South Gower U11's vs Fall Bay (Away) plus Urgent Recruitment Required

Sunday 7th December 2008
South Gower 15
Fall Bay 35

Match Report
South Gower turned up with only 8 players but they put on a performance that Warren Gatland would have been proud of. The forwards did the best job so far this season of clearing out ruck ball and ensured the possession was equally matched. The backs tackled well but found it hard to offload the final pass after making a number of breaks. Joseph (who is usually the hooker) scored the first try on the wing after driving through three Fall Bay players. A few injuries occurred due to the hard ground, however all players dug deep and played on for the sake of the team. Tom Radcliffe who was starting his first game at scrum half had an excellent game. After dragging himself out of his sick bed and with the benefit of Calpol, he used his strength and running to score two excellent tries.
Fall Bay played well and their tries came from their backs - who had slightly more pace and better handling.

All in all and excellent performance which was the best score the team has had against Fall Bay - well done.

Urgent Recruitment Required !!
Unfortunately, the under 11 team has succumb this season to the very bad habit of player poaching - which has not necessarily been in the best interests of those concerned.
From a squad of in excess of 20 players last season, the usual turn out this year has decreased to 12 with only 8 turning up this week for the match. If the squad is not up to around 20 by the end of the season, then next years U12 squad may not be able to function as we start 15 a-side. If any parents / coaches / players know of any children that may want to turn up, play rugby and have fun then please contact Aaron Brock 07867 904976 or Lawrence Kneath : lawrence @kneath.co.uk

South Gower U13's Sponsored Bike Ride

The U13's started their fund raising for their 2009 trip to Paris with an 11 mile sponsored cycle ride from Mumbles Pier to Swansea Marina and back. Only one accident resulting in a minor injury (Thats good for us) and multiple ice creams en-route, but a great time had by all. Thanks to all the Mums, Dads, Aunties, Uncles, Nana's & Grandad's etc. who sponsored. The funds will go along way to ensuring the boys have a memorable time in France at the 2009 International Rugby Festival.


Well done boys. Next fund raiser in the new year, any ideas????

Read about the festival as reported in the Daily Telegraph:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/international/britishandirishlionsrugby/3230663/Robert-Jones-loves-passing-on-his-skills-to-a-new-generation-Rugby-Union.html

South Gower 1st XV 1st Home Game Saturday 13th September. K.O. 1430 V Pontrhydyfen

The Mighty Gower Seniors are back!!

Our first game of the league kicked off on Saturday, an away trip to Nantgaredig a decent trip up the motorway to Carmarthenshire. Work commitments and early season injuries caused some squad problems but we fielded a strong side by k.o at 2:30pm.

Gower started slowly, absorbing pressure from the home side but the defence was much improved from the pre-season games. However, once we settled the territory and possession went with the visitors. A strong mobile Gower pack fronted up well against the abrasive Nantgaredig forwards, dominating the set pieces particularly the line out.

The first half was a tense affair with both sides swapping missed penalty attempts. With the pack on top and the wind behind us Gower should have made more of their numerous chances, coming close to the line on a number of occasions but falling short at the final stage. A second missed penalty and poor decision making during a crucial 10-minute period before half time (with a Nantgaredig player down in the bin) left the game at a tense 0-0 at half time.

During half time the coaches highlighted the need to add structure and have more composure in the final quarter, but with the Gower fitness showing already the second half looked positive. 

Again the set piece worked well especially the line out particularly Rennie who soared like a migrating salmon all day frustrating and stealing a number of Nantgaredig throws. Dai (Gower fly-half) controlled the game well gaining good ground with an assured boot; Colsey carried the ball well in contact (as usual) and an excellent debut from another Dai in the centre adds positive signs for the coming season.

A further mention should go out to Gavin "The ginger brute" Evans...who produced a miracle tackle under his own posts to prevent a certain score! A couple of defensive mistakes in the second half allowed them in for two scores, against the run of play and a further penalty left the game 13-0 to the home side with 10 minutes remaining. Gower showed commitment
and passion but the early missed chances cost us dearly and the game ended 13 (unlucky for Gower) -0. 

