YSTRADGYNLAIS made the short journey to the Amman Valley to face Cwmgors last weekend.

The Blues had suffered defeat at the hands of the Cherries last season and were fully focused on ensuring history didn’t repeat itself. On arrival at Cwmgors RFC the main field was deemed unplayable due to surface water by the home team officials and the game was moved up to the Mardy ground.

Fortunately the Blues maintained focus despite the last minute change of plan. The condition of the field clearly suited the home team with Ystradgynlais going to have to rely on organisation and spirit to defy the odds.

A minute silence was held before the game in memory of Anthony Ajax Thomas. The powerful back row player had represented both clubs during his playing time and is still highly thought of by both players and supporters.

Ystradgynlais began the brightest with an early try for full back Owen James. The full back spotted a mismatch and took advantage of some lack-luster defence to cross over under the posts. Second row Emyr Lawrence converted the try.

The Blues maintained control though out the first quarter but were thwarted by their own errors and brave defence from the home side. The next score however went to Cwmgors, against the run of play a turn over in midfield saw impressive Cherries centre Lloyd Watson gallop away from 50 meters to score beneath the posts. Fly half Steffan Rees added the two extra points.

The try certainly turned the tide of the game. Cwmgors finally took the lead with penalty from reliable fly half Steffan Rees. Ystradgynlais were then fortunate to bring the score level through and Emyr Lawrence penalty, the lock had certainly brought his kicking boots. Half time came with the scores tied at ten all.

An early error at the beginning of the half saw the home side reclaim the lead, however it wasn’t long until the reliable boot of Emyr Lawrence levelled things to keep the game on a knife edge.

The sun came out for the final quarter and the more entertaining Ystrad began to dominate, being rewarded with a Christopher Williams try. Soon after continued pressure brought the visiting Ystrad a further penalty which extended the lead to a two score difference.

The home side did give themselves a glimmer of hope when outside half Steffan Rees kicked a penalty to draw it back within five but the Blues reclaimed control by soon taking the lead back to eight points thanks to Emyr Lawrence penalty once again.

With the game lost, Cwmgors did almost claim a bonus point by missing two relatively kickable penalties late on.

The Swalec plate competition returns this Saturday with Ystradgynlais travelling to Brynaman.