| 07/08 Season 1st TEAM MATCH REPORTS by Press Officer Gerald Mahoney |
3rd May 2008
Llangennech 10 MERTHYR RFC 21
The Ironmen ended their season in superb style at Llangennech recording their 5th consecutive victory and leap frogging the home side into a very creditable 4th place in Division One West. Merthyr gave debuts to highly rated Out Half Alex Bowen from Cefn Coed and a powerhouse young Flanker from Cardiff University in Dan Franks. Both these players had fine games in a tremendous team showing that very much pleased the visiting Merthyr supporters. Merthyr began making use of a strong wind advantage but against the run of play the home side took the lead on 22 minutes with a penalty from Out Half Mark Jones. Merthyr soon hit back with Darren Lynch taking clean lineout ball and the threes passing out right to Garon Pearce, he burst away down the right hand touchline beating two defenders and slipping an inside pass to supporting centre Matthew Edwards who crossed. Alex Bowen slotted the conversion and the Ironmen were on the score sheet.
Merthyr's second try was a gem, Lewis Williams picking up a loose pass deep inside his own 22. He raced away passing desperate defenders on his way before cutting inside and passing to the ever alert Matthew Edwards who crossed for his second try, Bowen again converting. The half ended with the Ironmen having a 14-3 lead and young Alex Bowen and Dan Parks having storming games.
Merthyr started the second half in fine form and John Difford combined with fellow prop Lloyd Wood to make twenty metres. Merthyr were showing both determination in defence and pace in attack. James Bull making a series of strong tackles and Ryan Harries darting 40 metres down the left hand touchline. Merthyr had Sam Wahdan yellow carded for not allowing a quickly taken tap penalty to make progress but Merthyr defended with confidence. Merthyr looked to be in control at this stage and Ryan Harries, Lewis Williams and Garon Pearce all went close. When the score came it came from the burning pace of Lewis Williams who veered away from a scrum and sent opposite winger Garon Pearce sprinting 35 metres to score under the posts. Merthyr added the two points through Alex Bowen and the victory was clinched . Llangennech attacked and in the dying seconds got a good consolation try when replacement Ashley Matthews burst through the mid field to cross near the posts and Mark Jones converted.
The Ironmen had earned the spoils with something to spare and it was difficult to single out anyone for individual praise in such a team performance. In the backs, Ryan Harries, Garon Pearce and Lewis Williams all had big games and Matthew Edwards supported in fine style to get his two tries. Up front John Difford, Bob Mordacae, Darren Lynch, and James Bull were to the fore but the raw power of Dan Franks at Open side made him look a real prospect for next season. The Ironmen ended up forth and with five huge wins on the trot there is certainly scope there to mount a genuine challenge for promotion next season.
26th April 2008
Cwmllynfell 16 MERTHYR RFC 25
MERTHYR CONTINUED THEIR STORMING END OF SEASON RUN WITH A BIG VICTORY DOWN WEST AGAINST CWMLLYNFELL. MERTHYR WERE SHOCKED TO BE 3-0 DOWN AFTER A MINUTE, A CLEARANCE KICK WAS CHARGED DOWN AND MERTHYR CONCEDED THE PENALTY KICKED BY OUT HALF RHYS THOMAS. IT TOOK 10 MINUTES OR SO FOR THE IRONMEN TO REGAIN SOME COMPOSURE AND PRODUCE A FINE CATCH AND DRIVE WITH FLANKER DARREN JONES GETTING THE TOUCHDOWN.GETHIN THOMAS SLOTTED THE CONVERSION FROM WIDE OUT AND THE IRONMEN LED 7-3.
MERTHYR WERE IN CONTROL FOR MOST OF THE FIRST HALF WITH THEIR PACK HAVING A SLIGHT EDGE IN ALL PHASES BUT A POOR PASS GIFTED CWM A SIMPLE TRY AS MERTHYR ATTEMPTED TO BREAK OUT OF DEFENCE. THE LOOSE BALL WAS PICKED UP AND LOCK GARETH KING TROTTED OVER TO REGAIN THE LEAD FOR THE HOME SIDE. MERTHYR PRODUCED A SERIES OF POWERFUL FORWARD DRIVES AND ALTHOUGH THEY GOT OVER CWM'S LINE THE BALL WAS HELD UP. THEN FLANKER DARREN JONES WHO WAS A REAL LIVEWIRE ALMOST GOT OVER BEING DRAGGED DOWN JUST SHORT OF THE LINE. THE IRONMEN RECAPTURED THE LEAD AFTER A GOOD SCRUM DRIVE FORCED CWM TO DROP THE SCRUM AND GETHIN THOMAS NOW GROWING IN CONFIDENCE SLOTTED THE PENALTY. THE HALF ENDED WITH THE IRONMEN ON THE ATTACK AND JON BRYANT PRODUCING A FEW TYPICAL POWER BURSTS.
FOR THE FIRST TEN MINUTES OF THE SECOND HALF MERTHYR SEEMED TO TAKE THEIR FOOT OFF THE GAS AND CAM CAME BACK INTO THE GAME THOMAS SLOTTING A PENALTY WHICH WAS SOON CANCELLED OUT BY A GETHIN THOMAS REPLY. THE HOME SIDE PRODUCED THEIR BEST MOVE OF THE MATCH WHEN A RAPID BOUT OF PASSING SENT LOCK JAMIE BRADLEY RACING OVER. THIS ONLY SERVED TO STING MERTHYR INTO ACTION AND WITH DARREN LYNCH, BOB MORDECAI AND ROSS COOMBS TO THE FORE THE IRONMEN WERE GETTING THE LION'S SHARE OF POSSESSION. A MERTHYR DRIVE WAS HELD UP BUT AT THE EXPENSE OF A PENALTY AND MERTHYR'S OUTSTANDING PLAYER JOHN DIFFORD TOOK A QUICK TAP PEN AND BURST OVER FOR THE TRY. CWM TRIED HARD TO CLAW THEIR WAY BACK INTO THE MATCH BUT ONCE THEY LOST A LOCK TO A YELLOW CARD THE EFFORT WAS ALWAYS ONE STEP TOO FAR FOR THEM. A SUPERB MERTHYR SCRUM DROVE CWM BACK TOWARDS THEIR LINE AND WHEN THEY OFFENDED THE REFEREE GAVE MERTHYR A PENALTY TRY AND GETHIN THOMAS CONVERTED. THIS WAS AN OUTSTANDING MERTHYR VICTORY AND IT WAS A REAL ALL TEAM EFFORT JOHN DIFFORD, DARREN JONES AND DARREN LYNCH HAD HUGE GAMES UP FRONT WHILE RYAN HARRIES AND JOHN BRYANT WERE THE PICK OF THE BACKS. WELL DONE THE IRONMEN.
