 29TH the Athletic have arranged a friendly home fixture with Caerphilly � kick off 1.30 pm ahead of the Wales � Fiji televised game..

Whitland 11 Bridgend Athletic 16

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat 8^th Sept 2007

Bridgend Athletic bounced back from an opening day home defeat to Tonmawr by recording an excellent 16 � 11 away win over Whitland. It was the first ever victory for the Athletic over the West Wales side.

The Athletic with a breeze behind them were well served at forward by the front row of Wayne Fookes, captain Simon Mustoe and Andrew Brown. Lock Sean Williams was again outstanding, while fellow lock Kyle Coulter�s all action style earned the plaudits of his own team mates, if not the home fans. The ball won by the forwards was well used with some excellent tactical kicking from outside half Stephen Lewis, centre Stuart Morris and debutant full back Simon Evans. This kept Whitland on the back foot and enabled scrum half Hywel Davies (normally a centre) to release the Athletic backs to play their normal free flowing game. Stuart Morris opened the scoring with a penalty. The ball moved through several pairs of hands with centre Tom Goodwin and wings Rod Davies and Dylan Mafi involved before Simon Evans crossed for his first senior Athletic try. Morris converted and added a second penalty to put the Athletic 13 � 0 ahead. They were to rue some further missed scoring opportunities, before Whitland struck back with a pushover try just before the interval.

The second half saw the home side gain the initiative. Two penalties reduced the Athletic lead to 13 � 11. A magnificent defensive display with the back row of dual registered player Marcus Sainsbury, Dan Apsee and Matthew Hillman to the fore kept the Athletic line in tact. Hooker Scott Baldwin and centre Scott Robinson made their senior Athletic debuts as replacements, and lock Tom Penry-Ellis and flanker Chris Whitcomb were also introduced to the fray. The Athletics� nerves were eased with a third Morris penalty to record the historic Athletic victory.

The next Athletic fixture is home to Carmarthen Quins on Saturday 22^nd September.

Bridgend Athletic 13 Tonmawr 19 

Asda League � Div 1 West � Sept 1^st

A very young Bridgend Athletic outfit lost 19 -13 to a highly experienced newly promoted Tonmawr team, in their opening Division 1 West fixture this season.

Following the team�s excellent display in finishing 4^th last season, a number of Premiership clubs came knocking. 5 players were lost to Llanelli, Aberavon, Bridgend and Maesteg. Another two players have moved away � so coaches Huw Hathawy, Paul Yardley and David Williams face a major team rebuilding exercise this campaign. Full debuts were given to three of last season�s Youth Team - scrum half Dai Pritchard and full back Nick Hopson who both started the game, and lock Tom Penry-Ellis who came on as a replacement.

The Athletic started strongly taking the game to their opponents. Another debutant � last season�s Wales U19 prop Ryan Bevington - on permit from the Ospreys made his presence felt in the set scrum and with a number of charging runs. Lock Sean Williams also shone in the loose and tight � not giving any ground against some dubious over vigorous rucking by the visitors, which eventually led to a yellow card for their lock. Flanker Matthew Hillman had a very high tackle count throughout the game.

The Athletic opened the scoring in the fifteenth minute. A series of moves saw the ball worked along the line for lock Dan Apsee to release wing Rhodri Davies. Davies held of three tacklers to power over in the corner. Three minutes later full back Nick Hopson caught a clearance kick on half way. He chipped over the defence regathered possession and off loaded in the tackle for wing Nick Hinton to cross and put the Athletic 10 � 0 in the lead. Unfortunately the Athletics� momentum was halted when the game was stopped to remove dog manure from the field. This allowed Tonmawr to re group and start playing a tactical forward orientated game. The Athletic were unable to control possession from a 5 metre scrum, and centre Will Price had the easy task on falling on a loose ball over the try line. Outside half Austen Howells added the conversion to reduce the Athletics� half time lead to 10 � 7.

Shortly after the re start wing Darren Griffiths appeared to drop the ball in crossing the Athletic try line � but the referee ruled in his favour. Howells again converted to put the visitors 14 � 10 ahead. This lead was extended to 19 � 10 when captain and No 8 Rob Hill was driven over the line from a 5 metre line out. Outside half Stephen Lewis reduced the deficit to 19 � 3 with a penalty goal.Tonmawr were playing a territorial game forcing the Athletic to attack from deep. Despite good efforts from centre Stuart Morris and Dylon Mafi and a number of breaks from Lewis the Athletic were unable to breach the visitor�s defence.

This Saturday the Athletic visit Whitland.

The club would like to thank its� chairman Terry Coles for sponsoring the fixture.

Bridgend Athletic 2nd XV 14 Tondu 2^nd XV 5 

Div 1 � District League � Sept 1^st

District League Div 1 champions Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV posted intentions to hang onto their title with a hard earned 17 � 5 local derby victory over Tondu.

The Athletic crossed for two long range interception tries for centre Stephen Hughes and wing Will Alston. Outside half Paul Miles converted both tries..

Jamie Doherty impressed in a new role at prop forward and the Athletic also welcomed back prop Huw Morris following a long injury. No 8 Stuart Frith was impressive in his first start for the Athletic. Overall the Athletic played well and deserved their victory.

Llanelli 33 Bridgend Athletic 10 

Friendly � Aug 17^th 2007

Coaches Huw Hathaway, David Williams and Paul Yardley were delighted with the Bridgend Athletic performance in a pre season friendly with Llanelli. The club gave the opportunity to 27 players to run out onto the famous Stradey Park turf, in what is likely to be the last season Llanelli play there. Nine of last year�s Welsh Youth Cup winning side were among those savouring the experience. Three brothers Hywel, Morgan and Rod Davies played together in the same team for the first time in their careers.

There were massive positives for the coaches to take from the game with all playersshowing huge commitment and many putting up their hands for 1^st XV selection. Llanelli playing with the wind took a 19-0 half time lead, crossing for three tries. The Athletic came close to scoring on a number of occasions. Half backs Dai Pritchard and Steven Lewis combined well with Lewis showing he has matured into a very talented outside half. Wing Rod Davies was a strong runner with sound performances from Stuart Morris, Carle Ellis and Dylan Mafi on his return to the club. Centre Tom Goodwin started promisingly, but was replaced after injury by Nick Hinton. A very young pack started the game with all players under 24 years of age and saw second row Tom Penry-Ellis and No 8 Morgan Davies making their Athletic debuts. The usual front row of props Carle Gregory and Andrew Brown and captain and hooker Simon Mustoe started the game. Lock Kyle Coulter and flankers Matthew Hillman and Sean Williams were also in the starting line up.

At the start of the second half the Athletic put Llanelli under severe pressure and a flowing back move saw outside half Lewis cross for a try. The Athletic rang the changes with Hywel Davies and four of last season�s Youth team Chris Thomas, Chris Harries, Simon Evans and Lyndsey MaCausland joining the fray. Rhys Jones, Liam Griffiths, Tom Howells, Dean Greenslade, Dai Price and Wayne Fookes were introduced in the pack. This very young side performed well above expectations, and a period of pressure saw scrum half McCausland weave his way over for the second Athletic try. The Athletic matched Llanelli�s second half performance and try brace, and all the coaching staff and supporters left the ground thoroughly satisfied with the team�s performance.

The relationship between the clubs was further cemented in the clubhouse after the game. Llanelli thanked the club for lending them players for their end of last season games, including a Konica Minolta semi final. Club President Phil Rees responded by thanking Llanelli for the fixture and the excellent hospitality laid on for the Athletic. He also thanked them for their professionalism and the courtesy they showed the club in asking the club officials for permission to speak to players they were interested in. After developing players from Under 8 level the club realise and encourage players to reach their full potential at Senior level, and are pleased that Llanelli appreciate this and deal with the club first � not approaching the players directly.

The club would like to thank retiring Team Manger Mr Wayne Yardley for the excellent job he has done over a number of seasons, since retiring from a long and distinguished playing career with the Athletic. Fortunately the Athletic have a very able replacement in Mr Keith Thomas to take over the reins. Keith has shown great commitment to the club and was voted Clubman of the Year for last season. He is a previous Youth Team Manager.

This Thursday Aug 24^th the Athletic visit Virginia Park for another friendly against Caerphilly, before commencing their Division 1 West campaign with a home fixture on September 21^st against Tonmawr.

Match Reports 2006 - 2007    

Heol Y Cyw 2^nd XV 5 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 53

District League � Div 1 � Sat 28^th Apri

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV proved too strong for their Heol Y Cyw counterparts, running in 9 tries in a 53-5 Division 1 District League fixture.

Centres Rod Davies and Stephen Hughes and wing Roger Pearce all crossed for try braces, with single touchdowns for front row forwards Peter Barry and Steve Lyons and wing Will Alston. Half back partners Stuart Kenny and Paul Miles converted two tries apiece.

Sully Sports 8 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 31

Friendly � April 21^st - 2007

In a friendly curtailed to an hour due to an injury to a sully Sports player, the Athletic ran in 5 tries in a 31-8 victory. Centre Stuart Morris crossed for a brace of tries, with single touchdowns for wing Chris Boland, prop Will Alston and flanker Sean Williams. Outside half Paul Miles converted 3 of the tries.

The Athletic were forced to play two wingers Alston and Steve Lyons in the front row. Both did well in their unfamiliar roles.

Maesteg Quins 2^nd XV 19 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 59

District League Div 1- April 14th - 2007

Bridgend Athletic2nd XV made it a league double over their Maesteg Quins counterparts, following a 52-24 home win with an impressive 59-19 away victory. However, interspersed between these results the Quins defeated the Athletic in a District Cup fixture.

The Athletic outscored their opponents by 9 tries to 3. Wing Rhodri Davies crossed for a hat trick, flanker Simon Mustoe a try brace, with single touchdowns for full back Chris Thomas, centre Hywel Davies, scrum half Lyndsey McCausland and wing Chris McGrath. Outside half Stephen Hughes converted 7 of the tries.

Merthyr 50 Bridgend Athletic 19

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat April 7

Bridgend Athletic had the end of season blues going down to a heavy 50-19 defeat at Merthyr, in what has easily been the best ever season for the young newly promoted club. They currently lie in 3^rd position in Asda League Division 1 West, and are guaranteed a top 5 finish � something the coaches and supporters would not have believed possible at the start of the campaign.

The Athletic were the architects of their own demise. Leading 12-10 with 5 minutes to half time two clear cut scoring chances were spurned by players refusing to use overlap positions. The second resulted in a Merthyr penalty, which they used to go down field and cross for a try. On the stroke of half time an attempted miracle pass saw Merthyr intercept and instead of a potential 19-10 half time lead, the Athletic found themselves 24-12 down at the break, and the home side seize the initiative.

The game had opened with the Athletic crossing for a first minute try. Lock Kyle Maiden won line out possession on half way. The ball was quickly moved via half backs Stuart Kenny and Stuart Morris to centre Hywel Davies and Robert Coles, who made a break into the 22 before releasing full back Marc Bennett to put wing Rhodri Davies over in the corner, and join Bennett on 15 tries for the season. Merthyr quickly responded with a penalty and converted try to take a 10-5 lead. Bennett again made a break before releasing centre Coles to sprint clear and join Bennett and Davies on 15 tries. Morris converted to put the Athletic 12-10 ahead, before the undisciplined final 5 minutes of the half, saw their two point advantage turn into a 24-12 half time deficit.

