U8's: Mumbles Home 10.12.06

Date : 10.12.06

Elders :

Score : South Gower 4, Mumbles 4.
Tries : Ethan Smith, Cameron Barker (2), Ben Westerholm.

Youngsters :

Score : South Gower 2, Mumbles 3. (Game abandoned at half time)
Tries : Fergus Kneath (2).

Elders Game Summary :

Tom Mogridge captained the Gower against our nearest rivals in which turned out to be the worst day of the season (weather wise) we have played rugby on. The wind and the rain lashed down constantly but all the players were brave enough to see the game through. Mumbles scored the first try of the game only for Ethan "Shane" Smith to reply instantly with a weaving run which took apart the opposition. Ethan took them one way, then the other, back the same way and then danced his way through to score a great try. Mumbles replied and then Cameron Barker got his first of the game with a great run which saw him sprint for the corner to go over to level the scores.


Cameron Barker goes flying past for his second try of the game.

After the break, Mumbles scored before Cameron Barker got his second of the game. Some good team play and support saw Cameron go over to level the scores. Mumbles then turned over possession with a knock on and the teamwork sent Ben Westerholm racing away to score in the corner.
The referee then signalled the last play of the game and mumbles came at us. We took 3 tags off them before their player ran through 4 off us to score and level the game at 4 - 4. Unfortunately, with the last play of the game, Ben Westerholm had to go off with a nasty cut lip, luckily, his dad knows a bit about that !!!!!!! A big well done to all, who produced some great rugby in awful conditions.

Youngsters Game Summary :

Dan Pritchard had the honour of captaining his side as the conditions deteriorated. Mumbles started with possession and South Gower made a few tags before they scored the first try of the game. Gower replied with some good running and off loading in the tackle to Fergus Kneath to race over for his first of the game. Again, Mumbles came straight back at us and scored a good try. The Kneathmeister Fergus then took the game to mumbles with some great running to equalise the game at 2-2.
With the wind blowing heavily behind Mumbles, we conceded another try which came from good support running. Half time was approaching when we took the ball up the blind side where we were unfortunately forced into touch. The referee blew for half time, yet it was decided for the match to be abandoned due to the coldness, wetness and the diminishing numbers of player left on the field. The score was 3-2 to Mumbles when the game was abandoned but with the strong wind behind the Gower in the second half, it would not have been long before that score was changed. Well done to all the player who persevered through the awful weather.

PhotoCall: SGRFC U14's 2006

Click the image for a selection of photos of SGRFC U14's in action.
Photos by Jo Ashburner

U:11's Mumbles Home 10.12.06

Score: South Gower 26, Mumbles 14
Conversions: Jamie Thomas [3]
Tries (Scored By): Chay Smith [4]

S.G.R.F.C. Man of the Match (And Why): Chay Smith for an all round outstanding performance and finishing off 4 well achieved tries.

Game Analysis: A true winters morning; cold, wet, windy and thirty boys that are school mates, neighbours and friends representing two distinct local teams. The ribbing and teasing was over, and time to see who was going to deliver a winning performance on the day. South Gower won the toss and commenced with the wind behind them. Going straight on the attack, South Gower held Mumbles within their own 22, the forwards working well upfront securing possession to allow quick ball out from scrum half Jamie Thomas where the precision passing of the Gower backs reached outside centre Chay Smith to claim the first try of the game. The conversion was literally just inside the touch line resulting in a challenging conversion from Jamie Thomas, it must be said that the angle, length and accuracy was superb and hence added the extra 2 points with a class kick. The All Black team spirit drove on at the restart, straight back into the Mumbles 22. Mumbles defending well with well drilled tackles but Gower holding on to possession, using the backs to create an over lap, that sent Chay Smith over for his second try within 10 minutes. The passion was flowing but Mumbles were no way bowing out. Not long after, Chay Smith having a stormer of a game got popped the ball within the Mumbles half, jinking his way through along with throwing a dummy pass to claim his hat-trick, Jamie Thomas converting the extras. Mumbles, kept their heads and regained possession, taking the game back up field to South Gower. The ball got spilled however allowing the All Blacks to kick clear downfield backed by a strong wind. The chase was on, speedster Jonno Blakemore took out the Mumbles full back at first touch, where Mumbles were certainly under pressure on their own try line; with an adjacent pass along their line which was read and intercepted by Chay Smith touching down for his fourth try, Jamie Thomas again on form with the boot claiming the conversion.
The second half, Gower hoped they had done enough to pin Mumbles down supported by the wind and rain, but they certainly did come back into the game. The Mumbles forwards started to dominate in the rucks and mauls restricting Gower possession. Their determination was never doubted and was evident in their two second half un-answered tries, both being well converted to give them their 14 point score, but unfortunately for them too little too late.
The win was certainly a sweet one for the All Blacks, a bunch of boys working well as a team playing 15 a side on a full size pitch, but fair to say that both teams respected one another well in the true spirit of the sport. A great performance by both sides, so until the next time……. ;-)

U8's: Pontardulais & Waunarlwydd Home 03.12.06

Date : 03.12.06

Score : South Gower 4, Pontardulais 6.
Tries : Jack Bates, Ben Westerholm, Ethan Smith, Tom Jenkins.

Score : South Gower 5, Waunarlwydd 6.
Tries : Max Collis (2), Tom Mogridge, Cameron Barker (2).

Score : Waunarlwydd 3, Pontardulais 1.

We had 2 teams visit South Gower this week which enabled us to play all of our players.
Cameron Barker captained South Gower this week. We were up against 2 strong teams and had to try and split our teams evenly as we have have players ranging from 5 to 8 years old. The important thing was that everybody played.

Game Summary - South Gower V Pontardulais

First up was Pontardulais, they went 2 tries up straight away. South Gower replied with a good weaving run and touchdown from Jack "Bullet Head" Bates. Pontardulais replied with 2 more tries before South Gower's "Roadrunner" Ben Westerholm used his pace to sprint clear of everyone to score a good try.

