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Wales Grand Finals previews - Saturday matches

This Saturday sees the culmination of the domestic Wales Rugby League season with a triple header of Grand Finals at Virginia Park, home of Caerphilly RFC. After the success of last year’s event, the WRL have chosen to return to the historic ground. The headline act, The Co-operative Wales Rugby League Conference Premier Grand Final between Bridgend Blue Bulls and Valley Cougars kicks off at 2pm but before that, there are two junior Finals. At 10.45am, Penallta Storm take on the Pontyclun-based Panthers for the right to be under 15 Champions of Wales. The teams finished first and second respectively in the final table, and the Panthers, who have only lost one game all season, will start as favourites. Storm also take part in the under 17 Final at midday. They are the reigning under 17 champions but finished third in the final table. They will have their work cut out against the Carmarthen-based CPC Bears who performed well all season to finish top. The main event at 2pm is undoubtedly the encounter that everyone predicted, Valley Cougars against Bridgend Blue Bulls. The two sides finished joint top of the final league table, beating each other once but otherwise remaining unbeaten. The Nelson-based Cougars won the title in 2008 while the Blue Bulls won the last of their five consecutive crowns a year earlier. Wales Rugby League’s National Development Manager, Mark Jones said: “Since taking up my post with Wales Rugby League this time last year, Rugby League in Wales has grown at a rapid rate. With so much interest from new clubs, and for the development of the game, the 2010 senior season was restructured and the league was split into two tiers, Premier and Championship. Saturday’s Premier Final is between the league’s two best sides and it should be an excellent occasion. “It has been an outstanding season for Junior Rugby League here in South Wales and Saturday sees the Under 15s and U17s seasons come to their conclusions. “The junior leagues in Wales have produced and are still producing quality Super league players who include Crusaders stars like Elliot Kear, Jamie Murphy, Lloyd White and the South Wales Scorpions’ Captain Aled James. The aim is to give the players a structured rugby league programme that will prepare them for the next step on the player pathway.” Admission to the full day costs just £3 for adults and free entry for children.

BRIDGEND BLUE BULLS 56 - CARDIFF DEMONS 4

Bridgend Blue Bulls will take on Valley Cougars in Saturday’s Co-operative Welsh Rugby League Conference Grand Final after an emphatic 56-4 victory over Cardiff Demons. Cardiff had the best of the first 20 minutes and did everything but score, putting the Blue Bulls backline under intense pressure. But Bridgend took the lead with their first real attack when Shaun Owens ran over for a try which was converted by Gareth Howells. The lead was doubled when Karl Hocking forced his way through to make the score 10-0. Connor McDonald scored straight from kick-off with Howells converting again then a Tylan Mafi try in corner made the score 22-0 soon after that and it was game over for the plucky Cardiff. Howells went through for his first try but failed to convert and Bridgend were 26-0 up at half-time. It was soon 32-0 straight after the interval when Howells went over and converted before getting a hat-trick to make it 36-0. Cardiff finally got over the line when James Thatcher fed Maltese international Paul Bartlett to go over. But Bridgend restored the balance when Alan Pope, who is also contracted to South Wales Scorpions intercepted to score under the sticks. McDonald went over for two more tries to complete his hat-trick, Matt Hutchings added another, as well as converting three times himself to complete the rout.

Welsh Conference Premier match reports Saturday 7th August 2010

VALLEY COUGARS 70 - CPC BEARS 10 By Mark Rowley Valley Cougars clinched the 2010 Welsh Conference Premier Minor Premiership in front of a bumper crowd at Nelson RFC after beating CPC Bears 70-10 in a thoroughly entertaining game. Although up against a more experienced team the CPC Bears came to upset the tables but their sustained pressure from kick-off came to nothing as the Cougars scored 24 unanswered points following tries from Mark Herbert, Rob Allsopp, Mark Powell and Jon Saniger, all converted by Paul Emmanuelli. From the fourth kick-off, a mistake by Cougars, three tackles later, Palmer crossed for CPC for a try that was converted by Alex Price. Cougars hit back with a further two tries, that were scored by Powell and Alsopp, the second converted by Emmanuelli before a consolation try for CPC by Andrew Wilson. Three further tries from Powell and one each from Stephen Bray, Troy Brockbank and James Allen, all converted by Emmanuelli completed the scoring. CARDIFF DEMONS 28 - BRIDGEND BLUE BULLS 56 by Simon Davies Bridgend Blue Bulls secured a home tie in the Welsh Premier Playoff Semi-Finals but thanks to a battling performance from the third placed Demons they missed narrowly missed their chance to finish the regular season on top of the table. In a game which was never short of end-to-end action, it was Cardiff who were first to score through Andy Lee on six minutes but the Blue Bulls levelled four minutes later through Dan Smith. The Demons retook the lead on 16 minutes when Mike Rowe powered through the Bridgend Defence and held on to a 12-6 advantage until just five minutes before the break. But the game turned on its head in the last five minutes of the first half with the Blue Bulls running in three long range tries from half backs Gareth Howells (2) and Alan Pope to stamp their authority on proceedings with a 24-12 half time lead. Two tries in the first twelve minutes of the second period including a long break finished by Connor McDonald gave the Blue Bulls an insurmountable 24 point advantage. Supporters of the Bridgend Club, already 22 points to the good on points difference over the Valley Cougars before kick-off, must have thought that with almost half an hour to play and Cardiff reduced to twelve fit players they would run in enough points to put the equation beyond the Cougars reach. But it was not to be as the plucky Demons matched the Blue Bulls try for try over the last 25 minutes with Bridgend tries by Dave Norman, Dan Smith (2), Tylan Mafi and Andrew Fryer cancelled out by Demons scores from Alex Edwards, Ben Kerr, Andy Lee and James Thatcher making the final score Cardiff 28 Bridgend 56 and leaving the unfortunate Blue Bulls ten points adrift of the Cougars in the race for first place. NEATH PORT TALBOT STEELERS 42 - TORFAEN TIGERS 10 By Ian Golden at The Gnoll, Neath Neath Port Talbot Steelers dominated the majority of the inaugural Welsh Conference Championship, eventually winning 42-10 against the plucky Torfaen Tigers. Steelers led after just two minutes when Dylan Griffiths set up Lee Jenkins to go over with Dane Clancy converting. Torfaen got a try back five minutes later were John Sutcliffe opened up a gap for Joel Pay to run through. Daryl Carter’s conversion attempt went just wide. And they took the lead from kick-off when Robert Tovey dived through the Steelers defence to ground. Carter’s kick was good to make the score 10-6. But they were only in the lead for just five minutes, Jenkins scoring his second for Steelers from close range to level the scores before they regained the advantage when Richard Brookes grounded and Clancy converted. And NPT extended their lead four minutes before the interval with another short range try, Corey Bailey diving home, and a great individual try from full-back Tom Powell following kick-off, converted by Clancy, gave the Steelers a 16-point lead at the interval. Richard Cunniffe extended the local side’s lead eight minutes into the second half with a try that was converted by Clancy. Tigers attempted a try back but had a score disallowed for a knock-on. Steelers recovered and extended their lead after Nicky Clancy ran through with his brother Dane somehow missing the easy goal. Richard Brooks followed him over for his second that Dane Clancy goaled to complete the scoring and give the local side a deserved win.

Crucial final day matches in the Welsh Conference Premier on Saturday 7th August 2010

CO-OPERATIVE WELSH CONFERENCE PREMIER FIXTURES (all kick-off at 2pm) Blackwood Bulldogs v Newport Titans (at Blackwood RFC) Cardiff Demons v Bridgend Blue Bulls (at St Albans RFC) Valley Cougars v CPC Bears (at Nelson RFC) It’s the final week before the play-offs begin in the Co-operative Welsh Premier Conference this Saturday with the top four still undecided. Bridgend Blue Bulls and Valley Cougars have been the dominant teams in the competition this year and are in first and second place, and it will come down to points difference to see who finishes top if both sides win this weekend. Valley Cougars host CPC Bears at Nelson RFC and despite having a very poor season the Bears could still sneak into a fourth place and get to the play-offs if they claim a shock win. But the Cougars will not want to slip up and will want to pick up a big win in order to try overhaul Bridgend and finish top. Cougars captain Paul Emanuelli said: “We will not be underestimating the Bears and have to do a professional job. They are coming here with nothing to lose so we have to play our game and make sure we get a win. They haven’t had the best of results this year but they have some good players who can do damage if given the chance.” Meanwhile Bridgend Blue Bulls travel to St Albans RFC to take on the third placed Cardiff Demons. Demons’ team manager Gavin Walker said: “We are looking forward to welcoming the Blue Bulls and want to make amends for the poor performance we put in when we played them down at Porthcawl. We are currently in a play-off spot but will need to improve our game if we are to make it to the Grand Final.” The Blue Bulls will be without the suspended Shaun Owens and captain Craig Fox for the game but the experienced Lloyd O’Connor will start at hooker and veteran Tevita Manaseitava is likely to start at half back. Ahead of the game Blue Bulls coach Jon Purnell said: “We have had two big wins over Bulldogs and the Cougars over the last month and we hope to go into the play-offs with another victory. But we need to play for the full 80 minutes as in both those games, we have built up big leads and then let them come back at us and have conceded a number of late scores.” The final game sees a Gwent derby at Blackwood with the Bulldogs hosting the Newport Titans. Both sides could still claim that fourth place but Newport will have to win by a huge margin to overhaul the two sides above them.

