Fixture

Birch travelled to the Amman Valley today I must say full of confidence to take on a Brynamman side which had played 21 and lost 21 to date.

Well what happened next is nothing short of a shock and whilst I am not one to criticise is definitely not one of Birchgrove’s finest days as they were comprehensively beaten by a stunning 49 points to 7

The early exchanges gave no clue to the tsunami of points that was to follow as Birch gave a reasonable account of themselves against a lively home side. It was Brynamman though who drew first blood as they put a simple backs move together going over for try number one, converted and a 7 - 0 lead.

A penalty soon followed and with the home side in the ascendency a further converted try and another penalty for offside gave them a 20 - 0 lead and the away support scratching their heads !!

Where was the fight back where was the composure ? Well a Scott Gibson converted try was on hand to give some respite at 20 - 7 but a yellow card and a squandered attack on the home line left a lot to be desired at half time 20 - 7.

This could not continue could it ? Well we would have to see. Some pressure on the home line gave a modicum of optimism but simple line out mistakes, penalties and an officious refereeing response to questioning was not helping the situation. It was no surprise therefore when the home side once again exercised their simple game strategy of drive, recycle, offload and avoid contact resulted in a further converted try and a 27- 7 lead.

A penalty increased the lead to 30- 7 and then the ignominy of a Penalty Try added to the horror 37  -7. Could it get worse ? Yes it could, another converted try 44 -7 and yet another to finish the game 49- 7.

Admittedly we had our personnel and disciplinary problems today and ended up with five front row players in the pack and a back row on the wing but I think even the players will accept that this was not a good day at the office.

We have one game left at home to Dunvant next Saturday 2.30 to round off the season in some style so let’s grab that opportunity , shake off the woes of today and finish with a flourish.

I will be away in Dublin for next week’s game so this is the last report from me this season. It has been a season of mixed fortunes but I have enjoyed chronicling the ups and the downs of what is a very subjective sport. A big thank you therefore to all those who have taken the time to read my musings. A huge thank you also to our intrepid photographer Jeff Miles who continues to bring the game action to life in startling reality.  See you again in September and good luck to the lads next week.