The Roadrunner, Ben Westerholm in full flow supported by Cameron Barker.

Ethan Smith then joined in the fun with one of his trademark jinking runs that left everyone dizzy before touching down to make it 4 - 3 to Pontardulais. After the break, Pontardulais scored again before Tom Jenkins skinned the opposition with his pace to score a great try in the corner.

Tom Jenkins sprints away for his try, supported outside by Ben Westerholm.

Unfortunately, due to our eagerness to tag early and win a turnover, our players drifted in from the wing to try and tag the opposition leaving space outside for Pontardulais to score their 6th try. There was no time for a comeback this time and Pontardulais ran out winners.

Game Summary - South Gower V Waunarlwydd

Waunarlwydd were up next with a very strong team. We had a complete change of personnel to ensure everyone played. Unfortunately, we were still asleep when the game started and went 3 tries down. Then up stepped Max Collis. Max scored a fabulous individual try to take us into the break at 3 - 1 down. We made a few substitutions at half time and came out of the starting blocks firing on all cylinders. Tom Mogridge weaved his way past several defenders before scoring a good try.

Tom Mogridge weaves in and out before sprinting over for a good try.

Then Captain Cameron Barker chipped in with a fine try of his own after some good offloading in the tag. Waunarlwydd then struck back with 2 tries. Max Collis then supported his teammates well before racing away through the middle of the opposition to score another great try. Waunarlwydd made it 6 - 4 with some fine play with a few minutes left. Captain Cameron then finished off a good move by the whole team. The offloading in the tag, and players taking the ball at pace instead of standing still, proved valuable as Cameron went over for his second of the game.

Captain, Cameron Barker touches down South Gower's final try.

With a minute left, Waunarlwydd knocked on and we had possession. Through a series of tags we made our way towards the Waunarlwydd try line. When Ethan was tagged 2 metres out his pass to an unmarked Cameron agonisingly didn't go to hand, the ball was turned over and the referee blew his final whistle. We had lost 5 - 6 but came so close to the draw. We put up a spirited performance against, barring New Dock Stars, our toughest and most organised side we have played against this season. Compliments must be paid to Pontardulais and Waunarlwydd for the way they played.
We seem to have made leaps and bounds in training with our attacking skills, now is the time to concentrate on our defence and bring that up to the same standard. If we can accomplish that then i am certain we will be a very hard team to beat. Well done to everyone.

U:11's Waunarlwydd Home 4.12.06

Date: 04/12/06
Opposition: Waunarlwydd RFC
Venue: Home
Score: South Gower 7, Waunarlwydd 36
Conversions: Sam Pritchard
Tries (Scored By): Eliot Owen


S.G.R.F.C. Man of the Match (And Why): Jack Hooper-Lewis for constantly getting over the gain line, good tackling and leading by example.

Game Analysis: The match kicked off in far from ideal conditions with a strong wind blowing down the pitch. Waunarlwydd playing with the wind in the first half took full advantage of the conditions and went straight on the attack, their forwards recycled the ball well and it was only some determined Gower tackling that kept them out. However, the pressure that Waunarlwydd were exerting soon took its toll and they went over for the first try of the game. From the kick off Waunarlwydd strung together a good move to put the pressure straight back onto South Gower, however, a good break out of defence by Jack Hooper-Lewis relieved the pressure. Waunarlwydd forwards were becoming more dominant and ‘frustrating’ the Gower players, and it wasn’t long before they scored again. From the reset, Waunarlwydd ran straight through the Gower defence to add a Third try, quickly followed by a fourth. This score seemed to kick start South Gower into life as they stepped up to the mark. They were unlucky, with several good moves of their own, which saw the forwards and backs linking well, come to nothing. The game was now much more competitive and Waunarlwydd knew they were in a match, but against the run of play they broke out to score a fifth unanswered try just before half time.
After the break Sam Pritchard was able to put the pressure on Waunarlwydd from the kick off, but Gower were just unable to cross the whitewash. Both sides were struggling for the upper hand at the breakdown and several good tackles from Max Adams, Kieran Shreeves and Jack Hooper-Lewis kept Waunarlwydd at bay. South Gower were attacking more and more and it was only good defence and aggressive forward play by Waunarlwydd that kept them out, then totally against the run of play Waunarlwydd broke out from their own half to score another try. South Gower, were determined to get something out of the game and showed great resolve to keep their heads up and push for a try of their own. A quick break down the left wing saw Sam Pritchard tackled short of the line, the Gower forwards quick to the breakdown, secured the ball for Jamie Thomas to snipe down the blind side only to be tackled inches short, but determined not to finish without scoring, the ball was popped up to Eliot Owen, who did well to stay in the field of play and drive over for the score, taking at least two players with him. Sam Pritchard added the extra two points, the score ensured South Gower had the last word and the supporters had something to cheer about and the second half ended 7-7. The final score did not reflect how close the match was or the effort the players put in, they were a credit to themselves and South Gower RFC in that they didn’t let their heads drop and pushed until the end to get a well deserved try. Well done boys, lets go to Waunarlwydd and beat them at their ground in March, but lets not give them such a head start next time!!!!!

U8's: Bonymaen Home 26.11.06

Date : 26.11.06
Score : South Gower 8, Bonymaen 4
Tries : Ethan Smith, Jack Bates, Ben Westerholm, Tom Jenkins (3), Tom Mogridge (2).

Game Summary :

Ben Westerholm captained South Gower in this entertaining match. Bonymaen had 9 players and we had 18 so each South Gower player played 1 half each.
From the start, Bonymaen took advantage of some missed tagging from South Gower to score the first try of the game. From the restart, Ethan Smith received the ball and launched an arching run around the entire oppostition team to score in the corner. Bonymaen replied with a good try before Jack Bates scored a great try.

