Under 7’s Match Reports 2011-12

Sunday 21st April

Report by Aled Time for a guest scribe again this week as our great leader had to disappear up North….rumours that the league scouts have spotted his coaching skills and tapped him up are firmly denied. A first for us all this weekend with a tournament up in Pontyclun. Difficult decisions to be made as we had to limit to 15 and decide on tactics…should we go for the burger or the hot dog at lunch? (I went for the burger and am still paying for it today). Promise of bright skies soon turned to disappointment as the floodgates well and truly opened…this unfortunately would play into the hands of the other teams and test our philosophy of free flowing rugby (or ‘total rugby’ as others have coined our style) to the max. Still, firm words of encouragement from the Chief, and the Tigers and Panthers (presumably chosen by Denfa due to common sightings of these creatures in Splott) were suitably ‘pumped’ for their first match. Chepstow first up…boys reminded that Chepstow is nearly in England which was enough to stir them into action (sorry Bedders senior). Bedders (junior) decided to take them on single handed and promptly scored 4 with Dylan Yarwood scoring a fifth. Bedders junior now only eligible for Wales due to appearance in an under 7s tournament based in Wales (WRU rule 53.2, byelaw 4, otherwise known as the Shingler ruling). Chepstow limited to a single score with the boys tagging for their lives. Final score St Peters 5, Chepstow 1.    Next up were our hosts Pontyclun. Another two brilliant halves of rugby with the try scorers this time being more evenly spread: Gruff, Kieran D, Kane, Harry B, Finn and Matthew. Brilliant tagging kept our hosts to a single try in each half. Special mention to Kane and Joel in these matches for nearly knocking themselves out with try saving tags…fantastic commitment and no doubt some scars to show their schoolmates for their efforts!. Final score St Peters 6, Pontyclun 2. Two wins under our belt and by jove there was a sniff of something special in the air (either that or the burger was already doing its worst). Next up the local derby…Rumney. The two teams knew each other inside out, what with this being the 4th or 5th fixture between the 2 this season, and a tight match was predicted. An important toss won and time for Thursday night’s training ground move to be pulled. Tap to Finn, switch with Gruff. Red sea (or in this case blue and black sea) promptly parted. Gruff runs in from half way unopposed. 1-0 St Peters but more importantly a grin on Denfa’s face like a Cheshire cat (for those who wish to see the replay ask to see Matt’s video). A tight match subsequently ensued with fantastic commitment from both teams but Rumney scored 3 and despite one being pulled back by Eamonn we just fell short. Final score Rumney 3, St Peters 2. Match 4 was Llantwit and again a tight, competitive game. Nip and tuck all the way with Eamonn dancing in for 2 and Kieran D also scoring a couple, including a fantastic pick up off his toes for one…clear signs of a ‘back garden dad-son skill session’ there (to be fair, Ant’s hands are closer to the floor than most….not that there’s anything wrong with being short!). More good straight running from Dylan B, Evan, Rohan, Kai and Harry F. Scores went back and forth, with a third win denied at the death by a match levelling Llantwit try. Final score St Peters 4, Llantwit 4. The boys then stirred themselves for the final match of the day, this time against the Zebras of Treorchy. Another great effort with a couple of early Dylan Yarwood scores giving us the upper hand and some more great tagging by Dylan B, but a run of 4 unopposed scores was enough to give Treorchy the victory despite a late score by Finn. Final score St Peters 3 Treorchy 5. A 4th placed finish overall but a really tight tournament and great to see that we were very competitive in every match. Many thanks to Pontyclun for hosting such a wonderful day. Brilliant news to hear that Dylan Yarwood was chosen as runner up player of the tournament – well done Dylan. Thanks to all the guest scorers and to all the mums and dads for their efforts (special mention to the emergency gazebo suppliers). Really well done to all the boys for a fantastic series of performances – very rewarding to see all the hard work in training paying off. Roll on Abergavenny. Aled

Sunday 14th April

away 7-11 W the rocks v st peters W3-2

Report

Llandaff v St Peters After a late call to arms,the rocks had at last got there wish of a game this sunday Thank you Matt Sween.A pool match against Llandaff. late notice of the match and the hoilday season in full swing we only managed to put out 15 players. The Bishops had 7 there older boys away at pencoed tourny. the game was set of two halfs of ten mins we putting out a team in each half. Ant our tactics coach took a fine warm up session before the off! our match stato Helen “blackberry” Howell Llandaff won the toss and open the score with a well worked first try.if we thought this was going to be an easy day our eyes were certainly opened Jordan steadied his men and Harry B scores St Peters 1st try, with a bullocking run.! Game On. St Peters hold up Llandaff on a tight field. the ref trying to control the offside called the teams to order and play resumed.Try for Dylan Yarwood St Peter`s 2nd try. Llandaff 2nd try comes after some fine tagging and determined running by the cathedral boys . Dylan Yarwood scores his 2nd try,after a loop round, face as ever covered with a grin the Cheshire cat would be proud off. Finners crosses after some fine two handed running? . Llandaff score there 3rd try ball grounded just short but such effort by the llandaff players should always be rewarded and the ref looked at me i knodded and the try was given . the ref starting to hit his stride and seeing the boys from both sides now giving there all let the game flow while still enforcing the obvious no complaints by either side . the rocks restart the egg outed and rugby ensues llandaff tagging and for the first time support by the rocks ends with a well worked team try Finners scores . Llandaff score try 4 almost a carbon copy of of the last this time the ball worked from one side t`other this time the bishop grounded the ball well over the line by far there best try . Harry B ended the half just as he had started with a fine finish, a lovely balanced runner. with tagging hands to match scores 6 th try. first half ends with the rocks ahead by 2 The Rocks got the restart after half time and made short work of scoring, with Gruff running in to the corner. Llandaff replied immediately, 5-7. The Rocks played the phases, to again attack the far corner, as Ciaran Brown went over with a lovely decisive step inside and no hesitation the first time this year well done Ciaran i know you could do it . not to say he is backward in coming forward, Ciaran always wants the ball and will do his upmost to get it!!crossing no fewer than 13 times this year !! 5-8. Again, Llandaff came back, 6-8. with good team play The restart saw Evan “Gray” Ryan run through to the near corner, we have a first class second row in the making here long legs that eat up the ground carries the ball well and likes to dog up the hard yards straight and true showed a fine eye for the out side today. the scots do it all the time breed em big and he has the flowing locks to boot ! !  6-9 Gethin off loaded to Ciaran Brown, who opened up, but ran out of room on the far wing.not getting his step in to action this time? Llandaff possession. Llandaff ran out of play, Rocks possession. Gethin the other half of our powerhouse of the future rocked up twice with good str8 running ball in two hands off loaded to Noonie, Great run by Ollie of to the left ate up the ground but tagged at the death. taggs back on and both sets of players in fine formation saw the Restart and Joel broke the try line, 6-10. Joel and Finn Ev the quite men of the team but fierce players always doing the hard work i think when contact comes these two will be viing for the flank getting down and dirty getting on with the nuts and bolts of the game . both run well ball in hand . Llandaff grafted at the restart and we’re rewarded, 7-10. Rocks put the pressure on Llandaff and Gruff ran in for try 11, well i say ran! danced, pirouetted, and stepped his way over. 7-11. Llandaff played the phases, but the Rocks held their line, finishing the game 7-11.Aled mustered his troops well in this half a great all round performance from all Thom D, Kian, Harley, Kieran D all playing there part making tags linking well and enjoying themselves Dylan B a little quite today carried the ball well but had informed us !! that is, me and his dad, that he had indeed pulled a hamstring !he was holding the right part of his leg at the time . he had a late night sleepover at Finners Gaff!! . me thinks he was saving himself for the next match . the Rocks V stPeters or rangers V Celtic, scottish steve not impressed when steptoe annonced his boy would be playing for rangers! Aled V Ant it is then! both coach`s reputation on the line, daggers drawn game face`s on. Tournament rules knock on no diving for try`s offside and all that game begins with ants boys ball in hand a stale mate ensue both teams being called for offside the teams looking a lost, then the ball moves bedders looking for space tagged ball to yarwood dives over for try . disallowed Aleds men take the ball up through Kian rugby breaks out ball to ground . change over ball to finners from Geth bounces off a player to the ground gets to feet and scores 1-nil gruff takes up the mantle tiptoed his way over 1-1. harley on the return off loads to Kieran D a fabulous run ball in two hands dodging and advancing up the field a full 30 yards . the best run of the day by far . off loads to Dylan B who`s hamstring had miraculously got better cross`s for his 14 of the season 2-1 Yarwood again makes ground but dives again a little harsh maybe but we are ORF 2 abergavenny in three weeks!to be disallowed for the second time. half time 10 mins played and only 2-1 this game is a little different with full rules . second half begins with both teams playing some fine rugby tagging making ground Thom d broke through a couple of times and support players watching in stead of getting to the ball saw the defense realign and snuff out any further attack then it happened Yarwood took off steadied himself at the line though about diving over but never touch down 2-2 all. next try the winner ball went up the field taggs and support in equal measure took the game to “Old Firm” status! pressure on , up stepped Joel to score the winner “when the going gets tough the tough get going” sprang to mind. Ants team have the bragging rights. Training thursday Steptoe

Sunday 1st April

Score

7 -8 w

Report

A trip up to Treharris today a wonderfully warm early spring morning to play the Phoenix . a quick chat with the coach`s the promise of two games quickly dashed as they were training with the 7`s and 8`s combined. Treharris with the bare 7. Rhydaveln mentioned by both of us and i surprised to find out that Treharris had only been beaten once this year! this was to by the great Rhyd there coach explaining that he had written a report to the effect that Treharris should always expect to work hard for there results !! with this endorsement ringing in my ears expectation was was adjusted. The game was set of one match 10 mins each way 7 aside . we again with 24 players rolling subs was the order of the day Helen Howell “Wifey” to lucas the pen howell who is away Stagging it this weekend is our Stato ! St peters started brightly Bedders scored 1st try a fine solo effort with the boys in support bedders subbed.tis being the order of the day all who score are off Harsh but fair Treharris scored from the restart, st peters reached 6 tags ,change over Treharris ran and passed , Gethin pulled off a fab tag but Treharris scored 2 nd try. Finn Evans after some fine tagging and inter passing over the line for st peters 2nd try. The phoenix hitting there stride with some lovely hands and steps , the rocks tagged them out, Evan and Evan ran and dodged Evan Ryan not seeing the line and being unselfish outed the egg to gruff who danced and pushed the ball out wide evan weston seeing the runnaround, backtracked, to the blind open? and scores st peters restart and 3rd try for Treharris just on half time. 2nd half Eamon opens the 2nd half with a 4th try for st peters. Treharris female player Savavnah a star runs in the 4 th try for Treharris. Griff scores 5 th try for St peters came off grinning form ear to ear. Quick 5th try from Treharris. Rhys Bowen storming run, just tagged short of the line. Matthew evans scores st peters 6th try after some firey tagging . retstart treharris ball in hand Really good tagging by Finners Balchy Ioan isolating lone players Rowan sweeping up the support runner . great all round team play, however, Treharris run over for 6 th try great support by the phoienix . the match was well and truly on now neither side giving way, you can see the heart in both sides. Fab running by Kane for st peters grounded the ball 7th try. Treharris come back with a quick 7 th try the restart being there “coup de gras”. a long time camped on the teharris try line and some stout defending by the phoenix saw the game turn into a fine tactical battle Aled keeping his nerve and mustering his troops The phoenix coach getting his defense sorted and they displaying a gutsy defiant backbone Last try scored by Gruff to make it an 8-7 win to st peters .A fantastic match with this slim win we have seen a great improvement this week after two weeks in training passing before the tag and the way the newer members have pitched in and are coming through now Kian displaying a n appetite for the game Cai running skills and determination Harley following the ball and looking for space Luke becoming a good team man all rounder picking his support runs and most important of all the boys even with the mass subsittions not crowding the balll spreading and defending and RUNNING FORWARD Ioans seems to have gained great tagging hands and awareness of space Evan Ryan is looking to express himself we are mighty proud of you to day boys only the second team to beat Treharris is in deed a red letter day . Save for some diving tries and some fine reffing both sides my have scored more! offside played well and a few snatched balls and offside interception picked up by the ref. who also used his discretion well for the odd knock on and forward pass that would have spoiled the flow of the game. remember all the boys and girls are six and seven and the skill level by all on show both sides was outstanding Welsh rugby at grass roots is in safe hands. !!!Note training thursday and can all parents get there registration forms in as well Well done all Steptoe

