Cross Keys RFC 21 Bedwas RFC 17.
WRU Challenge Cup, Saturday 25 September 2021.
Match report and photography by Ian Lovell.
A converted try deep into stoppage time condemned Bedwas to defeat at a warm, humid Pandy Park.
The game started at a frantic pace but neither side could find an opening as defences stood strong.
Bedwas took the lead after 16 minutes via left wing man Josh Edwards who ran through unopposed to dot down; Matty Bancroft added the extras.
Bedwas joy was short-lived as Keys struck back four minutes later as Chris Johnsey found space to cross, Adam Tetley added the extras.
Despite Keys enjoying dominance in the tight no further scores came in the first half as defences ruled.
Both Bedwas starting prop forwards are eighteen years of age and at the start of the second half were replaced by the vastly more experienced Rhys Hutcherson and Liam Jenkins.
Keys took the lead after 54 minutes full back Curtis Povey crossing for a try improved upon by Tetley.
Bedwas replaced full back Sam Davies with Dale McIntosh and back rower Owen Jones with Rhys Morgans as the looked to get back into the game. Reward came a few minutes later as Dafydd Thomas squeezed in at the right-hand corner, Matty Bancroft expertly adding the conversion from the acute angle.
Bancroft added a penalty as the clock kicked down to put Bedwas ahead but with five minutes stoppage time played Keys came up with the killer blow as following Bedwas failure to clear their lines right winger Lewis Allwood crossed for a try, converted by Tetley to the joy of the home faithful.
*This game marked a career milestone for Keys’ lock forward Tom Lampard who made his 400th appearance for his club, a remarkable achievement. We at Bedwas RFC congratulate him on this feat, one that very few players achieve in the modern game.
Images from today’s game can be found at: Bedwas RFC’s albums | Flickr