Jack Bates scores a great try after this fine run and a wicked sidestep to finish

Jack received the ball from the kick off and sped off down the wing. He was then one on one with the last Bonymaen defender when Jack sidestepped inside the player to score.
Next up, The Road runner. Captain Ben Westerholm received the ball after great tagging by South Gower ensured a turnover of possession. Ben took Bonymaen one way and then the other before muttering the words "Beep Beep" and racing away to score a fine try. We went into the break 3-2 up with a complete change of team to follow.

"Beep Beep" The Roadunner (Ben Westerholm) leaves Wile E. Coyote in his tracks

Straight away, Tom Jenkins went on one of his mazy runs to touchdown in the corner. Bonymaen came staright back at us, but when the ball was dropped, Tom Mogridge picked up and weaved his way over the try line for a good score.

Cellan Pitson has a weaving run eluding the Bonymaen defenders

Some great tagging by South Gower turned over possession and Laura Cheley had a run before offloading to Tom Mogridge who then claimed his second try of the game. Bonymaen then scored a great try. They dodged our players before finally getting tagged 20 yards out, but the offload to a player taking the ball a pace who raced over the line unopposed.
Tom Jenkins immediately replied with a blistering run up the line to score his second try and when Bonymaen were penalised for a knock on, the turnover resulted in a great jinking run from Cameron Barker, who offloaded in the tackle to Tom Jenkins who scored his 3rd, and South Gower's 8th and final try.

Tom Jenkins scores his 3rd try of the day after some good passing

Some very good running passing and tagging ensured South Gower's Under 8's biggest victory of the season. Well done to all.

OSPREYS PULL IN LEAGUE RECORD CROWD FOR DERBY

Extracts from Evening Post 28th November '06 -South Gower RFC leading the way....

The Ospreys will play their Boxing Day clash against the Scarlets before a record Magners League crowd for a Welsh professional side.Club bosses have announced that 18,500 tickets have already been sold, leaving the region on course for a Liberty Stadium sell-out.

''Clubs from all corners of what we call Ospreylia are embracing what we are doing and our offer to provide transport for large groups travelling to Liberty Stadium is proving popular."

"From South Gower to Abercrave, rugby clubs and supporters are getting behind the Ospreys, and it is fantastic to see that clubs from outside the original Neath-Swansea region are now supportive of us."

Some tickets are still remaining - speak to your coach to check on availability.

SOUTH GOWER (SENIORS) WALTZ THROUGH TO NEXT ROUND

Extract from Evening Post 2oth November '06

Worthington Cup, South Gower made light of the wet conditions to march into round four of the Worthington Cup with an impressive 66-0 victory at Aberbeeg in the Gwent Valleys.Lock Roger Gill opened the scoring with the first of his two tries, with four more shared between centre Phil Jones and flanker Ciaran Aldridge. Wings Sam Moore and Rhodri Griffiths added further touchdowns, with replacement lock Pat McLernon also scoring.The last try came from fly-half Simon Jones, who missed the conversion after a faultless kicking performance in difficult conditions when landing all eight previous attempts.

U9's Bonymaen Home 26.11.06

Date : 26/11/2006
Score : South Gower 5 : Bonymaen 3
Tries : Tom (3) Sam (1) Josh B (1)

Under 9's : 2006-2007

Game Summary:

After some extremely loud thunder and rain the night before, the sunshine and blue sky was a very welcome sight and a good omen for what was to follow. From the kick off, Bonymaen applied pressure that was dealt with very well. Tackling was not bad but, again, two tries were given away due to tackling too high or in some cases not tackling at all. Before the end of the first half, South Gower replied with a fine run by Tom, but again a missed tackle let Bony in for one last try.

Jack showing how to tackle - "push him a bit harder Ben"

The score was 1:3 at half time and emphasis was placed on getting to the ruck quickly and passing the ball out before we were pushed back.

Evan showing how to lay the ball back with Tom and Matt ready to pick up and go

From the kick off, South Gower kicked the ball dead, but Bony decided to run. South Gower put in two hard tackles and with some good driving, Tom scored - 2:3. South Gower continued to apply pressure and started to reap the rewards of training. Three further tries ensued due to quick recycling and some good passing and support. Sam scored a great swerving try, Tom got his hat trick and Joshua Burt finished things off showing good support and a great turn of pace.

Sam grounds the ball to score a great try

Tom rips the ball in the tackle and breaks to score his hat-trick

Josh B finished things off nicely with good support from Evan

After an excellent run from Matthew who drew the defender and just failed to get the pass away, the final whistle blew. South Gower had won their first game of the season 5:3 .

Well done boys - pints all round (of lemonade that is) !!

Christmas Shopping on the web

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http://www.buy.at/southgower

U11's: Bynea Away 12.11.06 & Bonymaen Home 26.11.06

Date: 26. 11.06
Opposition: Bonymaen RFC
Venue: Home
Score: South Gower 34, Bonymaen 7
Conversions: Jamie Thomas, Sam Prictchard
Tries (Scored By): Jack Hooper-Lewis, Alex Ashburner, Eliott Owen, Jonathan Blakemore, Jack Rosser and Chay Smith

S.G.R.F.C. Man of the Match (And Why): Jack Hooper-Lewis for his up front aggressive drive leading to his own personal try.

Game Analysis:
South Gower 11’s and Bonymaen agreed to a full pitch 15 a side game. Both teams looked well organised, but Gower took the game straight to Bonymaen and looked set to camp out in their half. The early determination showed when Gower’s Jack Hooper-Lewis broke free from the maul early on for the first try. In the same vein, the Gower forwards maintained the pressure where both Alex Ashburner crashed over the line, with Jamie Thomas adding the extras, hooker Eliot Owen followed carrying the ball from a tap and pass penalty blazing over for 5 points.Just as if that wasn’t enough, this all firing all guns blazing South Gower team hadn’t even got the ball to the backs yet. Winger Jonathan Blakemore kicked that off however sealing another 5 points just before half time; kicked successfully for another 2 points by Sam Pritchard.
In the second half Bonymaen really needed to make their tackles count, but the slick back line running of outside half Jack Rosser and centre Chay Smith kept them at bay both crossing deservedly to add their own successive 5 points to the score board. Bonymaen true to their roots however never gave up and were stronger in the second half, determined to the end claiming their own 7 point combo score, but the damage was already done. Gower’s slick transition between the forwards and backs really looked impressive and won the day - Well done boys.

