TRAVELLING to Cardiff last Saturday, expectations were high as two unbeaten sides met.

The crowd were not to be disappointed as both sides gave their all in what turned out to a sometimes dour but always exciting and entertaining game.

As was to be expected both teams spent the opening minutes testing each other out looking for possible weaknesses whilst at the same time indicating their wish to play open rugby.

After about 20 minutes Barry began to enjoy cleaner possession and used it effectively to create chances which unfortunately were not turned into points.

The North was very quick up in defence limiting the space for the Barry backs who were beginning to stretch their opponents when given the chance.

However the home side were always a threat and following some Barry indecision, a 60 yard run from defence saw the move breakdown short of the line and from the ensuing lineout they drove over the line for the first score of the day which was added to by a fine touchline conversion.

With only a few minutes of the half remaining Hadfield launched a massive up and under which appeared to be going dead but rebounded off the posts, and with the home side being unable to clear Barry were awarded a penalty.

A successful lineout led to the ball being fed to Scott who jinked his way over for a try under the posts which was converted to bring the scores level at 7-7 as half time was blown.

Barry began the second period with a couple of barnstorming runs from Evans giving them territorial advantage but despite efforts from both scrum and lineout they were unable to penetrate the stubborn home defence.

They were rewarded soon after when Scott converted a penalty to give Barry the lead.

Tension was mounting both on and off the field as both sides were putting huge efforts into both attack and defence with neither prepared to give an inch.

With 20 minutes remaining Barry earned a little breathing space as the home side were penalised for illegal driving giving Scott the chance to kick a penalty from 40 yards. This was successful given the visitors a six point cushion.

Barry were reduced to 14 men following a yellow card to add more pressure as they were forced to defend for their lives.

The north threw everything including the kitchen sink as the game entered its last minutes but the Barry defence was immaculate and managed to frustrate the home team to earn a hard fought but well earned win.

The club would like to send best wishes to two long serving members and ex players Alan Jones and Chris Oxenham who are unwell at the moment, we wish them well and look forward to seeing them at the club in the near future.