News

Maesteg Celtic took a weakened side to play Penallta in the third round of the WRU Plate competition. Celtic made 6 changes to the team that defeated Porthcawl last week and found the division one and past Plate winners very strong. Many of the players were playing competitive rugby on a 4G surface for the first time. Penallta fielded a strong side with most of their three quarter line having had Premiership experience.

Penallta played with pace and skill while moving the ball wide at every opportunity. The Celtic pack held their own in the tight, for the first half, but injuries and substitutions put them on the back foot in the second half.

Celtics first try was scored by second row Rhys Bevan Jones. The forwards gained possession in their own half and patiently drove the ball to the home line for Rhys to touch down.

Celtics second try also came from intense pressure on the home line. Scrum half Scott Sainsbury kicked a penalty into the home corner and the pack pounded the try line until a gap allowed number 8 Ryan Turner to cross for the try. Sainsbury converted.

It was a hard game for the Celts but they showed their resilience by giving their best right up to the final whistle. Number 8 Ryan Turner richly deserved his Man of the Match award for his guts and determination under difficult circumstances.