Dolgellau 25 Bro Ffestiniog 7

Dolgellau secured the local bragging rights as well as four precious league points and eighth position in the Division One North league table.

The hosts made all the early running and encamped themselves in the Bro half for the first quarter, but could make no real break-through against some stout defending from the visitors.

Half an hour had passed when Dolgellau wing, James Owen punched a clever kick through the Bro defence from half way. Outstanding wing-forward Tim Jones had his work cut out to beat the Bro cover, which he did magnificently to touch down to make it 5-0.

Four minutes later, Bro collapsed a scrum five metres inside their own half, and Dolgellau centre, Gwion Jones, put over a perfect penalty to make it 8-0.

With a minute of the half remaining, wing James Owen again lifted an inch perfect chip ahead, and this time it was he himself who gathered and dived over for the score, as the Bro cover closed in on him.

Gwion Jones’ conversion from the left touchline was on target, and Dolgellau were in command 15-0 at half time.

Bro’s lack of discipline was costing them dear, and referee Colin Scott was having several close discussions with Bro skipper, Tom James, as Gwion Jones put Dolgellau 18-0 ahead with another long penalty goal, five minutes into the second period. Five minutes later, a clean catch by Dolgellau’s Dewi Thomas at a five-metre lineout, and a perfect drive saw hooker, Celt Lewis crash over for their third try. Jones’ accuracy with the boot putting the hosts 25-0 ahead.

Bro brought on stalwart, Dewi James, and they went on to dominate the last half hour of a dour second half. The match was approaching time added on for injuries as Bro flanker Huw Parry scythed through to score near the post, and stand-off, Dylan Daniels converted to make it 25-5, but it was Dolgellau who showed the more desire and grit for this derby encounter, and who deservedly claimed the spoils and ease themselves up the league table.