Sunday 25th March

Report by Denfa

Llandaff North 9 -11 w Its official summer has arrived well not quite spring has sprung !know one being caught out what with the hour being lost to father time .LLandaff north Away, many a boxing day encounter in years gone bye playing rugby with hangovers and big bellies after the christmas feast. Arrived to find Lee mustering his troops to find out he had only 8 Players he having to lend the 8`s a few to bolster Llandaff`s depleted side .we had our usual 28 with many away for holibobs !the match was set at three 10min halfs 7 aside . Scotish steve our Stato for today.Steves mind on other things his beloved Celtic playing Rangers in somthing called football?

later Steve was heard to say the the ref was as bad as Pentrychs  i dont know what he means . The rocks kicked orf and llandaff took the first 2 tags well the ball popped out to Maximus who pinned his ears back and made of to the end zone touchdown1-0 llandaff returned the effort double quick Tian and Evan combining well to score 1-1 a period of stale mate broke out with both sides = tagging Lee the ref controlling the game with compassion and fairness off side being called and room for all players to show there wares . llandaff edged ahead with some fine running 2-1 Luke black more and Evan Ryan having some nice runns to be tagged Kian getting his hands on the ball and proving that he is a rugby man now !Rowan support today was exceptional and was unlucky a couple o times Harley 2 got in on the act with some nice evasive running . llandaff pounced on a loose pass and lickity spit bang over Evan went grounding the ball this time firmly with both hands . Lee`s pep talk paying dividends.3-1. cai took the restart of to rowan rowan back to Cai and Maximus again with the wind at his heels scored 3-2 Second Third ,landaff caught us napping and scored a fine solo effort tian eating up the ground 4-2. t Aled steadied his gang.they took to there task with gusto Llandaff too tagging the rocks back turn over ball and llandaf were away again to be called back the ref seeing a tag missing from one of his runners . restart and the rocks tagged llan back Mathew “evo” Evans sen his chance and took it well 3-4 again llandaff tagged out Evan weston took of on a lovely running ball in two hands went through llandaff at will to be faced at the death with a fine last ditch tag evan swept the ball quick time to Ollie “clarkie” Clark running in support to cross for his first try in the green and black 4-4 llan return with a score quick feet by tian shipped the ball out and over they went 5-4 the game in full swing up stepped Tom thumb a nice changed of direction saw him score his 15th try to date 5-5 subs were made Kieran D ever ready to take the ball up made ground Kane at his side Gruffs dancing feet gathering llandaff in to a tight whirlpool of players! Ioan ball in hand got caught just short and the ball over to Llandaff. Ollie Noon tagged with Clarkie like dervishes taggs being spilled to the floor like confetti at a Romany wedding !!Noonie had a mad dash beating a trail to be tagged ,ball spilled from a fine pass, and llandaff ever ready dashed away to score6-5 wih time almost up the rocks got them selves in a nice place Kd from support stepped and stopped looked away and passed the other ,Thumb taking his chance with a wide run to cross for his second of the day 6-6 (third period) the rocks ball in hand showed some fine skill but llan tagged them still. llans players at it,with little res. The rocks were up for it a tagged them back for Joel and Finners to team up Joel taking the glory 6-7 . llan spreading the ball after each tagg saw Finn and Bedders combine to give Bedders a sniff down the right 6-8. llandaff still up for the fight shimmied and cajouled there way over 7-8. llandaff looking to move the ball dropped a chance Eamonn sized the nettle and ran from half way to score7-9 llandaff made good ground the rocks tagging like crazy!( they seem to understand what team is now and are playing for each other) couldn’t stop llandaff from scoring 8-9 Allessandro “Muzzy” showed a clean pair of heels but was corner flagged and into said corner looked up for support Balchy always on hand took the ball beat the trap with ball firmly in two hands rounded the last and scored 8-10 the game drawing to a close llandaff saw there chance 9-10 with the opportunity of a draw, Lee let the game flow and the ball turned over twice both sides playing great rugby llan trying to get the draw and the rocks doing there best to keep them out the ball slipped to muzzy danced a little flipped the ball out Bedders took a tagg and Eamonn finished with his second try 9-11 whistle blew, game over! a round of applause from all there! and three cheers to both sides!. Lee handled the game with a firm hand both sides giving as good as each other excepting all decisions ,off side was observed, no one ,not one player went to touch ball in two hands and the passing by both sides a treat to watch . both teams have come a long way since September. Parents of both sides be very proud of yourselves. finally Saul ran his sports relief mile and missed today well done Saul.” last training on a friday this week from April thursday 17.30 Steptoe

Sunday 11th March

Report by Denfa w6-10 w 7-8 d 5-5 l 8-6

Report

A lovely early spring morning at llanishen not a pitch we have visited before by the time the games were organised we were 29 strong John the llanishen coach set out the pitches and we agreed to four matches we fielding two teams of seven and two teams of eight all having a half each our scribes today Charlie and Lucas and photos by Nigel”pappy” bowen .                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

The first half started with a good passage of tagging, passing and dodging. Before Eamonn passed to gethin who had a free run in try 1-0 straight from the kick off try llanishen 1-1 At this point it became clear we had a very picky referee calling the boys back for minor infringements but it is a vital lesson to be learnt; play to the referee, that goes for the parents as well as the boys, this scribe had apologise to the referee for challenging his interpretation of the rules. Anyway when play was allowed to continue a typical Finnley try 2-1 try llanishen again equalising 2-2 try Llanishen then had a breakaway 2-3 try while the rocks were camped in there half 3-3 Mathew Evans short run try llanishen, then followed a great passage of play 3-4 great run will breakaway 3-5 inter passing Kane 4-5 llanishen leaving the score4-6 half time whole team changed.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

The first of 3 Disallowed trys happened straight after the restart the referee penalising boys diving for a try( it’s in the rules diving isn’t allowed) and if tagged whilst going over we have allowed these try’s all season but not this ref. Dylan yarwood and Dylan Balch harshly treated. However after 6 tags the ball returned to the rocks the ball spun out to Rhys Bowen, maximus ran full length of pitch to score the try of the day before with a huge grin he ran back up the touch line. It served to remind anyone wound up by the ref what the game is all about kids enjoying themselves!!! then despite taj tagging like mad llanishen 7-4 try Oliver noon stormed over in the corner 8-5 try quickly followed with Dylan Yarwood try actually allowed 9-5 Llanishen scored one more before Rhys got his second 10-6 final score a good win New game Eamonn opened with a score and was clearly back to his best form 1-0 try however Llanishen scored 2 quick try’s 1-2 try despite some great tagging by all the boys Llanishen again ran in 2 unanswered try’s 1-3 1-4 try but maybe it was the sound of the Irish llanishrn coach or the spring air eamonn was on fire after tagging 5 players in a row he got the ball and passed to Rowan 2-4 before he ran in the last score of the half Eamonn 3-4 halftime team swapped except Eamonn was kept on and he again scored Eamonn 4-4 llanishen scoring a try before Finnley again levelled the scores Tagging like mad all the boys should be mentioned but Rowan, Dylan Balch, Mathew all tagged brilliantly 5-5 Finn scored again with a nother try from Llanishen 6-6try to top his day Eamonn scored again 7-6 with Luke diving over for a great score(diving was allowed by this referee) try 8-6 Llanishen scored in the last move of the game finishing off 8-7 St Peters v Llanishen – First Match Llanishen scored first. Great tagging from both teams saw possession change twice, before possession sat with the Rocks and Harry Beddal was opened up to bring the Rocks level. St Peters tagged for their lives, tagging out the home team and then fought back to put Ciaran Brown over the line, 1-2. Llanishen came right back with a try, but the Rocks had the last say as Ciaran Davies ran in on the half time whistle, 2-3 to the Rocks. Second half and Harry Beddal connected with a pass from Cai, 2-4. Some great supporting play from Llanishen saw them run in, 3-4. But the Rocks replied with a great run down the wing from Ciaran Davies, 3-5. Harry Beddal tagged like a boy possessed and stopped a great run by Llanishen. Change possession and ‘Bedders’ threatened with a run, but the Rocks were tagged out. Llanishen scored, 4-5. Llanishen fought for the last try and were rewarded on the final whistle, 5-5. Llanishen v St Peters- Second Match Llanishen started in possession. St Peters tagged well, but Llanishen played to their better players, as Henry ran in the first try 1-0. Great running from Elen and Gruff weren’t enough for the Rocks who were tagged out. Change of possession and Llanishen again played to their strengths, Henry running in again 2-0. A great supporting run from Harry Beddal, saw him step over 2-1. The ‘dial six to start’ approach refereeing peaked when Harry Beddal got a smack in the nose for his troubles. The resulting nose bleed saw the half time break. It was hoped that the second half would see a more consistent approach to off side and travelling beyond the tag. Thom opened the second half for the Rocks, 2-2. Moments later Saul Hurley ran in a third for the Rocks, 2-3. Llanishen replied 3-3, but a great run from Ioan, pulled the Rocks back in front. 3-4. Llanishen again came back, 4-4. A forward pass from the Rocks saw a change of possession and Henry ran in their 5th, 5-4 Llanishen. Alessandro danced his way to the end 5-5. Henry was gifted a few yards to give him the advantage of six foot to the line 6-5. Alessandro again ran like thunder, 6-6. Llanishen scored (Henry again) 7-6 and the last say of the match again went to Llanishen, 8-6.                                                                                                                                                                        

Some great rugby today by all players llanishen playing there part in a feast of rugby both teams and all coachs on both teams encouraging the players Aled Matt and Jordan full of praise for all the boys. my memory of this day will be maximus sprinting down the left wing as if the child catcher outa chitty chitty bang bang was after him and luke blakemoor running the length of the field on the left wing to cross.Aled informed me that all was well on the other pitch and i had missed some great team rugby . Matt almost got to use the first aid kit but bedders who is made of stern stuff sleeved his blood away . Well done to all our players today you all stuck to the job Taj welcome back after a break now your well again .Also well done William in your first game at the Rocks with one training session under your belt we have found yet another player a special mention for Ioan who is finding his feet and has a bright future in the game . The team spirit is coming on well and the boys and our Elen keep going even when it seems the situation is lost that is the sign of TEAM. when a last desperate tag means a drawn match. I am proud of you all Steptoe