In short, the game showed some good aspects, the forwards dominated, the defence was strong but we have to take our chances and Saturday should be looked upon at 4 points lost against a team that was very beatable. 

Our first home fixture is on Saturday against Pontrhydyfen....a 2:30pm k.o and a chance to put things right!! 

SOUTH GOWER 1st XV: NEW SEASON - NEW HEAD COACH - NEW PLAYERS

A new structure is in place for the forthcoming season for our South Gower Seniors. New head coach Mark "Fitz" Fitzgerald has been putting the squad through their paces accompanied by Assistant Coach Phil "Teach" Jones. New fixture sec., new team managers, all in all a fresh approach to the start of the season.

Our boys are in a new strip where we are actively looking for a 1st team sponsor, so please speak up or contact an officer of the club.

Fixture posters shall be published soon at a shop or bar near you so please come on down and support us. Home games K.O. at 1430hrs.

Our 1st home game being Saturday 13th September. Keep an eye out for our match reports.

U12's - Super 12's Finalists

South Gower RFC's under 12's were finalist in the Swansea District Super 12's tournament. Having finished top in their pool after games against Vadre, Mumbles & Uplands, the Gower All Blacks defeated Dunvant RFC in the semi-final to meet Morriston RFC in the final.
The final was a close game losing narrowly two tries to one. A great ending to a mixed but progressive season finsihing in second place to all the Swansea District rugby clubs.
The proud 14 man tournament squad pictured below.

Back Row LtoR Micah Pugh, Sam Jones, Eliot Owen, Gavin Shearer, Alex Ashburner, Rob Mogridge, Eliot Clement, Dylan Morgan
Front Row LtoR Seb Heinrich, Jack Hooper-Lewis, Chay Smith, Jamie Thomas, Sam Pritchard, Jacob Clement

Super 12's

27th April - Penclawdd Gower Festival Photo Links

South Gower U12's Team Photo
http://3303.e-printphoto.co.uk/swwales/index.cfm?z=z&y=y&p_id=7943169&c_id=72561&action=view

U12's Action 1
http://3303.e-printphoto.co.uk/swwales/index.cfm?z=z&y=y&p_id=7943177&c_id=72561&action=view

U12's Action 2
http://3303.e-printphoto.co.uk/swwales/index.cfm?z=z&y=y&p_id=7943178&c_id=72561&action=view

U10's Action
http://3303.e-printphoto.co.uk/swwales/index.cfm?z=z&y=y&p_id=7943176&c_id=72561&action=view

Saturday 3rd May South Gower RFC Legendary BBQ

Tickets £15 with Hog Roast.

7pm start with a Bucking Bronco Challenge for a few Dollars more!

Ticket Entry Only (Over 18's)

Live music with JoeSchmo plus DJ Fancy Pants

South Gower RFC Support The Ospreys

South Gower RFC enjoyed a day out in support of the Ospreys becoming the first region to clinch the EDF anglo / welsh cup. Over 100 club members travelled up in convoy filling two coach loads plus others who made their own way to the hallowed turf of Twickenham. A day for the young an old to enjoy and soak up the spirit of our cup winning region beating a consistant top 4 Guiness Premiership side. Until the next time...Ole, Ole, Ole,Ole Ospreys, Ospreys......

U12's Birchgrove RFC V South Gower RFC

South Gower RFC played Birchgrove for their fourth outing of this season that had previously resulted in three defeats, to a team with a strong pack of forwards. The Gower boys were determined to turn the tables on this day however. The Gower forwards started with Dylan Morgan, Micah Pugh putting in the early pressure, living in Birchroves faces which allowed the Gower backs to reveal their ball handling skills, playing with width that sent outside centre Chay Smith over three times in the first first half along with winger Kieran Shreves who scored via his blistering pace trimming his way along the touch line. Similarly well positioned full back Jack Hooper-Lewis crossed the white wash. 5 well orchestrated tries in 25 minutes was an awesome start and a great spectacle.
The second half Birchgrove new they had to tighten up at front and retain possession. The change in tactics, stretched South Gower and at times frustrated them by not having any valuable possession to work with. Slowly but surely though, The Gower All Blacks turned the screws, flankers Eliot Clement and Rob Mogridge worked hard to steel turnover ball with Rob Mogridge claiming his 5 pointer followed by Chay Smith claiming a well read intercepted ball crossing for his fourth try of the game. Jacob Clement at outside half who directed and released the backs for many a move with his safe hands and awareness of space on the field also crossed to put the game to bed to finally claim a well earned victory with a great team performance.
The team are all performing well and more importantly performing well for one another with great support play seen throughout the match.

