Crickhowell got off to a great start against old rivals Hollybush, but it was not enough as they fell to a 12-19 loss at Parc Broyd.

Crickhowell 12 - Hollybush 19

Report by Mal Powell

Inside the first few minutes, a long kick upfield from Tom Keane found touch close to the visitor’s line.Possession was secured and the forwards drove in but the defence held firm. Then the ball was spun out to speedy Osian Jones on the wing, who coasted over to touch down.

The bulky Hollybush forwards caused problems for Crick throughout the game and they were driven back at the scrum on several occasions.

Play advanced downfield and the Valleys side used their power to drive over the line, despite a strong defensive effrt. The try was converted and there was no further score in the first half as the sides struggled to gain the upper hand against some splendid tackling from both teams. Crick, however, seemed to lack the fire of last week and mistakes crept into their game.

After the break Hollybush increased their lead when they gained the line after a catch and drive - this one went unconverted.

Lewis Evans reduced the deficit with a penalty some time later but despite some promising breaks by Crick’s backs they failed to break through the defenders.

Hollybush gained their third try in the same fashion as the previous two, with their forwards dominating.

It was up to Osian Jones to provide some consolation when he scored his second with Evans again converting, but sadly, it was too little late as the whistle then blew for the end of the game.

Prior to the game, a minute’s silence was held as hooker Robbie Lewis’s nan had passed away that morning.

Next week sees an unknown quantity visiting as the club welcomes Llangefni RFC 2nds to Parc Broyd in the second round of the WRU Division 5 Cup, one of several north/south clashes.

Saturday’s game was sponsored by the Naughty Corner in the Shoe, and the ball by Steve Carrington.

The club was once again grateful to Ken and Tracey Birch of The Corn Exchange, Gilwern for their after-match hospitality.