Sunday 4th March

Report by Denfa Today we were on the road away to Glamorgan Wanderers at the world famous Memorial Ground. Many times the graveyard, ending the rocks cup run`s and the poaching of past players dreaming of glory making there way to the other side of the river the search of the limelite. The Wanderers for many a year,Feeding Cardiff with talent.Sam Wauberton you know the welsh captain? past player! snapped up by the blue and blacks. The second team pitch being out of action waterlogged “no change there” we were afforded the use of the first team Pond . The boys lit up they were to play in there first stadium. Stands, barriers and a burger-van, !!We had a mere 22 players glammy had about 12 one game of ten aside was arranged rolling subs . match report by Charlie “wolfie” Balch flowering up by steptoe Glamorgan wanderers On a muddy pitch the boys gathered. The rocks opened the scoring with a great run down the touch line by Kieran Davies 1-0 glam wand quickly responded try 1-1 mud kicking up from the fliers heels. Finnley Davies opened his account for the day with a jinking run 2-1 But again Wanderers equalized 2-2 Straight from the kick off Dylan Balch ran straight through the middle with a quick little off load to Gethin try 3-2 But the boys from Ely again equalized 3-3 The rocks went through the phases always gaining ground before Finn Evans managed to break the defence for a well earned try 4-3 try. Then with a typical run Dylan yarwood scored 5-3 the mud was flying thick now and hands were getting cold some of the younger ones from the wands were looking a little lost. Sam asked me if he could have a run i had a word with there coach who let the little fella have a trot and what a trot straight down the middle tags being ripped but his face etched in effort i couldn’t blow the whistle, dropped over the line like “charlie faulkner back in the good old days” and his face reminded me on charlies.his team as delighted for sam as sam was for crossing the line (i dia gress) try 5-4 playing some good rugby the rocks scored again this time a well deserved try by Tom Mc 6-4. Another bullocking run by Dylan Yarwood On permit to play as this was his dads old patch Try 7-4 the wanderers stepper pulled one back two handed running and a fine change of direction 7-5 Half time teams swapped ends things looked a bit odd at this venture i counted 13 wanders and the size of player had changed somewhat Gethin had shrank ? Glamorgan wanderers scored 7-6 tout sweet responding quickly the rocks scored again Finn Evans again with another classy run 8-6 try  Wanders Pulled one  back “big lad” trundling down the right touchline 8-7 Finn Davies scored again in typical style bobbing, weaving, ducking and diving 9-7 now the game was on and tagging had been replaced by semi contact as the mud had its way with the boys tags were hard to come by and the ball was lost once with Maximus looking quite puzzled when the egg was of loaded to him the size three had turned into a fullsized mud pie!! of again the Ely boys scored again. 9-8They certainly werent for giving up! nor we’re we with the rocks camped on the Ely try line eventually Cai broke over for a try 10-8 try another Glamorgan Wanderers try saw the score 10-9 before a brace of try’s by Dylan Yarwood made up his fourth 12-9. There was enough time for Glamorgan Wanderers to get into double figures 12-10 final score. Muddy marvelous day out. Evan w ,Evan r, Ioan, Tom d, Kane CAI Gruff Harry Mathew eamonn all played there part slipping pass`s supporting and offloading the ball well Maximus got away a couple of times and Kieran d got a try only to be called back as he had no tags not that the wanderer`s said a thing Saul tagged him self to a stand still both teams stayed with it and Gary Couzz there colorful coach said that he loved every minute of it . the second half carrying on ,until they had really churned up the first team cemetery end.  Pitch This is when the news was broke that we had played the under 8`s in the second half Thats why it seemed that Geth had shrunk. see pictures on teamer . thanks again to “pappy” for the action shots. our apologies to our under 8`s who were waiting for there turn . off to the club for sausage and chips curry sauce for the more adventurous. and thank you to Matt Huw and Jordan for keeping the boys warm with drills during the match everyone got on and played there part and if i missed your boy out of the commentary i can only say sorry as i was enthralled in the match with the keenness and bon amiee of both sides no complaints or moans by either sides players and parents alike . my pleasure . Steptoe

Sunday 26th February

Report by Denfa WE Welcome to a warm late winters day Rhydfelin a late start as the boys from the Rhondda got misdirected to ceadelyn park they hard a bare 7 players we again had 30 turn up to do battle a four quarter fixture was agreed. the match stats and report by Lucas the pen    a great turnout again this week still had five or six missing St Peters v Rhydfelin – 1st Match The game started at a pace not yet seen at the Harlequins. And a period of end to end rugby was broken by a beautiful switch pass by Rhydfelin, to open the scoring for the visitors, 0-1. The Rocks came back playing the phases, with Dylan Yarwood going over in the corner, 1-1. RhydfeLin came straight back, 1-2. Dylan Yarwood scored again, 2-2, but Rhydfelin again replied, 2-3. Gethin Howell equalised, but Rhydfelin had the last say in the half, 3-4. A complete change of side for the Rocks, saw fresh legs keep up the intensity. The Rocks were so eager to use all they’d learnt, they often forgot to get their tags back on. Both teams eager to win, but it was the visitors that again took the advantage, with quick feet seeing the try run in, 5-3. The Rocks battled back and Cane was rewarded for his tank city,5-4. Rhyfelin didn’t rest and came straight back, 6-4. St Peters were tagged out from the re-start and Rhydfelin capitalised, 7-4. A fumble saw Rhyfelin get possession and quick feet saw their 8th, 8-4. The Rocks had the last say, with a great run for Finley Davies getting a consolation try. Final score 8-5. St Peters v Rhyfelin – 2nd Match Again, quick feet combined with a switch of a quality, most under 7s could only dream of Rhyfelin opened the scoring with relative ear. St Peters were tagged out and Rhyfelin’s natural winger, Gabriel ran the line straight as a die, 0-2. St Peters Tom McCallum replied, but Rhydfelin came immediately back down the line, to score a third, 1-3. An unfortunate decision of a Rocks player to take a water break, saw Rhydfelin get the overlap, 1-4. Rhydfelin had the last say in the half, 1-5. St Peters also saw a full change of squad, and Dylan Yarwood opened the half for the Rocks 2-5. The restart saw the visitors play the phases and score, 2-6. Some great supporting play from Rhys saw him rewarded with a try, 3-6. Dylan Balch forced the turnover from a dropped Rhyfelin ball and Alessandro ran 2/3rds of the pitch 4-6. Rhydfelins passing and speed saw them rewarded again, 4-7. The Rocks were tagged out, possession Rocks. Possession turned again and another trade mark switch saw Rhydfelin offered their choice of space, having the last say 4-8. The skill level on display today by Rhydyfelin was exceptional scissor moves dummies and some fine discipline in tagging and onside was afforded to a really good outfit the coaches must be so proud of there boys .Out playing the rocks in most departments, the beauty of having a small squad paying dividend`s .there support for both teams also made for a great day for everyone , a good rapport with the Ref saw banter flow with good humor I, having great difficulty with misspronuncation , the rules of the game, trying to even up a slightly one sided game with some seamless adjustments so both teams got to run and tagg in even amounts. was taken in good spirits by the home and away support .and we hope to give them a better game in the near future, i thank Gary for the three cheers for St Potters. and most of all well done to all the players who stuck to there tasks and there were some periods of play by both sides that needed no reffing or coaching and was a pleasure to watch. Cheers to Jordan who took the last match as coach his first time in the middle. training next Friday and we might very well try the Rhydyfelin switch i have Garys number but i fear his fee will be beyond our purse-strings WELL DONE All Steptoe