Welsh international Gareth Dean signs for South Wales Scorpions

South Wales Scorpions have signed Welsh international forward Gareth Dean until the end of the 2010 season. The Ynysybwl-born 29-year old started his rugby league with Cardiff Demons in 1998 playing alongside future Lions rugby union star Gethin Jenkins. From there he was snapped by Wigan Warriors after being spotted by scout Jackie Edwards, Shaun’s father, before playing for London Broncos, Workington Town and Celtic Crusaders. He will return to Carcassonne for the 2010-11 French Elite League season. Dean, who is expected to make his debut for the Scorpions today at Rochdale Hornets, has won 11 caps for Wales so far. He was unavailable to play in last year's European Cup winning side but hopes to make a return for his country in 2010 as Wales strive to qualify for the 2011 Four Nations. "It's good to be back in Wales," he said. "It's been a while since I last played here - back in 2008 - so it's good to come back and see some familiar faces here at the Scorpions, people like Geraint Davies and Hywel "Tractor" Davies. "I'm looking forward to making my Scorpions debut later. We've a young team here, some new faces, some I've not met before, but I'm sure that I'll get to know them pretty quickly.” Dean has been supportive of the Scorpions since the start, sending them a good luck message in February when he heard of their existence. "It's a good thing that there's a second professional team in Wales now,” he said. “It gives the younger Welsh players to have a go and play for a professional team. "Pre-season's already started in France so I'll be here until the end of August at least and if Scorpions qualify for the play-offs, we'll go from there.” His next aim is to get back into the Wales side for arguably the most important Welsh international rugby league campaign in ten years. The Wales international fixtures for 2010 will be announced in full tomorrow (Monday) and Dean is looking forward to the campaign. "I'm putting myself up for selection for the Wales team in October,” he adds. “I've spoken to Iestyn Harris and I hope to be involved. It’s an important year for us as we want to qualify to play against Australia, New Zealand and England in 2011.”

Welsh Rugby League Conference reports for Saturday 24th July 2010

Bridgend Blue Bulls 46 Valley Cougars 32 By Simon Green Bridgend Blue Bulls gained revenge for the defeat earlier in the season at Nelson RFC by beating Valley Cougars in the top of the table clash at Maesteg. The Cougars almost took the lead in the fourth minute but Ryan Sadler just failed to ground the ball after good work from Kevin James, and Bridgend made them pay as Matthew Hutchings and Craig Fox combined well to send Gareth Howells over for the opening score. Howells also converted. Then minutes later Shaun Owens broke away, he was stopped short but the ball was spun out to Dave Norman who then passed back to Owens who crossed under the posts, Howells again converting for a 12-0 lead. A crunching tackle on Cougars stand off Paul Emanuelli from Andrew Fryer prevented what looked like a certain score, but moments later the Valleymen did score with prop Mark ‘Blobby' Jones crashing over. The Blue Bulls then had former Crusader Karl Hocking yellow carded for a high tackle and the visitors took full advantage scoring twice while he was off the pitch. First Rhodri Morris slid over after good play from John Sanigar then Ryan Sadler made up for his earlier error with a fine solo effort, Emanuelli converting both for a 12-18 lead. But the final ten minutes belonged to Bridgend. Craig Fox weaved around three would-be tacklers to claim his sides third try before Lee Sims broke away and sent Shaun Owens in for his second, then in the dying seconds a long pass from Nathan Strong found Alan Pope who raced over in the corner, Howells added two more kicks to make it 28-18 at the break. An excellent break from Troy Brockbank should have resulted in an early try for the Cougars in the second half but the New Zealander was left with no support. Then good play from Bulls prop Charles Stevenson saw Fox grab a second try with Howells again converting, Liam Williams then came close for the Cougars but was denied thanks to a great tackle from Pope. Bridgend centre Andrew Fryer, who was excellent in defence then showed he can also score as he raced over the line after a break from Owens and Howells again kicked the extras to give his team a 22 point lead. That advantage was then cut when the excellent Sadler claimed his second try but then a cross field kick from Emanuelli was missed by his team mates and picked up by Bulls debutant Alan Pope who ran the length of the field to make the game safe, Howells kick making it 46-22. The Cougars then played there best Rugby League in the closing stages and were rewarded with two late tries, Ryan Sadler claimed his third before John Sanigar went over late on to make the final score 46-32. For the Blue Bulls centre Andrew Fryer was awesome in defence and tackled throughout while Owens and Fox had there best games of the summer. For the Cougars Troy Brockbank continued the fine form he has shown all season and Ryan Sadler played great Rugby and deserved his hat-trick. With each team having won the home game in this fixture it is likely that whoever finishes top in 2010 will come down to points difference, that's if the teams can win there remaining two games. Dyffryn Devils 40 Torfaen Tigers 20 By Chris Davies Dyffryn Devils maintained their unbeaten home record when they beat league leaders Torfaen Tigers 40-20 at Penybanc. Torfaen remain top of the Championship but this win means that Dyffryn, NPT Steelers and Tydfil Wildcats are all in joint second place in the four team league with just points difference separating them. The Devils scored first with some aggressive running breaking down the Tigers defence which resulted in Simon Stornham crashing over, standoff Chris Davies converting. From the kick off the Devils capitalised on the first play with a try from Callum Steele breaking one tackle and taking another over the line under the posts again Davies converting. The Tigers came back with a quick try of their own before pint-sized stand-off Davies grabbed an interception to go under the sticks and convert. The second half saw both sides play quality rugby in monsoon conditions exchanging two tries apiece. Winger Steffan Jones crossed for a well worked try slicing the defence apart, next up Dan Roberts scored a typical 60 metre try using his pace before Torfaen came back but it was too little too late.

Welsh Conference Rugby League previews for Saturday 24th July 2010

Premier League Blackwood Bulldogs v Cardiff Demons - at Blackwood RFC Bridgend Blue Bulls v Valley Cougars - at Maesteg RFC CPC Bears v Newport Titans - at Carmarthen Athletic RFC Championship Dyffryn Devils v Torfaen Tigers – at Penybanc RFC NPT Steelers v Tydfil Wildcats – at Baglan RFC All games Kick Off at 2pm The biggest game of the domestic rugby league season so far in Wales is at Maesteg RFC this Saturday as the Bridgend Blue Bulls host the Valley Cougars in a top of the table clash. The Blue Bulls’ normal Porthcawl home is unavailable because of the annual Porthcawl Carnival so the game has been moved to the famous Old Parish ground. The Cougars will be favourites to claim the double over Bridgend as they are undefeated and beat the Blue Bulls 62-30 earlier in the season at Nelson. On that day stand-off and captain Paul Emanuelli had a superb game while forwards Troy Brockbank and John Sanigar were excellent. Prior to the match Emanuelli said: “All the boys are really up for Saturday and we should have a very strong squad out. We've played some great rugby league this year and hope to continue our unbeaten run. It's always a big game against the bulls, but this year even more so as we are first and second in the league and they'll be looking for revenge after the first fixture.” Since losing to the Cougars, the Blue Bulls have had four big wins scoring an average of 70 points a game and they will be in confident mood. Bridgend will hope that Chris McGrath can shake off a leg injury in time for the game, the wing scored three tries in the opening eight minutes of last week’s win over Blackwood before being carried off the field. Blue Bulls Team Manager Simon Green said: “The players know each other well with seven from each team currently in the Wales Dragonhearts side, but friendships will end for 80 minutes on Saturday with both sides desperate to win and its going to be a cracking game. The Cougars deservedly beat us up at Nelson and smashed us in the first half hour scoring 30 unanswered points. If we are to have any chance of winning this game we must make sure that doesn’t happen again.” Meanwhile its fourth v third as Blackwood Bulldogs host the Cardiff Demons. The Demons could move into second place if they beat Blackwood but the Bulldogs will be desperate to bounce back from last week’s loss to Bridgend and stay clear of Newport in the fourth and final play-off spot. Newport Titans face a long trip to the winless CPC Bears knowing that a win could see them move into fourth should Cardiff win at Blackwood. The Titans only victory this summer was against the Bears and Newport coach Earl Palmer will be keen to do the double on the West Wales side. In the Championship on Saturday, any of the four sides could still finish in the top two with West hosting East in both games. Dyffryn Devils are at home to Torfaen Tigers and Tydfil Wildcats travel to NPT Steelers knowing that wins for the away sides will near enough guarantee an all East Wales final at The Gnoll on Sunday 8th August. However victories for the Devils and Steelers will open up the competition and ensure that the race for the final goes to the final weekend.

