News

On a glorious sunny day at the Gnoll Rugby ground, home of Neath RFC, a large crowd gathered to watch the Ospreys U14s Cup final between close rivals Maesteg Celtic and Tondu.

Tondu kicked off into a stiff breeze, and with Celtic failing to control the ball, they immediately got into the game, setting up a series of driving mauls and exerting strong pressure from the off. This continued for a long period and only a brave and strong defensive effort from Celtic kept Tondu out. Celtic simply could not get any possession of note and appeared to be a little bit flat, which is unlike them, whilst Tondu were very much up for it.  

The pressure told and following another phase of attacks the Tondu centre scored wide out, to take the lead at 5-0. The game became quite scrappy with frequent resets at the scrum and Celtic being penalised on numerous occasions for offside at set pieces on the intervention of the linesman.

Tondu maintained the pressure throughout the first half, with Celtic having little opportunity to release their dangerous backs. They relied on determined defence and good relieving touch kicks, but even with a lack of possession and territory Celtic kept themselves in the game at half time with the score still at 5-0.

The second half continued to show Tondu dominating possession, particularly at the line out, but with Celtic now producing some fine counter attacks from deep, and wingers Rhys Cahill and Ethan Morris making lots of ground raised their spirits, but Tondu came back with some strong and direct running, and eventually the pressure told and two tries in quick succession dented Celtics hopes. But in all credit they fought back with another fine movement down the left which saw Rhys Cahill sprint clear for a fine try, which went unconverted. However not to let Celtic have the last word Tondu finished strongly following some powerful runs from Sam Creber, which set up a nicely worked try for the left wing, to take the final score to Tondu 24- Celtic 5.

Tondu fully deserved the win, they played very well indeed, whilst Celtic will be disappointed with their performance on the day, but can be very pleased with their season overall, having lost only four matches, and winning the prestigious Amsterdam Tournament last month.

Many thanks to Head Coach Luke Richards and his support team, for all their hard work and commitment this season. To all the players in the squad, it’s been a pleasure to see how much they have developed over the season both as a team and as individual players, and to the Parents and supporters who have played a major part in this very successful and enjoyable season.

Can`t wait for next season.