Buoyed by their change around in fortunes Merthyr hit the shell shocked Athletic side with another converted try within the first two minutes of the restart. Still looking to play attractive rugby from all parts of the field the Athletic were too predictable, and a blitz defence resulted in a second interception from a poorly delivered long pass. A pushover try saw the Athletic trailing 43-12.

Inspired by No 8 Dan Apsee the Athletic responded when he capped an excellent performance by slipping a well timed pass to Coles on half way. Coles also capped an excellent game and season by out sprinting the home defence, to deservedly become the Athletic top try scorer for the season, with his sixteenth try. Morris converted to bring up the Athletics�500^th league point of the season, and 197 personal points. Merthyr had the final say with a converted try in the last minute.

The Athletic finished the season with 12 wins, 9 defeats and a draw, scoring 500 points for and 445 against, with 61 tries for and 59 against. It is a tribute to a very young side and the coaches Huw Hathaway, David Williams and Paul Yardley that they competed so well in a very competitive league. If the young side can stay together, the experience gained and lessons learned to win games at this level bodes well for the future. There will be another influx of young players coming through next season from the highly successful Youth side that reached the Final of the Welsh Youth Cup, defeating their Merthyr counterparts in mid week.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 48 Kenfig Hill 2^nd XV 0

Friendly � Sat April 7

The Athletic 2^nd XV proved too strong for local rivals Kenfig Hill crossing for 8 tries in a 48-0 win. Scrum half Lindsey McCausland led the way with a hat trick of tries. With single touchdowns for full back Chris Thomas, wings Will Aston and Roger Pearce, No 8 Liam Griffiths and prop Wayne Fookes. Outside half Tom Cole converted two of the tries, McCausland and lock Jamie Doherty from the touchline also converted.

Carmarthen Quins 40 Bridgend Athletic 30

Asda League Division 1 West � Sat 31^st March.

The clich� a game of two halves certainly applied when 3^rd placed Bridgend Athletic visited 2nd in the table Carmarthen Quins. The Athletic with a gale force wind at their backs rattled up 30 points without reply in the first half, only to see the home side respond with 40 of their own in the second period, to reverse an earlier defeat and run out 40-30 victors.

In the tenth minute the Athletic opted to run the ball inside their own 22. Outside half Stuart Morris fed centre Robert Coles who made an initial break before offloading to full back Marc Bennett on half way. The elusive runner beat three tacklers to cross in the corner to become the season�s leading try scorer with 15 touchdowns. With the Quins again pressing wing Ardi Tollentino intercepted 10 metres from his own try line to race the length of the pitch to score. Lock Jonathon Stoker won a line out 30 metres out. Scrum half Stuart Kenny fed Morris who threw out a long pass to Coles. The speedy centre joined wing Rod Davies on 14 tries as he sped through the Quins defence. Morris converted all three tries to put the Athletic 21-0 ahead. Next Morris landed a huge penalty from 5 metres inside his own half, and followed up with two further wide angled penalties to give his side a 30-0 advantage at half time.

The Quins came out blazing in the second half. They used the wind to pin back the Athletic and in a devastating 5 minute period crossed for three converted tries, two from 5 metre driving mauls. With 55 minutes gone they crossed for a fourth converted try to reduce the deficit to 30-28. The Athletic battled hard to keep them at bay. However, two late tries � one converted saw a huge switch around in fortunes with the lighter Athletic pack being out muscled by the Quins 8.Wing Rod Davies made some good runs late on, but the home side held firm to record a victory that kept them with an outside chance of promotion to the Premiership.

For the Athletic lock Jonathon Stoker and captain hooker  Simon Mustoe tried hard to stem the second half tide, but the opening 5 minutes of the half had proved decisive.

This Saturday the Athletic conclude their inaugural season in Asda League Division 1 West with a visit to Merthyr. Whatever the outcome the team and coaches can look back on a campaign that far exceeded the club�s expectation at the start of the season. The young side can only get better with experience, and win or lose the spectators will always see the Athletic stay true to their tradition of playing the game for enjoyment, involving all 15 players on the field.

Bridgend Athletic 31 Whitland 33

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat March 24^th

Bridgend Athletic were narrowly beaten by 33 -31 by Whitland  in an excellent match in which 9 tries were scored.

The game hinged on two controversial refereeing decisions. With the Athletic leading 17-5 two minutes before half time he adjudged the Athletic lock Kyle Maiden had stamped in a ruck, and showed him a straight red card. The youngster was adamant he had done nothing intentional, and that in releasing his foot he had accidentally made contact with a Whitland player. No trainer was required, and no injury occurred. The second was when the referee over ruled the two touch judges to award a Whitland conversion, they had adjudged to have gone wide.

The Athletic started brightly and opened the scoring after 10 minutes. Outside half Stephen Lewis chipped ahead, wing Rod Davies caught the ball and passed inside to centre Rhys Webb to gallop over under the posts. Fellow centre Stuart Morris converted and added a penalty. Whitland responded when scrum half Luke Marsh broke from a scrum on half way to cross for a solo try. Centre Morris made an excellent break and a well timed pass saw wing Ardi Tollentino sprint over in the corner. Morris added the conversion from the touchline. Then came the sending off incident. However, the Athletic responded when Morris fed a short pass to No 8 Ryan James to burst a tackle and cross under the posts. Morris converted to put the Athletic 24-5 ahead at half time.

Within two minutes of the restart Whitland made their numerical supremacy count when hooker Hugh Devonold was driven over the line from a 5 meter line out. They were further buoyed when the referee awarded the conversion, over ruling the touch judges. The Athletic responded immediately when half John Doherty scrum fed Marc Bennett on the touchline. The elusive full back jinked past four would be tacklers to dive over under the posts, and join wing Rod Davies as the leading try scorer with 14 touchdowns this season. Morris converted to put the Athletic 31-12 ahead. From the restart a lapse of concentration let in Whitland centre Matthew Hughes for a try converted by Aled Davies. Hooker Hugh Devonold then claimed a second try, and with 15 minutes to go another 5 metre line out saw prop Gareth Williams driven over. Davies converted to put Whitland ahead for the first time at 33-31.

Whitland were making their numbers count, and were able to commit an extra player to defend against the Athletic back division. They were also playing an expansive game, and the pace of the game made it difficult for the Athletic pack to hold out in the scrums and line outs and get around the field effectively. The pack stuck manfully to their task. Lock Sean Williams and No 8 Ryan James secured the Athletic throws. The front row of Tom Hearne, Simon Mustoe and Carle Gregory stood solid in the scrums, with flankers Dan Apsee and Matthew Hillman having to do the work of three men in the loose.

The referee continued to frustrate the Athletic supporters. Wing Ardi Tollentino was taken out in the air and forced to leave the field. With three minutes remaining the Athletic were awarded a penalty for a Whitland player kicking an Athletic player. They were awarded a penalty 10 metres further on when a Whitland player tripped an Athletic player trying to take a quick penalty. The referee to the consternation of the home supporters did not address any of the incidents, when at least a yellow card was warranted on each occasion. Morris attempted to win the game with the advanced penalty, but shaved the outside of the upright. A draw would have been a fair outcome on the day.

This coming Saturday the Athletic visit Championship contenders Carmarthen Quins, before concluding their Div 1 West campaign at Merthyr the following Saturday.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 31 Wick 12 

District League Div 1 � Sat March 24^th

Bridgend Athletic outscored Wick by five tries to two to record a 31-12 District Division 1 victory. Leading try scorer full back Chris Thomas took his season�s tally to thirteen,with a try brace. He also added two conversions. Single touchdowns were recorded by scrum half Lynsey McCausland, youth prop Dai Price and outside half Paul Miles. Miles and Flanker Liam Griffiths also added a conversion apiece.

Builth Wells 12 Bridgend Athletic 37

Div 1 West � Asda League � Sat March 3^rd

With the wind at their backs and four successive league victories behind them, Builth Wells started in a very confidant manner. Their early pressure paid off when in the fifth minute their back row picked up from a 5 metre scrum and drove over the Athletic try line, for a converted try to open up a 7 point gap.

However, Simon Mustoe�s team were determined not to be the first Athletic side to lose to Builth Wells. In fact when the Athletic last did the double over Builth Wells in Division 3 East in season 2002-2003, from today�s side only scrum half John Doherty and centres Stuart Morris and Robert Coles were eligible to play senior rugby. The Athletic fielded 8 players aged 18-21.The forwards started to take a stranglehold on the game. They were frustrated by the home side continually killing the ball. Finally after a few warnings the Bull�s  flanker was consigned to the sin bin on the half hour. Centre Stuart Morris kicked the resultant penalty to bring up his 150 points for the season. With the home side a man short in the back row, the Athletic opted to run from a defensive scrum inside their own 22. The ball was transferred via half backs John Doherty and Stephen Lewis to centre Morris who released wing Carle Ellis. The powerful wing broke several tackles before on half way �unselfishly� offloaded to full back Marc Bennett to run the remaining 50 metres to the try line. Morris converted to put his side 10-7 ahead. From the restart Morris pinned Builth back inside their own 22, with a 50 metre touch finder. Flanker Chris Whitcombe and No 8 Ryan James disrupted the Builth line out and won the ball. The front row union of Rod Jones and Simon Mustoe and prop Tom Hearne interpassed like backs, for Hearne to dive over in the corner, to give the Athletic a 15-7 half time lead.

Ellis and Bennett were again involved in the third Athletic try. Ellis gathered a clearance kick inside his own half, committed the defence before a clever pass to Bennett saw another 50 metre sprint to bring up the Athletics� 400th league point of the season. Morris then kicked a 45 metre penalty to extend the lead to 23-7. Builth countered with a period of pressure resulting in a try from a 5 metre line out. However, with locks Jonathon Stoker and particularly Kyle Maiden providing excellent line out ball, outside half Lewis and Morris kept the home side pinned back in their own half for the remainder of the game. A strong run by Ellis was halted. The ball was quickly recycled from half backs Doherty and Lewis to centre Morris who crossed in the corner, for his side�s 50^th league try of the campaign. His touch line conversion brought up the 30 point mark for his side. In the closing minutes flanker Dan Apsee placed a grubber kick along the touchline and over the try line. From nowhere centre Robert Coles sprinted past all the opposition defence to dive over and join Bennett on 13 touchdowns for the season � one behind leading try scorer wing Rod Davies. Morris converted for a match haul of 17 points. The Athletic used replacements prop Andrew Brown, flanker Matthew Hillman and scrum half Stuart Kenny, after losing flanker Johnny Jones, who pulled a hamstring in the pre match warm up.

In an excellent 15 man display coaches Huw Hathaway, David Williams and Paul Yardley singled out flanker Chris Whitcombe and lock Kyle Maiden for special praise.

The Athletic are now well placed for a top three finish in their first season back in Division 1 West. Their next fixture on March 24^th is home to Whitland, and they conclude the season with trips to Carmarthen Quins and Merthyr.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 23 Llanharan 2^nd XV 31 

District League � Sat March 3^rd.

In an excellent display of rugby by both the Athletic and Llanharan 2^nd strings, Llanharan took the honours with a 31-23 victory, in a game that saw the lead continually changing hands. The only disappointment for the Athletic was some poor tackling that let Llanharan in for two of their tries.

Youth team hooker Scott Baldwin crossed for a try brace. College student centre Chris Thomas took his season�s try tally to 11 in only 8 appearances. Outside half Paul Miles converted one of the tries and slotted two penalties.