19th April 2008
MERTHYR RFC 17 Llangennech 14
The Ironmen are finishing the season with some style and a lot of determination. This was a hard fought victory over their visitors from Llangennech. The victory was hard earned in a tight game but it was deserved. In rainy blustery conditions both sides battled hard through their forwards for much of the first half. There was little quarter given or taken and the game didn't burst into life until 22 minutes when a Merthyr forward drive set up the position from which Jon Bryant burst over under the posts to give Merthyr the lead. The conversion was missed and the home crowd wondered if that miss would prove costly. Merthyr produced a very good attack when Gethin Thomas and Lewis Williams raced away down the left hand touchline and only good defence from the visitors prevented the score. In a rare attack Llangennech gained a penalty and Out Half Adrian Thomas showed the value of carrying an effective goal kicker by slotting the penalty with some ease. As the half came to an end John Difford made one cracking tackle on the dangerous NO 8 for the visitors and this encapsulated the the whole attitude of the Ironmen.
The second half started with a powerful run from Captain Bob Mordecai and he was only just held up short. A Llangennech forward drive earned a penalty and Adrian Thomas kicked it to give his side the lead . This lead was soon increased with another penalty success. Merthyr were throwing everything into attack but their line out was not functioning and they were having difficulty winning ball. When they did a superb forward drive drove the visitors 40 metres and John Difford scored the touchdown. As the game became more open Merthyr got an interception try from wingewr Garon Pearce who raced 40 metres to score, Gethin Thomas s;lotted the conversion from the touchline and the lead became 8 points. In the dying minutes this was cut when Llan broke through the mid field and Out Half Adrian Thomas crossed. He failed with the conversion of his try and Merthyr were victorious by 17-14.
This was a hard fought match and the Ironmen grafted for their victory. in the backs Lewis Williams , Ryan Harries and Gethin Thomas were the pick while up front John Difford, Ross Coombs and Darren Lynch worked hard with captain Bob Mordecai often making the hard yards.
12th April 2008
Bridgend Ath 17 MERTHYR RFC 22
This was a batteling performance from the Ironmen and they very much deserved their hard fought victory.. The Firsts were very much boosted by the earlier win for the Youth team in the all Wales Web Ellis Cup. This victory inspired them enough to dig deep to earn the victory against the Athletic. Mike Schropfer opened the scoring racing over following a burst from Ryan Harries. Gethin Thomas slotted the conversion. The Ironmen increased their lead when Gethin Thomas slotted a penalty following good work from the Merthyr eight. Bridgend hit back with a rare visit in to the Merthyr half picking up a loose ball and sending Full Back Simon Evans racing over under the posts. Stuart Morris converted. Bridgend lost their No 8 to a yellow card after he was guilty of killing the ball and Merthyr took advantage. Ross Coombs crossing after an impressive forward drive. Gethin Thomas converted and the Ironmen led 17-7.
The second half saw the Ironmen playing against a howling wind but their forwards dug deep and time after time drove the home side back. In fact it was Merthyr who got the next score Gethin Thomas racing over wide out after an impressive three quarter move. As the half wore on Bridgend threw everything at the Ironmen and they got a good try from Rhodri Davies, Stuart Morris converted and t5hen kicked a penalty to make for a tense finish. Merthyr however were in no mood to throw this game away and a superb defensive performance ensured the victory. For the Ironmen, Ryan Harries ,Jon Bryant and Gethin Thomas were the pick of the backs. Up front Darren Lynch, John Difford and captain Bob Mordecai gave their all. The Ironmen were delighted with their win and over joyed at the magnificent success for the Youth team that made it such a memorable day for Merthyr.
5th April 2008
MERTHYR RFC 15 Whitland 37
This was a game that the Ironmen will want to forget and it was all the more disappointing following the battling performance at Tonmawr the previous week. Merthyr looked to be getting on top in the early stages with Gethin Thomas kicking well and Mike Schropfer's running causing problems to the visitors. The visitors took the lead against the run of play with a well struck penalty from Out Half, Emyr Williams. The Ironmen were stung into action and Aaron Fowler crossed wide out after a bout of handling that featured Jon Bryant. Gethin Thomas converted from the touchline and Merthyr led 7-3. The Ironmen looked comfortable and a forward drive saw them gain 35 metres and look extremely impressive. The drive gained the position from which Gethin Thomas slotted a penalty to increase the lead to 7 points.
The Merthyr eight looked to be getting on top with Sam Wadham having an outstanding game. The game was transformed however as Whitland suddenly changed their game plan and began running everything. Merthyr just could not cope with the increased tempo of the game and Centre Gary Evans raced over wide out. With their confidence rising rapidly Scrum Half Johnny Morgan raced over for a fine individual try and winger Dion Thomas sprinted over for another try with Emyr Williams converting Merthyr were suddenly 22-10 down and the game had slipped away from them. Whitland were really turning the screws now and Full Back Matthew John raced over to score. The Ironmen got a score of their own through speedster Lewis Williams but when Emyr Williams kicked a penalty the gap had increased to 30-15. Whitland got the final score of the game when Christian Roets darted over and Emyr Williams converted.
In a disappointing showing there were a few bright showings, Sam Wadham, Darren Lynch and Paul Watkins grafted hard up front and John Difford stole some valuable ball. Behind Ryan Harries was again terrier like and the kicking of Gethin Thomas was a positive feature of the game. However the Ironmen failed to play to their true potential and Whitland ended up worthy winners with something to spare.
