Players can take heart despite loss

THE Barry Rugby Club senior side travelled to Glyncoch last Saturday in the latest round of fixtures in the SWALEC Bowl competition and, with a strong north-easterly wind blowing across the field, the spectators were soon as blue as the winter sky!

The home side soon showed why they are the current holders of the trophy and could boast an unbeaten run of 40 or so competitive games. Under the guidance of a very competent fly half, they began making larges tranches of ground whilst playing against the elements. Barry’s tackling was going well and they had the first opportunity to score from a penalty attempt. This was unsuccessful but not so the penalty soon afterwards awarded to the home side.

With little useful possession, Barry were unable to make much progress into opposition territory. Consequently the backs had little chance to parade their skills. However, Barry were far from out of the game: there were good contributions from Lee, Hadfield and Alex Evans. The Glyncoch full back was able to inject some pace into the proceedings but failed to convert this ability into points. The first half ended with Barry in deficit by just three points but having to face the wind at the resumption.

With Tanner, Hollister and King featuring prominently, Barry started the second period brightly. This good work was undone by some poor tackling and lax defence, which allowed an elusive home full back to create havoc and set up a long range converted try. Barry narrowed the gap when, following good approach work, McTavish was bundled over the line. Lee added the extra points. The game then swung the way of Glycoch who surprised the visitors with a quick throw at the lineout. Before defenders could react the try had been scored.

Glyncoch now began to dominate proceedings and claimed another long range try. To their credit Barry now stirred themselves and set up a long siege of the home try-line. With captain Jones, Alyn Evans and O’Sullivan figuring prominently, they battled away until the Glyncoch defence crumbled, allowing Buckland to crash over. Lee’s conversion was the last score of the game.

Glyncoch proved to be a well-drilled and fit side as reflected in their recent playing record. However, Barry were far from being disgraced and did score two deserved tries against a team which will be the best they will face this season.

Barry: Adams, Alex Evans, Buckland, Ryan, Tim Poole, Lee, Williams, Hollister, Alyn Evans, O’Sullivan, Tanner, King, Parker, Hadfield, Jones (capt). Replacements: Dix, Lundy, McTavish and Owain Poole.