SEASIDERS’ LOOK FOR FURTHER CHALLENGES
Well, the début game in Division 1 held few surprises, but the main thing was the apparent gulf in class between Penarth and Barry. The relative quality of the Seasiders’ rugby has generally been the case during the last two seasons’ rise, where the only real challenge has come from companions-in-promotion Llanharan.
To be fair, Barry finished last season in a distant 9th place above Rhiwbina and relegated Ynysybwl. The continual realignments of the WRU leagues had led to fewer relegations and in a more stable environment, all three might have gone down.
Next up are Abercwmboi. It’s been a while since Penarth played against the Cynon valley club. According to my records, season 2006/7, when the Seasiders were promoted from Division 4 South-East, beating next Saturday’s visitors 13-3 away and 26-3 at home.
While Abercwmboi finished in 8th place in last season’s Div 1 East Central, they were fully 22 points ahead of Barry and so should provide a clearer picture of the standard in Division 1. However, while the Seasiders were beating Barry 45-3, Abercwmboi fell at the first hurdle, losing 0-28 to neighbours Abercynon.
One thing’s for certain: Penarth will be full of confidence after their first game with a senior squad firing on all cylinders. Also backed up by a successful Athletic team, who have now won their first two games in the East District Premier Division. Wins against Rhiwbina II (65-5) and Rumney III (45-14) sees them at the top of their table. The strength in depth of Penarth RFC is very reassuring.
WRU Division 1 East Central
Saturday 21st September 2024
PENARTH v Abercwmboi
Athletic Field, Lavernock Road, CF64 3QH
Kick-off 2.30pm
