Barry RFC beat rivals Blackwood Stars in battle of top sides (From Barry And District News)

Barry RFC beat rivals Blackwood Stars in battle of top sides

8:00am Thursday 29th April 2010

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BARRY RFC 35 BLACKWOOD STARS 13

THIS LONG-awaited match between the top sides in the division was played in ideal conditions last Saturday.

That the pitch was playable was courtesy of Hardy’s farm bowser and the Barry Fire Service, with some 50,000 litres of water poured on to the pitch during the preceding days.

During the opening period Barry were strangely tentative, with the sense of occasion inhibiting their play.

The signs were ominous so it came as no surprise when the visitors gained an unconverted try within the first 10 minutes.

The home side were finding it very difficult to gain territory, although they were unfortunate not to narrow the gap when a penalty from an acute angle struck the upright.

Barry came back into the game on 25 minutes with an unconverted try from Cummings.

The visitors continued to have the best of possession and territory but were hampered by a yellow card.

Unfortunately Barry reciprocated with one of their own for indiscipline in the tackle area. The scores were level at the end of the first half with Barry now preparing to face an increasing head wind.

The second period commenced with renewed vigour from the home pack. They began clearing out ruck ball with an efficiency their opponents could not replicate.

Amongst the forwards, Haskill was prominent in creating pressure on a Blackwood side that were forced to concede a penalty.

The best was yet to come when forceful approach play by George, followed by quickly recycled ball, released Provis on a 40-metre gallop to the line.

The writing was on the wall for the visitors with Barry now beginning to believe in themselves. Quick line-out possession followed by a strong and clean rolling maul set up another long range score by Provis, which sent their confidence soaring.

The bonus point try, which appeared a distant prospect earlier, now beckoned. It arrived by virtue of one of the best moves of the game and involved forwards and backs working for one another to put Ryan over in the corner.

Although Blackwood Stars scored a late consolation try, Barry finished the game much stronger.

This result was a reward for the efforts put in by players and coaches to attain a level of fitness, finesse and commitment not seen at the club for many seasons.

The club entertain Cefn Coed this Saturday at the Reservoir Field; and on May 15 the last game of the season is away to Blackwood Stars.

There is a coach leaving the club for this latter fixture at 1.15pm - all are welcome!

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