Llanelli 18-12 Carmarthen Quins
Llanelli came out on top in this regional clash to earn a much need win. In a low scoring encounter, there was real drama in the closing moments, when Quins missed a conversion to give them the lead which in all likelyhood would have given them the result with just final play to see out.
Llanelli dominated the early exchanges with their set piece working really well. They had very good field position on a few occasions but were unable to break down the visitors defence. On 18 mins, after another long period in the Quins 22m area, they were awarded a penalty by referee Ben Breakspear, Ioan Hughes slotted the goal. A few minutes later, it was the Quins who got the game’s first try. From a lineout mistake by Llanelli, centre Dylan Morgan had an easy run in to cross near the posts. Full back Aled Thomas added the extras to put the visitors ahead 3-7. On 27 mins, skipper Nathan Hart restored Llanelli’s lead from a driving maul. A super break by Ioan Hughes nearly extended the home lead but good covering defence saw the attack stemmed. At the half Llanelli 8-7 Carmarthen Quins
It was much the same at the start of the second period, Llanelli in good field position and seemingly on top. From a series of drives close to the Quins line it was Hughes again in the limelight, this time he bundled his way over for Llanelli’s second try of the game. He missed the conversion but Llanelli now led by 13-7. For the next 30 mins or so, the second period remained scoreless. As is usual, both sides made numerous changes and introduced impact players. The final 15 mins belonged to the visitors who were now dominating possession and setting up good opportunities to turn the game on its head. For what seemed like an age they pounded the home sides defence but it held firm until the dying moments of the game. After great phase play and patience the Quins got their try when former Llanelli player Dale Ford crossed wide out.
All hinged on the conversion, but it missed and Llanelli breathed a sigh of relief. All thought the ref would blow for time but there was time for one more play. With Llanelli now spread right across the Parc there was no way thro for the visitors, they spilt possession and flanker Josh Weeds calmly kicked ahead, picked up the loose ball and secured the much need win with Llanelli’s 3rd try. An exciting finish for all who came along to Parc y Scarlets.
Next up it’s another home game, Bargoed, next Saturday. They turned us over on their patch back in October so will come to the Parc with more than a little confidence. Of course, it goes without saying it’s another must win game for the town semi’s.