Flanker Sean Williams was the Athletics� Man of the Match, while Baldwin and fellow youth players� locks Tom Penry-Ellis, Sean�s brother Joe and scrum half Dai Pritchard also featured strongly.

Bridgend Athletic 13 Bonymaen 22 

 Div 1 West � Asda League

This game lived up to its billing as a clash between the top two sides in Division 1 West. It had everything � two highly skilled sides playing with passion and commitment, with the result in doubt until Bonymaen scored the final try of the game in the last minute, to secure a 22-13 victory. Although the Athletic were disappointed to lose their 9 match home winning sequence, they could have not given more commitment and came out of the game with massive respect from both sets of supporters, and many neutrals that had travelled to watch the game. In the final analysis both sides had equal opportunities to cross the try line, but Bonymaen had that extra experience and composure to finish off their chances.

Bonymaen had the better of the opening exchanges, helped by the Athletics� poor kicking out of defence, enabling their speedy wings and full back to run the ball back at the Athletic, instead of relieving the pressure. However, on the Athletics� first serious attack Bonymaen conceded a penalty near the half way line, for centre Stuart Morris to open the scoring with an excellent kick. The lead was short lived as an Athletic defender slipped trying to collect a grubber kick ahead, allowing Bonymaen wing Mark Harvey a soft try. A second Morris penalty restored the Athletics�lead at 6-5.Again Bonymaen�s response was swift resulting in a try for flanker Ewan Hopkins, converted by outside half Paul Warlow. Magnificent tackling by the Athletic back row of Chris Whitcombe, Ryan James and Dan Apsee prevented Bonymaen further extending their lead. Having weathered the storm, the Athletic forwards then started to exert some control � especially in the scrums, where front row forwards Carle Gregory, Simon Mustoe and Tom Hearne, aided by second rows Neil Thomas and Jonathon Stoker were managing to push a much heavier Bonymaen backwards. Centre Morris was keeping the visitors on the back foot, with punishing 50 metre touch finders.The score remained at 12-6 to Bonymaen at half time.

For twenty minutes of the second half the Athletic were camped inside the Bonymaen half, but failed to break down a well organised defence. On one occasion a three man overlap was spurned, which could have changed the game. Bonymaen then broke away and showed the Athletic how to make the most of an opportunity as flanker Dai Absalom was on hand to finish off a 50 metre move. At 17-6 the game seemed dead and buried.. However, the Athletic have great team spirit and fought back. The introduction of this year�s Wales Under 19, 6ft 6 inch lock Kyle Maiden started to give the Athletic prime line out ball Breaks from centre Robert Coles, outside half Stephen Lewis and full back Marc Bennett nearly resulted in tries. The pressure was rewarded when following a bout of interpassing, full back Bennett broke clear from half way to cross for his eleventh try of the season. Morris converted to reduce the deficit to 17-13, and set up a grandstand finish. As the Athletic became more desperate to keep the ball alive a dropped pass in the final minute, allowed the Bonymaen wing Jason Wride to capitalise and seal a win that could clinch the title for them.

The Athletic could well have a say in the outcome of the Championship as they visit Carmarthen Quins, who with games in hand have the opportunity to catch Bonymaen Next up for the Athletic is a visit to the form side in Div 1 West, Builth Wells on March 3rd, who have won 4 successive games as they seek to avoid relegation. 

The club would like to thank Mr Phil Mcardle (a former Bonymaen prop) of Argies Coffe.Com for sponsoring the fixture.

Bridgend Athletic 34 Llangennech 7

DIV 1 West � Sat 3^rd Feb 2007 

Bridgend Athletic avenged an early season 24-10 defeat at Llangennech, with a 34-7 victory. This win was their ninth successive home win of the season, maintaining their 100% Home record. It also sets up a mouth watering home clash with leaders Bonymaen on February 17^th. Bonymaen with a game in hand on the Athletic lead the table by two points from the Athletic in second place, so an Athletic win would see them top the table.

The Athletic had first use of the wind and opened at a cracking pace. Two try scoring passes were spilled before they took the lead in the 10^th minute, through a Stuart Morris penalty. Their first try came from a line out on the Llangennech 40 metre line. Lock Neil Thomas won clean line out ball for half backs John Doherty and Stuart Morris to feed centre Robert Coles. Coles made an outside break, drew the full back and put wing Nick Hinton over in the corner. Morris converted from the touchline and extended the Athletic half time lead to 13-0 with a second penalty. Morris was dictating play and centres Coles and Carle Ellis were causing their opposite numbers all kinds of problems.

The Athletic front row of Carl Gregory, Captain Simon Mustoe and Tom Hearne were bossing the scrums, giving Llangennech poor ball to launch their back division. They tried keeping it tight, but had no joy with excellent tackling from the back row of Chris Whitcombe, Dan Apsee and Johnny Jones. Lock Jonathon Stoker won a line out inside the Athletic half. The ball was again moved along the line. Once more Coles broke the opposition defence to release wing Hinton. When Hinton was halted 20 metres from the try line, full back Marc Bennett was on hand to take a try scoring pass. Morris again converted from the touchline.

Llangennech did not give up and with 5 minutes remaining were rewarded with a try from centre Steve Davies, converted by outside half Adrian Thomas. Within a minute the Athletic responded. Replacement lock Kyle Maiden won line out ball 40 metres out. Replacement Youth debutant scrum half Dai Pritchard fed his three quarters. Ellis fed Coles whose break put in Bennett for his second try, and tenth of the season. In the last minute a fierce tackle from wing Luke Hathaway saw the ball go loose. Inevitably Coles was on hand to pick up on the touchline on half way. How he jinked through 3 opposition defenders immediately in front of him was a wonder in itself. To then sprint clear and beat two further opponents in an amazing run to the posts for his twelfth try of the season, only confirmed his devastating form over the last two months He is probably the best outside centre in Division 1 West. Morris converted both the tries. Prop Wayne Fookes, wing Tom Goodwin and No 8 Ryan James also featured as the Athletic used all 20 players on the day.

The club would like to thank Mr David Howells of David Howells Road Haulage for sponsoring the game. Every one in the club is eagerly awaiting the next home game on Feb 17^th with leaders Bonymaen, which with the winner topping the league could go a long way to deciding the Championship. Carmarthen Quins with games in hand and a home fixture in March with the Athletic will be an interested party in the outcome of the game.

Wattstown 5 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 26 

Friendly � Sat 3^rd Feb 2007-02-03

Two tries from man of the match scrum half Lynsey MacCausland and single touchdowns for full back Stephen Hughes and wing Will Alston, aligned to three conversions from outside half Paul Miles, gave the Athletic a well deserved 26-5 away victory at Wattstown.

As well as MacCausland there were impressive performances from Athletic Youth players No 8 Tom Penry-Ellis, centre Scott Robinson, and front row forwards Dai Price and Scott Baldwin.

Maesteg 47 Bridgend Athletic 15

5^th Rd Konica Minolta Cup � Jan 27th

Bridgend Athletic, in common with the other 11 1^st Division sides taking on Premiership opposition in the 5^th Round of the Konica Minolta Cup, found there is a huge gulf to breach to play at the next level. Even with home advantage the leaders of Division1 West, Bonymaen and 1 East Newbridge suffered significant defeats. Despite going down 47-15, to their credit the Athletic never dropped their heads, but found the tempo and intensity of the game far greater than anything they have experienced in Division 1. They were up against probably the best back row in the Premiership in experienced captain Ian Boobyer, No 8 Karl Hocking and Athletic old boy Marcus Sainsbury. Their experience continually sucked in the Athletic defence creating overlaps and try scoring opportunities. In the second half Hocking was continually breaking the gain line. The Athletic tackling was not up to their normal high standard, but some of that was down to the sheer intensity of the game.

Within 15 minutes the home side had created overlap situatons for wing Neil Dixon and centre Gareth Holmes to cross. A Luke Richards conversion made the score 12-0, before outside half Stephen Lewis got the Athletic on the scoreboard, with a 35 metre penalty. A converted try from scrum half Lloyd O�Connor stretched the Maesteg lead to 19-3. Just before half time the Athletics� leading try scorer Rhodri Davies, picked up a loose ball on the Maesteg 22 metre line and sprinted over in the corner, for his fourteenth try of the season. This gave the Athletic renewed hope going in 19-8 down at half time.

Hopes were soon dashed as the home side piled on the pressure leading to two tries for No 8 Karl Hocking, wing Nathan Trowbridge and Athletic old boy lock Paul Jones, all converted by Richards, stretching the lead to 47-8. The never say die attitude of the Athletic was rewarded when flanker Chris Whitcombe received a pass from a quickly taken tap penalty by scrum half Rhys Webb, to gallop over under the posts. Lewis converted.

The Athletic now have to re focus on the league. They host Llangennech who play a similar style of game to the Athletic, hoping to reverse an earlier defeat and extend their current unbeaten home record of 8 successive wins in Division 1 West.

Maesteg Quins 2^nd XV 14 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 5 

Semi Final Enoch Lewis District Cup- Jan 27th

Fielding a vastly different side to the one the Athletic defeated 52-24 earlier in the season, Maesteg Quins2nd XV defeated Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 14-5, in the semi final of the Enoch Lewis District Cup.

The Quins were awarded a penalty try and crossed for a push over try � both converted to secure victory. Lock Kyle Coulter was rewarded for a good second half performance with the lone Athletic try. Full back Paul Miles and youth centre Scott Robinson were the pick of the Athletic backs.

Loughor 14 Bridgend Athletic 15

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat 20^th Jan.

It was Roy of the Rover�s stuff at Villa Field, Loughor. With the final play of the game the Athletic were trailing 14-8. The ball was transferred via half backs Stuart Kenny and Stephen Lewis to centre Tom Goodwin. He fed his irresistible co centre Robert Coles. Coles has been on fire of late, and not for the first time in the game rounded his opposing centre, drew the defending wing and released 1^st XV debutant wing Nick Hinton to cross near the corner flag. Everything depended on the conversion. With the proven Athletic match winner Stuart Morris sidelined with an earlier injury, it fell upon young 19 year old outside half Stephen Lewis to become the hero or villain of the piece. To the delight of all Athletic players and supporters he showed no nerves in placing the ball over the centre of the uprights. The referee immediately blew full for a narrow, but deserved 15-14 Athletic victory. This was only the second Athletic victory on the road, but their unbeaten home run of 8 victories, has put them in second place in Division 1 West.

The Athletic had started the game brightly, playing against a stiff breeze in very heavy conditions. Last season�s Welsh under 18 cap Kyle Maiden was dominating the line outs and giving the Athletic a good platform to attack. However it was the home side that drew first blood. In their first sortie inside the Athletic 22 after 10 minutes, a series of driving mauls resulted in hooker Nick O�Kelly forcing his way over the try line. Outside half Ben Davies converted. The Athletic were dominating possession, but apart from centre Coles and wing Rod Davies, lacked the cutting edge to turn possession into points. The score remained locked at 7-0 in favour of Loughor for the remainder of the half.

