DOWLAIS GIFT WIN TO CAERLEON

CAERLEON .................. 15 DOWLAIS ..................... 10

THE state of this heavy pitch was going to dictate the way this game would be played, and for Dowlais this was another game that was given to the opposition rather than them winning it.

Dowlais were quickly into a 10-point lead with a penalty from Steve James quickly followed by a smart try for Cameron Trowbridge who showed a fine turn of speed to outpace his opposite number and win the touch down, converted by Steve James.

Dowlais looked comfortable at this stage and their supporters waited for the next score, but Caerleon battled away, and a yellow card for the Dowlais second row was the advantage the home side wanted. They quickly made inroads into the Dowlais 22 and were rewarded with a try by their winger, the conversion was added, and quickly followed by a penalty putting the hosts just two points behind.

The second half turned into a forward slog with handling and running proving difficult on the heavy pitch.

It seemed that Dowlais were going to come away with a very hard earned 10-8 win, and with the referee checking for full-time the Dowlais backs had a moment of madness and instead of clearing their lines tried to run the ball out of their 22 resulting in an interception try under the posts, and a get out of jail card for Caerleon who just could not believe the gift just presented to them by Dowlais.

Surely the game management must improve if Dowlais are to get back to their winning ways. There is some hard work to be done by players and coaches before the next home game against Blaenavon on Saturday, March 24.

Supporters should check with the club in case one of the rearranged games is played midweek.