Date: 12.11.06
Opposition: Bynea RFC
Venue: Away
Score: South Gower RFC 14, Bynea RFC 14
Conversions: Jamie Thomas [2]
Tries (Scored By): Jack Rosser [2]

S.G.R.F.C. Man of the Match (And Why): Thomas Wright, for getting stuck in with ball in hand and committing himself to the rucks and driving mauls.

Game Analysis:
A well matched but forward orientated game. Both teams were up for the battle without any side really dominating. Thomas Wrights driving charges certainly made an impact along with some great support play by Jack Hooper-Lewis. All the pressure however failed to deliver a score, leaving it nil, nil at half time.
In the second half, Gower’s forward were rampaging through the defence, off loading in the contact area, recycling the ball allowing Jack Rosser to come blazing through for the first five pointer, successfully converted by Jamie Thomas. Giving Bynea more of the same, another strong wave of phases from the Gower All Blacks led them into Bynea's 22, allowing an on form Jack Rosser to score another try again slotted over by Jamie to claim another seven points. Some harsh penalties against South Gower allowed Bynea back into the game who also managed two further tries of their own, equalising the score line. A fair result, but with better concentration and determination, Gower could have held onto their lead and claimed an away win. Keep the focus boys, otherwise well played.

U9's Fall Bay Home 19.11.06

Date : 19/11/2006
Score : South Gower 2 : Fall Bay 7
Tries : Tom and Harry

Game Summary:
As was to be expected, the game started at a fast pace with Fall Bay putting in some heavy tackles. South Gower tried to go forward but the aggressive rucking by Fall Bay quickly gave them a two try headstart. South Gower replied after 5 minutes with a superb try by Harry in the corner after some good handling. With one more attack and try by Fall Bay, the score after the first 10 minutes was 1:3.
South Gower started the second 10 minutes well with some hard tackles and good pressure but a break away try by Fall Bay put the score at 1:4. From the restart, we were again under pressure but the lads continued to tackle well and tried to spin the ball wide to Harry or Tom whenever possible. We eventually got the ball to Tom who ran superbly to score. This made it 2:4. From the restart, we ran and tackled and drove over forcing Fall Bay to kick. An excellent catch by Evan gave us the advantage but we again lost it after several phases in the ruck. Fall Bay continued to go forward and some missed high tackles by South Gower and strong running made the score 2:6 after the second third.
The final third of the game was very evenly matched. South Gower had gained confidence from the second third and tried to pass to make space whenever possible. Tackling remained at a high standard and the passing continued to improve. The Fall Bay defence remained strong and South Gower tried hard but were unable to break it down. A last try by Fall Bay made the final score 2:7, however the game was more evenly matched than the score represented.
Well done boys - this was by far the best game of the season - especially with regards to tackling, attitude and determination. One point to improve is keeping the ball in the ruck which can be worked on in training. Excellent performance all round!

U8's: Fall Bay Home 19.11.06

Date 19.11.06
Elders -
Score : South Gower 5, Fall Bay 2
Tries : Tom Mogridge (2), Ethan Smith, Cameron Barker, Fergus Kneath.

Youngsters -
Score : South Gower 3, Fall Bay 5
Tries : Morgan Israel (2), Dan Garry.

Elders Game Summary:

Jack Bates captained South Gower in this local derby which was played in very damp conditions. Fall Bay kicked the game off but great South Gower Defence ensured that we turned the ball over. From the turnover, we gained territory and Tom Mogridge raced over for a good try. Fall Bay replied with a fine try but South Gower were straight back at them. Ethan Smith showed great team support when Tom Jenkins was tagged. Ethan ran at pace, took a good pass from Tom and raced clear to score a great team try.
We went into the break 2 - 1 up and started with the ball in the second half. Some good tagging from Fall Bay earned them possession. When Fall Bay spilled the Ball, Harry Brown dived on the ball to secure possession. His pop went to Cameron Barker who raced clear to score a great try. From here, Fall Bay clawed one back but straight from the kick off Tom Mogridge went on a mazy run from the halfway line and scored a fantastic individual try.
With the final whistle coming, Fergus Kneath was passed the ball and made a tiger like dash for the line, he evaded the fall bay taggers to score in the corner. It ended 5 - 2 to South Gower. The greatest compliment to this team was that the Fall Bay coach congratulated us and commented on the way our players offloaded the ball to team mates coming on at pace. This proved the key and set up 3 of our tries. This is part of the game that we have been concentrating on in training and it is extremely satisfying to see it work on a Sunday. Well done everyone !!

South Gower Under 8's (Elders)
Back Row L-R: Ben Westerholm,Tom Jenkins, Fergus Kneath, Jack Bates,
Cameron Barker, Harry Brown, Tom Mogridge.
Front Row L-R: George Heard, Ethan Smith.

Youngsters Game Summary:

Dan Garry captained the youngsters against Fall Bay's youngsters. Fall Bay started the game with possession and played well to score the games first try. South Gower replied and made territory but some good tagging by Fall Bay turned over possession. Fall Bay scored a good try with some great running from the pass. We went into the break 2 - 0 down.
We came out in the second half fired up and Laura Cheley went on a mazy run. Laura went across, backwards, across some more, backwards again before i finally caught up with her and pointed the way forward. Laura then proceeded to tear apart the opposition with her twinkle toe sidesteps before she was tagged. The ball was passed to captain Dan Garry and he raced clear of the opposition to score a great try in the corner.

