LLANYBYDDER put up a battling display in their Division Two West encounter at Carmarthen Athletic, but it was the home side who came through for a 12-3 win after a true battle of attrition.

It proved to be a tough and physical affair in a real mud-bath at Athletic Park, with both teams deserving credit for working hard in very difficult playing conditions.

The pitch was deemed match fit at the morning’s inspection, as no surface water was visible, but when the game commenced it was evident that the playing surface would churn up and it was soon clear that a hard slog lay ahead for both teams.

Both defences held their ground during a highly competitive encounter, with no tries being scored, and it was ultimately the kickers who settled the affair in the end.

A successful penalty count of four to one favoured the home side with captain and fly half David Evans kicking all the penalties for the Athetlic, as well as some sizeable touchfinders, whilst centre Steff Davies replied with one penalty for the visitors, but missed a few longer range efforts.

Llanybydder, who have also been beaten by Hendy, Tycroes and Tumble in 2017, will be keen to rediscover winning ways at home to Fishguard this weekend.