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!!