Welsh Rugby League Conference previews - five games of Saturday 17th July 2010

Saturday 17th July Fixtures: - all games kick off at 2pm Premier League Blackwood Bulldogs v Bridgend Blue Bulls - at Blackwood RFC Cardiff Demons v CPC Bears - at St Albans RFC Valley Cougars v Newport Titans - at Nelson RFC Championship NPT Steelers v Tydfil Wildcats - at Baglan RFC Torfaen Tigers v Dyffryn Devils - at Pontypool United RFC After a week’s break, the Co-operative Welsh Rugby League Premier Conference is back this weekend with three important games. At Blackwood RFC there is a repeat of the 2009 Grand Final when the Blackwood Bulldogs host the Bridgend Blue Bulls. The Bulldogs beat the Blue Bulls three times last season including a 34-20 win in a tough Final at Caerphilly. The teams have not yet met this season as Blackwood were unable to field a side for the game scheduled for 29th May at Porthcawl. The Bulldogs struggled at the start of season losing their opening three games, but have now found some form and have welcomed back a number of the players who helped them to glory last year and saw them have a great run in the Challenge Cup. The Blue Bulls will travel in confident mood after three big wins but they have never won at Blackwood’s Glan-Yr-Afon Park home. Bridgend will welcome back Australian fullback Cameron Shannon, centre Andrew Fryer and forwards Rhys Hawkins and Nathan Strong for the game and will also include all seven of their 2010 Wales Dragonhearts players. Blue Bulls team manager Simon Green said: “On the last two occasions that we have visited Blackwood, we have done so with weakened squads, last year the Crusaders Reserves snapped up our three best players the day before the match. So for the first time we travel there with a very strong team and the lads can’t wait to get onto the field.” The unbeaten Valley Cougars will hope to continue their winning ways when they host the Newport Titans. Titans coach Earl Palmer will know a number of the Cougars players as he coaches them with the Dragonhearts and hopes that inside knowledge will help his Newport team. “They have a very good squad at the Cougars and some big forwards and we know it’s going to be a tough game,” said Palmer. “We haven’t had a huge amount of luck this summer and have lost at least two games in the final moments, I’m hoping that our luck will change on Saturday and we can prove to all that the Newport Titans are far better than their position in the table suggests”. The final game sees the Cardiff Demons welcome the winless CPC Bears. The Demons are currently in third and could still mathematically overhaul the Cougars and Blue Bulls and finish top. The Demons had good win over neighbours Newport Titans in there last match and they are favourites to pick up fifth win of the season against the Carmarthen side. In the Championship, the two experienced sides host the division’s newcomers in games that could go a long way to deciding the top two with Torfaen Tigers facing Dyffryn Devils and Neath Port Talbot Steelers at home to Tydfil Wildcats.

Wales Rugby League history is made in Cardiff

History was made at Cardiff's St Albans RFC on Sunday where the first city derby at any grade in Welsh Rugby League took place as the Cardiff Demons under 17s hosted South Coast Spartans. Cardiff Demons are Wales' oldest surviving rugby league club having been formed in 1997 but their famous junior sections, that have produced Super League stars like Aled James and Elliot Kear are currently going through a rebuilding process. The Spartans were formed two years ago to give more youngsters the chance to play rugby league in Cardiff, such is its growing popularity in the capital. On a scorching hot Sunday afternoon the Spartans came out on top 36-24 in a game that had all the intensity that you'd expect from a local rivalry. The Demons got on the score sheet first taking an early lead before the Spartans crossed the line to make the score 6-4 after ten minutes. Kyle Guy barged over the line to extend the Demons lead to six but the Spartans responded in style with three unanswered tries of their own making the score 10-20 at the break. The Demons mounted a comeback early in the second half scoring three tries; the pick of the bunch saw Joel Duauria break the line and touch down under the sticks. A try from the Spartans and the score was delicately balanced at 24-24 with 10 minutes to go. But two back to back breaks by the Spartans in the last few minutes resulted in two quick scores with Louis Denton picking up the winning try in a 36-24 victory. Cardiff Demons under 17 coach, the Wales Dragonhearts international Chris Holcombe, praised his players for the manner in which they played the game against the Spartans. "I'm really proud of the lads, they did everything I asked of them and were a credit to the club and themselves," he said. "They've only been together for three weeks and some of them only turned up today for the first time so I couldn't have asked more from them." Demons Chairman Mark Harris added: "This is an important day for rugby league in Cardiff. I hope it's a rivalry that we can build on over the coming years and hopefully extend it to the senior team in the future. This is something that both clubs need to promote as something positive for the city."

