Crymych 21 Aberaeron 21

ABERAERON’s third match in their first ever season in Division 1 West — the highest level of rugby the club has played — proved another stern test, writes Arwyn Sychpant.

The step up has been clear: harder, more physical, and unforgiving of mistakes. But it has also been hugely enjoyable for supporters, who have embraced the challenge alongside the players.

Still searching for their first win after narrow defeats to Lampeter and Hendy, the team travelled to Crymych hoping to settle early-season nerves. A draw felt frustrating after leading in the first half and spending the closing minutes camped in the home 22, but unable to break down a stubborn defence.

As in the opening two fixtures, Aberaeron conceded an early converted try to Gethin Davies, before responding superbly with converted scores from Steffan Rees and Rhodri Jenkins.

Aberaeron missed a few opportunities to extend the lead, and a scrappy five-minute spell either side of half-time proved costly, with Tom Taylor and Jac Davies crossing for Crymych to swing the game in their favour.

Aberaeron showed real determination in the final quarter with some powerful carries from the forwards, notable Man of the Match Julian Roberts who consistently made inroads into the Crymych territory.

The pressure told in the end when Will Skyrme-Jones powered over eight minutes from time, with Jenkins adding the extras to level the match.

Intense late pressure followed, and a last-minute drop-goal attempt from captain Steffan Rees missed the mark — the final act of a fiercely contested encounter.

t was hard to tell which side was more disappointed at full-time, but Aberaeron certainly felt it was another missed opportunity.

Still, the team continues to collect bonus points — two more on Saturday, adding to the three already earned — and the foundations for survival at this level are being laid. A first win would bring the confidence needed to push on.

Captain Steffan Rees summed up the mood: positive about competing at this level, but frustrated not to have secured the win.

Next up is Gorseinon in the cup at Parc Drefach, followed by a tough league test against Felinfoel.