Page 33 - Gwernyfed v Neyland

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CROESO WELCOME
SEMI FINAL DAY...
It seems strange when writing these notes not to be welcoming visiting teams.
However, it’s also a distinct pleasure to be able to say how much we’re all looking
forward to meeting the players, coaches, officers and supporters of today’s
opponents in the semi-final of the Division 4 Cup, Neyland Rugby Football Club.
I think it true to say that the Clubs have never met before, but let’s hope that this
first meeting is a foundation stone for a long a fruitful relationship.
As we celebrate our sixtieth year of rugby here in the Black Mountains, we look to be mere
whippersnappers when set against the history of today’s opponents. Neyland RFC was
formed in 1885 (yes, 140 years ago) just four years after the formation of the Welsh Rugby
Union. After the Second World War rugby and cricket in Neyland got together and formed
an Athletic Club, an arrangement that prevails today. Neyland RFC play in all black, carry the
silver fern on their badge and are known as The All Blacks – whilst we are a confident outfit,
it's to be hoped that the Barratts aren’t available for the semis!
Looking to our own form in the run-up to the semis, after a lengthy lay-off forced by the Six
Nations, weather and opposition unavailability, we crossed the white line again on 22 March
when promotion contenders Bedwellty visited The Brian Jones Memorial Field. We would
have snatched hands off for the 48-15 win with seven tries before the game, though while
the outcome was what we wanted, and scored some great tries, there was evident rustiness.
Last weekend’s trip to Pontllanfraith oiled the machine. It could be argued that we needed
a tougher challenge, a 14-92, fourteen try victory arguably ‘bloodless’. However, that we
maintained our title challenge and came through without injury bodes well.
One important component sadly missing today will be our talismanic skipper, Sam Stephens.
I think that I am being objective when I say that Sam has carried a huge load for us over so
many seasons and I know that you will join me in wishing Sam a full recovery from the serious
injury he sustained at Tylerstown. Sam will be with us in body and spirit today.
There will be a big contingent at Newcastle Emlyn. We are a Club renowned for conducting
ourselves in the true spirit of the game and we must maintain that record today. We are all
responsible for our own behaviour, but I do ask that, win or lose, we all respect the officials,
the opposition and our great game – I know that will be the case, thank you.
Hopefully we’ll see green, white and black success today. However, most importantly of all,
(and you’ve heard me say this before!) let’s hope for a great day’s sport in the best of company.
Robert Stephens.