Unstuck in the mud........ (From Barry And District News)

Unstuck in the mud........

11:56am Thursday 8th March 2007

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BARRY 1ST XV 11 PENARTH 21 DESPITE the week's atrocious weather conditions, Barry maintained the record of having played every Division 4 South East scheduled league fixture so far this season.

The heavy, boggy pitch conditions underfoot though played into the hands of the big Penarth 'front five' who took full advantage of the first half wind and slope, along with the opportunities afforded them by Barry, to decisively gain three converted tries.

The first came from a close range driving maul after ten minutes' play.

There came a great response from Barry when a kick ahead by outside half Andy Griffiths saw him pick up the loose ball for an unconverted try out wide.

Despite plenty of possession, Barry became impatient when in attacking territory and at crucial times kicked good ball away, to enable Penarth to relieve the pressure in their 22m area.

Penarth exploited this to the full during the closing minute of the half.

The 'deliberate collapse' of a driving maul saw a penalty try awarded and then deep into injury time a 5m driving scrum saw a quick breakaway from the base for the number eight to score.

In the second half, with the pitch deteriorating, Barry were unable to get their potential match-winning three quarter players into attacking positions.

The forwards attempts to take play forward were often thwarted by their heavier opponents.

Pressure created only resulted in two successful penalty kicks to centre Chris Cummings.

l With the Six Nations Internationals to be concluded the next league fixture will be on Saturday, March 24, at home, kick off 2.30pm against league leaders Bedlinog.

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