Crunch match ends in defeat for Barry men

11:33am Thursday 21st December 2006

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BARRY 8 ABERDARE 21 THIS FIXTURE last Saturday was a crunch match for both sides with the winner likely to take over the second spot in the division.

Barry's cause was not helped by the unavailability of both outside-half Andrew Griffiths and centre Andrew Buckland, a loss which forced Barry to use flanker Owain Brown and winger Dave Provis in the centre, and to move Chris Cummings from the centre to number 10.

From the kick-off Aberdare tore into the Barry half and after a number of driving mauls established a foothold in the home side's 22.

Their backs were then able to split Barry's midfield defence and cross beneath the posts for an early 7-0 lead.

Barry replied with a long range penalty goal by Cummings before a charged-down clearance kick on the Barry line enabled Aberdare to score their second converted try.

This score acted as a wake-up call for the local side and with the forwards playing with greater enthusiasm Barry were unable to settle.

As the game entered the second quarter and after a series of scrums on the Aberdare line, No 8 Jason Evans broke on the narrow side, drew the defence, and put right winger Marvin Cordle over in the corner for an unconverted try.

Just before the interval, Aberdare once again exposed the frailty of the Barry defence by bursting through for another 7 points and a half time lead of 21-8.

During the second half, with the conditions now in their favour, Barry spent most of the session in the visitors' half but were unable to break down a resolute Aberdare defence and the game ended with Aberdare deserving winners. Although this was a disappointing display by the Barry side, there were a few positives with the improving performances by winger Marvin Cordle and prop Lewis Barnett, plus the return of substitute prop Gavin Elsworthy.

Tonight (Thursday) Barry have a chance to make amends when they play away at Taffs Well, ko 7pm.

On Boxing Day there will be an 'in-house' match and players who are interested should report to the clubhouse for an 11.30am kick-off.

Please note, because of WRU regulations, only currently registered players are eligible.