Sunday 19th February

Report by Denfa ribena away W 6-7 D 7-7 L7-6 L8-7

Report

After a lay orf of three week`s The weather abated for us all to gather down at Caedelyn park. only 25 players again!!! . we had new tags, acquired by the pen Lucas Howell . shirts however still AWOL absent without leave !! Manda you are excused the Fahys passed on your message hope everything went as well as can be expected . A frosty morn with a few parents turning up the worse for wear you know who you are thank you for getting your lads there a Stirling effort!! Ribena had a mere 20 players.Ten aside was the game! A somewhat cramped pitch in the vast south Savannah that is Parc Caedelyn. Ribena won the toss scoring with a pass and a run they are up for  it . the rocks tagged out rather easily with ribena rampant ripping making light work of the rocks possession a few quick tags and they are away again 2-nil Aled steadied his tribe and got some order gruff danced a bit, Maximus Rhys Bowen stayed with him seized his chance and with a nice step and a little shimmy touched down with full game face in evidence. ribena ran well and the rocks tagging left a lot to be desired some nice support work saw them over for the third , Ciaran b carried well and Kieran D ran true , ball out to Nial to canter over hands firmly at his side not a hint of hand off well done Nial.a quick turn around with a dropped ball Tom Mc THUMB pouncing on it cat like, swept the pigs baldder to Allesandro who turned on the gas to score 3 all . half time and some stern words from Aled saw the ball in hand with the rocks tagged out ribena pushed the ball out wide and a try was scored by a lad whos feet and step at the death gave rise to a gasp and cheer . a lovely run and a well deserved round of applause by all that had witnessed it. Mikey Rogers pulling on the green and black for the first time” well a London Irish shirt if the truth be known ” had a trot out aged just 5 never looked out of place. not phased in the slightest. A permit was granted for Mikey to play after turning up for three weeks to train with his big brother Eamonn the step who by his standards was having a quite game the narrowness of the pitch and some fine tagging putting him on the back foot . but he played with his little BRO ribena turned on the style with great support play scored again after a turnover for foot , (foot mind you a foot in touch ” coach ribena shouted foot in touch” there six and seven playing at parc caedeleyn on a sunday morning . never ran out of touch never went down the line skipping in and out of touch ,no a foot in touch Any old up i gave it ,  sigh? ) saw them score a again . tagging again being the culprit “note to self tag training next Friday ” the rocks set themselves up in the left hand corner and Tom mc did a neat runnaround to cross unopposed ribena again ran and passed with their coach full of encouragement egging them on crossed. the end was neigh gruff stepped up with a fine finish touching down 7 6 ribenas in  favor. to a game that looked like getting away from the boys . Second game ribena won the toss and ran the length of the park to score again a turn over saw them 2 nil up after a couple of “minuets” they weren’t singing  quite but there coach certainty was vocal !! Tom Mc crossed for a nice solo effort and ribena saw old name from the past score for them “Ringo” Lucca his name he told me after i made the mistake of calling him after his pater. “thats my dad I`m LUCCA” nice work Mark. again tagging being the short fall of the rocks game let ribena in at will . something of a mystery as we have tagged well all year ? Allesandro however steadied  the ship to score  and Caine got a fine little cameo try Rhys popped up with a fine aggressive little effort for his second of the day “pappy what are you feeding him !! Nial again got in on the act to put the egg over the line .Tom Mc got a second of the match  and Gruff got his second of the day . over all ribena had the better of our lads but not a man gave in, effort the winner ribena got eight try`s to our seven and deserved there wins a little over zealous rule disputes and questioning of the refs choices by the ribena faithful ignored i might add . they forgetting two disallowed trys by our lads for tagging at the point of scoring because the tags were fab and the effort by the tagger should be rewarded in the spirit of the game a great day but NO Invite back for sausage and chips !!!! this is what we crave!! this is what we play for . Gethin was not best pleased   Match Report by Lucas Rhiwbina v St Peters 3rd Game There was an icy wind blowing south from the Rhondda valley Bedders opened the account for St Peters with a great run down the wing, 0-1. St Peters held their line well, but knocked on. Again they held well, but Rhiwbina’s intense offence won through, 1-1. St Peters replied immediately, with a strong run from Dylan Yarwood, 1-2. Bedders and Dylan Balsh tagged like men on fire, but Rhiwbina finally broke through, 2-2. Again St Peters came back, 3-2. Rhiwbina again scored, 3-3. A great run from Gethin Howell put the Rocks 5 yards short of the line and they spread the ball along the line, to put Dylan Yarwood over the line, 3-4. A great double tag from the Rocks was enough to stop Rhiwbina equalising on the whistle. Half time score 4-4. Rhiwbina had the restart, but the Rocks tagged them out and with change of possession, Bedders made a great run for the line, 4-5. Rhiwbina again restarted and quickly equalised, 5-5. Dylan Yarwood danced his way from the restart and scored his second, prompting an impromptu tag check from the ’relaxed Rhiwbina coach, 5-6.Mathew Evans got his chance and took it well to get his first for the club 5-7 Rhiwbina where unfortunate to be tagged out, as the best pass of the day and run in was denied. After a great couple of minutes of tagging on both sides, it was Rhiwbina that was to have the final say in the match, running in just before the final whistle. Final score , 6-7. Rhiwbina v St Peters 4th  Game St Peters took advantage of a turnover and Dylan Yarwood off loaded to Cane, to open the scoring 0-1. Rhiwbina came straight back, replying 1-1. Rhiwbina battled there way up the pitch to take a second, 2-1. Bedders was unlucky to step into touch and the change of possession, Rhiwbina scored 3-1. Bedders though was rewarded from the restart, running in to the corner 3-2. St Peters scored again, 3-3. Rhiwbina worked the phases and retook the lead, 4-3. bedders had a run from the restart, but Tom Davies improving every week stepped into touch. Rhiwbina scored from the restart, 5-3. The Rocks had the last say of the half, as Dylan Balch ran in. Half time score 5-4. Gethin ‘Goliath’ Howell opened the second half scoring with straight and true run to the line, 5-5. Gethin then took another run up field, with players bouncing off him, to score 5-6.there coach checking Geffs taggs to see if they were sown on ? What a Strange Man !! Some great rugby, saw Gethin connect with Bedders, for the Rocks to extend their new lead, 5-7. Rhiwbina scored a breakaway try 6-7. Great run through traffic from Mathew E, was denied. Rhiwbina had the final say in the match getting the equaliser in the long second half, 7-7.   (steptoe)again tagging it was reported was not at its best,  Kane Matt Luke Tom all played there part with great efforts.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   As did everyone who played today. three weeks lay off is hard enough we will get the warmer weather soon and everyone who came today played! This is our future, and boys progress at different rates some have off weeks !some burn slowly,? ” have heart and fire in your bellies and effort will be rewarded”. scoring try`s is fun and get the headlines but dont think for one second that we don’t see all of your efforts There is no “I” in team . and if you were not mentioned it doesn’t mean that you are not appreciated strength of character is as important as speed and deftness ” once more into the breach dear friends” as a bloke once said!!. Two weeks Ago Remember troops, we trained when all others stayed at home, wet cold orrible evening it was and you were all there , that what makes my heart sing I am proud of you all STEPTOE  

Sunday 22nd January

Report by Aled ap Daffadd A guest blog this week as our head coach and spiritual leader was away on a course learning how to control children…look out all ye who attend training this Friday. This report will thus look a little different with correct spelling and use of new grammatical terms like full stops, commas and capital letters! Thanks as always to Lucas for keeping an eye on the scorers and providing the following summary: St Peters U7s v Treharris After Friday’s near Baltic training conditions, Mother Nature returned to her calmest with a dry day and no wind. The visitors travelled down to the Big Smoke, wide eyed with amazement, with a small squad of eight. As always, the Rocks weren’t short of a sub or two, with a squad of over 25. So it was decided that a three pronged approach be best suited to getting all players a run out. First Game (1 period of 10 mins) Treharris opened the scoring straight from the opening whistle, with touch, pass and a sprint down the right wing. The Rocks restarted, but were tagged out merely metres from the line. Possession changed and Treharris came back strong, but ran into touch on the left wing. It gave the Rocks the opportunity and Gruff connected with a great pass, 1-1. Treharris restarted, but ran out of room on the left wing. Possession change, and the Rocks played their tags, until Gethin was open on the left and ran the diagonal to score, 2-1. Treharris took advantage of the Rocks positioning, and sprinted full length for a try, 2-2. Treharris ran in a third, 2-3. The Rocks again came back strong and playing the phases, got Ciaran over for their equaliser, 3-3. Both teams held fast for the last 60 seconds and the half (third) ended 3-3. Second Game (2 halves of 10 mins) The Rocks opened the scoring with Niall opening their account. Treharris came straight back with an excellent try, with three Rocks players seeing the tags slipping through their hands, without purchase, 1-1. The Rocks came back with Tom McCallum stepping over for their second. Treharris danced for their second, 2-2. Eammon Rogers sprinted down the right wing for their third. 3-2. Treharris came straight back for an equaliser, 3-3. Maximus was tagged metres short of the line, followed by the Rocks being tagged out. Treharris played from left to right, to take the lead. Another strong run by Maximus, saw the ball passed to Harry Foley, who ran in for a confident equaliser, 4-4. Treharris’ Savannah restarted, passed to Jay, who ran in for their 5th on the halftime whistle, 4-5. Teharris started with possession in the second half and took no time to score, 4-6. The Rocks restarted, but lost possession, but then defended strongly, to tag out Treharris. Gaining possession five yards from their try line, Eammon Rogers ran the length to score, 5-6. Treharris came straight back, as Savannagh scored yet again for Treharris, 5-7. The Rocks played the phases and Tom McCallum danced his way to the line, 6-7. Treharris scored quickly, but Niall showed strength, running in to reply, 7-8. Full time. Third Match Treharris again started in possession, and ran the phases to take a first scalp, 0-1. Tom ran the wing from the Rocks restart, but was found with a foot in touch. The restart gave Treharris the opportunity, which they took 0-2. The Rocks again played the phases and were rewarded with Saul ‘smiler’ Hurley’s opener, 1-2. The Rocks tagged Teharris out and Dylan Yarwood equalised, 2-2. Savannagh lost a tag, but restarted handing the ball to the scorer, 2-3. A fantastic run from Alessandro, saw the Rocks draw level at the whistle, 3-3. The whistle saw the end of U7s play for the day. Thanks to all the coaches and parents for another great day, there’s definite signs of progress. Denfa, please come back, all is forgiven! See you in training on Friday.

Sunday 15th January

Report by Denfa 4-7 6-7 6-9 6-6

Report

first of all i would like to address the ethos of the under7s Inclusiveness thats what we are about everyone to play whether they are new to the club or older members everyone will get a game it was cold today and players standing on the subs bench is part of the monster we have created, game time is valuable but participation is the aim.we had 31 players today ALL played Harvey Mathew with only a training session under their belt performed well and if they were let go so to speak we would not have unearthed there obvious talent i, we will keep this going untill the end of the season I , we will not exclude anyone from the u7`s if they turn up to train they will play if it means we have to run two sides next year i will look into that i am sure there will be a way aroud this . Todays performance against Rumney a well trained side with talent but also a settled side with little or no subbing we did our selves proud to keep the games as close as we did with the dissruption of our super subbing mums and dads bear with us your boys done good i ,we will get more tags and shirts .here are the match reports lucas the pen and scotish steve were our reporters and stattions cheers bedders and chalie for sub masters and pappy bowen and paul fahy great photo`s again here goe`s 1st game due to a late request only the try score`s Dylan yarwood 2 trys, alessandro 1 try and a n other got the last try like all good clubs a n other will feature through out . if you know of our mystery try score`r let me know . the game i am told was a little one sided but the rocks kept the faith and played with heart subs being the difference . not because the subs came on rather that the subs gave the rumney boys the edge with continuity being the twelfth man 2nd Game Rumney started the match in possession, running the phases for their first of the game, 0-1.St Peters restarted in kind and grafted from side to side of the pitch, with Alessandro getting the Rocks first, 1-1. Rumney came back straight away, to take a second, 1-2. St Peters restarted but a fumble lead a turnover and Rumney took no time to take advantage, confidently running in a third, 1-3. St Peters tried to break the Rumney defence, but we’re tagged out in the mid field and Rumney went for the line, 1-4 The Rocks ran in a consolation try just as the half time whistle came, 2-4. Second half started with Rumney again in possession and despite valiant tagging in defence, Rumney opened the scoring 2-5. A fantastic tuck and dive by Cane, saw the Rocks pull one back, 3-5. The Rocks then held their line well, tagging out Rymney, but the visitors replied in kind. Rumney then played the tags and ran in their 6th, 3-6. Dylan Balch was denied a text book Balch try in the corner, but the restart saw Gethin Howll take the play to the far side of the pitch, take the tag and the touch and pass lead to Finlay Davies running over.4-6. St Peters battled Rumney and the bitter cold again and Harry Foley ran over the line, 5-6. Rumney put another on the board. 5-7. But the restart saw Gethin, Dylan Balch and Dylan Yarwood connect for a try, 6-7. Gethin Howell was disallowed a great tag, as Rumney got their 8th, 6-8. Rumney also had the last say in the match, as they finished the game on a high, 6-9. other team matchs 3 and 4 joint stats by mattfoley and scotish steve    Harry B scored a fine effort niall crossed after a run from evan weston ball in two hands joel crossed after a great run from mathew like ryan giggs with his man u shirt on set up the quick ball for joels effort a great jinking run from maximus Bowen face etched in effort up the right wing Harry B (bedders on hand to receive a popped pass to cross the white wash again nial ran well with his hand off hand kept firmly by his side off loaded to tom (thumb Mcallum to score an amazing jinking try ball firmly in two hands showed the vision of a bennet in full flow Harry b crossed in the corner. Kai got his first try for the green and blacks with a fine lay off from the staight running evan ryan nial bundled over the line joel romped through for his second of the day ciaran brown and harry b crossed to keep there tally going and Caine with hands out of pockets showed us all that we have a fine talent in the making crossed with a turn of pace that grampy larry would have been proud of not forgetting flamming Eamon whos try at the start was missed by our collate rs but was recorded by matt foley Finners made a tagg to behold and this score might very well have been wrong and st peters stole it but i have to keep with the information i have . A very interesting day with as always rugby winning out again                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                thank you to rumney for providing stiff opposition gabby tom jack Hilly Kieron and the rest of the blue and blacks played a fab and a some what expansive game what with the pitch being set extra wide today Aled Huw and Matt again thanks for your continued efforts all the best “till next week i bid you all well” Step toe

