Stirring performance yields a bonus point
DESPITE losing 30-26 to a strong Llandudno side which made it eight wins on the bounce, much-improved Bethesda put up a stirring performance to claim a losing bonus point at Dol Dafydd.
In an exciting and open game, a Pesda side which had pulled itself clear of the Division One North relegation zone with three victories on the bounce scored an early interception try through winger Elis Ogwen, converted by Rhys Jones.
Continued attacks by the home side led to Llandudno changing gear.
The visitors hit back when through controlled play from within their own half they surged upfield, Lewis Jones crossing for a touchdown.
Llandudno kept up the pressure with Dan Colclough scoring a try which Byrom Davies converted.
Shortly after a Davies penalty made it 15-7.
Bethesda rallied and after a spell in the away half were rewarded with a Jones penalty.
Tudno now increased the tempo of their game and from a set scrum they launched an attacking movement with the ball being moved at pace through a number of hands. Lloyd Evans received the final try-scoring pass near the posts and Davies added the extras.
Two drop goals by Carwyn Williams left Bethesda in contention at the turnaround, trailing 22-16.
Soon after the restart the home side landed a penalty through Jones, who later converted a try by Iago Davies to put Bethesda into an unexpected but deserved 26-22 lead.
Llandudno dug deep,and came back to take the lead again when they broke from midfield with a surging run by Morgan Owen and Byrom Davies was in support to crash over for an uncon- verted try. Davies later added a penalty to establish a four-point gap.
In a bid to snatch a dramatic late victory, Bethesda then applied further pressure on Llandudno’s line. Resolute defence kept them out, leaving Pesda with a consolation losing bonus point which may still be crucial in the weeks to come.
Overall an excellent game, fully enjoyed by supporters of both sides, and confirmation of the strength of league rugby in North Wales.
The result saw Llandudno strengthen their hold on fourth place, while Bethesda remain in eighth.
Bethesda’s next scheduled league game is away to bottom side Colwyn Bay on April 7.
A return match at Llandudno will take place on April 14.