Aberaeron 6 Cardigan 3
Despite the scoreline which could reflect a drab encounter, this second round Pembrokeshire cup match was never dull, with tries the only missing ingredients to provide real Xmas cheer. It also gave the homesters the opportunity to pitch their talents against higher level opposition, and the eventual victory proved the perfect tonic to next week’s league resume’ after an eight week layoff due to the weather and Autumn internationals. The cup may not be considered an important event on the calendar, but on this occasion it did give both teams the chance to wipe away the cobwebs. Missing several regulars on the day, Aberaeron had to reshuffle the squad, but the new look front eight never took a backward step and proved they could live quite comfortable at the higher level. Injuries in the back row paved the way for a welcome return for Ywain ap Dylan, absent for over a year, and although in the unaccustomed role of number eight he was given able support by Adam Jones and Dafydd Wlliams, the latter’s effervescent man of the match display reminiscent of Hywel Rees in his heyday. There was also a surprise from the bench with Euryl Rees being called into action after an injury to scrum half Dylan Williams, and the stalwart quickly slotted into the groove with a gutsy performance. Cardigan’s main attacking threat came from their backline but a competent defensive display from the hosts prevented any real try scoring opportunities. Aberaeron also failed to breach the defensive cover with only a couple of breaks from full back Tom Taylor threatening the scoreboard. As it was the result was decided by the boot, and centre Dylan Evans became an instant hero with a brace of well struck efforts, enough to outdo a sole reply from Tom Turner. So Aberaeron can look forward to a semi final appearance in the competition in the new year, but in the meantime focus will revert back to the league, with a tough looking encounter against New Dock Stars next up at Parc Drefach on Saturday.