11:23am Thursday 10th January 2008
DOWLAIS 34
BARRY 1ST XV 8
THE BARRY 1st XV squad were no doubt not the only ones to be struck down by the Norovirus in the New Year. But it decimated the front row cover and coupled with holidays and work commitments it meant a basic 15 travelled up to Dowlais (Merthyr) for this league encounter.
An indication of the disruption was that captain Martin Tanner had to stand in as prop forward, performing admirably given the game situation.
In the backs, Dave Provis had to act as outside half, usual flankers Owain Brown and Jason Evans as centre and fullback respectively, while James Hadfield, as line and place kicker, added a new string to his bow.
New young back rower Ben Gill showed he was a chip off the old block with a dynamic performance (although no fighting occurred).
After the preceding wet weather the playing surface was surprisingly firm, if rather sandy underfoot, with thankfully no rain during playing time as a bonus.
No fixture after the Christmas - New Year break is ever easy, and this proved no exception. Considering the format of the side, to be trailing only 6-3 at half time indicated the huge effort given by all players.
Barry's score for the half came from a sweet penalty effort by Hadfield, finding his kicking range after a couple of long range attempts.
The second half saw Barry concede 4 converted tries from set play positions and Dowlais breakaways, with some close but correct touchline decisions going their way.
The ability to be able to introduce fresh heavyweight substitutes helped the home side no end and there was no disgrace to the Barry players considering all the circumstances.
The Barry forwards created a number of surging drives, with one such effort resulting in their try with much debate over the shared effort of Hywel Jones and John Campbell yet to be resolved after the pack's drive over the try line.
The second half of the season begins this Saturday with the first of the return fixtures away at Taffs Well, ko 2.30pm (not too far for supporters to venture).
A number of early season games, which Barry could and should have won, were allowed to slip away, and they cannot afford to keep making similar mistakes if they are to move away from the foot of the league.
Renewed effort, commitment and belief from players and supporters, along with some luck, hopefully could see that ambition achieved.
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