29th March 2008
Tonmawr 12 MERTHYR RFC 0
Although Merthyr went down to high flying Tonmawr at the Whitworth Ground on Saturday, this was an extremely spirited and determined performance. Merthyr defended with a passion and commitment throughout and with just a little luck the scoreline could have and indeed should have been a great deal closer. Merthyr had first use of a gale force wind and they pinned the home side back for much of the first half. Ton , however are a tremendous unit and featured a number of players with recent premiership experience. When Tom attacked through their most dangerous player Gareth Morris he had the skill to step inside a tackle and dart over. The conversion came from Out Half Austin Howells and Tonmawr led 7-0. Merthyr were gradting hard none more so than Flanker Dean Jones who tackled everything that moved. The Ironmen through a forward drive that featured Darren Lynch and Paul Watkins earned a penalty on the 22 and almost under the posts, but the kick hit the posts and bounced back into play. As the half came to an end Merthyr were attacking and they were winning excellent line out ball through Sam Wahdan, Darren Lynch and Paul Watkins. Tonmawr defended well and repelled attack after attack.
The second half saw the home side having use of the powerful wind and the large and vocal following of Merthyr supporters feared the worse. However the Ironmen dug deep and played out a quite exciting second half both sides could have scored more but the only score of the half came from Tons centre David Tiueti who dived over wide out. Merthyr were delighted to see the return to action of outstanding winger Greg Plant who came on as a sub and battled hard. Arron Fowler showed his class racing back to defend an attacking kick and the Merthyr pack battled hard throughout with John Difford and Lloyd Wood both having big games. At half back Ryan Sullivan and Mike Schroprer both had big gamesw but Tonmawr with all their experience were just too strong for a determined Merthyr side. This was an excellent game of rugby played in good spirit in dreadful conditions. The Merthyr supporters deserved praise for their vocal efforts and for turning up in such numbers as to out number the home support. Captain Bob Mordecai worked himself to a standstill and can feel proud of his team.
22nd March 2008
MERTHYR RFC 12 Dunvant 9
This was not a classic by a long way, both sides seemed to be suffering from a post six nations hangover. There were too many errors and play was disjointed and stuttering. Merthyr however deserved the victory and if they would have taken their chances the margin would have been considerably greater.
Merthyr missed a simple early penalty chance but took the lead when full back Andrew Hutchins crossed after a fine break by Out Half Mike Schropfer. Dunvant hit back with a penalty from James Horner and then proceeded to dominate for much of the first half. The Merthyr scrum was in control and drove Dunvant back time after time but the line-out of the Ironmen just didn't function and this caused problems to the home side. Merthyr got their second try when a poor pass bounced along the ground but dropped into the hands of Lewis Williams who raced away to score. Kristian Dacey converted and the Ironmen led 12-3. As the half came to a conclusion Dunvant closed the gap with a well struck penalty friom Horner.
The second half followed the pattern established in the first. For Merthyr Ryan Sullivan made a few powerful bursts and the pace of Schropfer troubled the visitors. It was Dunvant who scored next when Horner slotted his third penalty. Merthyr were quite comfortable playing out the last ten minutes, strangely turning down a golden penalty chance to take an attacking scrum near the Dunvant posts. The game ended with Merthyr gaining the spoils and the important points.
For Merthyr Ryan Sullivan, John Difford and Lloyd Wood had big games but there were just too many mistakes to make the game memorable.
3rd March 2008
Corus 19 MERTHYR RFC 15
This is a game that Merthyr should have won with something to spare. They dominated the first half and Corus were hardly in the Ironmen's half but silly mistakes and wasted opportunities kept the Aberavon side in the game and allowed them to eventually snatch the victory. Merthyr totally dominated the first 20 minutes or so and Corus made incursions into the visitors half only on very rare occasions. The Ironmen however were not clinical enough and chances went begging. On 22 minutes the Ironmen dropped the ball in mid field and Corus burst away Mark Harvey giving them an unlikely lead \which was increased when Rhys Williams slotted the conversion. Merthyr then managed to conceede a penalty under the posts and Rhys Williams kicked the penalty to gift the home side a 10 - 0 lead. Merthyr clawed their way back into the game a chip from Mike Schropfer was well caught by No 8 Kristian Dacey and he burst over mid way out. Merthyr levelled just before half time when player coach Jon Bryant darted away from a maul burst down the touchline and crossed for a try. This made the half time score 10-10.
The supporters who had made the journey from Merthyr were feeling confident at the start of the second half but from the kick off Merthyr seemed to have dropped their guard and they gave away two early penalties from the second of which Rhys Williams regained the lead for his side. Merthyr still looked the most likely winners however and two excellent runs from Lewis Williams and from Darren Jones looked certain to create tries but both came to nothing. When Mike Schopfrer darted through and was tripped it resulted in Corus having lock Danny Hockin sent off and Merthyr again looked \set to take the spoils. Indeed it was the Ironmen who took the lead following a burst and a try from Garon Prarce. This gave them a 13-15 lead with only five minutes to go. Those last few minutes proved to be the downfall for the Ironmen as silly penalties were gifted away and Rhys Williams kicked two long range penalties to give his side a 19-15 victory.
Merthyr were badly disrupted by injuries to key players with Ryan Harries, Jon Bryant and Kristian Dacey all picking up knocks, however the real problem was a lack of goal kicking ability and a lack of clinical finishing. For Merthyr Mike Schropfrer and Ryan Harries were the pick of the backs while up front Darren Jones and Kristian Dacey grafted hard. The Merthyr supporters were disappointed at many of the refs decisions but in truth the game should have been won with relative ease. Lewis Williams tried hard to save the day for the Ironmen but it was just not to be.
15th February 2008
MERTHYR 34 Carmarthan Quins 32
There are some games of rugby that you could watch over and over again and this was one such game. The Quins are high flyers in Division One having only lost twice all season and challenging league leaders Tonmawr for promotion. Merthyr however are playing some top notch rugby at present and in an exciting, pulsating game they snatched victory from the jaws of death in the dying seconds. More to the point it was a victory that was richly deserved and the team is growing in stature and confidence. After 7 minutes Merthyr took the lead the home forwards put the visitors under pressure but the try was made by Ryan Harries who slipped a perfect pass to flying winger Lewis Williams who crossed wide out. Garon Pearce slotted the conversion and Merthyr led 7-0. The Quins hit back on 18 minutes a poor kick out of defence gifted winger Daniel Gravell the opportunity to race over to close the gap. The Ironmen were however playing some special rugby and Kristian Dacey stormed away on a series of fine individual power packed bursts. Merthyr on 20 minutes produced a superb try from Mike Schropfer who showed remarkable pace to race over from 30 metres without a hand laid upon him. The Ironmen increased their lead when hard grafting lock Darren Lynch took good lineout ball and fellow lock Captain Bob Mordecai burst over. The half ended with Merthyr leading by 17-5 and looking good value for their lead.