Man of the Match: Jacob Clement for his visionary use of space and awreness that led to many talented breaks and subsequent tries.

(South Gower Team: 1.Gavin Shearer,2.Eliot Owen,3.Alex Ashburner,4.Micah Pugh,5.Dylan Morgan,6. Rob Mogridge,7.Eliot Clement,8.Seb Heinrich,9.Jamie Thomas,10.Jacob Clement,11.Kieran Shreves,12.Sam Pritchard,13.Chay Smith,14.Jack Davies,15.Jack Hooper-Lewis. Repalcements: Jamie Thomas)

U12's Round Up (Waunarlwydd, Dunvant, Uplands)

South Gower under 12's are still building even though the season is drawing to a close. A strong outing against Cwmavon without conceding any points. Another strong performance against Waunarllwydd RFC with 39 un answered points all bodes well with forthcoming tournaments on the horizon "The Penclawdd Invitational Gower Cup" won by Uplands RFC for the last two seasons and the District selction process tournament "Super 12's".

The Gower All Blacks have had one set back in their recent string of wins, defeat to Dunavnt. Being Easter Sunday, Gower were depleted of a full side with only 11 players available and two loan players from Dunvant. The signs were still evident of a deveoping yet talented Gower side with two first half tries by Jacob Clement and Chay Smith. The second half saw a shift in tactics by Dunvant recognising Gower were fielding a strong compliment of backs but missing the workhorses up front. Dunvant cleverly stuck the ball up their jumper and drove on through, clawing their way back in for a 19, 12 win to Dunvant.

Sunday 6th April - South Gower V Swansea Uplands. A fixture which has always been entertaining from the days of U8's. Uplands however have developed their performances of recent seasons while South Gower have only built of late. This was a game that Gower needed to bench mark their progress.

South Gower's first 10 minutes off loaded relentless pressure. Gower flankers Rob Mogridge and Eliot Clement were steeling everything. The 9, 10, 12 & 13 unit (Jamie Thomas, Jacob Clement, Sam Pritchard & Chay Smith) was also firing on all cylinders, switches, dummy runs, good support play, was well executed which eventually sent winger Jack Rosser in for the first try. Uplands, fought back well with the odd steel but Gower maintained pressure but failed to take more points due to the Uplands defence.
The second half, was played in a similar vein, plenty of Gower pressure, solid Uplands defence but no points for the score board. With 5 minutes left in the game, Gower turned up the heat. Deep in the oppositions half, the forwards were relentless with exceptional ball carrying by Seb Heinrich, Gavin Shearer and Alex Ashburner. A well earned 20m driving maul, releasing the ball for jinking runs for Gower boys opened up the gaps allowing Sam Pritchard to cross the white wash. 2 minutes left on the clock from a restart, South Gower wanted more, and off they went on a rampage, Jacob Clement saw the gaps and took his chances and weaved through to deliver another try, converted by Sam Jones to end on another clean sheet with a 17 point win.
South Gower RFC 17, Uplands RFC 0.

South Gower Man of the match: Seb Heinrich, played oustanding at number 8, putting the opposition on the back foot, creating the spaces the Gower backs needed to cross the line.

