TREGARON could take heart from a very spirited performance as they battled bravely against a powerful Fishguard side, before finally succumbing to a 19-6 defeat in north Pembrokeshire.

The visitors were unlucky in losing a critical toss, and therefore they had the first use of a gale force wind, which was blowing from goal post to goal post.

During the opening quarter the home pack monopolised possession, and they managed to keep the ball for long periods.

When Tregaron had possession their kicks were over-cooked, and did not obtain any real advantage from the wind.

Outside half Llion Jones slotted over two excellent penalties, but on the stroke of half-time the home team set up a series of pick and drives in their opponents’ 22 and eventually flanker Chris Sousa went over the line for the first try of the game.

At the interval the faithful band of travelling supporters were worried at only a one point advantage, and then playing into a wind that had gone up a notch.

The third quarter of the game saw the visitors play their best rugby of this season so far. The forwards were outstanding as they carried the ball and went over the gain line repeatedly and effectively.

Geraint Rowlands was outstanding as he made huge yardage in this period, and despite the wind advantage, the Seagulls did not look like scoring during this spell.

The wind, however, enabled Fishguard’s backs to clear their lines and there were only one or two scoring opportunities for Tregaron, which they could not take.

In the final quarter the home pack stepped up and it became difficult for the visitors to get out of their 22. The defence worked overtime, and for a moment it seemed that a win could be achieved.

In the end, however, the pressure was too much and two tries were scored by centre Ben John and flanker Rhys Lewis, after good work by skipper Simon James, both well converted by James Griffiths.