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Narberth 25-27 Bargoed, WRU National Championship

Bargoed travelled west to face long time National Championship rivals Narberth, looking for a win after an opening weekend defeat to Neath.

The home side had the upper hand early on and scored a converted try after 20 minutes following a piercing passage of play through the Bargoed defence.

The Bulls responded well but the Narberth defence held firm, however they conceded a penalty and Steff Jones slotted the kick to make it 7-3 after 25 minutes.

Bargoed were now starting to look threatening as they built their attacking game, and after some good approach work, winger Dai Evans crossed in the corner to take an 8-7 lead.

The hosts responded and when Bargoed conceded another penalty they took full advantage and kicked the three points.

Bargoed managed to get some territory and then, from a lineout, James Leadbeater hit Owain Cooper on a great line to crash over and score. Steff Jones converted and at half time Bargoed were in front 15-10 in this end-to-end battle.

Bargoed started the second half promisingly and Steff Jones kicked a penalty to increase the lead to 18-10. It looked as though Bargoed were starting to take charge with their set piece improving.

However, Narberth were next to strike with a well taken try that left the Bargoed’s defence scrambling. Narberth closed the gap to 18-15. 

Steff Jones kicked another penalty to make it 21-15 in this tight encounter. 

Bargoed had a period of pressure and looked like they would increase the lead but an interception saw the home side break away. Bargoed’s Rhys Thomas did well to make a tackle ten metres out from the Bargoed tryline, but the tackle was adjudged to be high so a penalty try was awarded and a yellow card issued.

The hosts increased their lead to 25-21 when Bargoed conceded another penalty with just nine minutes left.

Bargoed’s scrum was now dominant and allowed them the opportunity to build the attack. Although a couple of chances were created, they failed to take advantage. 

The final play of the game saw Bargoed counter attack through Ollie Andrews and set up a ruck in midfield, the ball was recycled and thanks to some good work by Darren Humphries in getting the ball away, winger Dai Evans could profit with a kick and chase to score his second try of the day under the posts.

Steff Jones converted and Bargoed came out on top as 27-25 winners in what was a tight game from start to finish. 

Head Coach Mike Pugsley said: “We were pleased to get a win against a tricky Narberth team. The boys grew into the game and showed good character to come back after a penalty try, which made for an interesting final ten minutes. We are looking forward to a run of games to build some momentum as competition for places increases week on week.”