(South Gower Team: 1.Sam Jones,2.Eliot Owen,3.Alex Ashburner,4.Gavin Shearer,5.Dylan Morgan,6. Rob Mogridge,7.Eliot Clement,8.Seb Heinrich,9.Jamie Thomas,10.Hacob Clement,11.Kieran Shreves,12.Sam Pritchard,13.Chay Smith,14.Jack Rosser,15.Jack Hooper-Lewis. Repalcements: Max Adams, Jack Davies, Luke Cooper)

U12's South Gower RFC V Cwmavon RFC

South Gower missing a few players went into the game on the back of a string of good performances, where they have improved week on week and this match proved to be no exception.
The game started a little bit scrappily with tight forward exchanges as the two teams tried to find each other out. However, it was South Gower that took the initiative with a probing drive down the right hand side and when Rob Morgidge came out with the ball South Gower had the overlap and a quick pass to Jacob Clement enabled him to put his head back and go for the try line to score, his brother Eliot converting the try.
South Gower forwards were now getting on top and securing good ball for the backs and when the ball came out quickly to Jamie Thomas he made a break down the blindside and passed to Jacob who went on a weaving run to score his second try. South Gower kept the pressure up on Cwmavon who were beginning to become rattled and when South Gower came up fast with an aggressive defence, Cwmavon spilt the ball near their own line and Jacob was on hand to pick up and collect his and South Gower’s third try, which was converted by Jamie Thomas.
Cwmavon forwards began to get back into the game and it became a tight and scrappy affair again, but South Gower managed to spread the ball quickly from a breakdown just inside their own half and Seb Heinrich went on a weaving run to score out wide, right on half time.
Halftime South Gower 24 Cwmavon 0
Cwmavon came out determined to win the second half battle and the first 10 minutes were very tight, a good break down the left hand side by Cwmavon released their wing who looked odds on to score, but Rob Mogridge had other ideas and pulled off an outstanding cover tackle, (he seemed to be everywhere) he was quickly assisted by Dylan Morgan and between them they managed to save the day and keep their try line in tack.
The game continued in a forward dominated game with both teams fighting for superiority, but it was South Gower who managed to get the first try of the second half with good close contact work by Sam Pritchard who forced himself over. When Cwmavon took a quick restart, South Gower were at sixes and sevens, but excellent scrambling defence managed to stop Cwmavon. However, they could smell the try and kept the pressure on, it was only South Gower’s aggressive defence with Rob and Sam P leading the way, with Sam stealing the ball in the tackle twice, which managed to keep Cwmavon out.
Cwmavon were desperate to get something out of the game and kept the pressure on South Gower, but when they spread the ball out, Eliot Clement intercepted the pass to run from his own 22 to score under the posts, Max Adams converting. The second half was a much tighter affair and Cwmavon made South Gower work for everything, Gavin Shearer made some hard yards in the forwards, which helped set up the final try which came from more tight forward play, where Eliot Owen drove his way over to claim the try.

Final score South Gower 41 Cwmavon 0

South Gower man of the match: Rob Morgidge (although he was pushed hard by everyone) for his excellent work in the tight and his tackling including a magnificent cover tackle.
An excellent performance in the face of a tough team, good tackling by everyone enabled us to keep a clean sheet and you should all be proud of stepping up to the mark against an aggressive team, I know I am.

(South Gower Team: 1. Jamie Thomas, 2.Eliot Owen, 3. Gavin Shearer (replaced by Micah Pugh second half), 4. Micah Pugh, 5.Dylan Morgan, 6.Eliot Clement, (Replaced by Sam Jones second half) 7. Rob Mogridge, 9.Jamie Thomas, 10. Sam Pritchard, 11.Max Adams, 12. Jacob Clement, 13. Seb Heinrich, 14.Jack Davies.)

U12's Pontardawe RFC V South Gower RFC

The second away fixture to Pontardulais RFC this season. At the last run out we felt robbed of a win, even though the Gower All Blacks had a solid performance. This time out we were all the wiser and new we had to play to the whistle but make sure the score line reflected the team efforts.
Gower started off slow but grew in confidence as the Gower forwards increased their intensity at the breakdown allowing quick ball for the backs.The first try of the game came from a Gower set piece where outside half Chay Smith pop passed to inside centre Eliot Clement who cut the angle and skinned the defence for a try under the posts, the extras added by Jamie Thomas. Gower kept the pressure on causing Pontardulais to spill the ball under pressure,a quick turn over and ball out wide to winger Jack Hooper-Lewis gave him a 50m run down the touch line for another try.
Pontardulais made a clean break of their own getting themselves on the score sheet.
The remainder of the game was very similar with South Gower dominating but the referee was restrictive in allowing the game to flow preventing the All Blacks pressure adding any further points to the score board.
Not a great viewing spectacle, some hints of quality rugby but not sustained through the whole game through no fault of their own. Well done boys.
Final Score: Pontardulais RFC 5, South Gower RFC 12

South Gower Man of The Match: Micah Pugh, for his relentless quest to wipe out and win the ball at the breakdown.

