Athletic 2022-23

As expected, the Nelson team offered a very physical battle. The first twenty minutes saw an arm wrestle, both teams camped in the opposition 22, for several spells, but without a score. Merthyr enjoyed the better opportunities but sadly were unable to capitalize. As the game progressed Merthyr showed glimpses of dominance with new front row of Murphy Mullins and Davies providing a strong base. While in the backs Blandford, Davies and Hughes as a back three looked dangerous. Blandofrd and Davies having some good possession from the Nelson kicking game and showing elusive running and glimpses of brilliance. One moment that showed the quality of Merthyr came from a cross field kick from Jones at ten, Davies gathered within two meters of the touchline and only some excellent defending from the Nelson back three prevented the score. Merthyr had their tails up.

Merthyr eventually broke the deadlock with a push over try thanks to the hard graft of the front five. Burrows at eight was the benefactor. Burns replaced Murphy and Nelson must have sighed with relief due to the dominance in the scrum – however they were soon to realize Burns was indeed an experienced and effective scrummager and they were further dominated. Merthyr were their own worst enemy within the first half as the penalty count increased, 8-1 at half-time and this was keeping Nelson in the game. Certainly, a focus looking forward.

The second half started at a frantic pace. Merthyr looked dangerous in attack with exciting backs providing some elusive and creative movement. Centre partners Morgans and Jones looked dangerous at times and when releasing Davies at 15 Nelson struggled to cope.

A Merthyr score from some textbook back play that saw Morgan slice through two defenders on the line to bring the scores level. Jones added the conversion.

Nelson once again bounced b ack with a brace of tries that left Merthyr out of the game. To their credit Merthyr fought back with a consolation try that left the final score of 29-19 slightly flattering the hosts. The final try was scored by fiery flanker Thomas after another decent performance.

The Merthyr squad is building with some debutants showing well, The Murphy brother showed their quality, although Kallum playing out of position on the wing. They have added good depth to the squad. New hooker Perks enjoyed the last ten minutes and looks a real prospect. Sadly, winger Hughes pulled up with a suspected hamstring tear, hopefully a speedy recovery. While Morgan at centre fitted in well and adds some robust running to an elusive backline.

The old guard continue to shine with Caviel, Price and Burns showing their experience while on field, difficulties moving forward is balancing the selected team to take the field to produce best performances.

In terms of Man of the Match there were a few stand out performances once again, Burrows, Jones, Cottrill and Rees are showing some consistency with their games and in doing so are improving the performance of others around them. The stand out player this week in defence and attack goes to elusive full back Davies. Several try saving tackles kept Merthyr in the game and some elusive running nearly won Merthyr the game.

The highlight of the day was the hand painted fingernails. Several pictures added. Some very manly men looking very beautiful from the knuckles down.

Next Weeks home game will see the visit of Caerphilly. Hopefully a return to winning ways.