BRECON RFC are celebrating reaching a national final for the first time in their 150-year history.
At the end of this month, April 28, Brecon will be contesting the final of the WRU Plate at the Principality stadium in Cardiff after a glorious 22-17 win over Division 1 East rivals Penallta at Ebbw Vale on Saturday.
At the end Brecon’s fans spilled on to the pitch as the players hugged each other and consoled their valiant opponents.
Brecon had led 9-0 at half-time but the tension cranked up a level in the second half when Darren Witcomb gave away a penalty and was sent to the sin bin. Down to 14-men, Brecon were pegged back to just a five-point lead with 10 minutes left when Penallta scored a try, which was then converted.
But captain Ewan Williams showed his mettle by charging forward from his own 22 to begin a move that he completed by diving over the try line after a pass from Jake Crockett. Dean Gunter, Brecon’s kicking hero in the match, converted to give Brecon a little breathing space before Penallta hit back with another try that was successfully converted.
A little order was brought back to the game when Brecon were restored to 15 men a short while later. But it was only that shrill blast from the referee’s whistle that eventually allowed Brecon’s travelling army of supporters to celebrate.
It means Brecon will be facing Bonymaen at the national stadium on Sunday, April 28 in the WRU Plate final on Welsh club rugby’s showpiece afternoon when the WRU Bowl and SSE Swalec Cup final are decided.
Delighted coach Andy Powell said after the game: “The boys really deserve this, it couldn’t have happened to a better bunch of boys, they have worked so hard this season and it is all about them and their hard work is being rewarded. It is fantastic for the club, the town and all the players’ families who will have an unforgettable day out at the Principality stadium.”For a full match report by Ron Rowsell and more Jonathan Chatfield pictures see this week's Brecon & Radnor Express