Tomasso Morgan tries to beat the Fall Bay defense on the outside.

Fall Bay replied with 2 great tries. Both of them came from good running and good passing. The next try was scored by Morgan Israel. Morgan used his pace and awareness to cut inside and score a good try. We then turned possession over with great tagging but unfortunately, we were penalised for a forward pass which Fall Bay took advantage of and scored.
With the last minute of the game left, Tomasso Morgan had a great run and when tagged passed to Morgan Israel who took the ball at pace and scored a brilliant try in the corner. This was an excellent performance from our Youngsters especially as Fall Bay had to make up the numbers with a few of their elder players. So a big well done to our Youngsters !!!

South Gower Under 8's (Youngsters)
L - R: Morgan Israel, Laura Cheley, Cellan Pitson, Thomas Hopkins,
Tomasso Morgan, Bruno Morris, Dan Garry.

U8's: Bynea & Bonymaen Away 12.11.06

Date: 12.11.06

Score : South Gower 4, Bynea 1
Tries : Cameron Barker (2), Ben Westerholm, Ethan Smith.

Score : South Gower 5, Bonymaen 4
Tries : Tom Jenkins (4), Fergus Kneath, Jack Bates.

Game Summary:
South Gower V Bynea
Max Collis captained the team in their first game against the hosts Bynea. Cameron Barker got the show under way with a fine turn of pace to race clear and score in the corner. Bynea equalised almost straight away.


Cameron Barker running clear (Good technique, Ball in two hands)

Next up was the "Roadrunner" Ben Westerholm. Ben threw an outrageous dummy and disappeared down the blind side and raced half the length of the pitch to score a fine try. Ethan then decided to join in the fun with a great try. He weaved and bobbed through the Bynea defence to score a typical Ethan Smith/Shane Williams try. Cameron finished things off when Bynea dropped the ball. Cameron Pounced on the ball like a hungry lion and raced clear to score his second of the match.
This was a very impressive performance from the team especially as we mixed the 5, 6 and 7 year olds all into 2 teams. Well done guys and gals.


Tom Jenkins scores 1 of his 4 tries against Bonymaen, Well done Tom !

South Gower V Bonymaen
Fergus Kneath captained the side against Bonymaen. This was a close affair with lots of running. Tom Jenkins opened the scoring for us with one of his curved runs around everyone and into the corner. Bony replied straight away. When Tom Jenkins raced clear only to be tagged just before the line, the nearest in support was captain Fergus Kneath who took the pass and scored.


The Kneathmeister Fergus speeds away from Bonymaen

Again, Bonymaen scored again and it was down to Tom Jenkins to show his pace and put the Gower one in front. But just before half time, Bonymaen scored a great try to take the game into the break level at 3-3.


Jack "Bullet Head" Bates sprinting away like a bullet from a gun !

Bonymaen took the lead after the break only for 2 great tries from that man again, Tom Jenkins. Bonymaen equalised with a minute left. We restarted with Tom having a run before he was tagged, he passed to Jack Bates, and Jack raced clear to the corner to score the winning try. This was a very tight match, but with the team showing great commitment and great tagging, South Gower came out on top. Well done everyone.

South Gower RFC Ospreys V Australia Trip

300 South Gower members (6 coach loads) supported the Opsreys and helped create an important day in the history of the Liberty Stadium. Not only did we have a fabtastic turn out, but we were fortunate to have 30 of our junior players pitch side as club representatives of the Opsreys region. A big thanks must go out to all who attended and enjoyed but a special thank you from all at the club to Andy Thorburn for going through the pain barrier to arrange the tickets, buses and the pain staking seating plan.

U11's: Penclawdd Away 5.11.06

Date: 05.11.06
Score: South Gower 39, Penclawdd 14
Conversions: Jamie Thomas [2]
Tries (Scored By): Chay Smith [3], Sam Pritchard, Sam Jones, Jamie Thomas, Jonno Blakemore


S.G.R.F.C. Man of the Match (And Why): Jonno Blakemore for his supporting role, putting himself in space on the wing and a great personal try skinning his man on the outside for a corner flag touch down.

Game Analysis:
South Gower captain for the day Sam Jones (Pictured below gunning for the try line) lost the toss resulting in us playing up hill with the sun in our eyes for the first half. Penclawdd were straight on the attack, helped by South Gower’s poor tackling allowing Penclawdd to cross for an early try and a successful conversion. South Gower was going to have step up to the mark if they wanted to play this game and that they did. A scrum deep in the oppositions half won by South Gower hooker Eliot Owen allowed scrum half Jamie Thomas to offload to Chay Smith blindside for a weave to the try line through 4 players untouched for an equalising try and conversion. On the restart, South Gower pressured their way back to the Penclawdd try line for Chay Smith to cross for a second try. A third try soon came following by Sam Pritchard who was playing out of position up front with a powerful run, crossing the white wash, ending half time with a strong 17 points to 7 lead.

The second half with the sun on their side and a great day for expansive rugby allowed the All Blacks to continue to face up, forwards Thomas Wright, Jack Hooper-Lewis and Eliot Owen took the game head on. Forward Sam Jones adding his contribution of 5 points to the score line for a well positioned charge over the white wash. Penclawdd in fairness never gave up the fight and managed another well deserved try and successful conversion. The Gower confidence however was flying with the ball being thrown openly around the back line allowing Jamie Thomas to cross the score line, try of the match by winger Jonno Blakemore who stood up to the defender before skinning him down the outside and Chay Smith who claimed his hat trick of the game. All in all, a great display of phased rugby and some safe hands off loading at the break down. Well-done boys – a good all round game.

