Tucker’s hat-trick sends Penallta through

WRU National Plate/Bowl round-up

REIGNING champions

Penallta were pushed all the way as they opened their defence of the Plate title before finally seeing off gallant Risca 27-19 to reach the second round.

The champions got off to a blistering start, with back rower Cory Tucker, who has been playing Premiership rugby with Cardiff this season, helping himself to a hat-trick to take a 17-7 lead at the break.

Risca, who haad already been beaten 27-14 by their hosts in Division 1 East this season, hit back to keep the game in the melting pot. Division 1 East leaders

Brynmawr were also pushed all the way before coming out on top 21-6 at Hartridge.

The top two teams in Division 1 North, reigning North Wales champions

Pwllheli and Nant Conwy, both eased into the second round with convincing wins. Nant ran out 34-8 winners at home to

Bro Ffestiniog, while Pwllheli were 45-5 winners at Caernarfon.

Division 1 East Central leaders Treorchy made light work of St Peter’s, winning 38-15, while it didn’t worry Rhiwbina when they went down to 13 men with two yellow cards as they scored two tries against Barry. The Squirrels eventually progressed with a 36-16 win.

Last season's runnersup, Ystalyfera, kicked-off their campaign with a convincing 38-0 home win over

Cwmavon. Skipper and No.8 Steff Jones led by example with two of his side’s five tries and Steffan Castle scored 18 points. Bowl champions

Amman United fell to a second defeat of the season to Carmarthen Athletic as they were beaten 24-19. It was a similar story for last season’s runners-up, Caerphilly, who lost 29-26 at home to Croesyceiliog.

Division 1 West Central leaders Maesteg Quins followed up their 34-7 league triumph over Kenfig Hill with a 25-10 home triumph.

Six sides were given a walk-over – Aberavon Quins, Abercarn, Colwyn Bay, Maesteg, Pencoed and Whitland.