PEMBROKE First XV travelled to take on the already declared WRU Division 4A Champions Neyland in their final rearranged League match of the season, on the first wet day for weeks on Saturday, writes Darrell Willington.
The visitors matched their hosts in the scrum, attack and defence for the first point free 20 minutes, but then from both set and broken play the home backs ran strongly, handled really well and created some excellent tries, to build a big lead by the break.
They continued in the same vein in the second half scoring more well constructed tries, whilst the visitors failed to make the most of the few opportunities that came their way to make inroads against a very determined defence.
Pembroke, who have had a season full of highs and lows, persevered and were rewarded with two late tries after solid work from their industrious forwards.
However, the home side having dominated possession and territory for most of the game, fully deserved their comfortable 54-10 victory.
After the match Welsh Rugby Union representative Anthony Buchanan presented the Neyland club captain and the players with the league winners trophy and medals, amid joyous scenes involving the players, coaches and supporters.
A few of the club’s junior age groups were in action over the weekend; the U13s were on tour in the West country and won their match against Minehead Barbarians 52-26, whilst the U11s were at home to tourists Gorseinon and they too won a thrilling match 28-24.
Pembroke’s young No 10 Jameson Davies was named man of the match by the Gorseinon coaches.
The U13s now go into the County Finals Day to play in their age group final.
The under 16s squad were on tour at West country festival
Upcoming final fixtures of this season include, Panthers April 27 home to Tondu, Youth play Aberystwyth home on April 26, the U17s will play Neyland in the Mike Fry Plate with date yet to be confirmed.
Upcoming social events include: tickets for the annual club dinner are on sale in the clubhouse; the dinner will be at the Town Hall on May 23.
Friday night walking/running club has now started for people of all ages and abilities, sessions will go on throughout April, May and June meeting around 6.15pm, then during July, August and September social rugby sessions take over, with U16s starting at 5.30pm for an hour, followed by 16yrs+ starting at 6.30pm,.
People of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate.
On May 14 the club is hosting a BBQ fundraiser at Cresselly Arms, starting at 5pm. There is a Ladies Day Bottomless Brunch on June 14 at the club, tickets are on sale at the bar.
The Directors and Management Committee on behalf of all senior, youth, men’s and women’s squads, wish to say a very sincere thank you to all of the sponsors, who have given so generously throughout the season to support our teams and the club.
During past months and the coming closed season there will be a number of important projects being completed at the club; the directors would like to congratulate the management committee for their dedication, commitment and diligence in securing large amounts of external funding, which has allowed all of these to take place.