PEMBROKE Panthers, having secured promotion last season, travelled to Treorchy for their first full fixture in the WRU Women’s Championship, with revenge in their minds, as they lost narrowly there in the WRU Bowl last season, writes Darrell Willington.

The match also marked a special occasion for four Panthers making their senior debuts, Leonni Nicholas, Steph Iddon, Sofia Pawlik and Faith Davies and newly appointed captain Megan Cole, who all stepped up to the challenge.

Panthers went straight into a hugely physical contest and settled into the game well, with Chloe Jones opening the scoring from the tee, putting the visitors 3–0 ahead.

Treorchy responded with a try to take the lead 5–3, before Pembroke were reduced to 14 players, when Neana received a yellow card.

Shortly after, Pembroke suffered another blow when, captain and scrum half, Megan Cole went down with a knee injury.

Treorchy added another converted try to extend their lead to 10–3, before Pembroke received a second yellow card.

Treorchy took full advantage of the extra space, adding further tries to lead by 25–3.

Pembroke continued to battle and showed plenty of character.

A quick penalty from permit player Macey Bowen saw her make valuable yards to set up a fantastic attacking opportunity and Bethan Griffiths finished the move brilliantly, crossing the line for Pembroke’s first try to make it 25–8.

Treorchy responded quickly with another try, but Pembroke refused to give up.

The Panthers continued to attack and were rewarded late in the game when Hari McCormack crossed the line for Pembroke’s second try with Chloe Jones successfully converting to add the extra points, bringing the final score to 30-15, with the Panthers squad reflecting on an invaluable experience, which should stand them in good stead as they move forward.

Pembroke First XV had a bye in last weekend’s WRU Divisional Cup competition and now await the draw in the coming week for round two.

The Youth squad were very disappointed as the Quins were unable to field a team to travel to Crickmarren last Saturday.

The junior age groups were in action, the U7-9 at St Clears, 11 and 12s at Carmarthen Quins and 13s in Aberaeron. All teams performed very creditably, with the 13s scoring well in the second half, but losing to a very late try in an exciting and high scoring game.

Upcoming fixtures include: First XV entertain Tenby Athletic 2.30pm KO this Saturday, the Panthers play West Swansea Hawks at home on Sunday next KO 2.30pm, the Youth play Neyland away KO 2.30pm and the Juniors are in various places across the District.

The Directors and Management Committee would like to thank all of the existing and new sponsors for agreeing to continue and start their generous support for our club, and to all club volunteers as their input is vital to sustaining all of the club’s activities.