ENGLAND LIONHEARTS 34 - WALES DRAGONHEARTS 30, Saturday 10th July 2010

By Ian Golden at Somerset Vikings RLFC England Lionhearts clinched an exciting Four Nations encounter in the final seconds of a dramatic encounter that could have gone either way. In front of a large and passionate crowd including a large three figure travelling support from South Wales, England kept their composure more than their visitors to give them only their third win out of nine against Wales at this level. It could have been a big lead for Wales at the interval but they only had themselves to blame after squandering a number of chances and giving away penalties. They were even on top when Craig Fox was sinbinned for an off the ball incident. John Saniger had three chances to score in that period but dropped or mishandled the ball on each occasion. Veteran Graham Hughes also squandered a chance to get Wales on the board. At the other end, Daniel Gregory set up Luke Watson but he failed to take advantage, dropping the ball as he was crossing the line. Rudie Van der Merwe also went on a charge for the line but he was pushed into touch. England took the lead on only their second real attack when Tim Stevens ran through and Nathan Walmsley converted. With their heads up, the second try came seven minutes later when Luke Watson set up Sam Montague to score in the corner. Walmsley missed the conversion but made up for it by scoring a penalty five minutes before the break to put the hosts 12-0 up. But Wales got back into the game at the best possible time when Troy Brockbank fed Craig Fox who wormed his way under the defence to ground. Paul Emanuelli converted well and the half-time hooter sounded two minutes later. England started the second half well when Matt Evans retained ball from his side’s kick-off leading to an immediate try that Robert Massom scored in the corner. The kick was missed. Wales got back on the board in the 49th minute when John Saniger ran over from a scrum which Paul Emanuelli converted. And they took the lead for the first time in the game from kick-off when Gareth Howells sped 40 metres to ground. Emanuelli’s kick made it 16-18. But the lead lasted for just three minutes after Rudie Van der Merwe picked up a pass and broke through the pack to score. Walsmley converted from in front of the posts. Wales levelled the scores at 22-all when Kevin James forced his way over and Emanuelli’s kick went wide. And following plenty of pressure from the Welsh, they scored again when Chris Holcombe fed Dai Norman to score in the corner. Emanuelli goaled to give them a 28-22 lead. England pulled it back again four minutes later as Daniel Gregory scored with a fine individual run to go in under the sticks. Walmsley easily converted to level the game at 28-apiece. Both teams went for the winner. Wales’ Chris Holcombe broke through but was pulled back for a forward pass. England’s Sam Montague was pulled into touch when in space and with Scott Holder in support while Daniel Gregory had a try disallowed for obstruction. There were drop goal attempts for each side. Walmsley missed a chance to seal it for England and Emanuelli’s attempt was charged down Wales thought they’d won it after being awarded a penalty just to the left of the sticks in the final seconds which Emanuelli successfully kicked but there was still time for Sam Montague to use his strength to barge through the tiring Welsh defence. Walmsley converted to give England the tightest of victories. ENGLAND 1. Jack Claydon (Somerset Vikings) 2. Alex Rigby (St.Helens Titans) 3. Robert Massom (Chester Gladiators) 4. Sam Montague (Coventry Bears) 5. Rudie Van der Merwe (St.Albans Centurions) 6. Nathan Walmsley (Nottingham Outlaws) 7. Daniel Gregory (St.Helens Titans) 8. Matt Evans (Coventry Bears) 9. Scott Holder (Kippax Knights) 10. Robert Firth (Kippax Knights) 11. Tim Stevens (Hemel Hempstead) 12. Dan Reeds (Nottingham Outlaws) 13. Luke Watson (Peterlee Pumas) Subs: 14. Don Payne (Northallerton Stallions) 15. Martyn Bradshaw (St.Helens Titans) 16. Matty Smith (South London Storm) 17. Craig Sykes (Northallerton Stallions) 18. Andy Gray (Jarrow Vikings) 19. Jimmy Baldwin (Wallsend Eagles) Tries: Stevens (19), Montague (26, 79), Massom (42), Van der Merwe (55), Gregory (64) Goals: Walmsley 5/7 WALES 19. Scott Bessant (Newport Titans) 14. Dai Norman (Bridgend Blue Bulls) 8. Gareth Howells (Bridgend Blue Bulls) 12. Chris Holcombe (Cardiff Demons) 22. Kevin James (Valley Cougars) 6. Paul Emanuelli (Valley Cougars) 1. Kristian Hawkes (Newport Titans) 16. John Griffiths (Newport Titans) 5. Craig Fox (Bridgend Blue Bulls) 10. Troy Brockbank (Valley Cougars) 17. John Sanigar (Valley Cougars) 4. Dan Smith (Bridgend Blue Bulls) 13. Tylon Mafi (Bridgend Blue Bulls) Subs: 20. Graham Hughes (Cardiff Demons) 11. Chris Watts (Valley Cougars) 2. Nathan Hawkins (Bridgend Blue Bulls) 3. James Allen (Valley Cougars) 21. Shaun Owens (Bridgend Blue Bulls) 9. Kyle Blake (Cardiff Demons) Tries: Fox (38), Saniger (49), Howells (52), James (60), Norman (65) Goals: Emanuelli 5/6 Sinbinned: Fox (5) Referee: M.Mannifield Half-time: 12-6 Men of the Match: England – Daniel Gregory, Wales – Gareth Howells Scoring Sequence: 6-0, 10-0, 12-0, 12-6, 16-6, 16-12, 16-18, 22-18, 22-22, 22-28, 28-28, 30-28, 30-34 Gamestar: Coventry’s Sam Montague may have got a brace of tries but it was Daniel Gregory who led his team from the halves. Gamebreaker: The try in the last minute for England settled a dramatic encounter.

Welsh Rugby League, Saturday 3rd July 2010

Co-operative Welsh Conference Premier CARDIFF DEMONS 42 - NEWPORT TITANS 28 by Mark Harris at St Albans RFC. Cardiff Demons got back to winning ways by completing the double over local rivals Newport Titans with a 42-28 victory at St Albans RFC. In an error strewn first ten minutes the Titans took advantage of a Demons knock on near their own line and Dale Tucker touched down under the posts. Scott Bessant converted to give the Titans an early 6-0 lead. As things began to settle down the Demons showed some quick hands passing the ball from one side of the pitch to the other and Adam King touched down in the corner. The teams traded tries again first Adam Davies scored for the Titans before Paul Bartlett crossed the line for the Demons. Conversions from Bessant and James Thatcher made the score 10-12. This would be the last time the Titans would score in the first half as the Demons began to apply the pressure. Graham Hughes provided an offload for Jason Mathias who ran 60 metres to touch down and the Demons took the lead that they would not relinquish. Further scores from Lee Drabble and Josh Rogerson along with two conversions from Thatcher and another from Doug Hann made the score 28-12 at the break. Newport put pressure on themselves by conceding back to back penalties on their own line which eventually told as Doug Hann made a quick inside pass for Mike Rowe to score. Chris Holcombe added the extras. Each side scored again as Rhys Meredith picked one up for the visitors and Rogerson picked up his second for the Demons giving them a 38-16 lead. The Titans had a mini revival with tries from Mark White and Jamie Igo but this was snuffed out by the Demons as Mike Hurley got the last score of the day. DYFFRYN DEVILS 34 - NPT STEELERS 30 By Chris Davies Dyffryn Devils made a winning start to rugby league after a close game with local rivals NPT Steelers. It was Steelers’ Lee Jenkins that crossed the line within the first five minutes with an easy breakthrough try leaving the home side a taster of how physical the game can be played. A mistake by the Steelers from the kick off gave the Devils posession and Trystan 'mazean' Morgan broke the defence and side stepped his way over for the first, Jamie Gimblett converting. The Devils then grabbed their second when centre Phil 'the power' Saunders left the Steelers line and made a beeline over the whitewash for a further try also converted by Gimblett. Some good hard play got the Steelers back into the game and with Richard Lewis showing good ball skills he grabbed a try then set one up for Craig Hitchins. Then came the try of the match when Morgan intercepted the ball deep inside Devil territory and sprinted 95 metres to cross the line. Ten minutes from halftime, quick hands saw Devils Sean Haycock go through the gap for the their fourth to lead 20-18 at the interval. The second half saw a switched on Steelers side play some quick rugby to cross for a further two unanswered tries as Shaun Tenant and Alan Gawlsworthy crossed and Jenkins completing his 100% record with the boot. But the rest of the game belonged to the newcomers as they stormed to a maiden win with three further tries. Devils' stand-off Matthew James bagged the next score showing excellent pace and side step followed by further tries from Nathan Jenkins and winger Dan Williams. Devils coach Chris Davies said "I am really pleased with the turnout for the first game and must thank all the players involved. Simon Stonham and Damien Rowe put some huge tackles in and lead the team to victory. Congratulations to Emyr 'tarw' Thomas on being made captain and getting the team a win. It has been a huge success with over 100 supporters watching and a cracking barbeque and entertainment put on by Penybanc RFC - well done." VALLEY COUGARS 54 - BLACKWOOD BULLDOGS 48 By Ian Golden Valley Cougars kept up their 100% record at the top of the Welsh Conference Premier but were pushed all the way by a Blackwood Bulldogs side who are battling to keep their place in the top four. Troy Brockbank led the way for the Cougars with four tries, Rhodri Morris and John Sanniger each got a brace while Sam Studley and Carl Thomas, who kicked six goals, also crossed. Cougars took the lead in the first half but were 30-22 down at the interval in a see-saw match which saw the lead change hands on a number of occasions. Byron Williams and Andre Soroko scored a try in each half to help Blackwood along while Howie Walsh scored his brace of touchdowns before the interval. Ethan Jones also scored a first half try but it was Keiron Broen’s touchdown and Soroko’s sixth conversion that gave them a late lead and the visitors looked like they’d be heading back to Blackwood with both points. But Saniger’s unconverted second set up a grandstand finish and with the game poised at 48-all, the Nelson crowd went into raptures as Brockbank’s fine run sealed the win. Neil Sloan converted the try, his only goal of the day, to complete the scoring. CPC BEARS 10 - BRIDGEND BLUE BULLS 72 By Simon Green In a game cut to 30 minutes each way the Bridgend Blue Bulls picked up a 12-try victory over the CPC Bears at Carmarthen Athletic RFC with scrum half Shaun Owens scoring four tries and Gareth David kicking 12 out of 12 goals. Gareth Howells opened the scoring in the fourth minute with a fine solo effort before a break from prop Connor McDonald sent Shaun Owens over for his first. Craig Fox was then held up just short before former Crusader Karl Hocking scored after a great cross field kick by David. Then before the break Howells and Owens each grabbed a second and with Gareth David converting all five first half tries the Blue Bulls lead 30-0 at half time. Just seconds into the second half Owens claimed his third after fine play from teenage fullback Huw Rosser with David again converting before Alan Pope hit back for the Bears, the wing showing great strength to get to the line, and Pope also converted to make in 36-6. Dave Norman then scored a great solo try before a Tevita Manaseitava break set up a score for Sean Haren, David again converting both. Haren should have claimed a second but couldn't quite make the line after breaking through the Bears defence but moments later Dave Norman got his second and Bridgend's ninth. The excellent Owens then grabbed a fourth and prop James Elton crashed over before Aled Jones got one back for the home team. But the Blue Bulls finished of in style when Lindsey McCausland went on a great run to set up a score for his fellow debutant Ben Thomas and Gareth David completed his a successful day with the boot.