The Athletic were again the dominant force in the second half. 10 minutes into the half the telepathic understanding between Lewis and Coles again worked. Another delicately flighted chip ahead was caught by Coles. He made ground before offloading to co centre Tom Goodwin, whose well timed pass gave wing Rhodri Davies room to move. The Athletics� leading try scorer took his season�s tally to 13 rounding and fending off three tacklers in a determined thirty metre run to the line. The Athletic then received a blow with an injury to full back Stuart Morris forcing them to reorganise their back line. Scrum half John Doherty went to full back with Stuart Kenny filling the scrum half role. They also rang the changes bringing on props Tom Hearne and Rod Jones to replace Andrew Brown and Carl Gregory. Lock Neil Thomas replaced Kyle Maiden and No8 Ryan James replaced Dan Apsee. The Athletic continued to press and following determined driving play from lock Jonathon Stoker and flanker Johnny Jones were rewarded in the 68^th minute with a penalty. Outside half Stephen Lewis despatched it from 30 metres out, to put his side 8-7 in front. The Athletic have a habit of relaxing after a score. From the restart they had a kick charged down inside their own 22. They also lost flanker Chris Whitcombe to the sin bin for killing the ball to prevent a possible Loughor score. For the first time in the half the home side laid siege to the Athletic line. The Athletic 14 held out for 5 minutes, before succumbing to centre Peter Smiriglia who forced his way over the line. Davies converted to give the home side a seemingly winning 14-8 margin.

Young captain Simon Mustoe has instilled an excellent team spirit within the squad. Their heads did not drop and they went flat out to redress the balance. Restored to 15 men they attacked incessantly, until the referee indicated the final play of the game, for Hinton and Lewis to become the Athletic match winners.

This Saturday the Athletic travel up the Llynfi Valley to take on Premiership side Maesteg in the 5^th Round of the Konica Minolta Cup, hoping for another fairy tale ending.

Tonna 2^nd XV 0 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 36

Bridgend Athletic visited Tonna for a late arranged friendly after Maesteg Celtic had withdrawn from a league fixture.

Powerful centre Carle Ellis was the Athletics� Man of the Match with an excellent all round display resulting in a personal hat trick of tries. Wing Chris McGrath, outside half Stephen Hughes and replacement James Groom also crossed the try line. Scrum half Paul Miles converted three of the tries. As well as Ellis the back row of James Davies, Sean Williams and Liam Griffiths and lock Jamie Doherty also stood out for the Athletic.

Bridgend Athletic 24 Cwmllynfell 9 

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat Jan 13^th.

Cwmllynfell came to the Athletic in joint second place and in confidant mood having recorded a seasonal double over leaders Bonymaen in their last fixture. In September they had brought to an end the Athletics� record 15 successive wins, and were determined to again be party poopers and end the Athletics� seasonal unbeaten home record of 7 successive victories. Both sides are noted for playing entertaining 15 man rugby and didn�t disappoint the crowd on the day. In a highly competitive game played in a magnificent spirit the Athletic outscored the visitors by 3 tries to nil to run out 24-9 victors, and extend their home record to eight wins. This moves the Athletic to second place in the table, although they can be overhauled by three teams with games in hand.

Following a disappointing draw at Waunarlwydd the selectors rang the changes. In the pack lock Neil Thomas returned from illness and once again bossed the line out. Flanker Johnny Jones, following a magnificent match turning performance at Waunarlwydd, started the game along with his brother prop Rod Jones on dual registration with Bridgend. This was the first occasion the brothers, both capped from the Athletic Youth, had played together in the senior side, and both made telling contributions. Experienced scrum half John Doherty was recalled, and again acted as a father figure to coax and cajole to get the best out of a young Athletic pack, as well as acting as a fourth flanker helping wrap up the Cwmllynfell back row when they attempted to tighten up the game. A late forced change saw centre Stuart Morris revert to his original Athletic full back position. He was replaced at centre by Tom Goodwin. Tom was only brought into the squad on the morning of the match, but found himself playing when original replacement Hywel Davies was injured in the warm up. He put his hand up defying the selectors to remove him from the squad, after wrapping up the Cwmllynfell danger man Paul Davies, with a very mature performance in defence and attack.

Cwmllynfell had first use of a strong wind. However it was the Athletic that opened the scoring. Wing Rod Davies collected an up and under inside his own 22.He beat his opposite number and launched a counter attack. Full back Stuart Morris was in support to feed centre Robert Coles, who drew the full back to release speedy lock Neil Thomas to race in from 30 metres. This try breached the 300 league point barrier for the Athletic. Morris converted. Within three minutes two Peter Thomas penalties had reduced the Athletic lead to a single point. Both sides were giving the ball plenty of air, but found it difficult to find a way through well organised defences. Morris survived an aerial bombardment and showed his class and experience to launch well thought out counter attacks. Cwmllynfell came close when their wing was clear for the line. However, centre Robert Coles made up over 5 metres to haul him down just short of the line. With 5 minutes to go in the half, the Athletic launched a sustained attack on the Cwmllynfell try line.Wing Ardi Tollentino,prop Andrew Brown, hooker Simon Mustoe, lock Jonathon Stoker and No 8 Ryan James were all halted within three metres of the line. Finally Stoker popped the ball to centre Coles who�s speed and angle of running left two defenders clutching thin air as he dived over under the posts. Morris converted to give his side a 14-9 half time lead against the elements.

Cwmllynfell changed tack after the break electing to keep the game tight working off their No 8. They dominated possession and within 5 minutes a third Thomas penalty reduced the Athletic lead to 5 points. It was back to the walls for the Athletic as they lived off scraps of possession. The back row of Chris Whitcombe Ryan James and Johnny Jones along with scrum half John Doherty and replacement No 8 Dan Apsee stood firm against the incessant tight play of the visitors. On the occasions the ball did go along the back division they found no change there either. Having weathered the storm the Athletic came back into the game. With 10 minutes remaining replacement prop Tom Hearne turned over possession inside his own half. Lock Stoker popped the ball to Morris who fed Coles on half way. The centre capped a man of the match performance, by racing 50 metres for his second brace of tries in successive games, and his eleventh try of the season. Morris converted. Outside half Stephen Lewis, who earlier had dribbled the ball for 60 metres only to see his final kick ahead go dead with the line at his mercy, put the icing on the cake with a trade mark dropped goal.

This Saturday the Athletic visit Lloughor hoping to at last take their home form away with them.

The club are grateful to its Patrons Mr John Apsee, Mr David Burt and Mr Gareth Davies for sponsoring the gam

Waunarlwydd 25 Bridgend Athletic 25

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat Jan 6^th

Bridgend Athletic fought out their first drawn game in a number of seasons with a high scoring 25-25 result at Waunarlwydd.

It appears the same script writer wrote the prognosis of the two fixtures this season. At home the Athletic raced into a ten point lead, only to be staring defeat in the face, until a last minute Stuart Morris penalty gave them a 23-21 victory. On this occasion the Athletic built up a 19-3 lead, to again have Morris rescue the day with a penalty two minutes from time, to earn a fair drawn 25-all result on the day.

The Athletic started at a lively pace. The ball was worked via half backs Stuart Kenny and Stephen Lewis to centre Hywel Davies. Davies was tackled, but quick recycled ball saw Lewis throw a long pass to full back Marc Bennett, whose well timed pass saw wing Robert Coles sprinting over in the corner from 25 metres out. Waunarlwydd replied with a penalty from outside half Rob Townsend. Coles and Lewis seem to have built up a telepathic understanding. Not for the first time this season a delicately weighted chip ahead from Lewis was gathered on half way by Coles who sprinted clear to cross under the posts for his ninth try of the season. Morris converted. On the half hour with Waunarlwydd attacking inside the Athletic half Lewis read the situation and intercepted to race clear for the Athletics� third try and his seventh of the seson. Morris converted to extend the lead to 19-3.

The Athletic then showed their inexperience with a young pack getting drawn into a forward tussle instead of continuing to supply quick ball for their backs. For some reason they kept taking the ball back into the pack, much to the frustration of the coaches and supporters alike. They paid the penalty. First wing Dafydd Pritchard raced over in the corner. This was followed by a try from a catch and drive from a 5 metre line out to reduce the home side�s half time deficit to 19-13.

Within two minutes of the second half it was deja vu as a second try for Waunarlwydd resulted from another 5 metre line out. Morris extended the Athletic lead to 22-18. Throughout the game the Waunarlwydd flnkers had continually committed off the ball incidents, with both feet and fists. One such incident left the Athletic centre Hywel Davies with a closed eye that saw him depart from the game. The referee did pick up on one of the incidents giving a yellow card to the flanker concerned. Watching these incidents clearly frustrated replacement lock Kyle Coulter, who when introduced within three minutes had received a warning and a yellow card from the referee, as he sought some retribution for the earlier events. He did his team mates no good as he served his term in the sin bin, Waunarlwydd continued to press and took the lead for the first time at 25-22 with another carbon copy 5 metre line out try, and conversion.

The Athletic then brought on current Youth flanker Johnny Jones, who captained last season�s Wales under 18 side. Jones had an immediate impact breathing new life into the Athletic pack. He appeared everywhere across the pack making many tackles and on hand to support attacking moves as the Athletic once again reverted to their normal style of play.. Waunarlwydd started to panic and concede penalties. They even resorted to play acting as their full back cleared upfield, and dived backwards and shouted in fake pain to feign a late tackle, with the Athletic player at least three metres away from him. Fortunately the referee saw the incident, but did not caution him for an act more in line with Premiership Football, than on a rugby field, in trying to get a fellow player dismissed from the field.

The late pressure finally paid. With two minutes remaining the Athletic were awarded a penalty thirty metres out. Morris has never failed the Athletic when the chips are down, and slotted the penalty to earn a fair drawn result on the day, though the Athletic will consider it a game they let slip from their grasp with nieve tactics.

If Waunarlwydd persist in cheap off the ball incidents and play acting, they will have few sympathies from other Division 1 West sides in their battle to avoid relegation. They have a pack capable of avoiding the drop by playing their style of rugby.

This Saturday the Athletic look to preserve their 100% Home Record this season, when second place Cwmllynfell are the visitors.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 23 Pencoed 2^nd XV 17

District League Div 1 � Sat Jan 6^th

Bridgend Athletic recorded a seasonal District League Div 1 double over local rivals Pencoed. This time the 23-17 result was much closer than the 45-5 earlier season victory at Pencoed. Both sides crossed for two tries.

Centre Nick Hinton was the Athletic star player. First he scored a try and then broke from his own goal line to set up the second Athletic try for wing Andrew West. Other creditable performances came fro lock Jamie Doherty, and two backs playing out of position in the pack, Chris Thomas at No 8 and Will Alston at flanker.

Bridgend Athletic Youth 24 Maesteg Youth 3

Welsh Youth League � Div A � Sat Jan 6^th

Bridgend Athletic Youth recorded a league double over local rivals Maesteg Youth, following an earlier 32-10 away victory, with a 24-3 win on home soil.

With the pitch only passed playable just before kick off the game was played in very heavy conditions.Despite early pressure mistakes by the Athletic failed to put points on the board. Maesteg took advantage and opened the scoring with a penalty. The Athletic the produced an excellent bout of interpassing resulting in wing Ashley Smith�s try giving them a 5-3 half time lead.

Another good passing move saw outside half Simon Evans cross in the corner. Centre Nick Hopson scored a glorious try, side stepping his way over from the half way line. More adventurous play saw the ball moved in both directions resulting in Hopson crossing for his second try. Centre Scott Robinson converted both of the tries.

Outstanding in the Athletic pack were flanker Ben Howe, prop Phillip Price and hooker Scott Baldwin, while scrum half Dai Pritchard and centre Hopson stood out in the back division.

