BARRY Bombettes played Seaview and had patiently waited for this fixture for over two seasons.

Due to the recent monsoon weather, the venue had to be changed to the Barry Rfc Pitch. Both sets of supporters, to their credit, showed their loyalty and turned out in numbers under the welcome sunshine.

The game was played in typical local derby cut and thrust endeavour.

From the outset, Barry showed how far they have progressed with regards the importance of tactical play. With the knowledge of being one player up from the outset, Barry took the game to Seaview. Forwards initially making the hard yards before the ball was shipped efficiently to the backs.

Within five minutes of Bombettes determination, View's defence broke with Fox touching down after excellent passing by the backs.

A further two tries came in quick succession, but Seaview came back strongly taking the fight to Barry for the next 10 minutes. Barry's defence was solid and when the visitors tried to kick for territory, O’Neill ran the ball back with gusto.

The home side then came alive again and with clever link up play and off loading, Barry avoided the contact and scored more tries under the posts for K Jones (C) to convert.

Dani Young went off injured to be replaced by the fleet-footed Sophie Davies.

With the half time whistle, the Bombettes utilised their bench to freshen things up and give vital experience to some new players. The players that came on just slotted into the game as if they had been there all the time however the visitors didn't have that luxury.

The second half continued as the first half had with Barry pressuring every aspect of the visitors game. As with any local rugby derby, matters got a little heated at times, but rugby was the winner.

Barry's try scorers were Bannister, Shanhan, Fox, O Neill, Binnie , Perry , S Davies, Richards, K Jones (C). A special mention for their first game for Hannah Scott and Amy Smith who also managed to score her first try.

The variety of scorers illustrates the teamwork and support play displayed that day. Jones (C) also kicked numerous conversions with Richards slotting over one.

Seaview deserve massive recognition for their never say die attitude. They tackled their hearts and lungs out and never stopped. Although they were hampered by injuries they fought to the end. The Seaview No 15, Cat, was deservedly chosen as Barry's Woman-of-the-Match as she tackled herself to a standstill.

Team: O’Neill, Rees, Fox, K Jones (C), Binney, Bannister, Shanahan, Yapp, Young, Potter, Coleman, Helmore, Kath Jones , Phillips and Cahill : Super subs : Richards, Husk, Horne, Davies, Day-Smith, Scott and Smith.

Barry Woman-of-the-Match: O’Neill and Seaview chose Perry .

The Management would like to congratulate the whole team for a total 80 minutes of rugby. Also appreciation to Seaview for upholding the fixture. Many thanks to Chris and Goldilocks for the food. The next fixture is at home this Sunday, January 26, against Tylorstown. Come and support your green and white team again.

AM