Whitland entertained Pontypridd in their rearranged clash in the fourth round of the Konica Minolta Welsh Cup - and what a cracker it turned out to be. The Borderers dominated up front, but Pontypridd had the edge behind, and in the end this proved crucial as the visitors ran out victors by the narrow margin of 12 points to 10. First of all, however, thanks must go on behalf of the club to Jonathan Boot, of Lydstep Ground Maintenance Service, who worked extremely hard to get the pitch playable after the recent atrocious weather. From the kick-off, Whitland put pressure on Pontypridd's defence, which led to them knocking-on deep in their 22. This set up an attacking scrum, from which man-of-the-match, number eight Randall Williams, picked up and drove hard towards the line. With the rest of the pack in support, the ball was smuggled to prop Gareth Williams, who was driven over for the afternoon's first try. Stand-in outside half Eifion Roberts added the conversion. As the half developed, the clear intention of Pontypridd was to use their backs at every opportunity, but Whitland's defence held strong. After 27 minutes, the Borderers increased their lead when fullback Gavin Morris dropped a goal with his less favoured left foot. Pontypridd had two penalty opportunities late in the half, but turned down the chance at goal, opting for the corner instead. But again Whitland held firm to go in at half-time 10 points to nil up. Early in the second half, Pontypridd turned up the pressure, and after 12 minutes outside-half Richard Langmead put in a cross kick for winger Darren Berry to chase and claim the high ball. There did seem to be a hint that he may be in front, but play was allowed to continue. From the resulting ruck, Whitland's defence began slipping and as they were sucked in, quick ball fed out by Pontypridd's backs saw winger Richard Fussell go over in the corner for their first try. This went unconverted. From the restart, Whitland turned the ball over and were looking for an early reply, but centre Lee Glanville got isolated on the visitors' 22 metre line. This time it was Ponty's chance to produce quick turnover ball, and when they did, they had a three-to-one overlap down the blindside, with only winger Will Davies to beat. This they did and again Fussell cantered in under the posts for the all-important second try, which was converted by fullback Jason Pocock. As it turned out, this proved to be the crucial score, and try as Whitland might, they failed to get into a scoring position. Ponty's own attempts to increase their lead, meanwhile, were thwarted by some outstanding Whitland tackling. It was a typical cup match, played hard in good spirit and well refereed by Nigel Owens. The whole of the Whitland pack was outstanding, but special mention must be given to Aperaamo Tauialo, who put in some big hits, new second row Rawhiti Williams and the back row of John Bowen, Phil Morgan and man-of-the-match Randall Williams. Behind the scrum, Andrew Jenkins, fullback Gavin Morris and centre Barry John had great games. All the players can hold their heads high, and hopefully can take this form forward into the remaining games in the division one promotion battle that lies ahead. Main match sponsors: Meurig James, Pengawse Whitland and Water Line Ltd. Team sponsors: Whitland Cricket Club and J. B. Building Services, of Whitland. Ball sponsors: Mark Evans, livestock haulier, of Bancyfelin; Post Office boys; Janet Thomas and Liz Griffin; Brian and Iris Harris (in memory of Jackie Bach); Viv Stephens Ltd; Paul Rogers, Allen and Partners Veterinary Surgeons, of Whitland. Team: Gavin Morris, Will Davies, Lee Glanville, Barry John, Jack Tremlett, Eifion Roberts, Andrew Jenkins, Gareth Williams (Romeo Collela), Aperaamo Tauialo, Richard Smith (Aled Harris), Rawhiti Williams, Carwyn Davies, John Bowen (Johnny Koloi), Phil Morgan, capt., Randall Williams. Subs not used: Dafydd Lewis, Jason Evans, Gareth Davies, Luke Marsh. There are no league fixtures tomorrow (Saturday) due to the start of the Six Nations tournament, with Wales taking on England, which you can seen on the big screen at the clubhouse. Whitland's next fixture will be on Wednesday, February 9, when they are away to Maesteg, with a 7.15 pm kick-off. A supporters' bus will leave the club at 5.30 pm. Names to Julie at Mrs. Monty (M. L. Davies) by Monday.