(South Gower Team: 1.Gavin Shearer,2.Eliot Owen,3.Jamie Thomas,4.Alex Ashburner,5.Dylan Morgan,6. Rob Mogridge,7.Micah Pugh,8.Sam Jones,9.Jamie Thomas,10.Chay Smith,11.Luke Cooper,12.Eliot,13.Jacob Clement,14.Jack Hooper-Lewis,15.Sam Pritchard)

U12's Morriston RFC V South Gower RFC

Another tough outing for the All Black under 12's, playing Morriston in their own back yard, an undefeated side for many years with some very talented players who do not concede many tries. South Gowers revised line up was certainly up for the challenge, a side that is still building momentum and growing in confidence literally by sticking to the basics.

Morriston started well with a break down the wing. South Gower's laspe in concentration for their defensive line cost them with Morriston converting the try from under the posts to give them an early 7 point lead. The Gower boys dusted themselves down and came back with avengeance, challenging every breakdown with a purpose, building through the phases whilst living in Morriston's faces to force the errors, and the errors did come. Camped on the Morriston try line, they were fiercely defending but with good awareness of space Jacob Clement secured the ball and the five points. Scrum half Jamie Thomas added the extras with an awesome kick 5m in from the touch line.

The game unfolded with great determination from both sides. The Gower forwards wiping out with particularly good play from flankers Rob Mogridge and Sam Pritchard, securing good clean ball for scrum half Jamie Thomas who set the backs running. South Gower winger Jonno Blakemore had the ball out wide for a number of blistering runs, but the Morriston defence performed well preventing any Gower points from the wing. A last attack from Morriston just before half time clinched them another try however making the half time score Morriston 12, South Gower 7.

The second half was another well fought affair with end to end rugby. The tackles were being made, the big carries were gaining yards and South Gower really looked capable of securing another try, but it wasn't to be today. On the last play, Morriston made a blind side run hovering on the touch line (many say crossing the touch line) to give Morriston the victory on the day. Morriston RFC 17, South Gower 7

South Gower certainly had another solid character building performance. The team spirit, the togetherness and pride is growing week on week and long may it continue. Well done boys you did yourselves proud.

South Gower Man of the Match: Jamie Thomas (SH) who released plenty of quick and accurate ball backed up by a tremendous kick at the posts.

(South Gower Team: 1.Alex Ashburner,2.Eliot Owen,3.Jamie Thomas,4.Micah Pugh,5.Dylan Morgan,6. Rob Mogridge,7.Sam Pritchard,8.Gavin Shearer,9.Jamie Thomas,10.Chay Smith,11.Jonno Blakemore,12.Jacob Clement,13.Eliot Clement,14.Jack Rosser,15.Luke Cooper Replacements: Jack Davies, Sam Jones.)

U12's South Gower v Vadre

South Gower under 12's turned up with a stride in their step following a great performance in their outing last week. A full squad to pick from and a first XV capable of stretching any side with a strong bench in tow.
It's South Gowers and Vadre's 1st meet of the season due to postponed games and therefore all to play for. South Gower kicked off and applied relentless pressure that Vadre couldn't handle, with the All Blacks delivering six consecutive un-answered tryies early on. Chay Smith crossed for three, Jacob Clement, Sam Pritchard and Dylan Morgan all gaining well deserved 5 pointers. The forwards played their part too, with the hard yards gained by Micah Pugh and Gavin Shearer. Vadre really struggled in the battle upfront and the precision passing and pace of the backs.
The second half saw a tighter affair, but no real change in dominance. South Gower continued where they left off, ready to put a lid on their challenge with winger Jack Rosser and Chay Smith finishing Vadre off with two further tries in the second half.

