PEMBROKE First XV kicked off their new season with a home pre-season match against Pontyates.

A large crowd turned out to see the new recruits perform; the coaches gave TJ Jones, Danny Davies and James Allen debuts and all acquitted themselves very well.

The game itself was a very competitive and entertaining affair, with the home pack dominating for most of the game, providing good possession for their backs, who duly delivered on a number of occasions.

The visitors too had their moments and the lead changed hands on a number of occasions.

Both sides made mistakes, which were inevitable as both squads were rusty after their summer break, but eventually Pembroke scored the decisive try minutes from the end to claim a well deserved 24-17 victory.

The squad will travel to Llangadog next Saturday in search of an improved performance and another morale boosting win.

During the Pontyates match, ex-player Matthew Edwards and wife Chantelle produced a marvellous BBQ feast that was enjoyed by players, supporters and visito ; the £500+ that was raised will be added to through more events later this year. Chantelle is then due to compete in the London Marathon next year and all of the funds raised will be donated to the charity Nerve Tumours UK.

The Friday night adult social rugby evenings have continued to prove extremely popular, with a large turn out again last weekend and these sessions will continue for a few weeks yet.

Due to huge demand from the 12-16 age group, there will be sessions for this age group added into the programme starting this Friday August 23, 5.30pm-6.30pm; players of all abilities and those who have not played the game before are invited to come along.

Other pre-season fixtures in the coming weeks include, Youth to play Llandeilo at home August 31st, KO 2.30pm, the Panthers open their season at home to Tycroes on Sunday September 1st KO 2.30pm.

League fixtures start on September 7th, with the Youth away in Fishguard, the First XV are away to Whitland in Rd 1 of the Pembs KO Cup, before they play Quins away on 14 September in the first leg for the Eric Brown Cup and St Davids home on September 21 in the first leg of the Willington Slate, whilst the Panthers open their League programme at home on September 15 versus Newcastle Emlyn.

Monthly Bingo sessions continue at the club on the first Monday of each month, whilst the very popular coffee mornings for local residents and members continue on Thursday mornings between 10am and midday.