The Quins are a never say die type of side and they came back with a bang early in the second half Flanker Andrew Thomas diving over following a foward drive and Craig Jones converting. Merthyr were still attempting to move the ball at pace and when pace comes into the game Mike Schropfer is the man to be involved. Darren Jones who covered every centremetre of grass charged down a kick. Schropfer picked up and sprinted 30 metres to score.Merthyr now led 22-12 but things turned around when Merthyr's dynamic Scrum Half Ryan Harries was harshly yellow carded for killing the ball. The Quins soon took advantage and from a forward drive hooker Chris Frances crossed, Jones converted then Jones slotted\a penalty to level the scores. The Quins now stepped up a gear and from a kick downfield that initially didn't look dangerous the Merthyr defence allowed the ball to bounce. It bounced into the hands of Daniel Rogers who dived over under the posts, Jones converted and when Jones later kicked a penalty it looked all over for Merthyr.
In the dying minutes Merthyr produced some sparkling rugby, first a Jon Bryant break set up co centre Matthew Edwards for a try and then with only seconds remaining Merthyr got the ball to young flyer Lewis Williams deep in his own 22. Lewis Williams burst away running inside and then outside beating desperate defenders and diving over mid way out and 80 metres later. This levelled the scores and the victory was all on the conversion. Merthyr had failed in their conversion attempts almost all afternoon but up stepped Jon Bryant and he cooly slotted the conversion to win the game.
This really was an excellent game of rugby played in a sporting manner and a credit to both sides. For Merthyr Mike Schropfer and Lewis Williams were the pick of the backs while up front Kristian Dacey, Darren Lynch and Darren Jones had huge games. Come on the Ironmen.
26th January 2008
MERTHYR 19 Cross Keys 40
The Ironmen entertained Premiership Cross Keys at the Wern on Saturday last in the 4th round of the Konica Minolta Cup. Although the Ironmen went down 40-19 there were extremely encouraging areas that Merthyr can take some consolation from. Merthyr dominated both scrum , through Rhys James, Arron Fowler and the very impressive John Difford and the line out through Paul Watkins, Darren Lynch and Bob Mordacai.
Cross Keys opened the scoring on 12 minutes, a training ground move saw winger Carl Pocock streak through the mid field to cross with some ease, Leon Andrews converted and the Keys were on the scoreboard. Merthyr were having to do a lot of defending at this stage and when they went offside at a ruck Andrews slotted a simple penalty to give his side a 10-0 lead. Merthyr opened their account when young centre Hari Morgan chipped through, Full Back Gethin Thomas looked to dive on the ball to score only to be pulled back. The referee had no hesitation in awarding the penalty try which Garon Preace converted. The Premiership club continued to dominate at this stage and their pacy and powerful wing Marcus Johnstone raced over after an impressive bout of handling. He very quickly got his second try after a move down the right hand touchline, Leon Andrews converting from the touchline in spectacular fashion. The half ended with Keys leading 22-7 but with the home side playing down the slope and with the wind the game was far from over.
Cross Keys , however turned the screw in the early stages of the second half and another accurate penalty kick from Andrews increased their lead. Merthyr were not giving in without a battle and when the threes moved the ball with pace following a Merthyr scrum drive, Gethin Thomas who was having a fine match, darted over. Ryan Harries was having a storming game at Scrum Half for the Ironmen and time and again his terrier like efforts disturbed the visitors. It was Cross Keys who scored next indiscipline from Merthyr gifted Andrews yet another penalty before the ever impressive Marcus Johnstone raced away to score his third try. The visitors looked very sharp at this stage of the game and when replacement Lloyd Burns burst over and Leon Andrews slotted the conversion the game was up for the Ironmen. They got a consolation try from Matthew Edwards following a half break from Mike Schopfer and when Schopfer converted the game ended at 19-40 in favour of Cross Keys.
Merthyr had aquitted themselves with considerable credit without ever really shaking the composure of the visitors. The home line out and scrum were both very strong and that should hold the Ironmen in good stead in Division One for their coming fixtures. Ryan Harries and Gethin Thomas were the pick of the backs while up front all the forwards gave their all with perhaps John Difford and ex Cross Keys Paul Watkins the pick. With new Out Half Mike Schopfer settling in well the Ironmen could yet be a force in their Division.
19th January 2008
MERTHYR 36 Bonymaen 10
This was the performance of the season from the Ironmen and it was a timely confidence booster just before the Cup visit of Cross Keys. Merthyr selected a giant pack , well suited to the atrocious weather conditions and this coupled with the introduction of a debutent running Out Half proved to be the correct option for the day. Merthyr took the lead in the 12th minute, Paul Watkins taking clean lineout ball and the Merthyr pack driving over with the try going to Kristian Dacey. They increased this lead when young Dacey burst away in fine style and found new Out Half Michael Shopfrer up in support to cross. Merthyr were playing with a great deal of confidence and when Kristian Dacey, who was having a superb game broke away, Paul Watkins was alongside to drive over, Darren Pearce added the conversuion points and Merthyr led 17-0.
The Ironmen were playing with tremendous confidence and centre Matthew Edwards showed his class by dancing over from 30 metres out. Darren Pearce converting. Before half time Merthyr got yet another try Shopfrer darting away and sending Matthew Edwards in for his second try, Darren Pearce converting to give Merthyr an astonishing 31-0 lead against last year's League winners. The Ironmen lost the superb Paul Watkins to a yellow card just before half time for killing the ball and Bonymaen got their first score through a penalty from Paul Warlow to make the half time score 31-3 to the Ironmen.
Merthyr unsurprisingly took their foot off the pedal in the second half and made a number of changes but they continued to dominate for long spells. Tries could have come but passes were dropped and wrong options taken. Ryan Harries was having a fabulous game as was Paul Watkins and Michael Shopfrer. When the next score came it came to replacement prop Liam Rees who burst over from a short pass five metres out. Merthyr led 36-3. Bonymaen got a consolation score through full back Andrew Cousins and Warlow converted but the Ironmen were home and dry. What a magnificent performance and roll on Cross Keys next week. Come on the Ironmen.
