Athletic 2022-23

Match Report V Dowlais

Craig Rees, Captain for the day challenged his troops to meet fire with fire as Merthyr Athletic started their new campaign against local rivals the Dowlais Knights. The initial exchanges between the local rivals were as anticipated, aggressive, fiery and filled with passion. Merthyr started well with backrow of Gough, Thomas and Burrows working hard in defence and attack. Gough competed well at the breakdown and Thomas supported and ran hard in possession. Burrows had the biggest impact with several barnstorming runs, some from the back of the scrum but other in lose play that really penetrated the Dowlais defence.
The Merthyr Pack provided some quality possession through a well-versed lineout, Iwan “the salmon” Thomas excelled within this facet. He was well supported through lifters Cottrill and Roberts. The delivery from Mullins was on point.
The Merthyr defence stood strong with centres Thomas and Jones robust throughout with Jones at 10 marshalling things well.
As the half moved on Merthyr exerted more pressure this resulted in a breakthrough try from busy hooker Mullins – well deserved reward for his hard work around the field and faultless set piece.
Dowlais reacted and forced their way into the Merthyr half, the defence responded, some good scramble work from Griffiths and Ongun prevented what seemed an inevitable try for Dowlais. Dowlais opted for a shot at post through an eventual penalty, a mark of respect for the Merthyr tenacious defence.
The second half saw a tactical shift with Merthyr attacking down the slope and surely working towards a territory focused game. This was not executed as well as it could have been, largely down to the tenacious Dowlais attitude who pressurized and fought throughout. Merthyr struggled to deal with this at times.
A stale mate was identified. Despite the introduction of exciting backs – Blandford, Henessey, Jacobs and Williams. At times they did show glimpses of their promise, this will be exciting to watch as the season evolves. Merthyr did at times show glimpses of more control with some tactical kicking from Rees, Henessey, Griffiths and Jones allowing Merthyr to continue to apply pressure.
As the game drew to a close nervous tension played a role. Both teams struggling to break free. Within the last ten minutes both teams exchanged kickable penalties that were missed. The last few minutes saw the introduction of the evergreen Price. Price galvanised and provided leadership. The next penalty for Merthyr resulted in a lineout five meters out. Mullins provided inch perfect delivery. Thomas collected, Price broke free only to be held short, Gough pounced and the resulting try ensured a positive result.
Man of the Match was awarded to Flynn Burrows for his barnstorming runs and firm defensive presence.
We look forward to our next fixture with Nelson on 10th September.

#theathleticareback

Many Thanks to Match Day Sponsor:

The Contracting Group. Who are also Player Sponsor for this weeks Man of the Match – Flynn Burrows.