Bridgend Athletic 8 Merthyr 7 

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat Dec 30^th

Bridgend Athletic made it seven home wins in seven starts in Division 1 West this season. However they had to rely on the generosity of neighbours Bridgend Sports, who allowed them use of their Bandstand Field, after the referee ruled the Athletic ground unplayable.

As expected in appalling conditions the Athletic were unable to consistently produce their brand of open rugby, and in a real dog fight emerged very narrow 8-7 victors. Both sides have to be applauded for their handling and ball retention in the only Div 1 West fixture to survive on the day.  Both sets of second rows caught clean ball in the line outs .Jonathon Stoker and Kyle Coulter for the Athletic, and replacement Neil Thomas, who also stole a number of opposition throws.

Merthyr had first use of the elements. However brave defence with the back row of No 8 Ryan James, flankers Chris Whitcombe and Matthew Hillman and centres Stuart Morris and Robert Coles prominent kept Merthyr at bay until the half hour. The Merthyr captain and No 8 Ross Coombs popped up in mid field and went through an unusual gap in the Athletic defence to cross for a try. Outside half Richard Langmead converted to give the visitors a 7-0 half time lead.

Athletic half backs Rhys Webb and Stephen Lewis then exploited the conditions to give the Athletic a foot hold in Merthyr territory. The Athletic pressure forced a penalty, which centre Stuart Morris slotted. Lewis then broke along the touchline from his own 22 beating four men before chipping over the Merthyr try line. However the Athletic knocked on in grounding the ball. Wings Ardi Tollentino and Rod Davies tested the Merthyr defence with strong runs, while full back Marc Bennett was always willing to turn defence into attack. A break from half way by centre Robert Coles saw his partner Morris on hand to take a scoring pass, for his first try of the season, and put the Athletic ahead with 20 minutes left to play. Hooker and Captain Simon Mustoe then hacked on a loose ball on half way. He showed excellent speed to keep dribbling to within 5 metres of the try line. Outside half Lewis was on hand to slide on the ball and carry it over the try line for a legitimate try. However the referee said he could not award it as he was too far behind play to confirm a clean touchdown. This would in the conditions have settled the game for the Athletic.

However, encouraged by this lucky break Merthyr came back at the Athletic playing a very tight possession game. The Athletic introduced fresh flankers Dan Apsee and Johnny Jones to help out a tiring pack. Once again the team spirit of the eighteen players used- all home based Athletic boys- shone through. The scrummage with props Carle Gregory and Andrew Brown and hooker Simon Mustoe facing a heavier Merthyr outfit stood firm. Every Athletic player did not want to let his team mate down, and many fine try saving tackles were made as the Athletic were forced to dig deep to hang on to their 100% Home Record.

The club would like to thank their physio Bob Lewis of R.W.Lewis Property Maintenance for sponsoring the game. This Saturday the Athletic begin the 2007 part of the campaign with a visit to Waunarlwydd.

The club would like to congratulate today�s scrum half Rhys Webb and last season�s Youth Full Back Luke Hathaway-now with Newport- on their selection for the Wales Under 19 FIRA Squad for the Home International U19 and World Cup U19 Squad. Rhys is the son of former Athletic stalwart Paul Webb, and Luke the son of former Athletic full back Huw Hathaway, who now coaches the current First Team Squad along with David Williams and Paul Yardley.

Dunvant 18 Bridgend Athletic 14 

Asda League � Div 1 West � Dec 23^rd

The status quo remains. Neither Dunvant nor Bridgend Athletic have won away games against each other, as Dunvant reversed an earlier season 30-16 defeat at Newbridge Fields with an 18-14 win at Broadacre.

The Athletic started brightly but an interception try from scrum half Ieaun Morris gave Dunvant a seventh minute lead. Exchanges of penalties between Dunvants�outside half Alan Richards and two from the Athletics� Stuart Morris gave the home side an 8-6 advantage. Morris was then unlucky losing possession while crossing the try line. At the other end his namesake scrum half Morris intercepted on half way and raced 5 metres clear of the nearest Athletic defender. Showing a true captain�s grit and determination hooker Simon Mustoe set off in pursuit, overhauling his opponent 5 metres out. However on the stroke of half time some powerful forward play saw Dunvant extend their lead to 13-6, with a try from their right wing.

The Athletic came out for the second period with all guns blazing. In the first minute full back Marc Bennett gathered a clearance 45 metres out, and dropped a superb goal. Two minutes later the Athletic opened up play inside their own 22. The ball travelled via half backs Stuart Kenny and Stephen Lewis to centres Stuart Morris and Robert Coles. Coles made an excellent outside break to make forty metres before transferring to wing Ardi Tollentino. When halted inside the Dunvant 22 the ball was recycled quickly and again went along the back line for fellow wing Rhodri Davies to round of the move with his twelth try of the season. This gave the Athletic a 14-13 lead. A well judged cross field kick from outside half Lewis saw Davies clear, but the ball bounced awkwardly backwards, just eluding his grasp, with the try line at his mercy.

The Dunvant pack then took control playing a boring but effective style of controlled forward power to deny the Athletic any possession. The Athletic front row of Mustoe, and props Tom Hearne and Carle Gregory still contested the set piece scrums, but overall the far bigger Dunvant eight were severely testing the Athletics� resolve. Their line out was also disrupted by an injury to lock Neil Thomas. Excellent tackling, with the back row of Matthew Hillman, Dan Apsee and Johnny Jones to the fore kept the try line in tact until the seventieth minute, when sheer pressure told with a try from flanker Rory Gallagher to seal an 18-14 home victory

This Saturday December 30^th the Athletic look to preserve their unbeaten home record when the Merthyr Iron men are the visitors to Newbridge Fields.

Bedwas Youth 5 Bridgend Athletic Youth 12

With the bare 15 travelling to Bedwas, the Athletic Youth played extremely well to counter a huge pack and come away with a 12-5 victory.

Flanker Ben Howe and No 8 Morgan Davies crossed for the Athletic try, with centre Scott Robinson adding a conversion.

Howe, Davies Tom Penry- Ellis and captain Dai Price and Scott Baldwin stood out in a brave pack performance, with outside half Simon Evans controlling the back division.

Fleur de Lys 17 Bridgend Athletic 26 

Dec 16^th � 4^th Round Konica Minolta Cup.

Bridgend Athletic made 8 changes from the side that defeated Narbeth, and fielded their youngest ever team against Fleur de Lys in the 4^th round of the Konica Minolta Cup. The average age of the side was only 21, with prop Wayne Fookes at 26 and scrum half Rhys Webb at 18 the oldest and youngest players in the team. For the first time every player and replacement used had played Youth rugby for the Athletic. It was great credit that they defeated a very experienced Fleur de Lys side by 26 points to 17, to make it three away wins against Div 1 East opposition this season, having defeated Ysrad Rhondda and Caerphilly in pre season friendlies.

It looked a selection gamble when in only the third minute Fleur de Lys powered their way over the Athletic try line from a 5 metre line out, for flanker Paul Williams to touch down. Outside half Stephen Lewis reduced the deficit to 5-3 with a touchline penalty 25 metres out. Again another driving maul inside the Athletic 22 saw lock Martin Williams cross for the second home side try, converted by outside half Jeff Balfrey. The Athletic responded when scrum half Rhys Webb gathered a clearance kick on half way. He fed centre Hywel Davies who tore a hole in the Fleur defence before offloading to his brother wing Rhodri Davies. Davies used his strength to force his way over in the corner. Again Fleur used their forward power with a rolling maul inside the Athletic 22, which committed the Athletic defence to give space for scrum half Ross Turner to steal over for the third home try. Balfrey converted to give Fleur a 17-8 half time advantage.

The half had been a huge learning curve for the Athletic young guns. Fleur had a wealth of experience with former Wales No 8 Glen George leading their pack. His direct opponent at No 8 was last season�s Welsh Under 18 captain Johnny Jones. Lock Neil Thomas had done exceptionally well in the line out and young centres Tom Goodwinand Hywel Davies playing together for the first time had proved effective in attack and defence. Full back Marc Bennett had also proved a dependable last line of defence.The half time team talk from coaches David Williams and Paul Yardley proved positive. Within three minutes of the restart the Athletic front row of Wayne Fookes, Simon Mustoe and Tom Hearne outscrummaged the home side. Scrum half Rhys Webb and No 8 Johnny Jones combined to release wing Ardi Tollentino, who raced to the corner from 25 metres out. Seven minutes later lock Kyle Coulter won clean line out ball. Outside half Stephen Lewis gave a well timed inside pass to wing Rhodri Davies, who ran in unopposed under the posts for his eleventh try of the season. Lewis added the conversion to put the Athletic 20-17 ahead. The Athletic were now showing greater fitness and were running the heavier Fleur side around the park. A 35 metre penalty from Lewis extended the lead to 23-17.The Athletic then introduced fresh legs with prop Carle Gregory, No 8 Dan Apsee and centre Robert Coles joining the action.

The Athletic had to sustain a 5 minute period when the home side pounded their try line. None of the youngsters shirked their responsibility or took a backward step. 19 year old flankers Sean Williams and Matthew Hillman led the tackling by example, as wave after wave of Fleur attacks were halted within 5 metres of their try line. The Athletic finally broke out of defence and forced the home side to concede a late penalty in front of their posts, which Lewis kicked to give the Athletic a well deserved victory. Many youngsters will have come of age in this game, and now know what to expect in Division 1 and higher rugby.

This Saturday the Athletic resume Division 1 West action, when they visit Broadacres to take on Dunvant.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 12 Bedwas 2^nd XV 20 

Friendly � Dec 16^th

Two well matched 2^nd sides Bridgend Athletic and Bedwas provided an entertaining game, with the visitors running out 20 � 12 victors. The first Athletic try came from an interception try by wing Will Alston who ran in from 50 metres. The second resulted from turnover ball and a try for scrum half John Doherty following an interpassing move with his half back partner Paul Miles.Miles converted the try to take his points tally to 101 for the season.

For the Athletic Doherty and full back Lyndsey McCauslin were the pick of the backs, with back row forwards Lee Grabham and James Davies and Youth team players - lock Tom Penry-Ellis and hooker Scott Baldwin standing out at forward.Three brothers John, Jamie and Dan Doherty played in the Athletic side on the day.

Bridgend Athletic 24 Narbeth 7 

Sat Dec 9^th � Asda League Div 1 West

Ath Team that defeated Narbeth 24-7

Fortress Newbridge Fields remains intact as Bridgend Athletic recorded their sixth successive home win of the season, and recorded a seasonal double over previous second placed Narbeth with a 24-7 win. The win moves the Athletic into 3^rd spot in the league with a 55-17 point�s differential in the two fixtures against Narbeth this season. The win was dedicated to the memory of former Season 2004-2005 Player of the Year Daryl Dyke, who died on this day last season. Out of respect to Daryl the team took to the field without his No 7 shirt, and showed his fighting spirit throughout to record a well deserved victory.

Both sides tried to play attacking rugby. The Athletic took the lead after 15 minutes. Wing Ardi Tollentino made a strong run along the touchline. When halted the ball was quickly recycled by scrum half Stuart Kenny, and Tollentino was again on hand to cross in the corner. Centre Stuart Morris converted from the touchline. Two minutes later Tollentino made a blistering run from inside his own half to the Narbeth 22. Lock Neil Thomas continued the move supplying flanker Matthew Hillman with the scoring pass to cross in the corner.. It was de javu as Morris again added the conversion from the same touchline. Narbeth responded when prop Nathan Williams powered his way over for a try converted by wing Nick Jones. On the stroke of half time Morris extended the Athletic lead to 17-7 with a penalty.