This really was the performance of the season and there were huge games from a number of the side. Up front Kristian Dacey and Paul Watkins were at the very top of their game while behind Ryan Harries and newcomer Michael Shopfrer were in fantastic form with Shopfrer just deserving the man of the match award.
12th January 2008
Narberth RFC 13 MERTHYR 0
A large contingent of Merthyr supporters made the long trip west on Saturday last, to support the Ironmen in Narberth but their trip proved pointless in a number of ways as the Ironmen went down 13-0. The game was played in dreadful conditions with a very heavy ground and a cold blustery wind and rain influencing the game. Merthyr worked hard but failed to create much and the home side ran out comfortable 13-0 winners. Narberth took the lead mid way through the first half No 8 LlOYD Phillips crashing over following a good line out drive. This lead was increased when a swift handling movement sent right winger Tom Bonnell racing over to cross in the right hand corner. Merthyr then produced a good spell of their own and a series of forward drives were just held up. The home side increased their lead before half time when influential Out Half Aled Davies slotted a penalty after Merthyr killed the ball at a ruck.
The second half saw the Ironmen having use of the wind and they camped on the home side's line for long periods. Hard graft coming from John Difford and Paul Watkins but Narberth held out with something to spare. Narberth defended well and their back division were very fast up in defence. Perhaps a chip over the top might have paid dividends but Merthyr were not on top of their game. In a disappointing defeat Ryan Harries must have been man of the match for the Ironmen as he tried his heart out , terrier like in attack and defence. The Merthyr backs saw little of the ball but up front the Ironmen dominated the second half without getting any points. Apart from the scrum the Ironmen looked far stronger up front and in truth with just a little more application and effort this game could have been won. Merthyr now sit uncomfortably just above the relegation zone but must improve their form to ensure that they will secure their position within Division One.
Last season's Champions visit the Wern on Saturday and the Ironmen need to respond in a positive manner the the challenge posed by Bonymaen.
5th January 2008
MERTHYR 28 Waunarlwydd 8
This was a vital victory for the ironmen as was the bonus point that went with it. Merthyr won with something to spare after stuttering through the first half they came to life and played some good rugby to deserve their victory.
After only four minutes the ironmen took the lead with a well struck penalty from out half Ben Grzesica but merthyr soon had their flanker Sam Wahdan yellow carded for not allowing the visitors to take a quick tap penalty. Waurn leveled with a penalty of their own from Simon Daniel but merthyr suddenly awoke from their slumber and kristian Dacey broke away from a sacrum to send flying winger Lewis Williams racing over. Grzesica converted from the touchline and merthyr led 10-3. Just before half time, merthyr increased their lead with another Grzesica penalty to turn around 13-3 ahead.
Merthyr now had gained in confidence and it was Ben Grzesica who darted away from a scrum after a break from Adam Williams to cross near the posts, unfortunately he was injured in scoring and forced to leave the field. The introduction of Ryan Harries transformed the game and as the terrier like scrum half got to work merthyr looked more and more dangerous. Good work from the home eight set up a push over try for kristian Dacey and merthyr completed their scoring with a great individual try from Ryan harries. a second yellow card for the ironmen allowed the visitors the opportunity to get another try and centre Matthew Mason crossed but the ironmen were home and dry.
In a good team effort Ben Grzesica had a fine game as did the darting Ryan harries. The pack worked well as a unit and both the lineout and the scrum were strong, John Difford and kristian Dacey were the pick up front.
15th December 2007
MERTHYR 36 PENALLTA 7
Merthyr faced a difficult challenge against top of Division 2 East leaders Penallta in the 3rd round of the Konica Minolta Cup but the ironmen turn in a superb all round performance and ran out comfortable winners 36-7. Merthyr opened the scoring as early as the 5th minute, when after good work by the merthyr pack resulted in young Number 8 Kristian Dacey crashing over for a try which Ben Grzesica Converted. The Merthyr pack led by 2nd row Bob Mordecai began to but the Penallta scrum under tremendous pressure and this resulted in Prop Mark Palmer being yellow carded for clasping the scrum. Merthyr’s forwards were very much now on top, and were very unlucky not to extend their lead, but to their credit Penallta stuck to their task and only went in 7-0 down at half time.
However in the second half the ironmen took control, and after some inroads made by experience centers John Bryant and Jonathan Hawker, Merthyr extended their lead with a well taken try by wingman Lewis Williams. Next to score was new scrum half Adam Williams who was causing Penallta problems with his sniping runs. His try went unconverted but the ironmen now lead 17-0. Wingman Lewis Williams then got his 2nd of the afternoon after some fine work by the Merthyr Three quarters, Grzesica slotted over the conversion and the ironmen lead 24-0. Penallta had some rest bite when Merthyr Kristian Dacey was yellow carded. However this seemed to spur the ironmen on and Jonathan Hawker darted over under the posts for a try, Grzesica converted. With the game won Merthyr made several changes to their side, however Penallta didn’t give up and a loud cheer rang around the ground when outside half Greg Callow darted over for a try which he then converted. With the score at 31-7 Merthyr round the cup tie off with a second try for number 8 Kristian Dacey, and ran out winners 36-7.
In a strong Merthyr forward show, the front row of John Difford, Lloyd Wood, and Rhys James were highly influential, and gave there opposite numbers a torrid afternoon. Bob Mordecai and Darren Lynch Supplied the ironmen with good lineout ball and the back row of James Bull, Kristian Dacey and Darren Jones tackled well all afternoon. Young scrum half Adam Williams, played well in his first outing for the club, and Centres John Bryant and Jonathan Hawker were a thorn in Penallta side all afternoon. Young wingman Lewis Williams also looks to have found his form after his injury and showed what he can do if given the ball. Full back Andrew Hutchins is improving every game.
This was an important win and great confidence boost for the Ironmen and stand-in captain Bob Mordecai can feel proud of his team’s performance .The ironmen now move into the last 32 of the competition. Penallta can feel proud of their cup effort, and everyone at the club wish’s them well for the rest of the season.