The Gower boys delivered a good all round performance with good support play, passing out of the contact area, strong tackling in defence and wiping out in the rucks. Well done boys, keep up the work rate, see you at training.

South Gower Man of the Match: Dylan Morgan who worked relentlessly in the rucks to secure good Gower ball, backed up with some hard running which gained him a try.
(South Gower Team: 1.Alex Ashburner,2.Eliot Owen,3.Jamie Thomas,4.Sam Jones,5.Dylan Morgan,6. Micah Pugh,7.Sam Pritchard,8.Gavin Shearer,9.Jamie Thomas,10.Chay Smith,11.Jonno Blakemore,12.Jacob Clement,13.Eliot Clement,14.Jack Rosser,15,Jack Hooper-Lewis, Replacement Jack Davies.)

U12's @ Liberty Stadium Ospreys V Connacht 16.2.08

(Who were also stars of S4C's Clwb Rygbi)

U12's 10.02.08 : South Gower V Abercrave RFC

South Gowers last outing in the Ospreys Cup after an unsuccessful campaign against an unbeaten Abercrave RFC. The Gower team managed to field a bare 15 players due to a high number of injuries within the squad, with 3 players making their All Blacks debut being Gavin Shearer, Eliot & Jacob Clement. The squad also included under 11's winger Harri Hooper-Lewis to complete the match day squad.
A glorious February day for rugby, where both sides came out committed to the cause. South Gower went straight on the attack running some good angles amongst some safe hands.
Abercrave however who were mutually as strong in attack claimed the first 5 pointer added with a successful conversion.
South Gower's confidence remained high with the forwards doing really well at the break down with outstanding hard work being demonstrated by Captain Sam Pritchard on the flank and Gavin Shearer, Alex Ashburner really driving the forwards on in attack. Gower hooker Eliot Owen who also had strong game, broke through many tackles, one resulting in a try line dash, but was tackled a yard short. Chay Smith was quick in support, regathered and produced quick ball to Jack Hooper-Lewis to send him in the corner for a try.

The second half, delivered more of the same, with the rucking of both sides performed quickly and effectively. Abercrave however developed a back line move giving them an overlap and the nail in the coffin with the final try of the game. The final score 5, 12 to Abercrave, was a true reflection on the close and very passionate game. A promising performance from the All Blacks with which we can build on as a squad and develop further.

Man of the Match goes to debutante Gavin Shearer who was feerless ball in hand, with no lost possession and a high work rate.

Under 12's Key Dates:

16th Feb Ospreys V Connacht (please confirm to Ian by Tuesday)

17th Feb - fixture T.B.C.

24th Feb Morriston Away (All players reqd. clashes with District game)

13th April Fall Bay Tournament

27th April Penclawdd Gower Cup Tournament

11th April District Super 12's Tournament - squad to be announced.

Any issues email Ian: carve_itup@hotmail.com

Under 13s Osprey Cup Win 31 points to 5 !

The Under 13s produced an impressive win today against Ystradgynlais, Tom Gwyn scoring three tries, Luke Evans and James Wild also scoring. Dan Renowden won at least six scrums against the head aswell as not lossing any for South Gower, Will and Jake Keogh put in a relentless tally of tackles, Edward Blackaly put in a fantastic set of tackles which proved that patience in learning earns its rewards. Ystradgynlais had some very large players who could easily hand off South Gower (when we didn't tackle properly !). Kicking today was difficult in a very strong wind however Charlie and Jake completed the conversions missing only one, touch kicks from Jake and Charlie showed that the new kicking rules are being well adapted to. The front row were awsome in controlling the scrums Dylan, Dan, Josh and Rees. Dan Gibbon gave his usual standard or rugby not letting anyone take the ball of him and creating countless turnovers. Ryan supported all the backs superbly and had some excellent off-loads and Jack Sheppard who after leaving the field with a hand injury was able to return to the game to replace Taylor who became injured after a massive tackle on a player twice his size.

Well done boys another win and great improvement !