Sunday 8th January

Report by Denfa Again we play Pentyrch, this time at sea level we had a mere 32players this week and with altitude training paying dividends we only managed a draw and three losses but with substitution`s playing a big part in the flow of rugby. this played in pentyrch`s favour and the settled side ran out worthy winners of the day BUT every one played with gusto and aplomb and all tagged dodged and ran as straight as they were allowed by the opposition here are the reports from our now regular Hacks First Charlie “Wolfie” Balch As the sides lined up in the quagmire of a pitch Sonny the nemesis was glimpsed. Eyes narrowing and game faces on “0nce more into the breech my friends” echoed around the Harlequins the thunderer roared and the game commenced. Fortunately the skills hadn’t been forgotten and very quickly with some slick passing from Rowan and Finnley our flyer Eamonn was released 1-0 now Pentyrch had possession they tapped and passed to Sonny 3 rocks descended on him, no try scored he was human!! Possession regained and lost Pentyrch scored 1-1 try then the faces came back on and the ball raced out to Oliver Noon, the master of the game face, nothing would stop him – charging down the wing dived into and through the mud to reappear looking the image of Gareth Edwards he had opened his tally for the rocks. Cheers all round 1-2 Half time and he still hadn’t scored. A quick try by Pentyrch followed 2-2 but the ball got to Finnley Davies who, throwing the most outrageous dummy, found the gap that fed Eamonn 3-2. Closing down and great passing was the order of the day, but still Pentyrch sneaked a try 3-3. A quick restart and the ball found its way to sonny who for the only time today was given an inch 3-4. Dylan Balch charged into his favourite corner 4-4 but tired legs running through mud led to more open spaces both sides see sawed possession but Pentyrch scored 4-5 but in the dying seconds Harry Beddal stepped forward and just before the thunderer reached the lips 5-5 great game well played. The boys skills have improved fantastically this last year and the look of pride on Oliver Noons face was what it’s all about. 2nd game The second game started in the same manner some great passing and tagging Pentyrch scoring eventually, despite the mud (the boys loved it but try pushing a pushchair through it!!) both sides wanted to run Pentyrch scored just before halftime 0-2. As soon as the whistle blew the boys huddled knowing they were still in touch, they could easily pull this back. However a whisper in MattFoley ear and we were told the pitch was needed so it was decided full time. Hands shaken, backs slapped and hips hoorayed, it was sausage and chips time. secondly Lucas “he of the quill” Howell the trychs opened in possession strong defence from the rocks denied the try and a turnover by Nial followed by A run of two thirds of the pitch saw him open the account for the rocks 1-0 trychs got the restart and played the phases to draw level1-1 a great run by Evan W down the right wing brought the rocks second2-1The tyrchs tried to draw level but wre tagged out by the rocks a wild pass from the rocks saw thr tyrchs geta turnover but a great tag from tom thumb slowed them down but with a touch and a pass they ran the diagonal and level they drew2-2 halve time st peters got the restsrt and played all the phases untill Gethin forced his way over in the corner3-2 trychs came back strong and took no time for there equilizer3-3 Nial took a strong run from the restart tagged close to the line one more tagg saw the ball turn over. What ensued from the restart was what the ref “our Steptoe” said stopped the game after pentyrch scored there try “that was Rugby “ THE tyrchs ran true and passed well with the rocks tagging and throwing themselves in to defence tagged them out then the trychs attacked the offence with the rocks throwing the ball about looking for support and the tyrchs tagging for all they were worth the rocks grafting well for tom “thumb” mcallum to cross the white wash 4-3 the game was stopped with a shout from steptoe the ground went quite and he announced “That was rugby” (well done both sides by George i think you get it)i digress again the trychs came straight back to score to level once again 4-4 the rocks were out tagged and the tyrchs scored the wining try 4-5 to the tyrchs                                                                                                                                                                     (steptoe being his own man played extra time as his pride in what he just saw got his juices flowing and i lost the the rocks the match but what a match after a three week lay off both teams played with heart and soul and i would say although i am biased to a degree that that was the best game we have played in and against and the opposition the best as well . i see years of true rivalry with PENTYRCH and long may it continue . Bravo bravo bravo “2nd match the trychs opened the game but failed to capitalize on there possession running out of space with the turn over Gethin Goliath Howell opened his legs up for a 3/4 pitch run to open the score for the rocks 1-0 the trychs came back straight away to return the favor-1 the restart saw the tyrchs intercept to run in the second1-2 St peters camped on the trychs 5 yard line to be out tagged the trychs now settled with a side without the subs to spoil thre flow ran in to score there third try 1-3 this game was cut short as a whisper in Matts ear that the pitch was needed for the blues cup match and the whistle blew to end another splendid game Its 2012 and the boys are back we need shirts again from players who did not make it and can everyone look in there bags as we are short of tagg belts and taggs i will en devour to get more kit for the teams having almost 40 players is a problem but a good problem . we are becoming a more than a team more like a small hamlet and once again Ollie Noon well done son . we sold 25 calenders raising £175 well done!! any one who still needs a calender they will be on sale in the shop for the knockdown price of £3 i thank you steptoe

Sunday 18th December

Report by Denfa Last game before the christmas break . A phone call to say the pitch was frozen and the game was off However out my back the ground was soft and a quick call to Mr Helan the defector and we both agreed to meet down the rocks and see if it took a stud It did indeed take a stud in fact it was perfect Me thinks to much Christmas cheer was imbibed the night before and some heads were a little thicker than the norm.”The young bones groan, and the rocks below say lets play”   Tony`s boys and of course Gabby were 9 strong I`m afraid we were down to 22 as the sickness had gripped a few. Huw our very own GOK Wan turned up with 25 santa hats for the players a d a fetching team photo was taken By Pappy Bowen “see team photo” We arranged for a match of two halves with nine aside we two teams of 11 playing a halve each with rolling subs . the under twelves turned up for a session and were shown the way to the training pitch again in good repair we had the heady heights of the second team pitch 2 weeks on the run as our status of the real rocks deserved (joke)Rumney dominated the first three minutes with some fine support work and the slight slope scoring 2 tries through good support work our boys tagging well but loosing possession when ball in hand ? this did not deter the men of minster rd with a fine handling display of there own the game fell into a stale mate the rocks getting to grips with the wedge of the flying varsity all though it had morphed into a block and rumneys support strategy was paying dividends. some minor injuries to both side knocks brought both trainers on only for both boys one from each side to wipe ther noses clear the tears away and usher the medics back to the side lines tony and myself very proud of both men . no harm by either player but more a pride not to let there side down . no player was hurt and we would not condone keeping a player on i might add up popped Tom davis to strike a blow for the rocks with the right side opening up he dashed to cross for the rocks first a full nine minutes after kick off a very tight first halve rumney spill the ball and with time being called and a chance to level after maybe a few more tags than normal my whistle pea frozen to the steel sides of the thunder the halve ended 1-2 in rumneys favour Second halve and rumney in the flow our second 11 took to the perfect pitch Dylan Yarward found the bal in his hands and took off at amighty lick to score on his seventh birthday 2-2 runy to there crdit returned the score with some encouragement from the supporters 2-3 Tom thumb tagged for all he was worth and the egg returned to the rocks for finners to be denied at the death ollie noon pounced and a quick off load back to finners saw him score with a dive in the corner not strictly allowed but a fine effort which Mr helan called the try seeing effort as the only critria 3-3. Gabby proved a thorn in our side and scored a fine solo effort relooping around the back carian brown Stylie 3-4 now the rumney players in fine form strted to hit there stride the second 11 still recovering from a long wait tagged well but failed to add another score as again the to bullocks from rumney showed the way forward by going forward a tactic that will hold there future up the hill 3-5 3-6 at last a period of flowing rugby by the rocks some nice steps by Kiran davies Gruff Ciaran and Finn evans maximus luke Balchie and Kane with Allesandro running out of space (steptoe not being a good tactiction had set a long narrow pitch DOH!!!) Wide and short should have been the order of the day Ciaran finished the day off with a nice try and the end was blown . both sides shook hands and three cheers rang out to ding dong merrily on high To the bar for cakes and pop . Amanda noon providing the vitals bright green cupcakes loverly . a hush descended around the bar and charlie “wolfie smith ” made a a small speech and the parents had made a collection for all the coach`s and cases of beer were handed out A very nice touch and very much appreciated . i must add that the parents to a man and woman have been very supportive of the team and a vital part of the st Peters family never once complain g of the extra length of training the last minute changes to match’s and of course turning up what ever the weather has provided knowing that it is all good character building stuff even if a lot of it is to do with pig ignorance on our behave all the coach’s have made sterling efforts this first full year and i thank all of them Matt, Aled, Huw and Ant the support of all of you is very much the reason we are here today We have picked up players every week since we started and even with 8 players away sick with various ailments we still took 22 to the field today a great effort by all each week i give jobs to dads and mums and they do it with out complaint i am very proud of all of your efforts . on that note we also sold 24 calenders for the cause  Thanks Ange x . we have a few left and if you want one drop A line on the web site or teamer i will get them for you with that i leave you in this year 2011 played every week missed one traing session and scored over a hundred tries with over 40 boys and girls representing the Rocks not bad for the youngest side playing . i must add John Saunders turned up to train the pebbles but the rumors of abandonment put an end to his session he still had double figures but gave his tribe a well earned rest .The pebbles are here and are here to stay in safe hands with a fine coach and team around him i can only see a bright future foe the club . Merry Christmas and a happy new year training first Friday of the new year be there or be square all the best steptoe £7 for the calendars ithank you

