Saturday saw a result that last happened over 20 years ago. Bettws beat Hartdidge 19-16. A result which literally had players hanging from the rafters. Hartridge were first to adapt to the ref’s interpretation at the break down, which allowed them to use the wind to convert 3 of their 5 penalties.
The 2nd half started as a complete reversal, with Craig Currie kicking well for position, and good work at the breakdown by Matthew Tapp and Kevin Drew giving Marcello Anderson the chance to convert 2 out of the 3 chances at goal.
But Bettws then slipped back into old bad habits’, and didn’t clear their lines and created pressure for themselves, despite some huge defence, notably from Steven Price and Chris Harris. Hartridge eventually took their chance to score the opening try of the game. The conversion was then given even though the ball clearly didn’t cross the line.
With 25 to go Bettws took total control with Currie and even the legendary Lee Fletcher applying pressure with accurate kicking, and Mike Thomas making some damaging runs. This provided Cello, another 2 penalty chances which he took with ease. With Drew claiming each kick off like a rock a quick slip to Alan Techman caused havoc in the Hartridge ranks. As did introduction of Gareth Evans who was everywhere and a total thorn in Hartridge’s side, especially for their halbacks and at the breakdown.
Although a bit fortuitous the score to seal the match was inevitable with the way Bettws were playing creating chance after chance. It finally came from a mess at a Hartridge lineout which end with the ever alert Chris Taylor pouncing to score. With Cello converting, it left the massive Bettws support with a few anxious moments to survive.
But survive they did to a huge roar from players and support alike. All players from 1 to 19 played their part as did the fantastic support. Bettws will need both all season so bring on Caldicot next week at the Tws.