Welsh Rugby League Match review, Saturday 3rd July 2010

Co-operative Welsh Conference Premier Cardiff Demons v Newport Titans - at St Albans RFC. CPC Bears v Bridgend Blue Bulls - at Carmarthen Athletic RFC. Valley Cougars v Blackwood Bulldogs - at Nelson RFC. All games kick-off at 2pm. Co-operative South Wales Championship Dyffryn Devils v Neath Port Talbot Steelers – at Penybanc RFC (kick-off 2.30pm) Rugby League kicks off in Ammanford this Saturday with the launch of Dyffryn Devils, who were admitted to the South Wales Championship this week. They take on Neath Port Talbot Steelers at their home ground of Penybanc RFC (kick-off 2.30pm). Devils coach Chris Davies said: “There is a lot of enthusiasm here in Ammanford for rugby league. We’ve had approaching 30 players in training most weeks and have come close to beating established sides in friendlies. “We’d like to welcome all fans to our first ever league game. It’ll be a day to remember. As well as the rugby, we’ll have a barbeque and a bouncy castle for the kids. Lets bring rugby league back down west and get down there for an action packed day.” The Devils will join the Steelers, Tydfil Wildcats and Torfaen Tigers in a six-week Championship competition that will culminate in a Grand Final on Saturday 7th August. Four clubs, Dinefwr Sharks, Amman Valley Rhinos, Swansea/Llanelli Dragons and West Wales Wild Boars, have been omitted from the South Wales Championship for the remainder of 2010 for each failing to fulfil a game in the first half of the season. They are being encouraged to continue to play friendly matches and their position will be re-considered in 2011. The three South Wales Championship games that have already been played between the Steelers, Wildcats and Tigers this summer will still count in this revamped league. Three good games of rugby league are expected this Saturday in the Co-operative Welsh Conference Premier as the competition moves into the second half of the season. At Nelson RFC, the unbeaten Valley Cougars host reigning Welsh Champions Blackwood Bulldogs. The Cougars have been the in-form team this summer and have won five out of five, but the Bulldogs have finally found some form after a poor start to the season and hope to gain revenge for the 56-30 home loss to the Cougars back in May. But the Valleymen will be difficult to beat, especially with players like John Sanigar, Steve Bray, Paul Emanuelli and find of the season Troy Prockback in their side. At St Albans RFC, Cardiff Demons welcome near rivals Newport Titans. When the teams met last the Titans lead 34-30 with less than 10 minutes to go but a late Titans rally gave them a 48-34 win. The Titans were within seconds of beating Blackwood Bulldogs last weekend before a last minute try denied them a much needed victory. At Carmarthen Athletic RFC the winless CPC Bears host the Bridgend Blue Bulls. The Bulls have scored 24 tries in their last two games and hope to continue that good form. Former Crusader Karl Hocking will make his first start of the season for Bridgend having missed the opening few weeks climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for Charity. Wing Craig Chalmers will also make his first start of the 2010 after being out of the game for over 18 months with a serious hamstring injury and debuts could be given to backs Ben Thomas and Lindsey McCausland. The Bears have not won a game all summer and lost 70-6 at home to the Cougars last weekend but Team Manager Geraint Jones is in confident mood. “We have not had great results but we have a very young team who are improving,” said Jones. “We are looking forward to welcoming the Blue Bulls.” Despite a poor run of results the Bears have one of the best backs in the Conference in Alan Pope, who has trained with South Wales Scorpions, and he will need to be in top form to help his team pick up their first victory.

Welsh Rugby League Match reports, Saturday 26th June 2010

CPC BEARS 6 - VALLEY COUGARS 70 By Ashley Baxter Valley Cougars consolidated their position at the top of the Co-operative Welsh Conference Premier table with a crushing 70-6 away win at bottom side CPC Bears. It was a dominant and clinical display against a gutsy Bears side who despite being outclassed plain refused to lie down and make it easy. The Cougars had to work for this win and it was the familiarity, execution and ability to make key changes to personnel that gave them such a commanding victory. Tries in the first half from Mark Powell, Mike Herbert (2), James Allen and John Sannigar (2) put the Valley Cougars in front 34-0, then approaching half time as he always does for the Bears, Alan Pope picked the ball up on his own 20 metre line moved up through the gears using his power and speed to break through four would be tacklers and racing over the try line before converting his own try. In the second half the Bears managed to hold off the Cougars for the first 10 minutes even getting over the try line with Daniel Owen touching down only to be pulled back for a knock on. That was the last big attacking threat of the game from the Bears the rest was all down to the excellent Valley Cougars who showed all watching in the blistering heat how rugby league should be played with crisp passing and running. Further tries came from James Allen, Troy Prockbak (2), Steve Bray (2) and the superb John Sannigar completed his hat trick for the day. With Paul Emanuelli kicking 11 goals from 12 attempts, Valley Cougars showed once again why they are the team to beat this year and on this performance its going to be far from easy. BRIDGEND BLUE BULLS 68 - CARDIFF DEMONS 12 By Simon Green Bridgend Blue Bulls pulled clear of Cardiff Demons in second place after beating them 68-12 at Porthcawl RFC. Bridgend ran in 13 tries to record their biggest ever victory over the Cardiff with Gareth David claiming a hat-trick for the second successive game. The Bulls took the lead in the opening minute when Gareth Howells crashed through the Demons defence before offloading to wing Chris McGrath who raced over in the corner Gareth David then scored two quick tries converting one to make it 14-0 and then the stand-off broke through again and put a great pass to Nathan Strong for Bridgend's fourth. Scrum half Shaun Owens scored a great solo try before replacement prop Connor McDonald crashed over after another break from Howells. Then just before the break Owens claimed his second with David converting to make it 34-0 at half time. Just two minutes into the second half Dave Norman intercepted a loose pass from Christopher Holcombe and raced 60 metres to the line with David adding the extras, then David claimed his second hat-trick of the season, Nathan Strong converting. Great play by Bulls centre Andrew Fryer then saw Dan Smith score before Dave Norman claimed his second after a Tylon Mafi break. David converting both. Bridgend captain Craig Fox then showed good speed for the Blue Bulls 12th before Dan Smith raced over for his second. 68 points down with 20 minutes to go the Demons were staring down the barrel and a cricket score looked likely but the capital city side rallied well and deservedly scored twice late on with James Thatcher and Mike Rowe both crossing the line, Thatcher also converting both to make the final score 68-12. NEWPORT TITANS 38 - BLACKWOOD BULLDOGS 43 Blackwood Bulldogs continued their revival with a close 43-38 win in a thriller at Newport Titans.