Sunday 11th December

Report by Denfa ok first  mums and dads  can i take this opportunity of reminding every one that  the shirts are the most important part of our system you must en-devour to return your shirts if your “son daughter little darling cant make it ”     this week we were four shirts short But over ten players short i we dont want to look like Raggedy Rovers At petrych this week we had four players in there own kit. I dont want to have to collect the shirts every week and have to dish them all out again, you also dont want to have to take it in turns to wash all the kit your wallpaper will be peeling of over your radiators . i dont want to collect subs and get them laundered  it wont work we agreed at the start that this is the best way There is No I in TEAM this is what being part of a team is all about Effort!!!! I know it is sometimes impossible to get the shirt here but Ten shirts tell me that complacency has set in   We are the Under 7`s and we are strong as a team. “Dont make a good man bad ”   so please please please let me get what i want Second, The Calenders have arrived they are fab great Christmas presents for the family and a bargain at £7 each i have them email me if you want them i will bring them to training Cash only £3.50 for the club £3.50 for the supplier   thank you Third we have forms for membership that need to be filled in you get the use of the club facilities and the chance for international tickets and for the grand total of £4.17 a month direct debit we have forty players yet only a few have joined the club as family members we need to get this sorted i know that many of you have put your forms in and haven’t had the debit sanctioned yet   this is in hand please try to fill in the forms return them to me or pop them upstairs behind the bar for the attention of Joanne Smith cheers  I hope i haven’t head mastered you to much but we have to address things I THANK YOU   DENFA “steptoe” Any old up this week we were guests of Pentyrch rfc or as we fondly call it Upper West Taffs Well this report is our guest hack and regular contributor Charlie  ”Wolfie Smith” Balch                                                                                                           Well here we are up Pentyrch again the last time it was a glorious summers day, how different today was. Pentrych kicked off and scored straight away. Although the Pentyrch try scorer had a hat pulled right down over his head there was no disguising the mazy running, it was our nemesis from last time, Sonny. After he scored the first he ran in two more unanswered try’s. The rocks regrouped and started to teag and get possession. The ball popped out to Harry Foley who took his try well. Instantly being substituted on came Dylan yarwood who quickly grabbed a try 3-2. Harry(the other one) Bedders  had a trip and despite a bloody mouth and sore ankle refused to stop playing, thats the spirit!! Sonny had another kinking run but this time passed the ball for another Pentyrch try. 4-2. Harry Foley ran over for another try as he went off after being substituted shouted to his Mathew he was refereeing that £2 try bonus. 4-3 Finnley Davies tackled heroically as did Harry. A quick tap off by Dylan Balch left Finn Evans in the clear. Great try 4-4.  The weather worsened and with just 30 seconds left on the clock the ball found its way to Sonnys hands and dancing round some brave diving tags managed to squeeze a try in the corner. 5-4 to Pentyrch This report by steptoe scores by Simon hurlo hurley On the lower pitch the Tyrchs won the toss , chose to play down hill and the wind at here backs  The ball out swiftly to Joe the step and in a flash 1-0 to trych the rocks got tagged out easily and Rohan slipped the ball to jacob he crossed double quick 2-0 again fortune favored the tyrchs and there pressure in the tag got the better of the lads some slippery dodging saw tyrch3-0 nil up slippiddy   the rocks took the ball up the right for Saul to cross 3-1 the tyrchs tagged out and the egg moved hands for Flamming eamonn to keep up his record of scoring in every match he has played in 3-2 Tyrchs took the ball down to lets it loose Luke in his first game picked it up and started a fine move up the right again tagged four times the ball found its way to Rhys MAXIMUS Bowen who stepped of his left foot around the back and backed himself to the line 3-3  the tyrchs now level stepped up a gear and joe the step combined well with Mogs morgan who had tagged well moved the ball back to Joe who mesmerized all of us with a fine try . 4-3 with time being called steptoe ignored the sands of time with the ball in play to see saul score his second of the day4-4 halve time Aled girded his loins and briefed the the boys that tagging was the key A quick  sub was made Gethin to the field oooo`s from the crowd as all 6ft 3 of him took to the turf looking every part the gladiator Gruff tapped the ball and of he went wind at his heels surprised the crowd with a deft step to the left to cross 4-5 Tyrch were having none of this and drove the ball up the hill  Jacob scored through he middle 5-5  Thom davis in his second game for the rocks scored his first try in the green and black5-6 then the trychs saw red the ball like a hot potato moved well between all players with Nile tagging like a demented octopus failed to stop Mogs Morgan get his first try for the TRYCHS the crowd cheered a popular score for the home boy    The rocks slipped the ball out to Guff who danced his way clear to be tagged short a quick pass to eamonn and a return pass lickity split saw Gruff cross the white wash 6-7  with time being called again the reff ignored the bell to see trych push there way up the field just as they made the last pass the ball spilled free for callum to pounce on the abandoned egg and he was a way  with the ground falling away from his feet had a n easy debut try 6-8  A fine effort by all   With the trychs team off for a party Scott the coach split his posse up into a six and a seven and the second round was under way .   again the trych s chose the slope and were of to a flyer with the maidens of the team playing some rugby  not mentioned in the first match as they were the workhorses of that game tagging and sweeping behind the defense to keep the rocks at bay   scored in the left corner a magnet for both sides1-0 the rain now showed its hand and the cold had indeed set in the ball hard to catch saw trychs score a 2nd  2-0 . the rocks returned the favor Finners scoring after his first try was denied   diving over and keeping up his tally with flamming 4 ahead so he tells me!! 2-1    tyrch  kept up the pressure and Rohan a natural leader rallied his boys for the step to weave his magic   3-1  callum now acquitting himself with the rules scored a fine touchdown     3-2 halve time was called Little early this time the weather turning rather wild . the rocks tapped and passed the ovum to harry B “bedders” the bedraggled battler bowled his body down the park touchdown 3-3 the weather now affecting both sides the ball spewed from trychs grasp Evan “R siezed his chance a step to finish to the left scored on returning to the side line was heard to say to his dad thats a £2 bonus  dad !!3-4 the trych returned the score 4-4    With  a tapp and a smart change of pace Kane ball in one hand then the other and finally in both hands  a trait i believe he has gained from his mum took his score well 4-5.Pent returned up th park the pace now slowing as they were only 6 and we had subbed at will crossed through the step Joe having a splendid game through out but only because his side played with gusto5-5 Tom thumb  maccullum       who must me mentioned as with every game tagged and retagged got his chance running with educated hands scored 5-6  the tyrchs quickly spilled the ball for Evan weston  to pick up the charge with a cry of two hands saw evan return the ball down field looking as balanced as we have seen him run finished the match with what we all thought to be the try of the day 5-7 to the rocks . all players got off to the club house double quick time it was freezing . forth game i got to the game to hear that the rocks were 6-2 down with Saul scoring eamonn getting his obligatory try but the news that Sonny had found a friend in Baily and they had run the show scoring three tries  apiece  Scott was about to blow when Gruff took the ball side stepped shimmied hitch-kicked swerved dummied steadied him self saw the gap backtracked started over again finally crossing  Scott exclaiming i Just got to give that  and that was the try of the Day3-6 to the TRYCHS  we looked around to find we were the only people on the park apart from the under 13 who had kicked off we were first out and last in both Scott and myself we very proud of you all  a great spirit and gamesmanship and a mutual respect by players and supporters alike we all repaired to the bar where pasta and meatballs chocolate cake and orange squash were wolfed down  an impromptu game of tag ensued with both sides taking part when have these kids had enough geee!!!! Oh to be young again cheers for you r time steptoe denfa  And thank you to ALED HUW and MATT who led the teams with there  encouragement is always appreciated

Sunday 4th December

Report by Denfa

Score

8-6 6-3

Report

Scottish Steve collated this match Cymru Caerdydd ,were our opposition today and we were promoted to the second team pitch ,real grass!!, nose bleeds were had as we strode on to the pitch chest`s pumped out .CC Had only 8 players so we had to play two games we fielded 12 players in each side 8 aside with rolling subs Steptoe reffed ?well blew his whistle every now and again The rocks won the toss and kicked off the ball passed once and flamming Eamonn jinked his way to score before the pea in the thunderer had stopped1-0. CC went through there tags and the rocks returned the ball to the line quick time 2-0 Nile, making his debut score. CC then started to move the ball well with some fine inter-passing finding there own stepper Conner a red headed billy whizz2-1 The rocks straying offside and not retreating turned over the ball. Only for CC to spill the ball and Ciane leapt on the ball made off in the direction of the try line to be tagged short off loading the pigskin to Evan who ran a nice corner line angle to cross in the corner 3-1. a little confusion ensued with CC losing the ball and then retaining it settled down and passed and looked for space for there stepper to cross again 3-2 the rocks returned again from the kick of through Dylan B in a typical strong run stepping off both feet 4-2 Again CC advanced down towards there goal to be thwarted by Niles relentless tagging having and fist full of taggs in both hands . Time for a redress taggs returned . and with the whole of CC avoiding Nile like the plague scored straight up the center By Dylan a little tough nut 4-3 Halve time Coaches debrief and the game was on CC game came together with the side passing on the run and more boys getting involved a bad clash of heads brought a brief respite both players being very brave Nile and his co head banger were asked if the were allright and both rubbed there bonce`s and returned to the game with out complaint in fact the CC player passed , and got the return to score a heroic try 4-4 the rocks then had a purple patch Finners scored twice with dives but one was disallowed as a double movement was detected 5-4 Flamming E ran a length with dodging and weaving that is fast becoming his trade mark6-4 Gruff set on on a fine run with an exaggerated dummie that even i took from five yards behind to cross with class and a little grin playing over his face very pleased with himself 7-4 CC hit there stride themselves with two fine try`s all from great passing and support getting to grips with the pace of the game came right back in to the match7-5 7-6 .With the match coming to the end “Mr Bedders the clock” calling 1 minute to Rhys” Maximus “Bowen got the ball with 15 yards to go saw his chance for glory and crossed the line kept on running and would still be running now if someone haven’t stopped him scored his first Try for the club I think he has scored more but he was adamant that it was his first , and his Dad “Pappy ” bowen had promised him a surprise present 8-6 he whistle blew for the end both sides shook a fab match played in part to a standard well beyond there years . Match report by Lucas ” the scribe” Howells Finn opened the scoring within seconds of the first whistle A great run by Kieran passing to Dylan Y brought the rocks second CC pulled one back running the phases 2-1 A lull in play was broken by Saul`s run ten yards passed the goal line to take the rocks third 3-1 Gethin caught the defensive line napping effortlessly breaking the line 4-1 Second half saw both teams exchange possession , until Dylan Y ran half the pitch4-2 CC got lucky when gethins was denied his tag from five yards 4-3 Expert tagger Joel opened up the lead again 5-3 A GREAT RUN FROM KANE put another try on the rocks lead 6-3 St Peters held there line through the final whistle final score 6-3 . Alessandro ran in 2 extra tries only to ground the ball short of the line both times Clear through with the line beckoning scored 2 fine trys only to realize twice he was a full 15 yards short and 15 yards clear of the chasing pack it was a long pitch Aless, Ciane, Kane and Thom Davis have fitted in like “hand in glove” Taj `s spirit is indomitable, and it was a pleasure to see both the noons Ollie and Ed playing like the brothers in arms that they are, welcome back ED. I must also mention Cymru caerdydd spirit, only 8 players playing 40 minutes and letting our boys field two full sides with subs a great performance and on another day ,with a full complement of “men at arms” would have easily been able to run out winners thank you boys, a great effort you are a credit to your coach’s Thank you, to Jonatan for reffing the second match and for given us our fist whistle for a “knock on ” CC did it and he blew !!  A hard task master, but also he coached both sides, as the game went on . this is what the game is all about cheers to Cymru and we look forward to the return fixture Steptoe

Sunday 27th November

Report by Denfa  

Score

8-8 9-9 6-5 5-4

Report

Try scorers: Finners 2 Finn, Dylan Y ,Saul Joel ,Ciaran B, Kieran D 8-8                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Finners 2 ,Gruff 2, Ciaran,Dylan Y,Alessandro, Joe,l Finn 9-9                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Evan W. Evan R ,Eamonn 2 ,Bedder,s, Niall 6-5                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Eamon Evan W Tom Gethin Bedders 5-4 A Movember morning raised its head with the news that we had sickness in the camp. Our first time in charge and the the troops had fallen. ALL with Delhi belly !! What were we to do only 24 players!!!. All resplendent in there tash`s , and The ladies had out done there spouse with some fine growth of there own ? The rugby started on time and both sides threw the ball about . Niall scored on debut and Callum in his first game tagged well, and generally ran about enjoying the fact that his grampy Dobbin was here to watch him . Big Tom played well for his first game .Cricc had an outstanding player in Sam who ran and stepped of both feet with ease .all four games were close.falling down seemed to be the order of the day the pitch being very “cloggy”, the boys found it hard to find a stud .     All of the new players are finding there feet and you can see the improvement in them all . some fine dodging and some slick support work were the features of the game for the rocks and cricc got to grips with forming a line by the end of the day . a crowded pitch saw the end to single sprints to the line .Taggs slipped off and players slip Kev O’Brien Sporting the “FullGRAV” took the team photo for next years calender .(7.50)orders please as soon as you can !!! this was the first time the players had come a cross our kev “a hairy man, in a long coat, with a camera ” they all put on there game faces and listened to every thing Kev said . ???? well almost everything . boys straight up stairs for sausage and chips to be greeted by There mums in the kitchen. Shwalia ,Carwyns mum taking control of the reigns with Ange Rebbecca and Mel dishing out the Fodder . Helen, Anne Mari and Emma sold the tickets for the raffle and prostrate £ 140 was raised and split between the clubs food bill and Prostrate . Helen to her surprise won the raffle and immediately donated the wine to the Christmas raffle the Saki has not been claimed yet and could go the same way. AH SO!!! Thank you to all the girls for there help in making this our fist time a fun time . Cheers all of you ! you should all be very proud of your selves                                                                                                                                                                Steptoe

