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06 December 2007
Ynysddu v Blaenavon
Ynysddu received the perfect early Christmas present, a home win against undefeated league leaders Blaenavon.
In conditions best described as "not conducive to running rugby" both teams should be congratulated on producing a pulsating encounter. The visitors showed from the off why they are top of the table, their slick handling, powerful forward charges and rolling mauls only failed to bring rewards by the outstanding home defence. The Dee's tackled like their lives depended on it, time and again they denied the visitors what looked like a certain score. Home supporters were comparing their teams heroics to Roakes Drift and who would be getting the VC's in the clubhouse afterwards.
The visitors early successful penalty was countered by a Byron Williams try which was converted by Martin Gleadall. The Dee's scrum half causes so much bedlam in the opposing back row that he is providing vital space and opportunities for his fellow players around him. Both he and his fly half Grant Robson also put in their fare share of big hits which was a major factor in securing the win. If Ynysddu can produce more performances like this then they will take a few more scalpes before the end of the season. A penalty by Gleadall was the only other score in the match but the character and pride they showed to defend that narrow margin to the end was admirable.
Coach John Helmore needed only to make one substitution during the match. He brought on Rhys Gladwyn to give him some much needed playing time as the big ex Abertillery player makes a welcome return to his routes. Gladwyn will bring valuable experience to the Dee's eight and also add a great deal of power to the pack, but with Barry Curtis, Nikki Dix and Matthew Whitcombe all playing out of their skins competition for places will be fierce. Also pleasing for the coaches was the return of hooker Joe Watts, his accurate throwing to the line and work rate around the field was sorley missed when he was away having cosmetic work to his broken nose sustained three weeks earlier.
The Committee, Players and Supporters of Ynysddu RFC all send their sincere best wishes to scrum half Craig Huish and his family and wish 2 year old Kenzie a speedy recovery after his operation. We look forward to seeing you all at the club again very soon.
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