U9's Penclawdd Away 5.11.06

Date : 05/11/2006
Score : South Gower 0 : Penclawdd 11
Tries : none

Game Summary:
The sun was shining, the birds singing - the South Gower all blacks were ready.
With no time for a warm up the game started. Penclawdd kicked to us - we gathered but they stole possession from the ruck. The ball went to ground in what we thought was the try area so we grounded it awaiting a 5m restart. The ref did not blow, they picked up and put the ball down in the dead ball area. 1:0. (looks like the ref did not know what line represented the try line). The next try they broke away from a maul and ran down the line to be tackled in the corner. The ref gave a try in the correct area. Both coaches then confirmed to the ref what was the try line and what was the dead ball line - needless to say our boys were now a bit disheartened.
Penclawdd continued to apply pressure but we tackled well. When we stole the ball we tried to ship it wide only to be tackled mid field by a very determined Penclawdd back line. They rucked over and shipped the ball wide to score in the corner.
This trend continued with their rucking play being much more agressive and we were in defense mode for the rest of the game. A slighly unfair score although Penclawdd were the best team we have played this season.
We can learn three things from this game :

1. The ball will not suddenly magic itself into our hands by standing and shouting - we have to fight for it. If you can see it then go and get it.
2. Once we have it, we need to keep it at all costs - by supporting and making sure we are always behind the ball. Remember if you are in front of the ball, you may as well be on holiday in disneyland as you cannot be passed to.
3. If they have bigger boys - tackle them around the legs. They will not fall down if you try to tackle them around their bellies - you will just bounce off.

Although we lost, we did not give up and ran and tackled to the final whistle. Well done boys for your determination and spirit!

U9's: Uplands Home 29.10.06

Date : 29/10/2006
Score : South Gower 4 : Uplands 6
Tries : Tom W (3) Ozzy (1)


Game Summary:
Another excellent performance by the South Gower U9's who narrowly missed out on their first win of the season.

Leading by example

Captain Jack puts in another cracking tackle - bit lower next time Jack

Owen "The Rock" sets off on another rampage

South Gower were ahead for the majority of the game due to some very well worked tries by Tom and Sam, but could not quite cope with the downhill second half pressure applied by a larger Uplands team.

Ruck ? Maul ? who knows - now where is the ball ?

Tackling was good throughout and passing is continuing to improve. If we can improve the positioning and play to our strengths, we will definately start to win. Well done boys!

U11's: Uplands Home 29.10.06

Date: 29/10/06
Score: South Gower 10, Uplands 15
Tries (Scored By): Jack Rosser, Chay Smith

S.G.R.F.C. Man of the Match (And Why): Jack Rosser for safe hands at outside half, dictating the back line moves and hitting the gaps with perfection for a personal well earned try.

Game Analysis:
The South Gower V Uplands games are always one of the best fixtures of the season and both teams put on an exceptional display of junior rugby. Both teams fielded a 15-man team playing full pitch in readiness for the under 12 season next year. The forwards and backs of both teams worked well going through the phases displaying end-to-end rugby.
Uplands applied lots of pressure in the opening ten minutes delivering two early well-organised tries. Gower increased the intensity up front to regain possession and make ground back into the oppositions half. Gower outside half Jack Rosser broke through the back line for a darting run to the try line that lifted the All Black spirit. Shortly after, the Gower forwards retained the ball on the restart allowing quick ball out to the backs within their own half, eventually finding the hands of Chay Smith who dummied, weaved and side stepped around the pitch using great angles for a well deserved try. At 10 all, the game was on, with all to play for.
The second half saw both sides go to the wall; disallowed tries, intense tackling with some great rugby shining through. However, Uplands forwards eventually gained the upper hand for another 5 pointer. South Gower retaliated, applying pressure all over the Uplands try line but were penalised just short of the try line for holding on in the ruck, allowing Uplands to clear the ball in to touch, concluding the game, claiming an away win. All the players were a credit to themselves for the spirit in which they played, so until the next time……….game on!

Under 8's Versus Swansea Uplands @ Home - 29.10.06

The Youngsters
South Gower - 1
Swansea Uplands - 3

The Elders
South Gower - 6
Swansea Uplands - 1

Again this week, we had a good split of 7 & 8 year olds and 5 & 6 year olds. The Uplands had the same so we had 2 games. Youngsters against Youngsters and Elders against Elders.
Thomas Hopkins captained the Youngsters and led his team very well. The whole team did well with Ben Westerholm scoring the only try for South Gower. Ben received the ball from the tap deep in his own half, spotted a gap and raced clear of the opposition. He sprinted 3/4 of the pitch to score in the corner. Unfortunately for South Gower, Swansea Uplands scored 3 unanswered tries, although we came close a few times, which proved enough to win the game. Overall, a good performance from the Youngsters and a good game to watch.


Morgan Israel in possession for the Youngsters with Tommasso Morgan in support

The Elders were captained by Cai Adams. This was a very impressive performance from the elders as they piled on the pressure from the off. The uplands started with possession but a turnover was gained very soon after.

The Roadrunner, Ben Westerholm races clear for his first try of the Elders game.

From the tap, Ben Westerholm, (above) still basking in the glory from his try for the Youngsters, thought he would do exactly the same again, which he did ! From his own half, Ben spotted a gap, engaged his nitro burners and flew to score a great try. The next try was scored by Cameron Barker. The Uplands had possession of the ball when they spilled it. Quick thinking by Tom Jenkins saw him dive on the ball and pop it up to Cameron who burst through 3 tag-kles to score.
The second half started where we left off and from the tap, the ball was passed to Max Collis. Max looked one way and went the other through a gap and a good 20 metre run to score our 3rd try.

Ethan "Shane" Smith dummies everyone (including spectators) to race clear for a great try for the Elders

The 4th try was excellent. I instructed for the runner to go open. When the ball was passed, Cameron passed to Ethan Smith (above) down the blind and Ethan left them for dead (see picture above) to score a great try. Apart from Cameron and Ethan, all we could do was stand and watch in amazement because they dummied us as well.
Ben Westerholm scored the 5th with a great show of pace. If you have ever seen Wile E. Coyote, Ben is the Roadrunner. He said beep beep and flew past the opposition for his second score of the game. The best was saved for last. In training we have been working on passing and taking the ball at pace and that is exactly what happened for the last try. Again The Roadrunner (Ben) found a gap but was closed down by 3 players and tagged when he popped the ball to Ethan coming at speed down the touchline. Ethan, applied a cracking step to ghost inside the 3 players to score a fantastic try. This was by far the best performance of the season and it was nice to see that the children are learning from the training and making it happen on the pitch on a Sunday. A big well done to all the under 8's.

