This weekend saw Ogmore Vale RFC play their local rivals Pontycymmer RFC in the second round of the WRU Shield. This was a great advert for valley rugby as the two parent clubs for the Valley Ravens mini and Junior Section put on a great display in front of an overwhelming crowd.
The game started how a derby should, ferocious defence from both teams and a hugely physical hits on offer. It was the home side who took the lead early on in the first half with a neatly slotted penalty from Simon Evans 3-0.
The away side-built momentum and soon after took the lead through a well taken try underneath the posts to make it 7-3. First half Ogmore’s pack were dominant and were starting to take control of the game. Hooker Gareth Dunn crossed over the line after a great driving maul from the line out made it 10-7 to the home side.
It was the home side once again to score the next points, with Ogmore’s pack proving to powerful upfront it set the platform for in form Outside Half Simon Evans to dab down between the sticks after a delightful show and go which fooled the defensive line 17-7 in favour of the home side at half time.
Second half started how the first half was left, a great driving line out allowed hooker Gareth Dunn to cross for his second score of the game a few phases later. This looked to have put Ogmore too far in front, but how wrong this was. Pontycymmer battled hard all game to get something from it. The next two scores came from the away side to bring the game to within one score with 10minutes left 24-19.
A fierce contest throughout the game, played in high spirits and battered bodies from both teams. Ogmore Vale RFC sealed the game with a penalty 5minutes from time from the boot of Simon Evans. Final Score Ogmore Vale RFC 27-19 Pontycymmer RFC.
Ogmore Vale RFC progress into the third round, but this amazing contest continues into the league fixture where it will be one not to miss. If its anything to go by after this game, we are in for a thriller.
Up next for Ogmore Vale is an away fixture to Penybanc RFC on Saturday 23rd November.
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