No catching the flying Williams as Merthyr stretch away

DEFENDING champions Merthyr made it two wins out of two with a comfortable but not entirely satisfying victory over Bedwas at the Wern.

Home right-wing Lewis Williams stole the show grabbing a first-half hattrick of tries, while replacement hooker Rhys Williams snapped up a fourth before the interval.

Full-back Joshua Martin kicked a penalty goal and two conversions.

Bedwas looked flat from the opening whistle and their only points came from a try by lock James Richards midway through the first half, converted by outside-half Joseph Scrivens.

But Merthyr will be disappointed they could not make further headway after the interval, with only Martin’s penalty to show for their efforts.

However, they once again demonstrated the strength-in-depth of their squad, making no few than ten changes from the team that beat Cardiff 24-18 away seven days earlier.

None did better than highly promising newcomer Paddy McBride in the second row, while Teri Gee got through some good attacking work at centre.

Former Bedwas player Phil Rees, who captained the side in the absence of Craig Locke, also did well in the back row. After trailing 24-7 at the interval, Bedwas knuckled down and at least salvaged some pride with good tackling and general defensive play to stop the Ironmen chalking up a hatful of points.

Star man

Lewis Williams – Merthyr