Coach Mark Hopkins recalls events as Hert of Wales Under 14s took on Afan Nedd.
HOW U14 43
AFAN NEDD 5
When these sides met in October, Afan Nedd completely outplayed us winning 46-10. To some, this result would probably be unbelievable.
But the coaching staff have always known of the talent within the team. Hard training, a belief in themselves and a good game plan, which the team adhered to, gave the team the victory they deserved.
I do not think that anybody made a mistake, so good was the performance. The referee stated after the match, "It was the finest junior team performance that I have seen in my seven years as a referee". I say no more.
The game started with the Afan Nedd outside half bringing his big ball carriers into play. Within that first facet of play HOW scrum half and captain Nathan Pritchard, tackled and drove the Afan nedd tight head back 10 feet and that epitomised the team effort.
Mitchell Dummet [Merthyr] was simply outstanding and scored 4 tries. Dean Gunter [Abercynon] took the game by the scruff of the neck and ran the show. But the true heroes were at forward. Lloyd Hopkins [Dowlais] controlled the lineouts and took two against the head to boot.
The back row of Luke Palmer [Dowlais] Dale Jones [Abercwmboi] and Thomas Withers [Abercynon] were first to every break down and kept the ball alive at all cost, which was the plan. But from number 1 to 22 they were outstanding.
A great result. We look forwad to our game against Ponty!!!!!
Mark Hopkins
Coach