Both Cwmbran and Abercarn played this Swalec Bowl fixture in contrasting styles at the Kings Head ground on Saturday.The visitors played an excellent kicking game and ran the ball when play opened up, however, Cwmbran played a game based on the way the Barbarians play, however, that is where the similarity ended. Cwmbran threw out six intercept passes - three of which resulted in tries.
Cwmbran opened the scoring when stand off Chris Wannell slotted home a penalty after a lot of good forward pressure. An outstanding full length of the field try by Abercarn, involving countless players resulted in a corner try and this was added to in the 25th minute with a penalty goal. Cwmbran wing Ben Sainsbury made a clever break from half way just failing to get the much needed score. With the Crows pack winning their fair share of ball going down the slope a better kicking game was called for, however, an interception try gave Abercarn a 10 point half time cushion.
The Crows showed far more urgency at the start of the second half when powerful centre Dave Thomas crashed over for a try which Wannell converted, Abercarn then kicked a penalty goal prior to more Cwmbran midfield chaos gifting two tries, one of which was converted. Dave Thomas scored a try for the crows following charges by Lang, Peart, James,Watkins and Gavin Cook, the latter having his best game.
As the final whistle approached the visitors kicked a penalty for a deserved win. Next Saturday Cwmbran have a very testing fixture against a strong Cardiff unit at home.
Cwmbran youth and athletic faired better with their results, the athletic winning at home against Usk 15-12 and the youth winning at Caerphilly 10-7.