Sunday 20th November

Report by Denfa 6-6 4-9 7-7 7-4

Report

On an overcast mid Movember morn, Cowbridge came to town , under slate grey Victorian skies,the dairymen brought the full might of the countryside with them. two pitches were set up . narrow and long .enabling Fridays coaching session to take full effect. support being the skill “o” the week                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       the following report was collated and scripted by this weeks guest Hack, Charlie Balch pictures provided by Paapy Bowen                                                                                                                                                   Cowbridge opened the scoring straight from tap off, this served as a bit off a wake up call for the Rocks, many of them having rushed to the game straight from family mass. Finnley Davies made a trade mark ducking and weaving run, with shouts of two hands Finn, a well timed pass was made to Saul you ran straight and true for his first of the day. It seems the penny has dropped and everyone was looking to pass and move but then up stepped the Cowbridges secret weapon, Harry Ritson, with the first of his NINEtries of the day!! There heads not going down and passing out wide to Tom McCallum who added yet another try to his tally.But up came Harry Ritson again who ran straight through and past the rocks who were left in his wake to get his second 2-3 great full length of pitch run Recovering the rocks regrouped but they got the ball to Harry again scoring in the corner for a change. Refusing to let their heads drop and relishing in this new found passing game the ball was spun out to Dylan Balch, who unusually for him ran straight down the middle of the park instead of his usual corner 3-4, a jinking run from James drew the scores level 4-4 Until Harry scored again for cowbridge 4-5 another great straight run from Finn Evans 5-5 despite some great tagging from our new rock Taj Harry scored again but in the last move of the game the ball was passed through at least three pairs of hands ending up with Finn Davies 6-6 honours shared The second game the Rocks were relieved to see the back of Harry but Cowbridge the scoring 1-0 followed by another quick try 2-0 Saul Hurley wasnt having any of that, and scored his second of the day with a full length of the pitch dash. try 2-1 try However Cowbridge scored again 3-1 Moving the ball along the line saw the ball end up in Dylan Balch’s hands, seeing his favourite corner beckon he didnt dissapoint 3-2 try However the rocks line was again beaten by straight cowbridge running 4-2 However the rocks try of the day although finished by Finn Evans was started with a great pass from James to Dylan Balch who spun out to Rowan flicking on to Finn Davies who passed on to Finn Evans, a try worthy of the BaBa’s .Some great probing runs from Gruff and the usual speedy darts from Alessandro with more fine tagging by Taj didnt prevent cowbridge scoring 2 unanswered tries 6-2 Saul Hurley to his own surprise scored his hat trick try 6-3 Finn Davies holding the ball with two hands dived over for another 7-4 But Cowbridge scored again although no Harry on this side all the side scored with 2 quick tries cowbridge 9-4 But a great straight run from ko for Finn Evans 9-5 final score   thanks Charlie Report collated by Helen Howells scripted jointly by steptoe                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Harry” bedders ” beddall opend the days play with a fine up the middle try1-0 followed after a dropped ball with Flamming Eamonn skooting up the park after some slick tag handling to cross the whitewash 2-0. cowbridge girded there loins to bullock there way up the strip with some fine support work to score 2-1 a fumble restart saw there flyer pickup and weave his magic to touch down 2-2 . Shock horror cowbridge again bridged the rocks defense slack tagging did for them 2-3. the rocks steadied themselves for a match and Harry B returned the favor after a slick before the tag pass from swivelhipped Rowan. shipping the ball with ease into the path of Bedders 3-2 (note to paul, rowans dad, you missed it )(Nieve his daughter was making her debut with the pebbles. under jon saunders )i digress not for the first time ?3-3       half time.                                                                               cowbridge stsrted tagged out .Some great straight running by Evan weston released Gethin to bullock his way to glory4-3. the dairymen return with style 4-4 again cowbridge tagg out the rocks and slip the ball to there stepper 4-5, a tense period with furious tagging and a little physicality taking place by both sides all in the spirit of the game ensued the match being reffed by cowbridges cauiliflowerd supremo being of the forward varity let it go .no complaints by either side both players and supporters alike .cowbridge broke free and put it across the line 4-6. Evan Ryan picked up a pop ball to see the line beckoning and remembering his coaching ran straight as a dye through two players grasping at his tail scored his first try for the rocks . (Dad “scotish steve ” Spain stag weekend missed it )5-6 cowbridge shuttled there way forward try count 5-7 Ciaran brown not featured much this game came up with a stunner 6-7 and harry B finished with a mad cap dash full length right wing to close out the game 7-7. Ref blowing full time honors even                 second match Evan weston scores after 20 seconda 1-0 bridge draw level 1-1 the rocks tagged out the bridge cross again 1-2 again fabulous tagging and the rocks are bereft of ideas the dairymen cross again 2 un answered trys 1-3 . Gethin stepped up to stop Cowbridge getting there fourth and the game started to turn. Bedders got his 2nd 2-3 kieron davies shimmied his way through 3-3 Half time Bedders opened up with a fine run to cross. Ciaran found his feet and stepped up and through a tackle to break the line 5-3 cowbridge woke up to put together a fine period and scored with a determined drive up the left flank5-4. Tapped of start a gallop from gethin, saw him cross for his second, bedders finished with a flourish after the ball ,like a hot potato skipped from hand to hand like a barbarian training session down barry island7-4 . The ref blew at full time.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                a tunnel made by the boys, and both sides trooped through. three cheers echoed around the Harlequin`s from both sides, the applause was heard in the royal oaks beer garden. A great day both teams evenly matched both refs playing the game to the ful, Matt for st peters and Big Rich for cowbridge. well done to Ants animals and Huws hero`s our on the field coaches whose efforts are well appreciated Aled came late on as Gruff had a tennis trial and wanted to get in some rugby before the day was out. the team is coming on great and with new boys fitting in with ease . Taj being our newest and after one session showed that he is not far behind the pack and his effort both on and off the ball was noted by all three coach`s and me well done Taj. Carwyn Ollie Matt Rhys as the pictures show were all over the park doing there stuff with enthusiasm i am proud of all of you . the man  of the match this weeks go`s to Finn Evans OUTSTANDING                                                                                                                                                                                         Now for next week we must get there by 10;15 we are cooking it is movember all kids to don a tash ,The  ladies are at the stove ,selling both raffle tickets ,and colecting for prostate cancer . This is our first time in the kitchen and first time that we have the responasabillty of making an impact at the club . thankyou all for your offers of help Shelly and Don will be on hand for advice ,and i will pickup the raffle tickets on friday . lets do this!!!   Ange will be head chief ,Claire is Raffle matron ,and Helen will get the oppositions food tickets sorted .Becca &Mel are on pots and pans( i mean sou and pastry chiefs) and Emma is going to relive every one of as much cash as she can Blag. cheers again all STEPTOE

Sunday 13th November

Report by Denfa       6-5 lost 3-5 won

Report

A beautiful, autumn day up the Gwent valley playing Croesyceilliog known as the Cockrels.Or the” Cocks ” So the rocks V the cocks. A fabulous setting at woodland Rd, with the green and black teams streaming all over the verdant fields of Cwmbran. The cocks teams emblazoned in red and yellow the hue of autumn strewn about the ground, mums and dads ambling around – some nusring hangovers, all the players eyeing up there opposition wondering if they were to play them big boys over in the corner with full beards the scene was set . We split the team in to 2 both having ten players , The Cocks agreed to play us twice they having only ten players . The Cocks tapped of and tagging ensued,change over ball and a quick break by flaming eamonn saw the rocks open the scoring 0-1 The cocks returned the score with there stepper crossing with a fine run .Steve the cocks coach and ref had introduced off side and the teams coped admirably with the new rule and mostly listened to him . The game was a quite slow affair with adjustments to tags and kit but with all the rules being applied both sides played very well and were evenly matched .Dylan Yarwood opened his account with a stuttering start and a angled run for the line 1-2 a turn over ball saw yarwood eat up the ground to get his second 1-3. the cocks went through the phases to be tagged out . and the whistle blew . The cocks ran in a try from the start2-3 . then something went awry both teams started to pass the ball forward for no reason and i mean forward Steve explained and they both settled down again . Rhys tagged like a demon ciaran brown stayed on side and the team had great shape about them Ant and Huw doing a fine job corralling the boys. the cocks equaled the score with a move down the left . a wide pitch helping the boys from both sides to find space .. Dylan balch Tagged well and Kieron davies and evan ran straight and true . both eating up the ground some fine tagging by the cocks stopping progress . the ball turned over from a dropped pass and they were away 3-3 . A start and move along the line with tag pass tag pass tag pass with the rocks in great support ollie Noon involved twice , saw ciaran make a strong run to off load to Yarwood for his hat trick 3-4 the game drawing to a close up stepped Joel to finish the scoring for the rocks3-5 . then disaster the cocks score . 4-5 turn over 5-5 . steve the ref playing advantage and letting the game run from dropped and slipped pass`s the cocks finished with a flourish and scored at the death 6-5 no complaints a great game played very well by both sides. and reffed to within an inch of its life. with fair advantage been given to both sides . WELL DONE REF . a good rest was had by the cocks with the under 8`s playing a game and our boys watching with intent “(well not really) a pile on, and an impromptu Exodus to the far end of the field to welcome Uncle Kev who had biked his way up from cardiff his Lycra`d brow glisting in the mid day sun. it had taken him 2and half hours to get here . and he missed eamonn play ” go ead uncle Kev ” Second match. The rocks in possession got tagged out and change over ball saw the cocks step into touch driven wide by a pursuing rocks defense, James mcaid made a brilliant tag to stop a certain try, in the midst of the action. Finners scored from a couple of tag pass`s and a weaving run 0-1. Griff playing his second game to make up the numbers carried the ball well and passed out of hand with out being tagged put Alex the Italian stallion on a run that left every one in his wake . 0-2 . the cocks returned the score with a good drive up the left 1-2 the ball sent to rowan who passed in double quick time to Harry Beddall who weaved and danced his way over from the half way line with out hand being placed on him Applause broke out from both sets of supporters 1-3. the cocks were thwarted again by another fine tag from James ripping the tag with relish and shouting TAGGGGGGG at the top of his voice. Finn evans ball in two hands scored at pace . 1 4 the cocks hit there stride and returned two un answered try`s 2-4 3-4 half time, Tom “thumb” Maccallum tagging like a mainiac. Steve turned the sides round in quick fashion and a tense game ensued with both sides listening to there coach`s and steve the ref. all players tagging and observing the off side . then it happened again the stallion picked up the ball from rowan again and he was off striding out getting faster and faster the cocks admiring there quarry from afar . our boys stood in awe and watched the crowd stunned into silence crossed the line grounded the ball and jogged back adopting JJ Wiliams gate looking at the ground smiling softly to himself . the cocks returned the ball up the park ,James mcaid thrust his hand out tagged for the final time and Steve blew . 3-5 to the rocks . a great game a tunnel was made and all the players went through, to three cheers and we all repaired to the cocks cricket and rugby club for sausage and chips where if you get the chance Visit . up stairs is a great picture of Mike Burgess about to crush Gareth Edwards . the man of the match Was james macaid for his great tagging . you dont have to score try`s to be the be the man of the match the team is the most important thing we have to offer, and all- though Dylan got three Alex got two. The effort by james and the way he did his job made him stand out head and shoulders above all the players today well done james . to days stats were provided by Scottish Steve who is off on a stag weekend next week much to his wife’s dismay . steve hails from glasgow and football is his game . however he has com e to embrace rugby and is off to watch cardiff in france thanks for you efforts steve . Steptoe

