'Call to arms' has the desired effect (From Barry And District News)

'Call to arms' has the desired effect

GILFACH

GOCH 15 PTS

BARRY 1ST XV 24 PTS

HAVING suffered the double loss last season, and against a side third in the league with only two defeats, this was seen as a stern test again after the narrow defeat to Ruthin a week earlier.

A "call to arms" in the changing room prior to kick-off by flanker David Griffiths on the need for all players, but especially the seniors, "to put bodies in the firing line" had the desired effect. He set the example by taking a quick five-metre tap penalty. Adopting the'Maori sidestep' technique, he took a few clinging defenders over the try line with him to get his side off to a great start.

After 20 minutes, another senior player, Chris Cummings, at centre, burst through for a fine try, which he also converted to give Barry a 12-point lead.

While down to a seven-man pack for a yellow card offence, the forwards valiantly kept Gilfach at bay from three short-range penalty scrum attempts, restricting them to a single successful penalty kick.

Cummings scored a fine drop goal, but Barry conceded a harsh penalty try for collapsing a scrum, before the final movement of the period saw the captain produce a class outside half snap drop goal, to turn round 18-10 ahead.

After just three minutes of the second half, Cummings was floored by a shoulder barge and slotted the penalty. Midway through the half, Cummings went off with a leg injury and James Maddon moved to centre with John Dimond filling the scrum half position.

Gilfach scored a try to reduce the deficit to six points, but Griffiths dropped a goal to restore the buffer.

This Saturday Brecon visit the Reservoir Field, ko 2.30pm, in the final 1st XV league game for 2004. The scheduled December 18 fixture against Mountain Ash has been postponed because of their WRU cup match.

The traditional Boxing Day on-field and clubhouse extra-vaganza, with full disco, will be on December 26, from mid-day on. Players interested should contact team manager Colin Knapman.