Welsh Rugby League Round 4 Saturday 19th June 2010

Blackwood Bulldogs 82 - CPC Bears 26 Blackwood Bulldogs kick-started their Co-operative Welsh Conference Premier campaign with a commanding 82-26 win over bottom side CPC Bears from Carmarthen. The Welsh champions, who hadn’t won in their first three games this season, were always in control, and were 36-10 up at half-time before the floodgates opened even more against their West Wales visitors. Gareth Price and Andrew Siroco competed for man of the match as they both played lethal rugby to lead Blackwood to victory. Price scored two tries and converted five times which Siroco scored a hat-trick of tries, converting four times. Matt McGovern also scored a hat-trick of touchdowns, while Byron Williams went over twice. Hywel Walsh, Luke Knight, Josh Macham, Gareth Rusby-Davies, Mike Lyndon and Gareth Davies all score one try apiece. Aled Price replied twice for the Bears but the comeback failed to materialise. Andrew Rees-Spowart scored a try and converted three times while Steffan Jones and Christian Morgan were the remaining try scorers in a game that thoroughly entertained the large crowd at Glan-yr-Afon Park. Cardiff Demons 20 - Valley Cougars 36 Report by Mark Harris In a game that was marred by two serious injuries to Cardiff Demons players, Valley Cougars came out on top 36-20 in what was a tough and uncompromising game. After ten minutes the Demons defence cracked as a bomb from Paul Emanuelli was dropped by the Demons and Sam Studley pounced on the loose ball to score in the corner. Emanuelli added the extras. On the next set the Demons conceded back to back penalties giving the Cougars the perfect platform to attack their line again. The Cougars took full advantage attacking the same wing with Kevin James scoring. Midway through the half the Cougars stretched their lead as Liam Thomas touched down on the other wing and with the conversion they at a 16-point lead. Demons immediately responded with a brace of tries of their own. The first saw James Thatcher drift through a gap in the Cougars defence and the second set up by Lee Drabbles inside pass saw Idris Evans dive over the line. One conversion from Thatcher brought up a score of 16-10 to the Cougars at the break. With the game delicately poised, the Demons suffered their first blow as second row Mark Dando twisted awkwardly resulting in a serious knee injury and the game was delayed for twenty minutes waiting for medical assistance. This seemed to fire up the Demons and on the next set hooker Tom Jones put in a great sidestep to touchdown under the sticks. Thatcher converted to level the scores. From kick off, Demons prop Graham Hughes was caught by a big hit and an accidental high elbow on the cheekbone and for the second time the game was delayed for twenty minutes waiting for the ambulance to arrive. The Demons’ heads seemed to drop and the Cougars took advantage with a clinical and professional display. Tries from Liam Williams and Kevin James opened up a twelve point gap before a great individual effort from Demons Chris Holcombe closed the gap to eight points. But the Cougars weren't going to let the game slip. Emanuelli added a penalty before a final try from Mike Herbert wrapped up the game. Bridgend Blue Bulls 58 - Newport Titans 16 By Simon Green Bridgend Blue Bulls recovered from their recent heavy defeat to Valley Cougars with a 58-16 victory over Newport Titans. Blue Bulls stand-off Gareth David, playing his first game for the side in two years ran the show in the first half scoring a hat-trick. His first came in the first minute after a break from Lee Sims converting himself. Cameron Shannon came close to claiming a second minutes later before Shaun Owens went over in the corner after a 60-metre run from Daniel Smith. Smith was involved in Bridgend’s third when he crashed through the Newport defence, giving an excellent offload to Chris McGrath with the wing showing good speed before passing to his captain Craig Fox who slid under the posts. David again converted to make it 16-0. Titans then hit back when Ross Palmer took advantage of some Blue Bulls indiscipline quickly taking a penalty to send wing Daniel Esposito over. But Blue Bulls then finished strongly with David crossing twice, the first after some good play from Nathan Hawkins before Matthew Morgan barged over late on, adding all three kicks to make it 34-4 at half time. Bridgend continued their good form at the start of the second half when Lloyd O’Connor won the re-start and passed to Sean Haren, the second row then handed off three tacklers to score with Gareth Howells converting before scoring himself after a fine run from debutant Jordon Skidmore. Newport then started to find some good form and Dragonhearts forward John Griffiths scored after a Esposito break then Sam Wilkins raced over. Griffiths looked to have scored a second but he was held up over the line by James Elton and then Craig Fox grabbed his second for the Bulls with Howells again converting. Griffiths claimed his second before Blue Bulls finished with a flourish with Nathan Strong crossing twice in the dying seconds.

Welsh Rugby League Round 3 Saturday 5th June 2010

Valley Cougars 62 - Bridgend Blue Bulls 30 By Simon Green The Welsh Conference Premier went try crazy on Saturday with 252 points scored in the three games. Valley Cougars remain top of the league after beating Bridgend Blue Bulls 62-30. The Nelson-based side had a great group of forwards and they built a great platform which lead to early tries from Matthew Williams and Carl Thomas, with Paul Emanuelli adding a goal to give the home side a 10-0 lead. Loose forward Lee Sims almost hit back for the Blue Bulls but he was held up just short of the line and the Cougars made Bridgend pay, Matthew Williams raced away for his second try before New Zealander Troy Brockbank sent up a score for Kevin James, Emanuelli adding both conversions to make it 22-0. The Blue Bulls should have scored moments later after a great break from Shaun Owens, but the normally reliable hands of Gareth Howells could not catch hold of the scoring pass and again the Valleymen took advantage scoring twice in quick succession through James Allen and Rhodri Morris. Bridgend finally got over the line in the 35th when a break by debutant Connor McDonald resulted in Tylon Mafi powering over, with Gareth Howells converting, but Emanuelli had the last say kicking a late penalty to make it 36-6 at the break. The Blue Bulls started the second half the better and threatened a come back, a great break by Craig Fox and clever pass from Seveti Tuiselotu sent another debutant in Sean Haren over, and seconds later Tevita Manaseitava crashed through the Cougars line and raced 60 metres to score, Howells added both kicks to make it 36-18. But Liam Williams scored after a great cross field kick from Emanuelli, then Mark Powell scored with Emanuelli converting from the touchline to make it 46-18. Teenage duo Huw Rosser and Nathan Hawkins then combined well to send Daniel Smith over for the Blue Bulls fourth score before Mark Orpin set up a try for Gareth Howells, Howells converting both. Bridgend were hoping for three more quick tries to bring the scores level but it was the Cougars day they ended the game with three more scores though Mark Jones, Liam Thomas and James Allen, with Paul Emanuelli adding two more goals for a convincing 62-30 win. Paul Emanuelli was in excellent form for the Cougars and put in a great kicking game, while forwards Liam Williams, Jon Sanigar and Troy Brockbank were in great form, and if they continue this form the Cougars could be lifting the Wales Trophy for the second time in three years. Stand out players for the Blue Bulls were Tylon Mafi and Daniel Smith who tackled hard and run hard throughout, while debutants Jamie Lorimer, Sean Haren and Connor McDonald did well in their first ever games of Rugby League. Cardiff Demons 34 - Blackwood Bulldogs 26 By Ian Golden, pictures by Mark Harris Cardiff Demons beat Blackwood Bulldogs 34-26 at St Albans RFC to maintain their 100% record but the visitors went away with credit after turning up with just one substitute and fielding a number of debutants. Blackwood's experienced players helped them to a 12-0 lead after just 14 minutes. Matt McGovern set up Byron Williams under the sticks for the opener before scoring the first of his hat-trick of tries. Cardiff Demons' Lee Drabble was his side's match-winner after scoring three tries of his own, the first coming on 17 minutes to bring the score back to 4-12. McGovern broke through for his second before tries from Laurence Roycroft and Drabble, both converted by Chris Holcombe, for Cardiff and it looked as if the teams would go in level at the interval. However, following a penalty, Adam Coupe finished off a fine passing move in the corner to put Blackwood 20-16 up. Cardiff's experience and extra men showed in the second half. They scored from kick-off through Karl Gilson. James Thatcher's conversion put them 22-20 up and after that they were never behind. Drabble and McGovern swapped tries to complete their hat-tricks before Cardiff score twice more - a good run from Doug Hann and a fine individual score from Adam King, where he caught his own chip to run home, wrapped things up. Newport Titans 60 - CPC Bears 40 By Earl Palmer Newport Titans gained their first win of the season after sharing 100 points with Carmarthen-based CPC Bears. Titans took the lead from kick-off with Dalton Grant going over from 20 metres out and Scott Beasant converting. From the next set, the Titans made a mistake and from the resulting attack, conceded four points to powerful centre Alan Pope which he was unable to convert himself. The Titans, with their strength in depth, were able to pull away with further tries from Beasant, a barnstorming run from big second row Matt Reed, two from powerful forward Ross Wardle, one from hard running centre Loren Quick, and a 50-metre weaving run from rangy 18 year old winger Dwayne "crazy legs" Bailey, Beasant converting three of those tries. Tristian Mazean powered his way over during the first half for the bears which Alan Pope converted which left the score at half time 40-10. The second half started in much the same way as the first but a gutsy Bears side who included a number of youngsters kept fighting and capitalised on Titans' infringements. Pope who was tireless in attack all game grabbed himself another two tries, while stand out centre Craig Griffiths and impressive young full back Aled Jones grabbed a try each with Pope converting all four. The Titans scored tries through pacey winger Sam Wilkins who went over in the corner after great hands from Beasant, Wardle, who hit a great angle to slice open the Bears' defence and go under the posts from 50 metres out, and a 70 metre sprint from impressive new prop Sean Griffiths. Lewis Reece and Ross Palmer each had one conversion. The Bears showed great commitment and heart against a strong Titans side and can be happy with how they performed.

