Old Illtydians denied by the woodwork

Jan 28 2008 by Anthony Woolford, South Wales Echo

IN a humdinger of a cup tie in Cardiff, Tondu edged out lower division Old Illtydians 16-15, Cody Rees’s match-winning conversion attempt of Matthew Taylor’s last-gasp try denied by the woodwork.

The visitors had amassed a 16-3 advantage, Rhys Cunningham’s try, converted by Dean Thomas, who also landed a trio of penalties.

The Old Boys looked beaten but Neil Barrymore gave them a second bite of the cherry and Taylor’s last-ditch effort could have snatched victory.

Merthyr pushed Cross Keys hard before the visitors went through 40-19, Marcus Johnstone the visitors’ try hero with three of their touchdowns.

Gethin Thomas and Matt Edwards scored home tries and the Ironmen also won a penalty try award.

Division One strugglers Llanharan fought bravely at Rodney Parade before succumbing 59-17 but they had the satisfaction of three tries from Greg Jones, Gary Williams and Dorian Thomas.

Bargoed are safely through, 24-16 at Whitland, but they finished two short as Adam Kidley and Darren Sweet received the ultimate sour treatment of red cards.

Lewis Protheroe, Lee Pearson, Darren Humphries and Jamie Howells went over for the winners.

Ystrad Rhondda took part in the opening of Newport Saracens’ new ground at Maesglas, the hosts celebrating with a 29-21 victory.

Bedwas were much too powerful for fallen Division One champions Bonymaen, winning 43-0 in Swansea.

Matthew Pizey crossed twice for the visitors, who cruised in for seven tries in total.

In one of the day’s big clashes, Neath edged out Osprey colleagues Swansea 27-18 at the Gnoll, former Wales International Arwel Thomas the match-winner with a try, penalty and two conversions.

Holders Llandovery bowed out 22-7 at Aberavon, while on a day when there was not a single shock, Tonmawr won 55-0 at Waunarlwydd, Narberth 34-21 at Glynneath and Blackwood 42-13 at Aberavon Quins.

The draw for round five takes place tomorrow.