Bangor show battling spirit in surprise win
BANGOR Rugby Club will be looking to further boost their chances of avoiding a relegation fight in Division Two North when they host coastal rivals Rhyl this Saturday.
The Citizens improved their lowly position last weekend with a surprise 21-17 win against Llanidloes in an exciting game at Cae Milltir.
Both sides had personnel problems, resulting in players playing out of position and uncontested scrums were used.
Bangor initially looked to be heading for a big defeat, penned into their own half and letting wing forward Andrew Williams cross the line twice in the first 15 minutes. Successful conversions from Adam Price put the visitors 14 points up.
Bangor showed great fighting spirit and managed to get going with a move to wing Sion Davies, who set up a kick-andchase to the corner and was unfairly knocked off the grounding so the referee awarded a seven-point penalty try.
The home side’s enthusiasm continued and Morys Williams went in for a five-pointer, converted by Steffan Owen, to level the score at the break.
Bangor were penalised for offences at almost every breakdown and fell behind when Llanidloes finally opted to take a kick at goal and Price slotted the ball between the uprights.
The hosts stormed back with spirit and forward Tom Yardley added to his growing tally of tries this season with a match-winning effort.
Owen’s conversion was critical as it gave Bangor a four-point lead.
The visitors might have grabbed the victory at this late stage as they had opportunities to kick for goal but opted to go for a five-pointer.
Bangor’s defence was stretched to the limit but they won a rare penalty on time and kicked the ball dead to end the encounter.
This win sees Bangor go above Rhyl and Colwyn Bay in the table. They play Rhyl at home on Saturday and the Bay away the following week, so have a great chance to make their position secure.