CPC Bears 18 - Cardiff Demons 38 at Carmarthen Athletic Match report by Mark Harris

Cardiff Demons picked up their 2nd consecitive away win to continue their one hundred percent record in the Welsh Conference Premier with a 38-18 win over the CPC Bears at Carmarthen Athletic. The overnight rain made the conditions very slippy with both teams finding it difficult to hold onto the ball. The Demons struck first, 10 minutes into the game as Paul Bartlett found the gap to touch down for the first of his three tries. Chris Holcmombe converted to give the Demons a 6-0 lead. The Demons quickly doubled the lead as James Thatcher pounced on a dropped ball at the 20 yard line and touched down under the sticks. Holcombe made it 12 - 0. Midway through the half the Bears got on the score sheet as Aled Price made a great break down the centre and some quick hands pushed the ball out to the right for Josh Namatairi to touch down. Chris Davies converted to halve the deficit. The Demons scored either side of the break with Kyle Blake taking full advantage of Holcombes deft kick over the top with Holcombe adding the extras to make it 18-6 and a quick try at the start of the second half by Holcombe to open up a three score gap as the Demons led 24-6. The Bears responded in the best possible manner with ten minutes of pressure on the Demons line paying off as Aled Price dived under the sticks. Davies addded the extras to make the score 12-24. This seemed to spur the Demons on who responded with three quick tries to effectively end the game. Two from Paul Bartlett and one from Chris Holcombe with the pick of the bunch being Bartlett's second which was made by a fantastic run from Josh Rogerson who side stepped five players before passing the ball out wide. A single conversion from Holcombe made the score 38 - 12 to the Demons. The Bears picked up a consulation try in the last minute as Trysten Morgan barged over and Netava Bakaniceva converted to make the final score 38-18 to the Demons.

Welsh Conference Premier League Week 1 reports

Blackwood Bulldogs 34-54 Valley Cougars Bridgend Blue Bulls 90-30 CPC Bears (West Wales) Newport Titans 34-48 Cardiff Demons Bridgend Blue Bulls claimed their biggest win since 2003 scoring 16 tries to defeat the Carmarthen-based CPC Bears 90-30 at Porthcawl RFC on the opening day of the Co-operative Welsh Conference Premier League. Gareth Howells was the star man scoring a personal hall of 30 points, including a hat trick of tries and nine goals. Bridgend almost scored in the first minute when Lee Sims sprinted 70 metres, but the loose forward was brought down just short. Shaun Owens then went close before Lloyd O’Connor finally broke through for a sixth minute try, which Howells concerted. A Dave Norman break then sent Tylon Mafi sprinting to the line before debutant Charles Stevenson scored just seconds after coming off the bench. The Bears then hit back with a fine try from Alan Pope, which the wing also converted, but the Blue Bulls continued to pile on the pressure and further scores from Gareth Howells, Dave Norman, Mark Orpin, Chris McGrath and Gareth Lewis, with Howells, Shaun Owens (2) and Cameron Shannon adding goals gave the men in blue a 46-6 half time lead. Centre Andrew Fryer scored early on in the second half after another Sims break before 17 year old Huw Rosser raced over for a great solo score. But the Bears showed they can play some good Rugby League and hit back well, Alan Pope claiming a second before Tristan Davies intercepted for the Bears third, Pope converting both. O’Connor grabbed his second before David James intercepted to put the Blue Bulls past 60, Howells and Owens adding goals. Steffan James then raced over for the Bears fourth, Pope again converting before the excellent Howells ran in two more scores for Bridgend, converting both. Chris Davies got a fifth try for the Carmarthen team to make it 78-30 but Fijian powerhouse Tevita Manaseitava barged over under the posts before captain for the day Shaun Owens raced in from 60 yards, and Howells added both kicks to give his side an empathic 90-30 win. For the Blue Bulls Gareth Howells was in excellent form while forwards Tylon Mafi and Lee Sims were superb. Despite the big loss the Bears had one of the best players on the pitch in Alan Pope, who made yards every time he got the ball. At Bettws RFC, Cardiff Demons had the perfect start to their season by beating their old rivals Newport Titans 48-34. In a see-saw game, Cardiff were 30-10 up at half-time, were then 34-30 down on the hour before pulling away. As Cardiff started to claw themselves back into good field position, a serious ankle injury to dangerous veteran Demons full-back Jamie Iles stopped the game for 45 minutes. Following the stoppage, they scored three converted tries in succession to end any chance of a Titans win. The Demons’ kicking game was very beneficial to them as they scored three tries from kicks through around the try line. The boot of Chris Holcombe, converting all six tries was also a constant thorn in the Titans side. Stand out players of the day were the string running centre, Chris Holcombe of the Demons and powerful forward, Matthew Reed of the Titans who in his first game, played like a seasoned veteran. At Glan-yr-Afon Park, Blackwood Bulldogs and Valley Cougars shared 17 tries in a thriller with the Nelson-based Cougars, who were 22-18 up at half-time, eventually pulling away to win 56-34. Steve Bray led the way for the Cougars with a hat-trick of tries, Matt Williams and James Allen each scored a brace while Mark Jones, Lee Smith, Rhodri Morris and John Saniger all ran over once. Paul Emmanuelli converted six times.

Valley Cougars retain Welsh Nines Trophy

Hosts Valley Cougars retained the sixth annual Scott McRorie Nines Trophy after beating Bridgend Blue Bulls 16-10 in the final. Six teams took part in the tournament, that was held memory of former Wales under 18 international Scott McRorie who died six years ago, almost to the day, with Newport Titans, Torfaen Tigers and the Cardiff Demons making up Pool One and the Valley Cougars, Bridgend Blue Bulls and Tydfil Wildcats in Pool Two. Cardiff Demons dominated Pool One and opened with a 10-4 win over the Titans before beating the Tigers 18-10. Newport then had a narrow 22-20 win over Torfaen to claim the other semi final spot. The opening game in Pool Two saw a rematch of last year’s Final which ended in an exciting 22-18 win for the Cougars over Bridgend with Dafydd Hellard scoring the decisive try. The Cougars then picked up a 28-12 win over the Tydfil Wildcats to finish top. The match to decide who joined them in the semis almost resulted in a shock win for the Merthyr team who lead until the final seconds when a excellent pass from Gareth David found Gareth Howells whose try brought the scores level at 14-14 and the Blue Bulls went though on points difference. In the first semi-final the Cougars lead throughout thanks to tries from Steve Bray, Mark Powell and Rhodri Morris with Paul Emanuelli kicking all three conversions. In reply Newport scored twice via Scott Bessant and John Lavender but it was not enough. Shaun Owens was the star of the second semi-final scoring a hat-trick as the Bridgend Blue Bulls ran out 20-10 winners against Cardiff Demons. Bridgend’s fourth try came from 17 year old Huw Rosser who had a great tournament while Gareth David and Owens each added kicks. All the Cardiff points were scored by Chris Holcombe who nabbed two tries and kicked a single goal. The Final then saw the Cougars and the Blue Bulls go head to head again and the hosts took an early lead with tries from James Allen and Mark Powell, with Emanuelli kicking a goal. Just before the break though a great cross field kick from Gareth David fell perfectly for Huw Rosser who scored in the corner to make it 10-4. Steven John came within inches of scoring early on in the second half before David James almost scored for Bridgend. But the Blue Bulls eventually pulled level when Gareth Howells charged over the line after a Mark Orpin break, and Gareth David converted to make it 10-10. Then with just two minutes left clever play from Mark Powell resulted in a score from for Steven Williams with Emanuelli again converting to give his side a 16-10 lead. The Blue Bulls rallied at the end and Dave Norman almost broke free in the dying seconds but he just failed to hold on to the ball and the Cougars deservedly lifted the trophy for the second year running. SCORES: Pool 1: Newport Titans 4-10 Cardiff Demons Cardiff Demons 18-10 Torfaen Tigers Newport Titans 22-20 Torfaen Tigers Pool 2: Valley Cougars 22-18 Bridgend Blue Bulls Valley Cougars 28-12 Merthyr Wildcats Merthyr Wildcats 14-14 Bridgend Blue Bulls Semi Finals: Newport Titans 8-16 Valley Cougars Bridgend Blue Bulls 20-10 Cardiff Demons Final: Valley Cougars 16-10 Bridgend Blue Bulls