The game was very even in the second half � both sides going close to scoring in a very entertaining game. With 15 minutes remaining the Narberth second row was dismissed for punching. The Athletic took advantage. The front row of hooker Simon Mustoe, and the three props used Carle Gregory, Andrew Brown and Wayne Fookes completely disrupted the Narbeth scrum. Narbeth were pressing inside the Athletic 22 when outside half Stephen Lewis intercepted and raced away for an 80 metre try. Morris converted to seal the game for the Athletic.

In an excellent team performance Tollentino, Lewis, Morris and Robert Coles stood out in the backs, with Mustoe, Hillman, Thomas, Dan Apsee and Jonathon Stoker prominent in the pack.

This Saturday the Athletic visit Division 1 East side Fleur de Lys in the third round of the Konica Minolta Cup.

The club would like to thank John H Apsee & Sons � removal Contractors for sponsoring the game. They are also grateful to Julian of Sebastian Furniture for generously helping to refurbish the clubhouse.

Sully Sports 2^nd XV 17 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 24 

Friendly � Dec 9th 

In an uninspiring display the Athletic 2^nd XV won by 24 points to 17 against Sully Sports.

Flanker Liam Griffiths crossed for a brace of tries. Stephen Hughes added a third. Outside half Paul Miles converted all three tries and kicked a penalty.Wing Ian Collier featued out of position in the second row and performed well.

Ynysybwl Youth 7 Bridgend Athletic Youth 33 

Welsh Youth Cup � Ist Round

Bridgend Athletic reached the second round of the Welsh Youth cup with an excellent 33-7 win at Ynysybwl.

A Nathan Townley penalty opened the Athletic account. Ynysybwl then took the lead with a converted try from a 5 metre line out drive. Good work by No 8 Morgan Davies and scrum half Dai Pritchard from a 5 metre scrum released wing Ashley Smith to cross in the corner for the Athletic. A second Townley penalty gave the Athletic an 11-7 half time lead.

The Athletic pack with props Phillip Price and Scott Baldwin prominent started to exert control. Outside half Simon Evans made a break resulting in a try for flanker Johnny Jones converted by Townley. Evans then made another break which he finished off himself with another try converted by Townley. A tap down from a line out by Tom Penry-Ellis saw prop Scott Baldwin power over for the fourth Athletic try. Townley completed the scoring with a third penalty.

Bridgend Athletic 36 Carmarthen Quins 14

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat Dec 2nd

Dan Apsee crosses for opening Ath try from 5 mtr line out in 36-14 victory against Carm Quins

Carmarthen Quins came to Newbridge Fields with the meanest defence in Division 1 West, having only conceded 88 points in 8 starts. They were also only 3 points off the top of the league with a game in hand. They left with their line breached on 4 occasions, as the Athletic responded to Coach Huw Hathaway�s demand to make Newbridge Field a Fortress, and maintained their 100% home record with their fifth successive home win. The 36-14 margin of victory was well deserved on the day, and moved the Athletic to joint fourth in the table alongside the Quins on 18 points.

Within thirty seconds Stuart Morris opened the Athletic account with a touchline penalty. A minute later Mark Jones repeated the feat for Carmarthen. Young Athletic lock Neil Thomas was a mascot at the Brewery Field when formerWelsh International lock Paul Arnold led out Swansea against Bridgend. It is doubtful Paul remembers the occasion, and he will certainly want to forget renewing acquaintances with Neil, as he and fellow Athletic lock Jonathon Stoker took the first three Quins line outs against the throw, and were generally on top throughout the game. The first Athletic try came after 8 minutes from a clean line out catch by Stoker, and the pack driving Carmarthen back over their try line for No 8 Dan Apsee to touch down for his first try of the season.

Morris and Jones then exchanged penalties again to put the Athletic 11-6 ahead. Athletic captain hooker Simon Mustoe was then sin binned for an infringement on his own try line. Surprisingly a much heavier Quins side opted to take the penalty to reduce the deficit to 11-9. It was generally thought that with a man advantage and a much heavier pack they would have tried for a push over try. Perhaps their decision was influenced by the Athletic front row of Mustoe and props Andrew Brown and Carle Gregory continually disrupting their own put in. The Athletic with experienced centre Stuart Morris now at the helm raised their game to compensate for their numerical disadvantage. Morris kicked a third penalty from the touchline forty metres out. Prop Andrew Brown then gathered a clearance kick on half way. He charged into the Quins 22 and set up a ruck. Quick ball from scrum half Stuart Kenny to his partner outside half Stephen Lewis saw Lewis ghost through the visiting defence to cross under the posts for his fifth try this season..Mustoe then returned to the fray � unusually due to good advantage played for both sides by Treherbert referee Mr Michael Bethell, to keep the game flowing - there had not been a scrum during the 10 minute period the hooker was off the field. On the stroke of half time centre Robert Coles made a break from his own 22 and after beating 3 defenders was hauled down a metre from the try line. The Athletic continued to press and a fourth Morris penalty made sure they had made use of their wind advantage to lead 24-9 at the break.

Coles was not to be denied his seventh try of the season. He latched onto a clever chip over the visiting defence from outside half Lewis to gather 40 metres out and outpace the covering defence to cross under the posts.Morris converted to extend the lead to 31-9.Carmarthen were playing a very one dimensional style off play, continually bringing the ball back inside for their forwards to attempt to batter their way through the Athletic defence. This may have partly been due to the way wings Rhodri Davies and Ardi Tollentino ruthlessly cut down their opposite numbers on the rare occasions they saw the ball, and the danger the Athletic backs posed from any loose ball. Their tactics eventually paid off when wing Neil Bonham breached the Athletic defence to reduce the deficit to 31-14. The visitors persisted in their game plan, but amazing Athletic defence from the back row of Apsee, Chris Whitcombe and Johnny Jones and later replacements Matthew Hillman and Sean Williams kept them at bay. Three times the Athletic turned over ball on their own try line to break the hearts of the visiting side. Full back Marc Bennett � having one of his best Athletic games epitomised the Athletic determination, when 5 metres from his own try line he drove into a Carmarthen prop and carried him 10 metres further from the try line. Interpassing on the touchline inside their own 22 from Coles and Bennett saw Bennett race 80 metres in the final minute to put the icing on the cake for the Athletic with their fourth try of the game, and Bennett�s seventh of the season.

This Sat Dec 9^th the Athletic entertain second placed Narbeth. The Otters will be smarting to avenge a 5 try 31-10 home defeat to the Athletic back in September. The Athletic and Narbeth Under 14 sides will play a curtain raiser at 1pm.

The club would like to thank their Club Chairman Mr Terry Coles of J.G. Plant hire for kindly sponsoring the Carmathen Quins fixture.

Bridgend Athletic Youth 18 Llanharan Youth 14 

Friendly � Dec 2nd

In a game affected by Llanharan Youth opting for passive scrums throughout, the visitors generally played with more determination than a lack lustre Athletic side on the day. Despite a below par performance the Athletic managed to run out 18-14 victors.

Against the run of play the Athletic took the lead with a Nathan Townley penalty. This was the extended by a try from prop Dai Price converted by Townley.A second Townley penalty gave the Athletic a 13-0 lead. Sloppy defending of a Llanharan tapped penalty allowed the visitors to score a converted try to reduce the half time deficit to 13-7.

The second half was littered by errors from both sides. The game boiled over, when with the Athletic applying pressure a melee occurred resulting in the visiting outside half receiving a straight red card and one player from each side a yellow card. From a resultant penalty the Athletic kicked to the corner and scrum half Dai Pritchard was driven over the Llanharan line to make it 18-7 to the Athletic. Llanharan had the final say reducing the deficit to 18-14 with a converted try from a cross field kick. 

Whitland 10 Bridgend Athletic 9

Asda League Div 1 West � Sat Nov 18^th.

If you could put old heads on young shoulders the Athletic would have come away from Whitland with a comfortable win instead of a one point 10-9 defeat. They dominated territory and possession for the first hour of the game, but for the first time this season failed to cross the opposition line. Poor decision making and options, aligned to a well organised home defence severely frustrated the Athletic team, coaching staff and spectators alike.

Whitland against the run of play put pressure on an Athletic scrum close to their line and charged down a clearance kick for centre Lee Granville to pounce on the loose ball to score a try converted by outside half Aled Davies. Two penalties including a forty five metre touchline penalty from centre Stuart Morris saw the Athletic trail 7-6 at half time.

The Athletic continued to attack the home side for twenty minutes. They thought they should have had a penalty try when debutant scrum half Rhys Webb was illegally stopped from scoring from a tap penalty. Despite the referee sending off the Whitland lock for a second yellow card offence � he only awarded the Athletic a penalty. Stuart Morris kicked his third penalty to put the Athletic 9-7 ahead.

However, the Athletic seemed to relax and lose concentration and dropped the ball from the restart conceding a penalty in an attempt to stop Whitland capitalising on the error. Davies restored the home side�s lead. Whitland then played possession rugby pinning the Athletic inside their own 22 for the remainder of the game.

On the positive side for the Athletic last season�s Wales Under 18 scrum half and a member of this season�s Under 19 World Cup Squad Rhys Webb made an excellent senior debut. With more games under his belt to build up an understanding with the back row and outside half Stephen Lewis he is going to be a real asset when available. Flanker Matthew Hillman and lock Jonathon Stoker stood out in the Athletic pack, but the side lacked its normal fluent style of play on the day.

The Athletics� next fixture is at home to Carmarthen Quins on December 2^nd.  

Llanharan 2^nd XV 31 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 22

District League Div 1 � Nov 18th

A very strong second half display from the Athletic could not wipe out some poor tackling that gifted Llanharan two tries just before half time, to put the home side 31-10 at the break.

The Athletic dominated the second half to claw back the deficit to 31-22, but were left ruing their woeful ten minute spell at the end of the first half. Strong running centre Carle Ellis crossed for two Athletic tries. Replacement hooker Peter Barry claimed the other Athletic try. Outside half Paul Miles converted two of the tries and kiched a penalty.

For the Athletic scrum half Stuart Kenny and the back row of Lee Grabham, Romain Desvaux and Rhys Jones stood out.

Llantrisant Youth 0 Bridgend Athletic Youth 5

Friendly � Nov 18th

The Athletics� open style of play was rendered ineffective on a glue pot of a pitch. They showed great character to grind out a narrow 5-0 win against a strong Llantrisant Youth side.

The only try of the game came from a blind side break by scrum half Rhys Hollyman. Who timed his pass to perfection to put flanker Ben Howe over the try line.

Prop Scott Baldwin, centre Nick Hopson and outside half Simon Evans played well in a good Athletic team performance.

Bridgend Athletic 30 Builth Wells 0 

Div 1 West � Oct 28th

ATH TEAM V BUILTH WELLS

A hat trick of tries inside the first twenty minutes from wing Rhodri Davies killed off the game against Builth Wells as a contest, enabling the Athletic to coast to a 30 points to nil victory. Going into the Autumn International break, it put the Athletic in joint third place on 15 points with Narbeth and Carmarthen Quins, and maintained their unbeaten home record with their fourth league win at home.

