WITH the Quilter Autumn nations tournament in full swing, there was no senior rugby last weekend, writes Darrell Willington.

However, Pembroke U17s were given a chance for a run-out in a friendly away to Tenby, in preparation for the start of the Mike Fry U17 Cup competition early in the New Year.

The Pembs Dangler delivered an evening of weather to remember, with blizzard conditions for long periods during the match, which made visibility difficult for the players.

The visitors started really well building from the halfway line and ending with a converted score under the posts.

Tenby struck back quickly with an unconverted try, through their powerful forwards.

After a period of stalemate, the home side asserted themselves and good handling of a slippy ball saw them score two tries before the break to lead 19-14 at half time.

Both sides made changes to ensure all squad members got game time.

Tenby’s dominant scrum and very good combined play in the loose, saw them claim two more tries in the third quarter to establish a big lead.

The visitors to their credit mounted a number of attacks, but mistakes cost them dearly.

The home side continued to pressurize and tackle strongly in defence, which yielded possession and after more good combined play they scored two more tries to end up worthy winners 41-14, in what had been a very entertaining match in tough conditions that proved a great experience for both squads.

Fixtures: Pembroke First XV host Whitland in the Pembs KO Plate on Friday, November 28, 7pm, and on the same night the Youth play Narberth at home, also 7pm. The Panthers head to Newcastle Emlyn on 29 November.

All junior age groups will be in action on Sundays. The Youth travel to Porth Harlequins in the WRU National Shield on Saturday, 6 December, 2.30pm, whilst the Panthers travel to Blackwood on Sunday, 7 December in the WRU National Bowl, 2.30pm.

The Panthers held a very successful and well attended Quiz/Karaoke fundraising evening last Friday, whilst the social committee held an equally well attended and very enjoyable High Tea last Sunday afternoon, which featured excellent food and top entertainment from the talented Chris Didcote.

Other social events in the future include the annual Boxing Day Exiles match, club Quizzes on Fridays January 23 and February 13 starting both at 7.15pm; everyone is very welcome to come along as the quizzes are for teams of 4-6.

A children’s party is planned for 21 December at the clubhouse and some other Christmas events, members should watch the events board.

Members of the management committee have been working very hard to continue to garner grant funding for club projects and having secured substantial funds are now planning for projects to start in the coming weeks.