Fixture

In a game best described as scrappy (initial s is optional) Ruthin entertained Dolgellau just restored to Division 1 North. In conditions cold and damp after overnight rain and with several of stars missing from last week Ruthin put in a performance that was adequate to gain a bonus point victory but left a lot of possible scores unclaimed.

In the first 20 minutes Ruthin put Dolgellau under huge pressure, spending almost all the time in the visitors 22. Due to a catalogue of errors in handling and decision-making and to a stout defensive effort from their opponents Ruthin were unable to get any points on the board. Eventually Mike Jones managed to finish a move involving forwards and backs and crossed for a try far out which was not converted by Dyfan Humphries who was to go on to score 2further conversions later. The half continued as before with Ruthin in command and flanker Owain Jones scored Ruthin’s second try, this time converted. At last Dolgellau threatened the Ruthin line but the half time whistle put an end to their resurgence.

The second half started in a lively fashion with scrum half Cai Edwards scampering over for a try near the posts, again converted and number 8 Chris Davies crashing over for another try the conversion missed having glanced off the upright. It was Dolgellau’s turn to make their only score of the match when in a rare foray near the Ruthin line flanker Peter Blake crossed.

The rest of the game reverted to type with Ruthin mostly dominant but not scoring again, though Chris Davies was stopped on the line, a penalty was awarded to Ruthin who opted for a scrum 5 only to be penalised in the scrum and for Dolgellau to clear their lines to end the match.