2010 Welsh Conference Report by Ian Golden, pictures by Ian Lovell 22nd April 2010

Wales Rugby League launched their 2010 Co-operative Welsh Conference League season at the National Assembly for Wales in Cardiff Bay on Thursday. The competition, which kicks off on Saturday 22nd May, will see a two tiered structure for the very first time with the 13 teams separated into a Premier League and a Championship. The Premier League will consist of six clubs playing each other both home and away, with the clubs finishing in the top four competing in a play-off series culminating in a Grand Final on Saturday 21st August. The champions will then go on to represent Wales in the National RLC Premier semi-finals. The Championship will consist of seven clubs playing 10 rounds with the clubs finishing in the top four competing in a play-off series, culminating in a Grand Final on Saturday 7th August. The champions will then go onto represent Wales in the National RLC Regional quarter finals. The decision to run a two-tier league means that the Premier League will be far more competitive with any of the six teams capable of taking the title. The Championship will run with a merit league system which will award teams bonus points for travelling, completing fixtures, winning and losing. This will allow new teams and teams who are re-establishing themselves to compete in structured competitive league. The launch, that was attended by media, Welsh Assembly Members, representatives from the Co-operative Group as well as players and officials from all levels of rugby league in Wales, was introduced by Wales Rugby League’s patron and the Plaid Cymru Welsh Assembly Member for North Wales, Janet Ryder, who was brought up on rugby league when she was a regular supporter of Hull FC at their old Boulevard ground. Now a Crusaders regular at home and away, Janet is delighted to see the progress that is being made in rugby league in South Wales. “Four years ago, we launched the new independent Welsh Rugby League in this building,” she said. “It’s important for the national team that we have a strong Conference league, and the work that’s gone on over the years in South Wales to develop the teams and the game in schools, then through to junior teams, then through to Conference league teams, is setting a good foundation. “I was really proud like everybody else to see us win the European Championship last year. And that was based really on the work that’s gone in over many years to develop rugby league here in Wales. I’m really pleased to be here today.” Martin Morris, the Chairman of the Wales / Cymru regional board of the Co-operative Group said: “At the Co-operative we’re very proud of our relationship with the community, that’s why we’re pleased to be part of the sponsorship of the Welsh Rugby League and to help extend the game to parts of Wales that otherwise wouldn’t be able to participate. This is a big event for us and we’ve put a lot of money into the competition. We’re very pleased to be helping rugby league in Wales in this tangible way.” Wales Rugby League’s Executive Chairman Mark Rowley said: “It’s always good to see the expansion of rugby league in Wales. Seven years ago, we had just seven local senior clubs with only two of them fielding junior sides. “Now, in 2010, there couldn’t be more of a contrast. Wales are European Champions in Rugby League at both senior level and under 18 level. We are the Home Nations champions at A international and student level, while our students reached the semi-finals of the last World Cup, only losing to Australia and New Zealand, and they won the UK regional championships this week. We have over 150 schools sides in Wales competing this year in either the Carnegie Champions Schools tournament, the South Wales Scorpions Primary Schools Cup and the Scorpions Junior School Cup. “The Scorpions, who are associate sponsors of the Conference Premier this year, currently have 29 players on their books, 26 of whom were born in Wales. Such a side couldn’t have happened seven years ago as we didn’t have the players. “We now have 16 Conference clubs in South Wales, 13 of them fielding senior sides and a further three running just at junior level. The sport in North Wales is also developing rapidly. Mike Nicholas has been involved with their only side Rhyl Coasters for a number of years, but this year there could be a further five clubs forming and playing rugby league in a merit league throughout the summer.” The first round of Premier League fixtures on Saturday 22nd May sees reigning champions Blackwood Bulldogs taking on the 2008 winners Valley Cougars at their Glan-yr-Afon Park home. Newport Titans host Cardiff Demons while Bridgend Blue Bulls entertain new regional West Wales side CPC Bears who are based at Carmarthen Athletic RFC. On the same day, joint favourites for the Championship title, Neath Port Talbot Steelers take on Dinefwr Sharks, West Wales Wildboars play Amman Valley Rhinos while a battle of the newcomers will take place at The Cage in Troedyrhiw when Tydfil Wildcats take on Swansea Llanelli Dragons. The experienced Torfaen Tigers, who like the Steelers have stepped down a level this year, must wait until May 29th for their first game when they take on the Wildcats in Pontypool.

2010 Welsh Premiership Clubs

Blackwood Bulldogs The current Welsh Champions, Blackwood gained national prominence earlier this year when they reached the Third Round of the Carnegie Challenge Cup and were featured twice on BBC’s “Super League Show”. Based at Blackwood RFC, they are one of the newest but one of the strongest rugby league clubs as a whole in South Wales. Bridgend Blue Bulls The Blue Bulls were the major success stories of the Conference in its first few years, winning the first five Welsh titles and two national crowns. However, despite being competitive over the last two years, the Premier League title has eluded them. Could 2010 be their year again? They are still based at Porthcawl RFC. C.P.C. Bears (West Wales) C.P.C.Bears are the regional side for Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion. Newly formed for 2010 they will be the sole representative of West Wales in the Welsh Premier Division. Based at Carmarthen Athletic RFC the Bears will be looking to develop an under 16s, Youth and Open Age side. Cardiff Demons South Wales’ oldest surviving rugby league club having been founded in 1997. They have been famous for creating many professional players with Welsh internationals like Gareth Dean, Aled James and Elliot Kear all starting life at the Demons. Based in St Albans RFC in the east of Cardiff for 2010. Newport Titans The club that has the support of David Watkins, the Titans will always be in the mix for the title and were close to winning the Grand Final in 2007 thanks to the skills of future Crusader Lloyd White. Gil Dudson and Lewis Mills also started their careers in Newport. They have high hopes again for 2010 and will again be based at Bettws RFC. Valley Cougars The 2008 Champions are always going to be competitive. They led a nomadic existence for their first few years in the valleys playing out of places like Pontyclun, Abercynon and Sardis Road, Pontypridd. However they are now firmly based at Nelson RFC in the Caerphilly County Borough.

2010 Welsh Championship Clubs

Amman Valley Rhinos New for 2010 are the Amman Valley Rhinos who will be based at Ammanford RFC. The Rhinos will be hoping to have a strong playing roster available from their rugby union side who are looking to get their teeth stuck into rugby league. Dinefwr Sharks For the last three years the West Wales Sharks have been the only rugby league club in West Wales with their open-age side playing at a number of venues in the Llanelli area. Last year the under 13 and under 15 Dinefwr Junior Sharks in their first season played at Tycroes RFC, and it has been decided that the Sharks as a whole will be located there. Neath Port Talbot Steelers Formerly Aberavon Fighting Irish, the Steelers are currently rebuilding after losing a number of players over the last couple of years. They are hoping that being in the Championship for 2010 will give their players a boost. They will be playing out of Baglan RFC. Swansea/Llanelli Dragons Having junior sides for the last few seasons at under 13, 15 and 17 levels, the Swansea Dragons came close to going out of business when the board disbanded, but in stepped Llanelli who decided to take on the Swansea Dragons name to keep the junior sides alive. They will be playing at senior level for the first time this year. Torfaen Tigers Another side that is rebuilding for 2010 and have hence dropped down a division. Their enthusiasm for rugby league at their Pontypool United RFC base has never been in question and they will be a force in 2010 as they will be one of the favourites for promotion. Tydfil Wildcats The Wildcats have been playing at junior levels for the last three years but 2010 will see their debut at open-age. Based at “The Cage” on the outskirts of the Merthyr town, they have been training hard and are looking to pull off a few shocks. West Wales Wild Boars The Wild Boars are entering their second season. Initially formed with an open-age side to compete in the 2009 Premier Welsh Conference, there is interest in having junior sides at St Clears and this is being worked on at the moment.

Junior Contacts

Chris Holcombe 07807 074 227 chris.holcombe@cardiffdemons.com Jon Trickey 07776 191323 jon.trickey@cardiffdemons.com Mark Harris 07868 541831 mark.harris@cardiffdemons.com Jane Harris 07877 968 011 jane.harris@cardiffdemons.com Club trainings will be held at the club ground of St Albans RFC, Tremorfa Park, Cardiff, CF24 2RN at the following times: Juniors 6.15pm Friday nights Seniors 6.30pm Wednesday nights Please note that the benefit of all training at the same place at a similar time is that it links in with player development, pathways and also allows coaches to learn and develop alongside each other. If there are any queries or concerns please contact any of the above contacts.

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