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Bridgend Athletic youth second string The Rags managed to play their Ospreys OC match away to Trebanos last Saturday despite the terrible weather. The home team had reserved the 3G pitch at Bae Baglan school, so the match could go ahead.

The young mainly first season Athletic youth boys showed tremendous character and despite losing 17-11, put on one of their best performances of the season.

The Athletic had the slight breeze advantage in the first half and used it with great effect applying pressure on Trebanos and going close to scoring on several occasions. Centre Sam Owens broke clear and was tackled just short of the line, before a lovely measured kick from outside half Matthew Hobby allowed wing Harry Ridge to dive on to the ball over the try line, only for the ref to rule out the try for touch in goal.

The Athletic were awarded six penalties in a row and opted to kick for the corner to keep up the pressure but in hindsight maybe should have slotted a few that were kickable. They did just that after no success at the driving lineout and took a 3-0 lead through the boot of Hobby.

In the last five minutes of the half Trebanos kicked for the corner and ironically after all the Athletics’ efforts scored on their first attempt totally against the run of play to take a 7-3 half time lead.

The second half saw the home team enjoy a lot more possession. The Athletic defence was outstanding all game, but particularly when under pressure in the second half with Sion Vigus, Danny Osarigie and Tom Zielinski putting in numerous good tackles. The set piece was working well with front row Teo Filis, Jack Obbard and Iestyn Thomas scrummaging well and Obbard hitting his men regularly in the lineout.

The Athletic were awarded a penalty which Hobby converted to narrow the score line to 7-6. The home side continued to pressurise the Athletic line using their big carriers and eventually the pressure told, and they scored near the posts for a converted try to extend their lead to 14-6. A penalty extended the lead to 17-6.

The Athletic showed good character and fitness and kept playing when maybe in past games they would have capitulated.

They went close to scoring when Danny Osarigie kicked and chased up field and again from a 5-metre penalty when Sam Owens tapped quickly but was held up over the line.

The Athletics’ persistence prevailed when from great handling from the backs Harry Ridge was able to score wide out.

Despite their final flourish the Athletic were unable to get another score and the game finished 17-11 to Trebanos. The Athletic picked up a losing bonus point while and Trebanos went joint top of the OC league.

Athletic Youth head coach Lee Grabham commented after the game. “It was pleasing to see the Rags compete all the way with one of the better teams in the league. They are showing great improvement and are now comfortable with the physicality that Youth rugby provides. The experience will stand them in great stead in the next two seasons of their youth rugby development.”