Heol-y-Cyw took part in another razor-thin contest, with Ystalyfera edging Cyw 27-22. It was an entertaining game where the players gave it their all, with desire on full display. Tries, drama, and moments will live long in memory. A game that told a story of fight, as Heol-y-Cyw kept within distance throughout the course of the game, and were so close to victory. Even in defeat, there were still plenty of positives to take forward as the season ramps up.
The contest
It was a beautiful day in Heol-y-Cyw as the team welcomed Ystalyfera. It didn’t start great for the host as Ystalyfera struck first with a try. Heol-y-Cyw answered back as Dan Phillips hit the ball beautifully to give his side three. However, the visitors had an impressive first half. Ystalyfera crossed the tryline for the second time as the opening 40 minutes progressed. Ystalyfera were strong and led at half-time.
The second half saw Heol-y-Cyw spark a comeback. A charge up the field, and Owen Davey went over for an important try and momentum was being built. It began to roll when Phillips took the high ball and flew, beating three defenders with immense footwork to score an excellent try. Yet, Ystalyfera broke the Cyw’s heart when a grubber kick found a Ystalyfera hand to secure the game.
As noted, there were plenty of positives to take from the game. Heol-y-Cyw created opportunities in the opponents' 22, and they will look to it all forward to Saturday’s clash.
League table
As we are only a few weeks from the first break of the season, the table is beginning to take shape. Heol-y-Cyw currently sit 10th in the table with two points; they are level with Waunarlwydd, and two points off Skewen in eighth. Ystalyfera sit third in the table with three victories and a single defeat. Neath Athletic and Aberavon Green Stars are clearly the teams to beat at the top. The division is filled with competitive teams that can beat anyone on their day.
Next up
Heol-y-Cyw will be on the hunt for redemption next weekend. The side will travel to Aberavon Green Stars. It will be a tough challenge; the Green Stars look to be in fine form. They are coming off an impressive 60-12 victory against Nantyffyllon. It has the makings of a great game.
Even though the results haven’t gone Heol-y-Cyw’s way, there has been a consistent theme in the games: that is what the club is all about, playing with heart and backing your team.