Last Wednesday evening, the First XV entertained Llangwm for the first time in many seasons, in the first round of the Pembs KO Cup.
On a perfect surface, in dry, cool windless evening a large crowd had assembled to witness the first match of consequence this season. Llangwm had only recently just lost out 17-14 against the Narberth Development squad and so the home side anticipated a tough battle.
Llangwm started well and kept Pembroke on the defensive in their twenty two for the first ten minutes, being forced to defend resolutely to repel attacks on a number of occasions.
After this, the home side seemed to get their bearings and proceeded to play some exciting, joined up rugby, which yielded their first score after twelve minutes, with prop Brayford crashing over from concerted phase play.
Pembroke continued to assert their dominance scoring a further four tries to lead 31-0 at the break.
The home side continued their assault in the second half, but the visitors did mount sporadic attacks that were snuffed out by determined defence.
The home side built their attacks through their dominant pack, with three of the forwards scoring tries and No 10 Alderwick using the possession provided to score a very well taken individual try. Alderwick also kicked well on the night knocking over seven conversions to help his side to a very worthy win by 59-0, to the delight of his coaching team and large, appreciative support.
The First XV open their League programme with a trip to Llanybydder on Saturday and they will be at home to Haverfordwest the week after. Both games will test the mettle of this young side and provide a marker by which they can judge their form.
The Youth squad open their season with a friendly against Carmarthen Athletic at home this Friday evening, KO 7.30pm under lights. Their League season is due to start soon and the lads are very keen to get under way after successes last season.
The Panthers’ season will commence at the end of September and they too are working really hard in training and looking forward to getting underway. A large contingent of new players from St Davids has joined their ranks along with coach Dale Humphreys, who will work alongside established coach Keiron Burrows.
From the junior section, U10’s Jameson Davies won himself a place at an exciting WRU training camp at the Vale HQ and met a number of international players, whilst Bowyn Clark played again for the Scarlets academy and won against Cardiff Blues last week.
The weekly Turkey Trot draws will begin on September 1; tickets are on sale in the club and in pubs around the town. There will be 16 draws and the winners of the Cuckoo Mill premium birds will be able to pick up their winnings just before Christmas.