Sunday 6th November

Report by Denfa

Score: 6 Match`s

On a fine Movember morning with ten minutes before kick off Glamorgan wanders turned up to play. A quick reorganization and two pitches were marked out and a three way tourny was started. First up The Rocks V LLanishen. Llan kicked off in possession and ran to touch, after the coach wanted touch to be hand over ball ??Finnley and Eamonn interacted stunning straight down the left wing to score finners with the touch down 1-0 llan then ran straight to touch ?hand over. some straight running and a quick tagg pass to Harry Beddal who scored his first in the green and black. 2-0 restart to touch ? Gruff and Alex inter-passed and GRuff scored with a lovely change step at the line 3-0 restart llan ran to the right touch agin with there coach bellowing in there ears . game stopped llans coach warned and Taggball at the touch was introduced llan ranthrough the phases and tagged out . Dylan Yarwood scored with a flowing run and the score 4-0 . half time Llan passed and scored 4-1 we returned with harry beddal scoring a blinder from half way5-1 . llan returned the score with a few visit’s to touch but started to gain confidance 5-2 Evan Ryan ran straight and true off loaded to eamonn who off loaded the Yarwood who crossed with gusto.6-2 llan had a purple patch missed taggs made it 6-3 and a lost ball which Ben picked up ran the length 6-4 the rocks steadied the ship with joel running in a fine solo effort 7-4. a mix up with the llans passing saw Alex run in a try that Gerald Davies would have been proud of on the left wing eating up the ground like a gazelle8-4 eamonn finished the match at the death with a try again down the left . 9-4 match analysis by Scottish steve Evans dad cheers Stevie the following report and score were provided by Paul Fahy recruited at a moments notice As our resident Hack Lucas was drafted in to coach one of the sides Scores for matches today. Rocks V Glam Wand’s Glam 0-1 Eamonn length of pitch to equal 1-1 Gethin Howells try disallowed forward pass (shame on you dad) Finlay Evans 1st try 2-1 Glam just on half time 2-2 Half Time Rocks 2 Glam Wands 2 1st score glam 3-2 Harry Foley scores Smiling all the way 3-3 Glam score 3-4 Saul tears them to bits 4-4 Rowan scores 5-4 Glam 5-5 Finlay Evans 2nd try 6-5 Full time Rocks 6 Glamorgan Wands 5 Rocks V Llanishan Llanishen score 17 secs 0-1 Finlay Evans nips over for his hat trick for the day 1-1 Llanishen 1-2 Saul’s second of the day 2-2 Llanishen try on 7 mins 2-3 Ollie Noon called back after a promising run for a false start Half time Rocks 2 Llanishen 3 Finlay Evans on fire 4th try to level it 3-3 Llanishen try 3-4 Eamonn Rogers second try makes it 4-4 Llanishen score 2 quick tries to make it 4-6 Rocks tagged out under pressure Llanishen try score 4-7 Llanishen pick on loose ball to score 4-8 Llanishen try score 4-9 Eamonn Rogers 3rd try makes it 5-9 Llanishen try finish strongly to win deservedly 5-10 Full Time Rocks 5 Llanishen 10 this match was the last and this report is not in order of play Glam wanted to play there 8`s so i agreed as all experience is good . Rocks V Glamorgan Wands Big Boys Eamonn Rogers 1-0 2mins Glamorgan try 1-12min 45 Harry Beddall 2-1 3min 50 Dylan Yarwood 3-1 @7min 46 Glamorgan try 3-2 @8 min 50 Allesandro on 10 mins Half Time Rocks 4 Glamorgan Wands 2 Finlay Evans no 5 after 1 min 5-2 Glamorgan try 5-33 min 30 Gruff Rhys try 6-3@4 min 30 Glamorgan try 6-4 4 min 45 Dylan Yarwood try 7-4 @7min 20 Finlay Davies try 8-410 min Full Time Rocks 8 Glams Big Boys 4 A fine result for the boys who had learned they were playing the Big Boys and relished the challenge. some great play by the rocks . Pauls report how ever is concise and to the point and is also a very exiting read i have to curb my coloring in of events and stick to the “MEAT” cheers Paul paul is rowans dad My other SLAM twin The rocks V lannishen finlay Evans scored 1-0 then saul Hurley ran in a blinder 2-0 harry beddal got one 3-0 eamonn ran in 2 5-0 finally harry foley got another cheers simon this result is by memory and i am afraid simons mind is not what it used to be Llan did score but Si cant remember . it was there second match so we will give them 4 as they improved as they played on in the tourny now that the touch was abandond as a bad idea . The rules will be enforced as the boys improve and i think pour boys are ready for the rules to be applied but we have to help all the players from both sides and enjoyment is the key we stopped Glammorgan Wanders from passing forward by the end of the tourny and Llan from running to touch small steps to a greater game come the new year Offside will be introduced and be part of the game, the rocks glamoran wanders Finn Evans opened1-0 glammy returned 1-1 saul 2-1 finn evans 3-1 glammy 3-2 eamonn 4-2 glammy 4-3 glammy4-4 eamonn5-5 finnley 6-4 half time Finn evans 7-4 eamonn 8-4 glammy 8-5 finnley lenght of the feild 9-5 glammy again 9-6 finnlley again to eamonn 10-6 and the deed was done The man of the match this week isHARRY BEDDAL who on debut scored 4 trys and played like a vet only one training session dad you must be very proud . Finn Evans 5 try`s was revised to Six well done Finn .Rhys, Lilly, Jon JO well done tagged great and are improving very week . Ollie and Edward a good all round performance Ollie is playing like an old pro not glory hunting but doing the hard work for the team Tagging is more important than scoring and i see a blind side flanker developing nicely Matt as always job done this sweeping role and defending that you have given yourself is working well . these boys and girls are the bedrock of a club. and just to say we were missing 4/5 players due to illness. and one player played while still suffering talked his mum into it and got on with it well done KD Now then on the 27th all kids to have a tash or beard drawn or stuck Getthin stop shaving Dude? we are promoting Movember prostrate Cancer Cricc are coming tashed up . we also need mums to sell raffle tickets and do the food or Dads this is our first time doing the food and it is our chance to be come Part of the St Peters family . Girls you can spare the” immac” for a couple o weeks and out do the men JOKE . My Tash is reminiscent of Wurzel Gummage cheers for all your support Steptoe

Sunday 30th October

Report by Denfa 3-1 3-4 9-2 4-6 rumney score first

Report

Four games played today. Tony the defector and my self decided to play an experienced team and an inexperienced team so first up was the teams that have played the game and have a grasp on the rules this game was played with all the rules as far as we could without offside and blatant forward passes ?Progression being the aim ! game one rumney scored first .1-0The Rocks came straight back at the Blues being well Shepherded into touch change over ball .Rumney took advantage and ran in another tout sweet 2-0. Again the rocks tried to break the defense but they tagged well and battened down the hatch`s . rumney finished in possession and at the whistle it was 2 -0 to the blues .St Peters started the second half strong and dominated the rumney half.they were tagged out with no score. with possession rumney showed there class. and with only one pass ran the length to score 3-0. St peter`s somewhat bemused at this juncture . rallied themselves . a slick passing move saw Eamonn rogers dance over for a score .3-1 .. Point to note . this change of play with the new rule being added foxed our boys and kept running out of space . looking to move the ball and looking for gaps . inadvertently ran to touch hence the ball being turned over . a lesson learned noted and digested . . the close support of rumney being the feature of the game . some might say THE FLYING WEDGE has made an ugly return to the game . tagging was attempted and mainly got but the close supporting runner got a pass trundled on and so on . “Humpf” Martin johnston would have been proud !! nough said ? Second match. the two inexperienced sides . the match started roughly as the first rumney scored1-0 and then possession changed hands before rumney scored a second 2-0 . With a minute to go Ciaran brown pulled the deficit back to in at the half 2-1 down . A stiff talking to by “steptoe” with running straight and holding the ball in two hands ringing in the boys and girls ears. saw the start of the second half the rocks started well but a stay pass stemmed progress. the rocks Rallied again with Saul Hurley getting his first for the club with a shilly and a shally and a firm grounding of the ball got the drawing Try . 2-2 Rumney returned the ball tagged out . and some determined running by Evan……. ball held firmly in two hands as if the last loaf of bread ever to have been baked was in his sole command . galloped over the line . His first game for the club after one training session . i know we have found a second row of the future well done Evan .. 2-3 the rocks turned over the ball with the other evan…. taking his chance well all though ball under one arm corner flagged himself over . again first game for the club. Bravo mon brav!! 2-4 this leaving the rocks with a bit to spare rumney wedge themselves up and scored 3-4. Note Lilly St peters first girl to play and our very own Spice girl had a great debut and has also made us the proud owners of a pair of twins. the o`briens and the noons .A special mention to James Mcaid who tagged with spirit , Keiron davies who tried to get the ball moving and oliver noon who`s determination is showing more and more every week . and has probably the best game face of all of our players,and he means it . fab . the third game our inexperienced side against there better side . The rocks defense was strong and saw some great tagging. however it was rumney that crossed the line 1-0 rocks came back but a foot in touch saw the hand over and a fractured rocks defensive line meant it was only time before rumney ran in there second 2-0 the rocks battled back for again the touch being the best defense for rumney turned the ball ran in a fine try .3-0. the fourth was quickly dispatched and the rocks were 4-0 down. restart and a fumble saw rumney gain a fifth 5-0 Second half started with the rocks running through the phases with evan… getting on the scorecard 5-1 . turnover from a rare rumney mistake saw Ciaran brown snaffle up the ball and with the line at his mercy trotted over all the while looking for support 5-2rumney replied in fine style wedging the ball up the field 6-2 there followed another touch turnover and rumney crossed again . 7-2 . Oliver noon launched himself with a now familiar Noon run straight and true only to put a stud in touch . turn over rumney score .8-2 a fumbled ball and Gabbi the rumney spice girl ran in her third or fourth try and took the opportunity well as is her want a very fine player indeed final score 9-2 . Note a sterling effort by our team three debutantes and a couple of players who are making progress not by steps but by strides . and of course when luck sometimes go`s against you you pick yourselves up knuc