Quads and Climbing

Drive on Under 12s










Good clean fun !

U:11's Gorseinon & Llanelli New Dock (Round Robin) Home 15.10.06

Date: 15.10.06
Score:
1. South Gower 24, Gorseinon 38
2. Gorseinon 0, Llanelli New Dock 64
3. South Gower 36, Llanelli New Dock 35
Tries (Scored By):
Game 1. – Alex Ashburner, Sam Jones, Jamie Thomas and Jack Rosser
Game 3. – Chay Smith [2], Alex Ashburner, Jamie Thomas and Sam Pritchard [2]


S.G.R.F.C. Man of the Match’s (And Why): Elliot Owen for his non-stop in your face aggression that kept the forwards driving on.

Game Analysis:
Game 1. South Gower had a fair game with some first choice players missing that saw the likes Jonno and Jack Rosser step up to the mark. 5 tries scored in the first half (2 Gower and 3 Gorseinon) made for a thrilling game. The second half having the same outcome of tries (2 Gower, 3 Gorseinon). None the less, well balanced by the South Gower squad mixing the rough stuff up front with some flair in the backs that apart from some bad decisions made when under pressure could have easily led the game into the All Blacks favour.

Game 2. Gorseinon V Llanelli New Dock – Llanelli completely dominated scoring a brace of tries that prevented Gorseinon of any possession.

Game 3. South Gower V Llanelli, South Gower made some positional changes and brought on some fresh legs via Chay Smith & Sam Pritchard which seamed to boost the teams confidence further which allowed South Gower to post 4 straight un-answered tries. Again a great mix of forwards winning the ball and the backs running it mixing up the game plan. Llanelli did manage to claw back two tries prior to half time followed by a brace of 3 unanswered tries of their own in the second half. South Gower’s temporary lack of concentration finally halted and in return delivered two tries, which put South Gower back into the lead by 1 point and the win.

The South Gower 11’s are already building ready for next season, growing the confidence for the 15-man game at all positions. Well Done boys, a great performance from all of you.

Music Quiz

Many thanks to all who attended and supported the club on Saturday, we raised over £400 for the club !

Under 8's V New Dock Stars @ Home 15/10/06

(The Youngsters)
South Gower - 0
New Dock Stars - 5

(The Elders)
South Gower - 0
New Dock Stars - 6

We had 23 players today ranging from 5 years old to 8 years old. We split them in to 2 teams (Youngsters & Elders) and had 2 matches.

Sam Court has a run supported by Sam Stewart

Morgan Israel captained the youngsters in a good game, but unfortunately we lost to a very good New Dock Stars team. Everybody played and everybody did well.


Tommasso Morgan in full flow supported by Laura Cheley and Sam Stewart


The Elders were captained by George Heard. As much as we tried, nothing seemed to come off for us today. Little mistakes combined with some very talented players for The Stars ensured they won the game. I can't really say more than that because we didn't score any tries but I am proud of the team for the way they kept going and never gave up. Good effort from the team and lets look forward to next weeks game. Don't forget training at the club on Wednesday night's 6.30pm - 7.30pm.

Sunday 15th October

Under 12s game v Bonymaen is now off

U11's: Penlan Away 08.10.06

Date: 8th October 2006
Score: South Gower 10, Penlan 5
Tries (Scored By): Max Adams, Jack Hooper-Lewis

S.G.R.F.C. Man of the Match (And Why):
Sam Jones for committed tackling that kept the pressure on Penlan in the contact area.

Game Analysis:
A tough first half that saw South Gower 11’s under a lot of pressure within their own half. None the less a tight defensive game kept the score line at nil – nil through to half time. The second half continued in the same vain where Penlan made a clean break securing the first score. With all to play for, the Gower All Blacks dug in up front, making good ground that allowed Gower’s Max Adams to break through the pack using his power to cross the white line. Gower continued making a number of attacks with some good ball from Jake Osbourne and good running lines from Kieran Shreves. Yet again however, Penlan managed to push Gower back into their 22. Jack Hooper-Lewis saw an opportunity for a clearance kick, with Kieran Shreves on the mark for the chase. Penlan spilled the ball under pressure allowing Jack Hooper-Lewis to scoop up crossing the line with ease for a great start and finish individual try. The game drawing to a close with a two tries to one win keeping the winning trend for South Gower. Well done boys.

Fixtures Sunday 15th October

Under 8s,9s,10s and 11s are at home to Llanelli new Dock stars and also Gorseinon 10s and 11s are also at home.

Under 12s are away to Bonymaen - Meet 10am at Murton
Under 13s - game to be arranged
Under 14s home to Waun

U8's: Penlan Away 07.10.2006

Penlan - 5

South Gower - 4

The first match report of the season and unfortunately, our first loss. Up until today, our Under 8's had won every game, defeating Skewen (away), Pontardulais (home) and Glyneath (away).
We were slightly hampered today as the pitch was narrow and we have some speed merchants in our team who would beat a cheetah over 100 yards !

We played 4 quarters and rotated the team so that all 18 players had a run out. We lost the first quarter 2 - 0 but came out fighting in the second and won 2 -1 with Cameron Barker and Tom Mogridge diving over for well taken tries. Cameron took advantage of a dropped ball by penlan and went over and Tom rounded off a good team move with a well taken try.

Tom Jenkins in full flow supported by Bullet Head Bates, Ethan "Shane" Smith and The Kneathmeister Fergus.

