Haverfordwest Rugby Ground, on a sunny morning last Saturday, was the venue for Pembrokeshire County under 11s to take the considerable talents of Neath in the first round of the 'DC Thomas Cup.'

It was also the opportunity for four Tenby youngsters, namely Alex Thomas, Mike Robbins, Ianto Griffiths and Lloyd Thomas to take part in their first Cup game representing their County.

Andy Gray, the County Coach, ably assisted by Simon Thomas, had already warned of the dangers Neath have traditionally posed and this side was no exception. Neath were also accompanied by a large contingent of vocal supporters

Alex, wearing the number 6 shirt and Lloyd, wearing the number 10, were in the starting line up. Pembrokeshire kicked off and from the beginning were pressurising the all black Neath side. It was a strong start from Pembrokeshire, the team attempting to put into practice all that Andy and Simon had taught them during their training sessions.

Neath were shaken and rattled, being pinned back in their own 22. The first scrum was followed by some powerful driving, with Alex playing a full part in the action, quickly releasing the backs and in particular Lloyd Thomas for some of his exciting runs, Then, the Pembrokeshire County player wearing the number 15 shirt, Jamie, was prevented from scoring a try by a strong tackle by a Neath player. But with continued pressure by Pembrokeshire, Jamie was once again attacking the line, reaching the corner and resulting in the first try to the County. Due to the difficulty of the kick, the conversion was missed.

It wasn't long before the brave figure of Mikey Robbins was brought on to the field, substituting young Josh. Immediately he became involved, speeding down the wing. Then as Neath attacked, Lloyd made a covering run to tackle an opposition player and take him into touch. The ensuing line out saw Alex knock the ball to his backs setting up a counter attack but this was short lived and before long, Pembrokeshire were involved in a spell of valiant defence under the posts.

But the pressure was too great and Neath, after a period of determined play, broke through the Pembrokeshire defence to score their first try which they converted.

During the ensuing break, Andy Gray was heard to remind the team of the importance of quick passes, just as they had done when they first kicked off. Ianto joined the team for the second half at scrum half and was soon involved in the action. All the time the tension was mounting as this was an important first game. Alex, Ianto, Mikey and Lloyd's parents, watching intently from the touchline, were all exhibiting the trademarks of quivering wrecks as they watched the game develop.

From the start of the second half, Pembrokeshire were put under pressure. Not daunted, the forwards gained hard yards giving service to the backs. Pembrokeshire put tremendous pressure on the Neath side and there was a real battle taking place in the Neath 22.

The Pembs. boys were showing their determination and character. In response, Neath kept killing the ball which drew the attention of the referee leading their captain to be threatened with the sin bin. Neath responded and much to the disappointment of the Pembs. supporters, scored a second try but failed to convert it. But credit to Pembs, they didn't give in and their efforts and determination, during the last seconds of the game, were rewarded with a second try scored by Ashly and converted by Richard albeit under what must have been considerable pressure. Final score 12-12.

Well done Pembrokeshire and in particular, Alex, Mikey, Ianto and Lloyd. You did Pembrokeshire proud and the future looks bright. By the way, you all looked very smart in your ties and white shirts!