Crows swoop home to win (From Free Press Series)

Crows swoop home to win

Cwmbran 21 Abercarn 14

Cwmbran are finally off the mark in their league campaign and got the result their pack have deserved all season with this home win.

Cwmbran playing up the slope got off to a good start when stand off James Didcote slotted over a penalty goal. Penalty goals apart there was a vast improvement in the accuracy of his line kicks and drop outs to contribute to this win.

Several times Cwmbran gave away penalties and Abercarn's stand off Kris Moses kicked three of these to take the lead. As half time approached Didcote reduced the lead with his second penalty.

Second half down the slope Cwmbran had the upper hand in the forward exchanges.

Following a well driven scrum number eight Gary Coombes slipped the ball to openside Paul Webb to run over the line unopposed for a try. Good rucking and powerful mauling by the Crows' pack ensured quality ball for inside half Fred Evans to release his backline. Mike Vann just failed to put wing Martin Ellis over for a try.

Nevertheless sustained forward pressure and drives by Mustoe, Williams and Barnes forced Abercarn to concede a penalty try. Didcote converted to add to another penalty success, completing Cwmbran's scoring.

Excellent defence by Maidment, Tuck and Morgan kept the visitors pegged back for long periods of the game.

As the finish neared Abercarn broke out of defence to score a corner try. Next Saturday the Kings Head outfit are at Talywain.

Athletic played Crickhowell on Saturday and despite defeat gave a good account of themselves. Youth players were used and got two tries in a narrow loss.