Ystrad Rhondda celebrate title with thumping win

Apr 27 2008 by Our Correspondent, Wales On Sunday

HARRY ALLEN’S brace of tries sparked wild celebrations at Ystrad Rhondda who sealed the Division One East title following their 48-10 triumph over Rhydyfelin.

The newly-crowned champions stormed over the finish line on a day of destiny across the club game in Wales.

Tries from outside centre Allen along with hooker John Watkins and full-back Dean Jones started a huge night of partying in the valleys.

Penallta joined Ystrad in securing promotion to Division One as runners-up with a convincing victory against Abercynon who drop to sixth place in the table.

Outside centre Shaun Powell took centre stage with four tries and captain Matthew Tucker sent champagne corks popping as the hosts romped to a 32-19 home win. Division Three champions Brynmawr ran in seven tries to thrash Croesyceiliog 37-17.

Skipper Damien Hudd and wing Nolan Nicklan touched down for doubles while Rod Thomas, Nicky Strange and Sipoh Nobitano got in on the act.

Abergavenny also clinched promotion with a 38-0 thumping of New Tredegar while Senghenydd won the basement - and front row - battle against Pontllanfraith.

Prop Robert Shannon and hooker Shaun Morgan displayed too much muscle, with both bagging a pair of tries to demolish their rivals 59-14.

Gwernyfed tasted sweet success in Division Four after breezing past Risca. The champions bounced back from a shock 6-0 defeat at Nantyglo last weekend to lift the title. Centre Gareth Dodd was the star of the show in the 38-12 success which killed off Risca’s promotion hopes as Abertillery and Nantyglo both gained valuable wins.

Trevor James produced a five-star show as Crumlin secured the Division Five crown with a 34-22 victory over Llanhilleth.

Wing James ran in an amazing five tries together with Robert Whitlock’s score to extend their lead at the top to six points with one game left.

Nearest challengers Chepstow kept up their promotion push by embarrassing Oakdale 91-0.