Ystradgynlais 12 Betws 14

Asda National League Division 5 South West top of the table clash lived up to expectations as leaders Ystradgynlais narrowly lost to second placed Betws.

The Blues were stunned in the first quarter with Betws crossing for two tries through No8 Dan Howells. Outside half Phil Saunders added the conversions to give the visitors.

Ystrad finally woke up at this point and began their fight back through a try for impressive flanker Kirt Thomas. Ystrad continued to play open rugby but were prevented from opening up by the tight forward-orientated Betws who looked to slow down every set piece.

In the second half Ystrad pressed to score again and finally did midway through the half turning over ball on the halfway. This enabled the Blues to break clear, with outside half Dane Clancy involved a couple of times before crossing to reduce the deficit. Young Clancy converted to narrow the deficit.

Ystrad were unable to take advantage of the Betws tiring pack who seemed to be kept going by adrenaline only. It wasn’t meant to be for the Blues on this day but not is all lost and remain favourites to life the title.

Ystrad’s next game is on Wednesday, March 19 at Gowerton against Betws (Again) but this time in Tovali plate competition.