Fixture

A Colin Manning hat-trick helped Abercarn to their eight consecutive win in the SWALEC league as the beat Brynithel 47 - 5 and extended our lead to six points over second place Hafodyrynys. The hosts only had a bare fifteen players so the game started with passive scrums. It took nearly thirty minutes before there was any score. Despite enjoying the majority of possession Abercarn were often guilty of kicking too much and a number of errors by both sides meant that neither team was able to build any momentum. Abercarn finally got on the scoreboard when, from an attacking line-out the pack drove over the whitewash and number eight Gareth Peebles touched down. Full-back Jason Evans obviously had his kicking boots on and converted from the touchline. Minutes later, trying the same move Brynithel were penalised for pulling down the maul and the referee awarded a penalty try which was duly converted and at half-time Abercarn led by 14 - 0.

The second half started well for the us when scrum Colin Manning, instead of passing out the ball, he dove over the forwards to score his third try of the season and extended Abercarn's lead. Chips, having added the two points collected a drop-out and weaved through the defenders to score an excellent bonus point try. The hosts were struggling to cope with Abercarn's attacks and strong running by centre Owen Coomer saw him score another try. Abercarn started to relax and Brynithel took advantage of poor tackling to score a try in the corner. Abercarn's sixth try came when the forwards were pressurising the hosts line and Colin Manning scored from a driving maul. The game ended when the ball was passed across the three-quarters and Manning scored his third try in the corner.

Back at the clubhouse there were several names in the hat for the Man of the Match Award; Chips for his 17 points; Tridge for his outstanding work around the pitch but the award went to Colin Manning.

Abercarn next welcome Usk to the Welfare Ground on 3 January. They are making good progress up the league table, currently in third place on 29 points and with one game in hand over us so will be a good challenge to our unbeaten position in the league.