PEMBROKE first XV travelled to Llanybydder last Saturday hoping to claim a victory over the bottom of the table side in the Admiral National League 4 West A, writes Darrell Willington.

The wet, windy weather was a factor in the performance of both squads on the day. Pembroke again had a makeshift backline, behind their usual pack.

In the first 10 minutes both teams mounted determined attacks and tested their respective defences, but on most occasions both failed to capitalize due to unforced errors.

The visitors were first to score after excellent phase play from the halfway line.

Llan’s forwards built a concerted period of play and struck back within minutes.

Both teams continued to build through phase play and both scored another two tries a piece in a frenetic second quarter that saw the score even at 19-19 at the break.

Minutes into the second half Llan lost a forward to a yellow card, after repeated high tackles and a warning.

The visitors used this advantage and No 8 Rogers crashed over from close in to claim the lead.

Despite this set back, Llan mounted a few attacks, but they were met with determined defence and their kicker failed to convert a penalty, which was their only reward for their hard work.

The visitors then raised the tempo of their game, with their forwards producing a stream of possession, which their young backs took wide and they scored a further four tries as they dominated possession and territory for the remainder of the half, eventually finishing as worthy winners by 19-48.

Other results: Dreigiau Emlyn 39 Llangwm 0; Pembroke Dock Quins 24 St Davids 12.

The Youth’s match at home to Tenby was cancelled.

The Panthers hosted League newbees Tycroes on Sunday afternoon, in dry, cool, sunny and breezy conditions.

This was the Panthers first League match of the season after numerous cancellations by opposition teams and they were eager to start their campaign with a win. Ameya Neye was making her debut.

Panthers took a while to settle, but once into their rhythm they dominated for long periods throughout the match, with their forwards providing lots of ball for their speedy backline to build a 33-5 half time lead.

Excellent combinations and strong, direct running saw eight players share five tries in each half in a totally convincing and thoroughly deserved 58-12 win; Pearl Joy Van Ellis was named forward of the match and Chloe Jones back of the match for the home team.

Some of the junior age groups were active with great success in various places around the District.

Two lads from the U16s have been playing well in the County Dewar Shield squad this season; the squad has performed well in this competition to date.

Upcoming fixtures include, First XV home to Dreigiau Emlyn this Saturday and St Davids home on Saturday Nov 15, the Youth have no game this weekend, the Panthers play Newcastle Emlyn home on Sunday KO 2.30pm. Friday Nov 28 First XV host Whitland in the Pembs KO Plate quarter final kick off 7pm.

Social events include, the very popular weekly Thursday Coffee morning, a Panthers Quiz and Karaoke on Friday Nov 21 KO 7pm, and Ladies Committee High Tea on Sunday Nov 23 (tickets on sale in the club).