Cardis keep on winning (From Western Telegraph)

Cardis keep on winning

Cardigan 23 Aberavon Quins 17

Cardigan continued on their winning way as they outlasted a physically strong Aberavon Quins' side which wasn't intent on taking prisoners at the King George Vth Ground.

The Teifisiders were 18-3 ahead at the break and the final margin flatters the Quins because their tally was boosted by a last-second seven points in a match which was switched from the Quins' ground in Port Talbot.

Cardigan took the lead with a penalty from pivot Aled Thomas and shortly afterwards the Teifisiders increased their lead to eight points when a base of the scrum move involving Chris Jones and Gareth Mason saw the scrum half put winger Johnnie Mathias over in the corner.

Aberavon Quins opened their account with a penalty from right wing James Taylor but Aled Thomas slotted a penalty and darted clear from half way to score a quality try at the posts which he also converted right on half time to open up a 15-point interval gap in the Cardis' favour.

The second half was a more dour affair as Cardigan defended steadfastly into a slight breeze, with Eurig Lloyd, Gareth Davies and skipper Barry John all covering well - but the Quins finally managed their first try from a scrum five where Taylor came in from his wing to score a try which he also goaled.

It stung Cardigan into raising the tempo again and after several half chances had been spoilt they made the game safe when good ruck ball allowed Mason to pop the ball up for the lurking Mark Hughes.

Aberavon Quins had the final word when No 8 Gareth Rice barged his way over and Taylor converted, but the final whistle from excellent referee Terry Evans (Pwllheli) saw Cardigan good value for their third league success in as many matches!

lThe Cardigan match sponsors were the Cardigan RFC Premier Members whilst the match ball was sponsored by Eveline Franklin, the wife of the club chairman.

Cardigan: Eurig Lloyd: Alun Williams; Barry John; Gareth Davies; Johnnie Mathias: Aled Thomas (Gary Souter); Gareth Mason: Eurfyl Davies (Richard Smith); Aled Harries (Martin Edwards); Barry Davies: Kevin Hurley; Andrew Phillips: Mark Hughes; Steve Liptrot (Colin Davies); Chris Jones.