WITH both teams having an enforced lay-off due to the autumn internationals expectation were high and with another Old Boys’ reunion taking place, there was a high turnout of supporters at Parc Broyd despite the cold weather. It turned out to be a thrilling game.
New Panteg are the league leaders and it was easy to see why with their first few forays into Crickhowell territory.
They were rewarded with a penalty which their accomplished kicker put squarely between the posts.
Not to be outdone, outside half Tom Keane replied with a penalty of his own just five minutes later.
Further infringement by Crickhowell saw the visitors double their score with another penalty.
Next, it was New Panteg who infringed and Tom Keane drew scores level.
The visitors’ speedy attack and good support play then brought play into the Crickhowell 22 but a try-saving tackle from Harry Summers thwarted their efforts.
The respite was short lived, however as the ball was recycled and passed along the line resulting in a converted try, which was shortly followed by another.
After the break Crick set about reducing the 6-20 scoreline and were rewarded when a good passage of interplay saw Zach mills crossing the whitewash with Keane converting.
New Panteg then had the run of play and increased their score with another try, this time unconverted.
With time running out for the home team, a kick ahead saw one of the visitors’ backs fail to secure the ball and the speedy Josh cashed took the opportunity to kick ahead, gather, and score an unconverted try near the corner.
The game had a nail-biting finish when Harry Summers scored another unconverted try for the home team.
New Panteg managed to withstand the renewed onslaught from the fired-up Crickhowell forwards as the whistle brought the final score to 23-25.
The game was sponsored by Dai Penny and the match ball by Alan Jones.
Next week sees further League action return to Parc Broyd when Crick welcome Whiteheads with a kick off time of 2.30pm.