FAIRYTALE ENDING DENIED

It could have been a fairytale ending for the committed band of North Walean players who have done so much to put Gogledd Cymru on the map this season. Twelve all and five minutes to go, they were awarded a penalty which would have given them the win they so richly deserved. It was not to be. The Combined Army Corps took the three points from a penalty in the dying minutes to win 15-12.

Playing with flair and pace Gogledd Cymru took the lead within minutes of the start with a try by promising young lock Llion Trefor, converted by Rhodri Carlton. This was followed by a second unconverted try by Gary Teeson. The Combined Corps pulled back the score with two tries. At half time it was 12 -12.

Second half, the Corps came out with all guns firing and it was only dogged defence and rigorous maintenance of shape that prevented another try. Eventually Mathew Parry cleared the ball and the Gogs began to put pressure on the Combined Corps.

No 8 Will Bown, returning from a 3 month, injury enforced, break was inspirational. Assisted by backrow pair Ynyr Edwards and Richard (TinTin) Hughes they repeated blunted the Corps midfield Fijian attack and turned over the ball.

Edwyn Roberts played a solid defensive game from 15. His control of the back three was an example of the way in which this young team has developed during the year. Development was still the focus in this game and replacements Tom James and Tom Watkin were given their chance to contribute to the Gogledd Cymru effort.

Concentraton and effort were the order of the day. Rhodri Carlton used his step to tremendous effect and was always supported. Sean McDonagh, playing out of position in the centre, impressed with his clever running angles and intelligent, accurate passing.

The scrum held up well, with newcomers Elgan Davies and James Jones adding depth to the regular squad members Osian Williams and Gareth Pawson. Williams, named Dinbych's player of the year and most committed player of the year, demonstrated why he had won this award with strong scrummaging and support play.

Five minutes from the end of the game Gogledd Cymru were awarded a penalty; step up Rhodri Carlton - but it was not to be. The next chance fell to the Combined Corps and from a long way out the ball sailed between the uprights to give them the lead for the first time in the game.

The contest between Rhys Hughes and Army 1st XV scrum half Slade-Jones continued to the end with both players harassing and pressurising. In the dying minutes Mathew Parry sent a kick deep into the Corps 22 to give Gogledd Cymru one last chance. The Corps won the lineout and cleared the ball to touch to end the game.

It was not a fairlytale ending but it was a game which gave the Gogs a home. Eirias Park looked fantastic in the evening sun and spectators in the stand and on the terraces were treated to a feast of rugby. At half time Ruthin played Colwyn Bay in an under 8s version of the North Wales cup only to win 4-1. The choir sang, the U16, U18, women internationals and regional star Eifion Roberts were presented to the crowd. Gogledd Cymru looks forward to the next season but before then has some exciting news which will be revealed at the end of the month.