Blacks gain revenge

From the archive, first published Thursday 19th Jan 2006.

Neyland 25 Cardigan 17 NEYLAND came from behind to snatch a dramatic victory in the final quarter over Cardigan at the Athletic Ground.

The home side had earlier lost 18-9 at Cardigan, but this time round they managed to gain sweet revenge.

Although trailing 11-7 at half-time the All Blacks began to dominate and it was thanks to vastly experienced No8 Mathew Williams' brace of tries that they really drove on for victory.

Visiting full back Kevin Evans landed a penalty and skipper Richard Jones grabbed his second interception try in as many matches at the posts, with Evans' simple conversion hitting the post.

Neyland rallied and No8 Williams crashed over for his first try which Mark Riley converted.

The All Blacks missed a certain three points by running a penalty near the shadow of the posts and Cardigan fought their way back upfield for Evans to land another penalty.

Mathew Williams pounced on a loose ball to secure Neyland's second try and give them the lead for the first time.

However, Kevin Evans kicked two penalties to one by Riley to edge the Cardies back in front at 17-15.

Mark Riley was influential in Martin Roberts' winning try which the fly half also converted to seal the the precious league points.

Neyland: Greg Miller; Martin Roberts; Steve Hamer; Adam Collins; Delme Bateman; Mark Riley; Mark Hamer; Craig Bennett; Mark Rogers; Mark Smith; Mark James (John Greggain); Carl Britton; Chris Busby (Jamie Kerr); Adi Riley; Mathew Williams. Replacements (not used): Steve Evans; Jason Riley.

Cardigan: Kevin Evans; Rhydian Jenkins; Dan Collins; Huw Davies; Tom Belotti; Phil Leighton; Dylan Rees; Richard Jones (Capt); Owen Jones; Eurfyl Davies; Llyr Evans; Jonathan Hicken; Will Kerr; Dylan Davies; Steve Jay. Replacements (not used): Geraint West; Stuart Davies; David Brown. Neyland were sponsored by Firwood Homes Ltd and Advanced Fire Systems, with the match ball sponsored by Ceri Matthews.

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