THE Pembroke Panthers were away to Newcastle Emlyn last Sunday afternoon in warm, sunny weather, a complete contrast to the past months of wet weather.

The Pembroke squad were hoping to erase memories of the recent Bowl loss and claim a win on the road, knowing that they would have to be at their very best to achieve this, despite this being Emlyn’s inaugural season in the WRU League.

Pembroke Captain Dawson Davies presenting commemorative pennant to his opposite number.
Pembroke Captain Dawson Davies presenting commemorative pennant to his opposite number. (Pic supplied)

N.Emlyn started the stronger and built a good lead in the first half 24-7, but the Panthers hung in and scored a few points in reply, thanks to great work from the forwards and backs combining.

The visitors responded more strongly in the second half scoring multiple tries in an exciting, seesaw game.

Eventually the home side held out to win 36-26.

Successful Pembroke Youth squad and coaches at Crymych.
Successful Pembroke Youth squad and coaches at Crymych. (Pic supplied)

The Youth squad were in action in Crymych, playing in the Pembs KO Youth Cup semi final, for a place in the final against Aberystwyth, which is due to take place at Narberth in mid May.

Pembroke dominated possession and territory for the bulk of the game, with their industrious forwards providing lots of ball, allowing their creative and hard running backs to exploit many opportunities.

Crymych put up a very stern defence, but failed to capitalise on their rare forays into the visitor’s half.

Pembroke scored three very well constructed tries to lead 0-19 at the break, then added another four equally well worked tries in the second half to eventually win 0-47 to the delight of their coaching group and large travelling support.

Pembroke and Heol y Cyw U10s players.
Pembroke and Heol y Cyw U10s players. (Pic supplied)

Touring sides visited the club last weekend, with the U10s entertaining Hoel-y Cyw (Bridgend) and the U14s entertaining Minchinhampton (Gloucester).

Both squads had really tough but very enjoyable battles on the day, the U10s coming out on top and the U14s after a slow start, which saw Minch build a large lead, reacted very positively in their second half to reduce a huge deficit, but still end up losing a very entertaining and exciting game 31-39.

Both visiting teams were then given the usual excellent hosting and hospitality and presented with club pennants to mark their visits.

Other junior sections were also in action all over the county, with mixed fortunes.

Congratulations to ex-players Kyle Davies and Alex Wilkes on finishing the London Marathon on Sunday, they raised lots of funds for their chosen charity Tenovus.