Nant Conwy 15 Panallta 21
NANT Conwy's fighting spirit took them to within inches of a famous victory at the Millennium Stadium on Monday in the final of the all Wales SWALEC Plate.
The boys from the Valley looked about to be overwhelmed by South Wales opponents Penallta, who were playing impressive rugby and winning at 21 -3 with 25 minutes to go, but roared on by over a thousand supporters Nant's storming finish made it 21- 15, leaving Pen hanging on for dear life.
They had to overcome a poor first half and a 7-0 score after five minutes on a vast stamina-sapping pitch, but overcame their problems steadily throughout but stood up to be counted giving North Wales rugby another boost.
Nant’s best effort came late in the first half, pushing to the line before winning a penalty which Carwyn ap Myrddin converted to make it 7-3, but fell to a sucker punch in the last minute when Ben Morgan touched down in the corner.
Nant had to ride out a knock down and try from Morgan to go 21-3 down, but the fightback started there, finding Penallta though not so good under pressure, as petulance and a punch cost them two players to yellow cards.
Up for the challenge Nant hit back through two tries from subs Llywyrch ap Myrddin and Gareth Jones, finishing off moves with driving runs, with ap Myrddin converting and hitting a post to make it 21-15.
Despite ten minutes of total rugby, Nant couldn’t get the break they needed, but can take pride in their part in the continued rise of North Wales rugby.