Two-try Rees puts them ahead

Feb 17 2008 by Our Correspondent, Wales On Sunday

KARL REES scorched over for a brace of tries as leaders Penallta stepped up their title charge with a 35-24 victory over a plucky Llanishen in Division Two East.

The speedster was one of four Penallta try scorers, with Steve Richards, Lee Thomas and Terry Gurmin also getting in on the act.

Basement boys Llanishen played their part in the contest, though, and their endeavours earned them a four-try bonus point as prop Matthew Gee, fly-half Gareth Bailey-Jones and hooker Simon Furness touched down, adding to an earlier penalty try.

Mountain Ash retained second spot after overcoming a spirited Tredegar side 20-9. Captain Scott Davies lead the way with the opening score and a further effort from centre Garan Hill, along with 10 points from the boot of fly-half Matthew Parfitt, saw the Old Firm side home.

Ystrad Rhondda also remain in the mix, their 18-10 win over Ynysybwl ensuring their place in the title race. Dylan and Dean Jones both crossed for tries in the win, while Wayne Jervis kicked a conversion and two penalties.

Abergavenny kept their noses in front in Division Three East with a 20-12 win at Nelson. But they only lead second-placed Brynmawr on try count after they too recorded an important away win – 19-6 at Pontypool United.

No 8 Steve Evans scored a fine try for the visitors, scrum-half Richard Addis and flanker Gareth Morris following suit.

Elsewhere, Croesyceiliog almost completed the comeback of the season so far when they recovered from 19-0 down to snatch a 19-19 draw at Pontllanfraith.

The home side were running away with it in the first half, thanks to tries from Nathan Williams, Chris Oliver and Chris Lloyd, but Croesy were not to be denied and a sterling rearguard action saw them steal a share of the points.

Gwernyfed’s 22-0 drubbing of Abercarn was inspired by a memorable hat-trick from flanker Steve Harley in Division Four East.

The back rower was in sparkling form as the league’s runaway leaders notched yet another win and already look destined to take the title. Winger Darren Roe scored his side’s other try while Danny Skyrme kicked a conversion.