BARRY RFC travelled the short distance to Pontcanna Fields last Saturday.

They not only faced a team in the top three of the league, but also blizzard conditions and heavy rain, which fell throughout the afternoon.

The visitors enjoyed the lion's share of possession and territory from the outset. However, given the extremely difficult playing conditions, handling errors were inevitable and few clear-cut opportunities presented themselves. Against the run of play Clwb Rugbi took the lead from an impressive long distance rolling maul. Since this came from a lineout, perhaps Barry should have attacked the maul towards the touchline.

The home side extended their lead via an easy penalty. These setbacks spurred the visitors to greater efforts and with a dominant pack directed by Lee and O’Sullivan behind, they set up some good attacking positions near the CRC line.

Evans, Jones and Hollister were providing much momentum during this period. The home side needed to resort to an array of illegal tactics, which should have earned CRC at least a yellow card. The referee eventually lost his patience and awarded Barry a penalty try. 10 points to seven to the hosts was the half time score.

The second session started with so much mud and water covering the players that it became increasingly difficult to distinguish between the teams. Barry fell further behind from the outset from a needless penalty.

The home team were using their possession very cleverly via the fly half. This player was kicking to good effect and continually put Barry on the back foot. He was the difference between the sides through out the match.

A scrambled try for CRC on the stroke of full time made the result a flattering 18-7 in their favour.

Barry team: Ryan, Adams, Buckland, Provis, Scott, Scott, Lee, O’Sullivan, Jones©, Scott, Tanner, Jones, Hollister, Evans, O’Sullivan.

Next Saturday Llantwit Major are entertained at the Reservoir Field with kick off at 2.30pm.