This week Cwmllynfell are the visitors to the wern in a league game, which the ironmen hopefully should win, as they approach the half way mark in their league fixtures. This would move the ironmen to half way spot in the league table, and give them some much needed confidence going into the second half of the season.
1st December 2007
MERTHYR RFC 17 Bridgend Athletic RFC 20
This was a game that the Merthyr faithful will want to forget. The Ironmen simply were stuck in second gear for most of the match yet they earned a losing bonus point and indeed could have and in fact should have won the match. The conditions were atrocious and both sides made too many early handling errors. Merthyr missed an early penalty and it was Bridgend that took the lead, a Merthyr kick was charged down and Out Half dummied and slipped a pass to lock Shaun Williams who crossed and Centre Stuart Morris slotted the conversion. Merthyr looked on top up front and the Merthyr scrum was dominant throughout with John Difford, AAron Fowler and Nathan Trevett also doing a lot of good work in the loose. Merthyr pinned the visitors on their own line and after some prolonged pressure centre Matthew Edwards dropped a goal.Merthyr took the lead when Jonathan Hawker burst through the mid field to cross near the posts, Ben Grezesica kicked the conversion.
Bridgend looked dangerous on the move and Stuart Morris drew them level with a well struck penalty before a burst from No 8 Dan Apsee sent hooker Simon Mustoe racing over . In dreadful conditions Stuart Morris converted from the touchline and as the half ended the Athletic led 17-10.
Merthyr were giving away too many unnecessary penalties but were dominating possession. After a chip ahead from young full back Andrew Hutchins Bridgend were judged to have killed the ball and head flanker Chris Whitcombe yellow carded. There then occured the key moment in the match as Merthyr elected to kick to the touchline five metres out instead of taking a scrum. The line out was lost and Bridgend got out of jail. Merthyr then had a number of chances to score but wrong options were taken and when another penalty was gifted to the visitors Morris slotted it to give his side a 20-10 lead. It was only in the final ten minutes that Merthyr really played to their potential and young winger Lewis Williams raced over after good approach work from Matthew Edwards. Ben Grzesica converted and an exciting last few minutes were assured. Merthyr had penalty opportunities but instead of kicking for goal they went for the try to earn the spoils and Bridgend held out.
Merthyr could have won this game. Paul Watkins, John Difford and Arron Fowler grafted hard and ensured possession but it was not enough. Behind the scrum the weather affected play and Merthyr found it difficult to create. The Ironmen will be keen to improve on this performance when they visit Llangennech on Saturday next.
10th November 2007
Whitland RFC 30 MERTHYR RFC 19Merthyr made the long journey west to Whitland on Sarturday last and came away pointless in a 30-19 defeat. In all truth it was a game that Merthyr could have won but they gave away too many penalties and made a few crucial errors at vital times. Whitland opened the scoring after being very much on the back foot. Out Half Emyr Williams kicking a long range strait penalty. But Merthyr had looked the better side for the first twenty minutes and got a deserved score th rough the alertness of Ryan Harries who changed the direction of a close range attack and sent debutant Andrew Hutchins racing over. The Ironmen increased their lead with a well taken try from Sam Wahadan who had a very good game for the Ironmen on the blind side. Ben Grzesica kicked the conversion and Merthyr led 12-3. Merthyr were dominating territory and possesion at this stage but a rare Whitland attack saw \them catch and drive to send Gareth Lloyd diving over for a score. Emyr Williams converted and then kicked a penalty to give his side a surprising lead. Just before half time the game turned on its head when the Ironmen looked set tio score but a pass weny astray, Whitland counter attacked at pace and aftyer a 95 metre burst they crossed through Matthew John and when Emyr Williams converted Merthyr were 20-12 down and in serious trouble.
The second half saw Merthyr's trouble compounded when Ryan Harries went off injured and Aaron Fowler who had been outstanding in the loose was yellow carded for what seemed a trivial offence. Emyr Williams kicked another penalty and Whitland had the comfort of leading 23-12. Merthyr then failed to find touch from a clearance kick and Whitland ran back at them, Lee Granville danced over for a simple try and Emyr Williams \again slotted the conversion. In the final ten minutes Merthyr threw the kitchen sink at the home side and with Nathan Trevett and Captain Darren Lynch excelling in the loose they got a deserved try Nathan Trevett racing over to cap a fine individual performance.
For Merthyr it was a case of what could have been and indeed this was a game for the taking, Whitland looked to be lacking in confidence. Merthyr need to establish a settled side and give combinations the opportunity to play together. In the pack Nathan Trevett, Darren Lynch and Sam Wahadan had big games while behind the scrum Ryan Harries, Lewis Williams and new centre Harry Morgan were the pick. The Ironmen need a good win to give their confidence a boost.
3rd November 2007
MERTHYR RFC 10 Tonmawr 41
This was a very impressive performance from a very streetwise Tonmawr who produced a showing that confirmed their status as League Leaders. Merthyr battled hard but were second best for most of the game. It took 18 minutes before the first score was registered and Merthyr more than held their own for that period. Forbes Edwards had produced a good burst down the left wing for Merthyr but when the first score came it came from a simple catch and drive from the visitors, Captain No 8 Robert Hill driving over after a line out take and Out Half Austin Howells kicking the conversion.. The second score came straight from the kick off from the Ironmen. No 8 Hill again involved starting the move that saw the ball move through six sets of hands before dynamic Full Back Gareth Morris dived over. Austin Howells slotted the conversion to give the visitors a 14-0 lead.
Tonmawr increased this lead with another forward drive this time Adrian Phillips dived over. Merthyr were desperate to get into the game and the Ironmen produced a series of forward drives of their own but each time the very streetwise visitors got amongst them and stopped the drive at source. Tonmawr increased their lead with a fine individual try from right wing Nicky Bonham and now led 24-0. Merthyr attacked and were rewarded with an excellent try from centre Matthew Edwards after the initial work of Ben Grzesica. Grzesica slotted the conversion and the half ended with the Ironmen down 7-24.