We lost our concentration in the third quarter and conceded 2 tries without reply, but again, came out for the last quarter with the Gower fighting spirit and won the quarter 2 - 0 with tries coming from Ethan Smith and Morgan Israel.

Our very own Shane Williams, Ethan, turned swivelled and dodged several players before sprinting over for a fine try. Morgan's try came from a turnover ball. The ball was spilled onto the floor and our players dived in for a proper ruck, out came the ball, it was passed to Cameron who then passed it backwards THROUGH his legs to Morgan who dived over. We came back fighting but we just couldn't get one more to draw the game. Overall an excellent performance from everybody with good team spirit and we now look forward to Gorseinon at home next week.

South Gower Under 8's Versus Penlan

Dates for your diary

14th October- Parents Music Quiz - 19:30 at the club - Please email nigel.lomas2@btopenworld.com to let us know if you are coming.

28th October - Quad biking and adventure day at Kenfig hill - Please put your name on the list on the board in the club house, we need 100 people (adults included) to make this a worthwhile trip and keep the cost at half the price !

30th November - Last date to transfer from another club and register (if a new player you are not insurred until registered)

Subs are now due £30 per player or £50 for a family please give the form with contact details and payment to your coach.

Come on Gower!

Hi everyone. Eventually after some help from The Ash, I am on line. Thanks Ash.
The Club seems to be going from strength to strength across the age groups. Concerns for the numbers in some are a little disappointing and might be helped by encouraging the current players to use the Ospreys Discount Tickets and Free Bus to home games to bring in friends or class mates who have not yet found the game.

PHOTO: Jack T is a little concerned that the rules may be a little bit alien to the opposition!!

What about getting into the schools and speaking with the Teachers / Alwyn Harris (the new community development officer) advertising this opportunity. Perhaps we should advertise in the New Bishopston Gym, or see if we could get a coach involved with the school team. I believe that it is Mr. Philips is the contact.

The season seems to have been going for ever and it is only October. The 13,s have had the most difficult of starts being away at Bonymaen to kick the season off. We then entertained Vardre at home, Waunarlywdd away, Vardre at home ageain and Waunarlywdd away again last Saturday.

PHOTO: Pingu, South Gower's most loyal supporter is looking forward to our next match, away at Abercrave in the Ospreys Cup. The match will be very difficult but at least there are plenty of Sheep to stare at!!
.

.

.

.

Results To Date.
Bonymaen(A) Lost 48-0 approx
Vardre(H) Lost 36-19
Waunarlywdd(A) Lost 48-19 approx
Vardre(H) Lost 36-28
Waunarlywdd(A) Won 26-14

We have been very lucky to have been bolstered by the addition of a number of boys from Dunvant Club, and they will help us develop for the future. The team spirit seems to be returning and more of the self belief seen at the end of last season, would do us the world of good.

Time to go. Any of my boys see this "BELIEVE"!! And remember that the important thing is to improve from last week. That way you will eventually become the team and the player you want to be!

I couldn't leave without a picture of one of Gowers other great supporters in "her Playing Day".


PHOTO: Freya on the charge. The Lomas alias Pavatotti, Renee and many other referee costumes, attempts to keep up!!

COME on GOWER!!!!

Frequently Asked Questions

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At the moment, any paid-up member of South Gower RFC (player or parent) who wants to contribute to the site can. Just email info@MrFlag.com for access. Everyone is welcome - please get involved.

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Match Reports.
If you played in a match but don't see a report of it posted here on the website, it's because no-one has written one! Nag your coach or team manager, nominate someone else to write it, take it in turns, do it yourself. Parents, players, spectators... anyone can do it and someone different can do it every week. If you want you and your squad to get a mention, go get it sorted out.

U11's: Glynneath Away 01.10.2006

Date: 1st October 2006
Score: South Gower 33, Glynneath 17
Conversions: Chay Smith [2], Jamie Thomas [2]
Tries (Scored By): Chay Smith [2], Sam Pritchard, Jamie Thomas & Kieran Shreves.

S.G.R.F.C. Man of the Match (And Why):
Sam Pritchard for running some great angle to get behind Glynneath’s defence followed by off loading that created a number of the games tries.

Game Analysis:
Glynneath turned on from the start putting South Gower under intense pressure within their 22. Valiant defending from South Gower wasn’t enough as Glynneath got the first try of the game. South Gower had to step up to the mark if they were going to stay in the game and did so well following the restart, with scrum half Jamie Thomas getting an equalising try.

Try for try in an evenly matched game Glynneath came back with another well-earned try. However, the Gower All Blacks confidence was clearly growing. Forwards Thomas Wright and Daniel Barker really made their mark in the driving mauls and Alex Ashburner making some hard earned yards carrying the ball up field, with the forwards battling supported by a number of great off loads which allowed centres Chay Smith and Sam Pritchard to cross the try line in succession before the half time whistle.

The second half saw more of the same, South Gower driving on leaving Glynneath scrambling for clean ball. A clearance kick that was read and charged down by Chay Smith secured another 5 pointer for Gower. A good breaking run from Glynneath added a third try to Glynneath’s score line but only to be counter attacked by a blazing run from Gower's Kieran Shreves that ended an entertaining game with well structured phase play by the South Gower 11’s.

SGRFC: Ospreys V Australia Trip

South Gower RFC is planning a trip to attend the Ospreys V Australia clash at the Liberty Stadium on Wednesday 1st November.

All our players and parents are welcome, in fact the more the merrier.

Junior tickets are priced £3 and adults £15. (Match ticket only).

If interested please let your respective coach know by close of the week, as tickets are selling fast and ideally we would like to determine numbers by close of the week (29.9.06).

If we get a good response eg. 40 plus people - we will qualify for a free bus. (Alternatively we will review the transport arrangements / costs closer to the date).

Players / parents who have already purchased their tickets are still welcome to join us, but a small fee will be required. (Price TBC).

Come and join us on what should be a memorable occasion.

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