Athletic. Division A

A tough #FridayNightUnderTheLights for the Athletic, falling to a 43-13 defeat at the hands of a Senghenydd side eager to play an expansive style of rugby. The Athletic opened the scoring courtesy of a penalty within the first quarter. The game ebbed and flowed, both sides playing some nice rugby. The Saints struck next, scoring a try which went unconverted.

The Saints, starting to find some joy beyond 12, finished the half very strongly, scoring three quick and unanswered tries via their impressive backline, converting one, to end the first half in a dominant, yet flattering 22-03 lead. There is no replacement for speed and running rugby ambition, and the Senghenydd side used this to their advantage, always attempting to move the ball quickly, linking the game, through their impressive hooker and openside flanker.

The Athletic struck first after the break, digging deep to score their first try, which went unconverted. With the Athletic pushing to get back within striking distance, Senghenydd scored again, extending the lead to 29-08. Midway through the second half, frustrations bubbled over temporarily, a group hug on the touchline between the two dugouts taking a while to disperse.

As the game restarted, the Athletic scored a try, which would not be out of place on any rugby field. Replacement outside half Matthew Bow took the ball from the back of the breakdown, chipping the Senghenydd backline. The ball was gathered by the Athletic’s inside centre replacement, who drove forward into the 22”. As he was taken to ground, the ball was quickly recycled and put through the hands, Ryan Baber scoring wide out. Again the conversion attempt sailed wide, the score now 29-13. It was a great try!

With less than 3’ left on the clock, an interception score moved Senghenydd out to 36-13 lead. As the game restarted and the competition now beyond the Athletic, Senghenydd came again, their backline still seemingly full of running. The game ended with Senghenydd scoring their seventh try, which was duly converted, seeing the final score 43-13.

The Athletic will rue the final stages of each half, conceding five tries, which ultimately inflated the final scoreline. That said, and on balance, even without those quickerfire 31 points, Senghenydd were good value for tonight’s win – they are a very strong side!

There were many positives both on and off the field for our club tonight. Having watched four Athletic games this year, I can see week on week progress, both in style and match fitness. Our player pool is also growing, new faces joining weekly, which bodes well for the future. We must remember this is our first season back in competitive rugby, and we’re not playing ‘ringers’ across our twenty-three. It will take time, but we’re on the right path and moving forward quickly. Another huge positive is the interest in Athletic Rugby. Two bumper crowds in six days, making a big difference in the stands and our new clubhouse.

Another great effort by the Athletic23, well done boys!

#TeamAthletic