Llanybydder’s season finished with another heavy defeat at in-form Pontyberem, and finish 10th in this tough Division. This match was postponed due to a frozen pitch in December, and the conditions on Saturday suited the home side’s classy backs, superbly marshaled by half-backs Adrian Williams and Rhodri Jones, as they looked to spread play continually. The visiting forwards competed well , but Pontyberem were clinical in executing chances and scored tries through Rhodri Jones and wing Iwan Harris. There were 2 conversions and a penalty for centre and captain Mike Sauro to give a 17 – 3 interval lead , as Elia Pellegrotti replied with a penalty for the visitors.
The second period was similar, as Llanybydder failed to capitalize on some quality ball from lineout expert Gary Evans, and the home backs were ruthless with turnover ball. There were 2 excellent long range scores for influential no8 Wayne Williams, both converted by Sauro. The visitors tired, and became frustrated by some of the match official’s interpretations, leading to yellow cards and penalties. The scoring was completed by tries for Rhodri Jones and Aled Rees, one converted by Sauro to give a final score of 43 – 3.
It was a disappointing end to Head Coach Gareth Eagle Evans’ reign at Llanybydder, an incredible 12 years of loyalty and commitment which is rarely seen these days in modern sporting circles.
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