Barry RFC Youth 34 Llantwit Major Youth 19

By Ian Fifield

BARRY hosted near neighbours Llantwit in a second round Blues cup match at the Reservoir Fields last Saturday and, with Sully and Smithy out injured, Iestyn and Lewis not available, Jake and Zak playing for the Blues U17s, Barry had 21 players available.

Starting the first half with a slight breeze behind them, Barry found themselves defending for most of the opening period as Llantwit seemed to be really up for this local derby.

Excellent defending by Barry frustrated the visitors and momentum soon turned to the home side, with the forwards making ground with good pod work, Cameron eventually crashed over for the game's opening try, the talented prop forward is having an excellent season, and along with his front row colleagues Ellis and Jack C carried the ball in a real determined fashion, Jack W added the conversion. Rhydian and Adam provided good line out ball, and offered themselves all over the pitch.

Josh, Jack L and Liam in the back row have been outstanding all season, and covered every blade of grass. Good line speed in midfield by Jack R put the visitors under pressure and his centre partner George found himself with the ball, in space and sprinted in for Barry’s 2nd try converted by Jack W, 14-0 half-time.

Llantwit were the better team at the start of the second half and deserved their try and conversion.

Barry came back with a well taken penalty by Jack W after more good work from the forwards. Jacob P playing at scrum half was in fine form, playing against his former club he should be really proud of his performance.

When the referee offered a penalty advantage Jack W chipped through a blitz defence and centre George gathered and raced in for his 2nd try con by Jack W 24-7. Llantwit fought back and scored two tries through their left winger, one converted 24-19, and game on. Rhys, Owen, Jacob J, Conor, Dylan and Tristan all came off the bench for game time, and all got involved, with some excellent performances. Another penalty by Jack W gave Barry a bit of breathing space. Ethan at full back had another fine game.

Jac N had a mixed day, some outstanding stuff and losing possession of the ball twice over the try line. Ben was back on the wing, and looked hungry for work, after missing several weeks with damaged thumb ligaments.

A good catch and drive from a line out near the Llantwit try line saw Rhys cross the white wash for a deserved try, the conversion by Jack W gave him 14 points and 100% accuracy.

George was man of the match, two tries and an excellent defensive performance. A big thank you to the large home crowd for your continued support.