Fixture

Match report by Clive James

Risca travelled to Blaenavon looking to build on last weeks win against Brynmawr. For the travelling fans though it became another case of having to endure a tense last 10 minutes after looking comfortable with a two score advantage. For the opening period Risca were playing an expansive game and after a good run down the right by Pesci the ball was moved quickly left . The move was halted but Blaenavon conceded at the breakdown and Biddy kicked the resultant penalty. From the kick off the ball was not secured and the home side took full advantage moving the ball in field where the 2nd row ran through some weak tackling to score under the posts with the no.10 added the extras. During the next 15 minutes Blaenavon added a penalty to go 10pts.- 3 up and this was followed by Risca going down to 14 when flanker Sully was yellow carded. Back came the black and ambers with another good run by Pesci followed by a driving maul, the ball was moved quickly and full back Dowle went over wide out for an unconverted try.

Half time 10pts.-8.

Within minutes of the restart Blaenavon conceded a penalty 45metres out on the touchline and full back Dowle cooly slotted the kick.But as earlier the ball again was not secured from the kick off and again paid the price with the home team getting another converted try. Risca then made some changes with Mike Preece making his debut in the back row. The next quarter then belonged to the visitors with the forwards dominating in the loose with LouisTovey,

Mike Hutchings,Matt Williams and the impressive Preece to the fore. The lead was regained when from a lineout a driving maul saw Hutchings going over for a converted try.This was then followed with wing Wayne Whitehead getting his 7th.try in 5 games. He finished off a move which started with a deft kick from Biddy which was gathered by wing Pesci who made good ground into the opposition 22m.area where he passed inside to the supporting Dowle who handed on to Whitehead. But then for the remainder of the game was backs to the wall stuff after Blaenavon cut the lead to one score. Every visiting supporter was willing the referee to blow the final whistle. Eventually it came and you could here the sharp intake of breath and sense of relief.

The team all contributed during the afternoon with full back James Dowle, wing Ben Pesci and Mike Hutchings prominent but it was hooker Louis Tovey who took the Man of the Match.

Next week Risca visit Brynmawr in the Plate.