Merthyr were battling hard and good line out ball was coming from Captain Darren Lynch and Sam Wahdan. A Merthyr drive earned a penalty and Grzesica kicked the penalty to close the gap. Tonmawr were in no mood to relax and a chip through from Out Half Austin Howells was taken by Full Back Gareth Morris who dived over for a try. The game had been simmering for a while and it suddenly boiled over with an altercation between Merthyr's hard grafting prop Luke Hunter and Tonmawr No 8 Robert Hill, both men were yellow carded but it had little effect as a minute or so later another altercation blew up featuring Sam Wada and his opposite number Ben Davies, again both men were yellow carded but in this incident Merthyr also had prop Rhys James red carded for an involvement in the incident. The Merthyr support certainly believed that this seemed extremely harsh.
Tonmawr ended the game in some style as they used their extra man to create two tries one from Scrum Half James Donovan and one from CENTRE David Tuieti converted by Howells.
Brave Merthyr never gave up but just could not impose themselves on a very good side. For Merthyr Ben Grzesica and Ryan Harries tried hard behind the scrum while up front John Difford, Luke Hunter and Darren Lynch were the pick.
27th October 2007
Dunvant 5 MERTHYR RFC 11
This was perhaps the best performance of the season for the Ironmen and it was a victory earned by the efforts of a powerful, hard grafting pack. Prop Luke Hunter made his Merthyr debut and looked a powerhouse along with John Difford and Lloyd Wood the Merthyr front row were hugely influential and set up the platform for the victory. Merthyr dominated the early stages and with the line out going well and the Merthyr scrum on top the Ironmen enjoyed the better of the early exchanges. Ryan Harries had been causing problems to the home side with some darting runs but the first score came from a deft piece of optimism. The ball squirted out, to out half Scott Sneddon and instead of attempting to pick it up he chipped it on over the try line and dived on it to score. It was Sneddon who slotted a penalty after a Matthew Edwards burst had gained a good position. Merthyr had controlled play for most of the half but Dunvant looked dangerous on the break and they closed the gap with a forward drive that saw lock Steve Miller crashing over. Dunvant then produced their best period of play and only two tremendous tackles from Full Back Ben Grzesica prevented tries. Dunvant were clawing their way back into the game and Merthyr were allowing them to do so by conceding silly and needless penalties. Just before half time Merthyr had flanker James Bull yellow carded for killing the ball and the half ended with the Ironmen leading 8-5.
Dunvant came out in the second half and threw everything at the Ironmen who seemed to have dropped their concentration levels. Time after time however the Ironmen held their defensive line and Scott Sneddon cleared with a series of excellent touchline kicks. Merthyr increased their lead and indeed got the final score of the game when flying winger Lewis Williams made a great tackle and forced Dunvant to hold onto the ball. Scott Sneddon punished them with a well struck penalty and the determined Ironmen held out with just a little to spare.
This was a good showing for Merthyr. The pack with Lloyd Wood outstanding were on top for most of the game while Scott Sneddon and Matthew Edwards looked sharp behind and Ryan Harries was a terrier like scrum half. On Saturday next Tonmawr the league leaders visit the Wern and this should be a fascinating contest and not one to miss.
20th October 2007
MERTHYR RFC 42 Corus 12
This was a good win for the Ironmen and they managed to earn another bonus point. Although wining and scoring 42 points the side still looked disjointed and it will take a while before everyone is familiar with those playing around them. The team now needs a period of stability to settle down as a side.
Merthyr took the lead when Out Half Scott Sneddon slotted a penalty on 15 minutes. They then increased their lead with a catch and drive try, popular prop John Difford getting the score and Scott Sneddon converting. Merthyr were dominating the game but often were let down by wrong options or a dropped pass. Just before half time they increased their lead with another penalty from Scott Sneddon to end the first half with a 13-0 lead.
The visitors emerged after their half time talk looking much more determined and their pack began to get on top. The Merthyr cause was not helped by lineout problems that saw them losing much of their own line out ball. A Corus forward effort set up the position from which Scrum Half Martin Powell darted over. But when Corus Number 8 Gavin Langford was yellow carded for killing the ball Merthyr through Sneddon increased their lead with a well struck penalty. The Corus forwards were now having their best period of the game and when they moved the ball to the left Richard Manner crossed wide out brushing off a weak Merthyr tackle. Neil Gadd kicked the conversion and suddenly Merthyr were really in a game at 16-12. It was a game for the taking and both sides realised this and threw everything into attack. Merthyr brought on a number of subs and their lineout began to function as did their three quarters and flying winger Greg Plant took centre stage racing away to score a great try wide out. Scott Sneddon who had impressed all afternoon kicked the conversion. Corus were hanging on and their task got all the more difficult when their hooker was yellow carded. Merthyr were now producing some excellent rugby and Greg Plant shot over for his second try after an outstanding ¾ move. Scott Snedon converted. The Ironmen were not finished yet and Darren Lynch made ground after a good catch from the kick off, he found fellow lock Paul Watkins in support and Watkins produced a startling burst of speed running 45 metres to out pace the cover defence and score a grand individual try. Naturally Scott Sneddon converted and the Ironmen were home and dry.
This was a pleasing performance, Merthyr took a great deal of time before playing with a confidence and a togetherness, but when they did they were unstoppable. Their visitors had a huge pack and I am sure they will cause problems for many sides in Division One West.
For Merthyr Greg Plant is proving to be a deadly finisher and Scott Sneddon a tremendous general at Out Half. At Scrum Half Ryan Harries buzzed around all day and caused the visitors all sorts of problems. Up front Nathan Trevett and John Difford were ball handling props and Paul Watkins scored an exceptional try. In the back row Darren Jones was in superb form and covered every inch of the ground while James Bull made a number of big hits. Merthyr hope to have captain Ross Coombs back for their visit to Dunvant on Saturday next and with Dunvant beating top of the table Bonymaen away the game should be a stern test for the Ironmen.
