Battling Bethesda are still chasing first victory
THAT first win of the season continues to elude Bethesda RFC after seven attempts – but the spirit they showed in last Saturday’s 33-22 defeat at Ruthin suggested a much-sought-after victory may not be too far away.
Both teams served up a thrilling game at Cae Ddol with a combination of dogged defence and open attacking rugby.
Centre Dafydd Lloyd put Ruthin ahead within five minutes of the start with a try beneath the posts which fly-half Nathan Jones converted.
Pesda responded positively and Ruthin had to defend well against a fast-running visiting attack before they reduced the arrears with a penalty after 10 minutes from stand-off Rhys Jones.
Picture: JOHN PALMER The Ogwen side missed a chance to narrow the gap when a penalty kick went wide and eventually the Blues cleared their lines.
It was now the visitors’ turn to defend. Ruthin were scrummaging well and on 40 minutes, after a scrum midway in Pesda’s half, wing Josh Wilson darted over for a try between the posts with Jones converting.
Straight after the break Blues full-back Jamie Jones forced his way through the defence and over the whitewash with Nathan Jones adding the bonus.
Within two minutes Ruthin got their bonus point try when Wilson ran from his own 22 and scored. At 26-3 up after 50 minutes play, one might have thought the game was over but the visitors were having none of it and after a short period of Pesda pressure Rhys Jones bagged a try which he converted.
The Blues responded and although Pesda defended well for 10 minutes or so eventually Lloyd got through for his second try again converted by Jones. Pesda rallied and on 70 and 79 minutes Rhys Jones and Ellis Jones scored two good tries, both with runs from near halfway, one of which was converted. The game which was a credit to both sides.
Bethesda will try again at home to Caernarfon this Saturday.