Neath V Carmarthen Quins
Saturday 13th December 2003

MATCH REPORT

NEATH 34 LLANDOVERY 17 (by Phil Space)

Television's best product (Neath) once again produced a match to savour for S4C ("the best we've covered this season," was one S4C man's verdict).

More importantly for Neath it kept the Blacks hot on the heels of Newport at the top of the Premier Division and it was down to sheer hard work and endeavour as they eventually subdued a very well-prepared Carmarthen side.

Carmarthen deservedly led 10-7 at halftime through a try by centre Emyr Jones converted by Giles Thomas who also kicked a penalty as against a first try of the season for James Storey (playing on the right wing) converted by Matthew Jones.

But Neath, with replacements Tom Davies and Andy Llewellyn to the fore, picked up the forward effort in the second-half. Carmarthen were still in it with 20 minutes to go as No.8 Alun Mason crossed for their second try converted by Thomas but Neath steamed away for victory.

Three second-half tries were registered by prop Andrew Howell after the kind of forward drive Neath fans dream of, by wing Richard Johnston after a 40-yard blindside dash and finally by centre John Leyshon who clattered through a couple of tired defenders.

Outside-half Matthew Jones converted them all and dropped a goal for good measure to take the man-of-the-match award from ex-Carmarthen and Neath hooker Mefin Davies.

With Aberavon losing at home to Llandovery (are they playing well !!), Neath and Newport are now well clear at the top but there can be no slip-ups on Saturday when Avon come to The Gnoll (kick off 2.30 pm).

The Blacks are gunning for a record Premier attendance on Saturday so get down to The Gnoll early. The Carmarthen game attracted Neath's poorest attendance (live TV, a cold and wet night, and Christmas parties) but Saturday afternoon ought to be like old times as the old neighbours clash !

For casual supporters and Avon fans, our prices are £ 8 Stand, £ 5 Field and Under-12's go free in the Field.

Neath :- P.Bamsey; J.Storey, E.Seveali'i, J.Leyshon, R.Johnston; Matthew Jones, R.Morgan; P.Jones, D.Poland, A.Howell;; Mark Jones, L.Bateman; B.Sinkinson, H.Jenkins, J.McPhail Replacements :- G.Morris, C.Anderson, P.Horgan, C.Griffiths, A.Littlehales, T.Davies, A.Llewellyn

Matthew Jones receives his Man of the Match Tankard from "Bob the Milk" (Head Stirrer - Thursday Night Crowd) on behalf of Mefin Davies