13th October 2007
Carmarthen Quins 11 MERTHYR RFC 9
Merthyr found Carmarthen Quins a tough nut to crack, going down 11-9 in a close fought encounter. Although the score line was close and the game could have been won by the Ironmen in the last five minutes; in truth it was a dour affair with both sides out of sorts and committing just too many unforced errors. Merthyr always find the trip to Carmathen a difficult one and this was no exception. From the first minutes the Merthyr scrum came in for considerable pressure as the bigger home eight sought to dominate up front. After Carmarthen missed two very kickable penalties, The Ironmen gradually settled to the task in hand but they were not helped by some harsh decisions from the referee. On 22 minutes Merthyr had No 8 Paul Watkins sin binned for killing the ball. He was soon to be followed by John Difford and Merthyr played for twenty minutes with fourteen men. In the first half the penalty count was very much in Carmarthen’s favour. It was over 25 minutes before the Ironmen produced their first attack, hard grafting centre Jon Bryant burst through and won the penalty that Scott Sneddon converted. Carmarthen were quick to hit back and Out Half Craig Jones levelled with a simple penalty. On the stroke of half time Scott Sneddon slotted a penalty to give the Ironmen a 6-3 lead.
The Quins soon hit back and another Craig Jones penalty levelled the scores. The decisive score came from a line out near the Merthyr line and mid way through the half. It was veteran ex Welsh international lock Paul Arnold who drove over from close range. Merthyr closed the gap with another Sneddon penalty and with the minutes ticking past Scott Sneddon was just wide with two penalty long range penalty attempts.
For Merthyr it was good to see industrious prop John Difford get a game and he offers a great deal to the side. Darren Lynch and Paul Watkins did well in the line out and Scott Sneddon and Ben Grzesica both had excellent games. Their kicking controlling things for long periods. In the centre Jon Bryant looked class and made some huge hits as well as a number of driving runs. But Carmarthen were just about deserved victors.
28th September 2007
MERTHYR RFC 29 Llanharan 29
In a pulsating friendly arranged for Friday evening last Merthyr and Llanharan produced a feast of rugby with the game ending 29-29.
The visitors opened the scoring with a converted try but Merthyr soon hit back, Ryan Harries darting around a scrum to race over and when the try was converted the scores were tied. Both sides were trying hard to keep the game open and it was Greg Plant that scored for Merthyr next when he showed his sheer pace racing over for a good try which Merthyr converted. Llanharan were very much i the game and with some style they got the next two tries. Nathan Trevett got a Merthyr try.
The game ended with each side scoring a try and the scores being tied at 29-29. This was an entertaining game. For Merthyr John Difford was impressive in the front row and Darren Lynch dominated the line out. Gareth Davies benefited from a start at Flanker and Captain Ross Coombs played with some style as did Lloyd Wood at hooker.
In the backs Matthew Edwards and Greg Plant showed some fine bursts and at Full Back Ben Garzesica was composed in defense.
Merthyr are at home to Pontypool in another friendly on Saturday next in what should be another close encounter.
8th September 2007
MERTHYR RFC 26 Narberth 29
The Ironmen suffered a narrow defeat in their first home match of the season. The early pressure came from the visitors with their backs looking to use their pace to break through the Merthyr defense. Their opening score came from a charge down and flanker Lloyd Phillips crossed for the try. Outside half Aled Davies added the conversion.Merthyr hit back immediately and it was a superb individual effort down the left hand touch line from Greg Plant, who beat three defenders, to race over. Scott Sneddon drew the Ironmen level with the conversion.Two penalties from long range gave the visitors a six point buffer as Merthyr infringed, but Snedddon closed the gap to three with a penalty of his own. Just before half time Merthyr were caught offside in front of the posts and Davies kicked the three points to give his side a 16-10 lead.
Sneddon slotted a drop goal from 20 meters out to close the gap but Narberth were looking sharp and when they moved the ball out centre Steve Martin sprinted over and Davies kicked the conversion. Sneddon reduced the lead with a penalty and the gap was further reduced when Ryan Harries darted away and sent Plant in for his second try. The game was tight and the result could have gone either way but Merthyr paid the price for their indiscipline and Davies slotted two more penalties to give his side a 29-21 lead with minutes to go.The Ironmen hit back with a try from hard grafting number 8 Kristian Dacey, but it proved too little too late as Narberth held on to snatch the spoils.In a close encounter Ryan Harries, Scott Sneddon, and Greg Plant were the pick of the Merthyr backs while up front Darren Lynch dominated the lineout and Kristian Dacey, Captain Ross Coombs and Nick Hampson were hard grafters.The Ironmen now face Bonymaen away in their next game and this will be a real test for Coomb’s team.
1st September 2007
Waunarlwydd 10 MERTHYR RFC 15
Merthyr started the season with a hard fought 15-10 victory against their
West Wales rivals. The Merthyr team showed 10 new comers and naturally they
will take some time to adjust to each others play, that said they started
well and at one stage it looked like it could have been an easy victory. The
home side hit back hard however and the Ironmen were happy to come away with
the five point win. An injury forced Jonathan Hawker to pull out just before
the game and this forced Ben Gresica to move to centre and allowed Scott
Sneddon to come in at Out Half. Merthyr controlled the first fifteen minutes
and in this period they looked extremely impressive. Quick ball from the
forwards saw Greg Plant sprinting over wide out to give the Ironmen a five
point lead. This they extended when opposite wing Elgan Jones dummied his
way over after swerving outside his opposite number. Scott Sneddon converted
and Merthyr led 12-0. Merthyr were doing all the attacking and looked in
control. Scrum Half Ryan Harries produced some typical darting breaks and
Flankers Ross Coombs and Nick Hanson were influential around the park.
Merthyr almost got a third try when Elgan Jones picked up a loose ball and
raced away only to be hauled down just metres sort of the home try line.
Merthyr were also defending well with Kristian Dacey playing a leading roll
and Forbes Edwards making a try saving tackle. From being in control the
Ironmen suddenly dropped their guard and the home team grew in confidence ,
producing a forward drive that saw their pack drive over the Merthyr line
for a simple try. They then came within two points of the Ironmen when thay
ran back a poor defensive Merthyr clearing kick and Winger David Norman
darted over. The Merthyr bubble of superiority burst and Waun stormed back into
thegame. Their forward were dangerous and Merthyr were on the ropes. The
Ironmen extended their narrow lead with a well struck penalty from Scott
Sneddon but the game ended with the home side threatening the Merthyr line
and Merthyr giving their all to hold out.
For the first game of the season the win was all important. It will
take some time to bed the newcomers into the side. Darren Lynch and Sam
Wahdan were impressive line out forwards whle behind the scrum Ryan Harries
was the pick with Greg Plant and Elgan Jones also looking sharp. Merthyr realise that there is work to be done for the visit of Narberth on Saturday next.