The Athletic opened at a cracking pace and made light of the greasy surface and ball. Centre Stuart Morris opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a penalty. Two minutes later a fine break from full back Marc Bennett saw the supporting flanker Chris Whitcombe release wing Rhodri Davies to dive over in the corner. A chip over the defence inside the Athletic half by outside half Stephen Lewis was caught in flight by centre Robert Coles, who drew the full back and put in Davies for his second try. Another Bennett break saw a well timed pass put in Davies for his hat trick, and become the leading first team try scorer with 9 touchdowns this season. The Athletic then went into comfort mode. The front row of Tom Hearne, captain Simon Mustoe and Carle Gregory controlled the scrums. Locks Neil Thomas and Jonathon Stoker won good line out possession. Builth Wells were trying to play a positive game, but the Athletic back row of Whitcombe, Dan Apsee and Matthew Hillman, with the experienced scrum half John Doherty snapping at their heels, were too powerful in defence to give the Bulls any chance of breaching the Athletic defence. This allowed the Athletic to end the half with an 18-0 lead..

The Athletic rang the changes in the second period, centre Tom Goodwin, scrum half Stuart Kenny, and forwards Andrew Brown, Kyle Coulter and Saun Williams all joined the fray. Turnover possession on half way saw the Athletic quickly turn defence into attack. Bennett and Coles were prominent in putting wing Ardi Tollentino over in the corner. Outsde half Lewis converted from the touchline. In the final minute another Lewis chip over the defence saw wing Davies gather, and when tackled put over the supporting flanket Saun Williams in the corner for the Athletic�s fifth try. It was last year�s Youth Captain Williams first senior try.

Coaches Huw Hathaway, David Williams and Paul Yardley are delighted with the squad�s first two months in Div 1 West, following promotion this season. They now take a break until they travel to Whitland on November 18^th. The club would like to thank their Old Boys Association for sponsoring the game. The club are pleased that their President Phil Rees is making a good recovery from his recent operation, and look forward to seeing him back in the club within the next few weeks.
 

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 24 Nantyfyllon 2^nd XV 10 

Quarter Final Enoch Lewis Cup � Oct 28 th

ATH TEAM V NANTYFYLLON

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV reached the Semi Final stage of the Enoch Lewis District Cup with a 24-10 win over local rivals Nantyfyllon, outscoring the Maesteg side by 4 tries to 2.

In a typical hard fought cup tie the Athletic back row of Grabham, James Davies and Karl Towzer stood out with a high work load both in defence and attack.

The Athletic try scorers were centre Nick Hinton, scrum half Stephen Hughes, wing Chris McGrath and No 8 Lee Grabham. Outside half Paul Miles converted two of the tries

Bonymaen Youth 18 Bridgend Athletic 16

Osprey�s League � Div A

A last minute penalty saw the Athletic Youth lose their first Osprey�s Div A League fixture going down by 18 points to 16 at Bonymaen.

Flanker Tom Penry-Ellis claimed the Athletic try. Centre Scott Robins converted the try and added three penalties.

Ellis, No 8 Tom Morgan and locks Matthew  Norman and Lewis Taylor, in only his second game for the club, stood out in an impressive forward display by the Athletic

Abertysswg Falcons 10 Bridgend Athletic 60 

3^rd Round Konica Minolta Cup � Oct 21

Following their second round Konica Minolta Cup victory over Cowbridge and their recent appearance on Scrum V, Junior Union side Abertysswg were buoyed up for a potential giant killing act with the visit of Division 1 West side Bridgend Athletic. The Athletic selected their youngest ever side for the game with only Athletic Legend Carle Ellis over 24 years old. The youngsters showed great maturity to overcome a narrow pitch, driving rain, and an enthusiastic team and crowd, to eventually run out 60-10 victors crossing for 10 tries.

The Athletic opened the scoring after 12 minites when lock Kyle Coulter won an opposition line out. From a resultant scrum, No 8 Dan Apsee picked up and fed scrum half Stuart Kenny to dash over wide out. Outside half Stephen Lewis converted. Kenny set the back line moving for Lewis to release full back Marc Bennett to cross, and open up a 12 point lead. The home side hit back with a good try from scrum half Jamie Parry converted by outside half Richard Theophilus. Centre Robert Coles responded rounding off a good handling with a try in the corner. Abertysswg applied late first half pressure resulting in Theophilus reducing the half time deficit to 17-10 with a penalty.

Within a minute of the restart a clever chip ahead was gathered by wing Rhodri Davies to go over in the corner. The Athletic then took control. Locks Kyle Coulter and Sean Williams were dominating the line outs. The front row of props Andrew Brown and Carle Gregory and their replacements Tom Hearne and Wayne Fookes, along with captain and hooker Simon Mustoe were too powerful for their opponents. This was Hearne�s � on dual Registration with Bridgend- first game since suffering a broken leg and ankle last April playing for Bridgend against Neath. The flankers Matthew Hillman and last season�s Wales Under 18 captain Johnny Jones were quick to turn defence into attack. The wealth of possession provided by the pack allowed the Athletic backs to open up. No 8 Apsee and Kenny repeated their first half combination for Kenny�s second try, converted by Lewis. Full back Bennett then scored two tries in quick succession for a match hat trick, to join Davies and Coles as the Athletic�s leading try scorers with 6 tries to date this season. Lewis converted the second try and then crossed for a try himself, which he also converted to bring up his half century of points for the season.  

Next came a collector�s item, flanker and last season�s Player of the Year Chris Whitcombe�s first try for the Athletic 1^ST XV. Wing Tom Goodwin rounded off the scoring following an excellent handling move started by replacement scrum half John Doherty, with a try in the corner.

This Saturday the Athletic return to Division 1 West action when they entertain Builth Wells. A large crowd is expected as the Athletic Old Boys are sponsoring the match, and on the adjacent pitch the 2^ND XV entertain Nantyfyllon in the Quarter Final of the Enoch Lewis Cup

Aberavon Quins 2^nd XV 19 Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 48

Friendly � Oct 21

With Aberavon Quins and Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV both leading their respective District Leagues, a tough encounter was expected. However an 8 try rampage by the Athletic, led the Quins to concede the Athletic were the best side they have faced over the last two seasons. Full back Chris Thomas crossed for a try brace to become the Athletic 2^nd XV�s top try scorer with 10, Outside half Paul Miles also crossed for a brace and added four conversions to move onto 78 points for the season. There were single touchdowns for debutant winger Rhodri Pearce, fellow wing Chris Boland, lock James Davies and replacement wing Andrew West.

Locks Jamie Doherty and Davies dominated the line outs against taller opponents, while the front row of Lewis Dando, Kurt Dent and Adrian Kelly were so dominant, that the opponents sought passive scrums in the second half. Strong running from centres Steve Lyons and captain Rhys Jones set up a number of the Athletic tries.

Bridgend Athletic Youth 27 Ystrad Rhondda Youth 0 

Friendly � Oct 21^st.

The Athletic Youth won their seventh successive match, defeating their Ystrad Rhondda counterparts by 27 points to nil. The game was a personal triumph for outside half Simon Evans who crossed for four tries. Wing Ashley Smith crossed for the fifth try with fellow wing Nathan Townley converting one of the tries.

The Athletic used the friendly to blood a number of youngsters. They fielded a sixteen year old front row of Nathan Holman, Josh Bradford and Lewis Davies, who aided by lock Scott Baldwin and flanker Ben Howe won good possession for the Athletic backs to shine. Scrum half Rhys Hollyman and centre Tom Morgan made impressive debuts, with wing Stuart Allen and full back Mike Hathaway also impressive.

This Saturday the Athletic face a difficult trip to Bonymaen for an Osprey�s Div A League encounter. With both sides undefeated in the league to date a titanic encounter is expected.

Bonymaen 57 Bridgend Athletic 28

Div 1 West � Sat Oct 14th 

Last season�s Division 1 West champions Bonymaen showed why they will be one of the main contenders again this season, with a high tempo performance that was beyond the current level of an Athletic side that tried to match them with commitment. The semi professional Swansea side had the mix of youth and experience the young Athletic side have yet to achieve, and ran out 57-28 victors on the day, to make it 5 consecutive league wins.

Bonymaen started at a frantic pace playing down the slope with the advantage of a strong wind at their backs and opened the scoring within 5 minutes with a try from No 8 and captain Allen Powell, converted by outside half Craig Jones. The Athletic settled their game and a good passing move saw No 8 Ryan James break through the defence to release full back Marc Bennett, who side stepped his opposing full back to cross for a try. A Stephen Lewis conversion levelled the scores. Two further Bonymaen tries left the Athletic trailing 19-7 with 5 minutes of the half left, and the Athletic looking as though they could be in contention in the second period with the advantage of the elements in their favour. However Bonymaen dashed their hopes with two late first half tries to kill off the game with a 31-7 half time lead.

To their credit the Athletic came out with a positive intent and an excellent bout of passing involving Tom Goodwin, Stephen Lewis, Dan Apsee and Marc Bennett, saw Bennett cross for his second try, which Lewis converted. Unfortunately Bonymaen responded immediately with a try. This pattern was again repeated in the 50^th minute when a try from prop Wayne Fookes converted by Lewis to reduce the deficit to 36-21, was followed immediately by the Athletic conceding another converted try. Bonymaen the turned the screw and galloped into a 57-21 lead. The Athletic never gave up competing, and were rewarded with a try from replacement wing Rhodri Davies again converted by Lewis to round off the scoring.

In a game in which every Athletic player tried their best, lock Ryan James and hooker Simon Mustoe were the pick of the pack, in which young lock Kyle Maiden took some good line out ball, before retiring with an ankle injury. Outside half Stephen Lewis, full back Marc Bennett and wing Rhodri Davies were the pick of the Athletic back line. Hopefully the Athletic can take positives from the game as they continue their learning curve to cope with and compete with the more experienced Division 1 sides. Their two senior players half backs Stuart Morris and John Doherty were missing on the day, when some old heads were needed to guide a young side � only time can buy the Athletic the experience they currently lack.

Next Saturday the Athletic travel to Junior Union side Abertysswg Falcons in the third round of the Konica Minolta Cup. They will do well to remember that not so long ago they were in the same position, and only the class of Mark Ring and the strength of Richard Webster prevented major upsets in their battles with Cardiff and Swansea respectively. Team selection should reflect that, and the need to restore confidence before resuming Division 1 West action with a home Match on October 28^th, which is being sponsored by the Athletic Old Boys.

Pencoed Youth 0 Bridgend Athletic Youth 20

Sat Oct 14 � Ospreys League Division A

In a tough local derby a young Pencoed Youth side made the Athletic Youth fight all the way, to make it two wins out of two in the Ospreys League Division A.

The Athletic opened the scoring when a driving forward maul saw scrum half Dai Pritchard feed No 8 Morgan Davies, who powered his way over from 20 metres out. The only other score of a scrappy half was a long range penalty from wing Nathan Townley to put his side 8-0 ahead at the break.

The second half followed the pattern of the first with very little continuity of play from both sides. When the Athletic at last managed to string together a few phases, centre Nick Hopson put outside half Simon Evans over under the posts for a try converted by Townley. Driving forward play which saw prop Dai Price and hooker Scott Baldwin halted just short of the line again, saw scrum half Pritchard feed Morgan Davies to power over for his second try.

Despite reasonable individual efforts the team and coaches will have to work hard to provide better team work and a more expansive game, before their next league game at Bonymaen on October 28^th.

