Away-day blues go on (From Barry And District News)

Away-day blues go on

11:33am Thursday 22nd February 2007

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CEFN COED 24 BARRY 1ST XV 18 BARRY were looking to improve on their poor away results record since the heady days way back in between the autumn internationals when victory against Penarth and a draw against league leaders Bedlinog were achieved.

With an already shuffled pack and back line for this trip Merthyr way, matters were not helped when, unfortunately after only five minutes of play, live wire flanker Owain Brown had to leave the field injured.

Returning after injury lay-off, second row and former captain Martin Tanner had to occupy the No 8 position and Jason Evans moved to flank.

Against a strong wind, Barry were well in contention at half-time thanks to the flawless kicking of centre Chris Cummings with four penalties.

Conceding two converted tries and one penalty meant just a five-point deficit.

The defining moment came early in the second half when, after constant pressure close to the home side's try line, a loose ball was hacked up field for a converted try under the Barry posts.

Barry to their credit battled on, the forwards providing plentiful good ball for outside half Andy Griffiths often to rifle it into attacking positions.

A further penalty by Cummings, before retiring injured, and another by winger Rhydian Scott, brought them within a converted try of snatching victory.

Despite the enterprising and quick tap penalty efforts in midfield by flanker James Hadfield, or the numerous close range driving scrums or five-metre line-outs, Barry were unable to breach the determined Cefn defence and achieve that elusive final score.

The first of the home fixtures in March begins with the Penarth encounter on Saturday, March 3, as the visitors chase that cherished league second spot denied them in last season's run in, and also aim to avenge their shock home defeat at the Athletic ground.

This means that a full Barry squad will need to be firing on all cylinders if they are to do the double.

This weekend is off for the 1st XV - though the 2nd XV are scheduled for a league encounter home at the Reservoir Field against Rhiwbina, kick off 2.30pm.

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