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Following the close season, it was perhaps understandable that Pencoed would go into this opening league fixture with a certain amount of trepidation. Early nerves were settled somewhat with Adam Williams kicking a successful penalty on 9 mins. Play then stagnated a little between the two 22mtr lines, due in the main to unforced errors from both sides. However, Adam Williams was able to stretch Pencoed’s lead with a second successful penalty on 31 mins. Builth hit back 2 mins later with a penalty goal of their own from their outside half Robert Lloyd. Builth now had the upper hand and this was rewarded with an unconverted try from No6 Lewis Bowen on the stroke of half time to leave the score 6-8 at this point. The second half could not have started anymore badly for Pencoed. Following a mix up at a defensive 5 mtr line out Builth No7, Ben Pugh, was able to pounce on the loose ball to score a try with barely a minute on the clock. Robert Lloyd adding the extras with a fine conversion. The same player then took an excellent drop goal opportunity to push Builth’s lead to 6-18. Pencoed looked in a lot of trouble. But with excellent spirit and determination from everyone on the field Pencoed started to gain the ascendancy. This was highlighted when the Pencoed pack drove Builth over their own line at an attacking 5 mtr scrum to allow Rhys Watkins to claim the touchdown after 54 mins. The conversion was unsuccessful. This seemed to galvanise Pencoed and they started to enjoy their best period of the match. Kyle Barrett was next on the score sheet for Pencoed after 61 mins. Showing quick thinking, he took a 5 mtr penalty quickly to score a try at the posts. Adam Williams providing the extras to leave the score 18-18. Pencoed’s ill-discipline then cost them dearly. Builth’s Robert Lloyd was able to kick two successful penalties on 71 and 74 mins leaving them 18-24 ahead. Pencoed kept the best for last. Again showing grit and determination they started to put pressure once more on Builth. On 78 mins Morgan Jones received possession 25 mtrs out. He then went on run, combining power and guile, to beat at least half a dozen defenders to touch down near the posts. Adam Williams again providing the extras. Pencoed were able to see out the remaining moments deep in Builth territory to secure a hard fought but deserved victory. Credit must be given to the whole squad and also the backroom staff. Shane Izatt took the supporters Man of the match award with James Tredray getting the nod from the coaches. Pencoed face a tricky league fixture next week, away to Nantymoel.

S.H.Davies.