Llangennech 24 Bridgend Athletic 10 

Div 1 West � Sat Oct 7

Bridgend Athletic turned in an error strewn game to be beaten by a Llangennech side that played them at their own running game. The difference was Llangennech did the basics correctly, while the Ahletic created as many scoring opportunities, but players failed to appreciate fellow team members in better try scoring opportunities. Llangennech also worked harder in the loose securing a number of Athletic turnovers, and for once the normally reliable Athletic line out failed to effectively function � losing a number of their own crucial throw ins.

Llangennech opened the scoring after 15 minutes when they moved the ball along theline for wing Matthew Jacobs to squeeze in at the corner. Their outside half Jonathon Griffiths increased the lead to 8-0 with a penalty. Athletic outside half Stuart Morris responded with a penalty. For the last 5 minutes of the half the Athletic laid siege to the home side�s line. A succession of 5 metre scrums failed to bring the crucial try and Llangennech led 8-3 at the break.

The Athletic continued to attack after the break, but despite the lead given by captain Simon Mustoe failed to capitalise. Llangennech outside half Jonathon Griffiths then kicked a 45 metre drop goal. Almost immediately flanker Rob Fowley crossed for the second Llangennech try converted by Griffiths. Griffiths then extended the lead to 21-3. The Athletic wasted a four man overlap, before a break from full back Matthew Bennett sent Robert Coles over. Morris converted. Llangennech had the final word with another Griffiths penalty.

The game left plenty of food for thought for the Coaches and Players alike. The Athletic have always played their best rugby avoiding contact and slipping passes to better placed team mates in support, as they did against Narbeth. If they are to get anything from this week�s visit to defending champions Bonymaen, they will have to show a 100% improvement, and all players play for the team rather than themselves.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 29 St Peters 2^nd XV 10 

Friendly � Sat Oct 7

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV scored five tries in an entertaining game to defeat Cardiff based side St Peters by 29 points to 10.

No 8 Lee Grabham for the second successive game since returning from retirement crossed for a try brace. Wing Nick Hinton and scrum half Stephen Hughes also crossed for tries. Outside half Paul Miles converted three of the tries and dropped a goal.

The Athletic back row of debutant French flanker Romain Desvaux, Grabham and Matthew Hillman were outstanding, while centre Carle Ellis and captain Rhys Jones made a number of mid field breaks

Bridgend Athletic Youth 64 Trebanos Youth 12 

Friendly � Sat Oct 7 

Despite missing a number of experienced players the young Athletic Youth side on display were too powerful for their Swansea counterparts Trebanos running in 10 tries in a 64-12 win.

Louis Jones led the way with a hat trick of tries followed by a try brace from Sean Owen and single touchdowns for Simon Evans, Scott Baldwin, Ben Howe, Mike Hathaway and Tom Penry- Ellis. Nathan Townley converted seven of the tries.

DIVISION 1 WEST 

Sat Sept 30th

BRIDGEND ATHLETIC RFC 21 � LOUGHER RFC 17 

After last week�s loss of a 15 match unbeaten run, the visitors you don�t want to play is the only team which beat you twice last season.

In a fairly even first half the Athletic were 3-6 down after 35 minutes to two Peter Smiriglia penalty kicks to one from outside half, Stuart Morris. The Lougher pack was strong and physical, with the Bridgend side looking dangerous with limited possession. The game needed a certain spark with half time approaching and that was provided with a second fine break by centre, Mark Bennett. He then chipped the ball ahead for the supporting Steve Lewis, for the full back to twice skillfully kick the ball up the field before diving on to score. Morris added the conversion to put the Ath four points in front. The hoped for half time lead was not to be however, as a good passing move by visitors, Lougher saw speedy wing Rory Saunders cross in the corner. Smiriglia was unable to add the extra points. The half had been a real battle for the home pack. The front row of Naisbitt, Mustoe & Fooks were outstanding in the set pieces, with both Mustoe & Fooks prominent in the loose. Other than a few long throws to the back of the lineout which did not work, both second rows, John Stokes at the front and Neil Thomas behind won a great deal of ball and some of the oppositions throws. A feature of the packs played against in Division 1 is their physical size, but the home forwards have shown that they will not be intimidated. Strong play by No 8 Matthew Hillman and flankers Dan Apsee and Ryan James had helped the Athletic through some rocky patches.

Just a point behind at half time in a game which was as tough as expected gave heart to the home team. It was to be a match where they got better as the game wore on. Some fine back play featuring centre, Hywel Davies showed his ability to carry the ball to good effect continually setting up rucks for nippy scrum half, Kenny to release his team. After 15 minutes another solid scrum on the left saw Kenny release Morris, Bennett & Davies to put home debutant wing, Tom Goodwin over in the corner. The young wing, yet another product from the Club�s junior & youth conveyor belt still had it all to do when he received the ball and he enjoyed a fine home debut. Substitutes Carl Gregory & Chris Whitcombe joined the fray to good effect bringing fresh legs to a tough contest. Some good running from left wing Ardi Tollentino, set free by Bennett almost resulted in another try soon after. The next scores however were to come from Lougher with two more penalties from the in-form Smiriglia, the latter with just three minutes of normal time remaining giving the visitors a two point lead after a period of constant pressure on the Athletic try line. The fitness demanded by the Athletic coaching team was to serve the side well at this stage, as the home side roared up field with the intention of retaining possession until the opportunity arose. Two minutes into injury time after a thwarted attack on the Lougher line, the ball was passed back to fullback, Lewis who dropped an outstanding goal from fully 45 metres to put his side a point in front. Lougher rallied again, but over eagerness to get the ball saw them concede a late penalty wide out and 40 metres from the posts. Stuart Morris obliged to the delight of the home supporters in seeing their side again become outright leaders at the top of Division 1. Coaching staff member, Huw Hathaway said he was proud of the way the boys stuck to the task, as there are no easy games in this Division. Next week�s opponents are Llangennech away.

Cwmllynfell 32 Bridgend Athletic 8 

Asda League Div1 West � Sat 23^rd Sept

Marc Bennett crosses for Athletic try against Cwmllynfell

Unfortunately all good things must come to an end. Simon Mustoe�s Athletic team�s incredible club record of 15 consecutive wins, in which they racked up 585 points for with 213 against was halted at Cwmllynfell. Once more the ground proved their Nemesis as they have never won there. Playing a similar brand of 15 man rugby as the Athletic, they were deserved victors on the day by 32 points to 8, as they utilised the conditions better and finished off their opportunities, while the Athletic failed to finish off three clear try scoring opportunities in the first half.

In reality despite the obvious disappointment felt by the Athletic camp, if at the beginning of their Div 1 West campaign they were offered 3 wins out of their first 4 fixtures, to sit at the top of the Division alongside Narbeth they would have gratefully taken the opportunity

Playing with a strong wind behind them and the advantage of the slope Stuart Morris carried on where he left off against Waunarlwydd slotting a first minute penalty. The lead was short lived as Cwmllynfell full back Peter Thomas replied in kind, as his side enjoyed the better of the early exchanges. After the first quarter the Athletic got back into the game and from a 5 metre scrum half backs John Doherty and Stephen Lewis moved the ball wide for full back Marc Bennett to enter the line at an angle and cross wide out. Further scoring opportunities � including a dubious linesman decision which recalled wing Rhodri Davies when clean through � were missed by the Athletic. Davies and centre Robert Coles were causing the home defence problems in attack, while wing Tom Goodwin brought off a number of big hit tackles.Lock Neil Thomas was again impressing in the line out and loose. An 8-3 lead at half time, with the considerable advantages of the elements and sloping pitch Cwmllynfell would enjoy in the second period, was always going to be a huge task to defend.

For 20 minutes the Athletic held out with some brave defending. A Peter Thomas penalty closely followed by a converted try from wing Andrew Luthar swung the match in favour of the home side. The Athletic appeared to be suffering a hangover from the tremendous effort of the previous Saturday in clawing back a 21-10 deficit. As they again tried to play catch up rugby errors crept into their game. Twice inside three minutes they lost turnover ball and were punished by tries from flanker Paul Rummings and centre Kevin Jones. A last minute try from Thomas completed a miserable final quarter for the Athletic.

Coach Huw Hathaways comments following the Waunarlwydd narrow win �that sides in this Division had to be on their �A� game and every side brings a different challenge� proved correct. The team and coaching staff have to pick themselves up for this Saturday�s visit of Loughor � when the Athletic can expect a different challenge from a big pack of forwards and a tighter game plan from their opponents.

Bridgend Athletic 2^nd XV 52 Maesteg Quins 2^nd XV 24

District League Div1 � Sat Sept 23

Bridgend Athletic head Div 1 of the District League with 3 wins out of 3 following a 52 � 24 win over Maesteg Quins outscoring their rivals by 7 tries to 4. Incredibly they have notched up 176 points for with only 29 against in their 3 wins to date.

No 8 Lee Grabham, Flanker Karl Towzer and full back Chris Thomas crossed for try braces with single touchdowns for scum half Lyndsey MacCausland and a first Athletic try for wing Chris Borland. Outside half Paul Miles converted six of the tries. The Athletic led 31-5 at half time.

No 8 Lee Grabham came out of retirement and impressed in the pack alongside Karl Towzer and John Naisbitt. Chris Thomas was the outstanding back on the field.

This Saturday the 2^nd XV entertain Wick in the District Cup.

Treorchy Youth 5 Bridgend Athletic Youth 68 

Friendly � Sat 23^rd Sept.

The Athletic Youth warmed up for their first league encounter against Maesteg, with a very impressive 68-5 win at Treorchy, crossing for 10 tries.

Centre Sean Owens and lock Tom Penry-Ellis crossed for try braces with single touchdowns for full back Mike Hathaway, wings Ashley Smith and Nathan Townley, centre Nick Hopson, flanker Ben Howe and scrum half Dai Pritchard. Townley converted 7 of the tries with outside half Simon Evans adding a further 2 conversions. The Athletic led 35-0 at half time playing with a wind advantage, and managed to maintain their momentum against the elements in the second period

In an excellent team performance flanker Ben Howe, half backs Dai Pritchard and Simon Evans and centre Nick Hopson are worthy of mention..

Bridgend Athletic 23 Waunarlwydd 21

Div 1 West � Sat Sept 16th

Team that defeated Waunarlwydd to top Division 1 West	John Doherty celebrates victory. Ace cameraman Griff Davies looks on. Next time club promise to invest in more than 20 minute video tape..

In a crisis the Athletic have the perfect match winner in Mr Dependable outside half Stuart Morris. With 5 minutes to go and the Athletic trailing 21-17, eyebrows were raised around the ground as Morris went for goal from a penalty instead of a match winning try. This cool decision was fully justified as he kicked the penalty, and with two remaining minutes the Athletic were awarded a second penalty. From wide out on his wrong kicking side and in a tricky wind, he was the calmest person at the ground as he slotted the match winning kick. This win left his side top of Division 1 West as the only side to win all three opening games of the campaign.

The Athletic had started the game at a tremendous pace and Morris put them ahead in the first minute with a penalty. They continued to press and after 10 minutes captain Simon Mustoe took a tap penalty on half way. When he was halted from quick  ruck ball scrum half Stuart Kenny fed Morris and a clever short pass put centre Robert Coles into space to race home under the posts. Morris converted. A spurned overlap prevented another Athletic score after 15 minutes.

The game then turned. Waunarlwydd won a line out on half way and a rolling maul took them into the Athletic 22. They continued to press and were rewarded with a try from scrum half half Lee Gunnel converted by outside half Rhys Williams.For the rest of the half the bigger Waunarlwydd pack dominated possession and took a 14-1