Caerphilly District won the last piece of silverware in this season’s WRU organised competitions when they defeated Swansea District 21-16 in this eagerly awaited final.
The teams, comprising players drawn from 2 of the WRU’s 12 District youth rugby unions, demonstrated their considerable skills in a very competitive match which provided a high quality climax to a long youth season.
Swansea opened the scoring with a well struck penalty from Andrew Colwill. Caerphilly fought back to take the lead with a try from Dale Evans, converted by David Hicks, after good inter play by the Caerphilly backs and forwards.
Caerphilly defended stoutly with strong tackling to take their 7-3 lead into half time.
At the start of the second half, Swansea fought back and after a period of sustained pressure two penalty goals from Colwill restored the West Wales team to the lead.
Dazzling back play from Caerphilly culminated with a try under the posts from full back Seb Toms, again converted by David Hicks.
With Caerphilly now looking to extend their lead and exerting pressure on Swansea the match was turned around when Nathan Llewellyn raced away from 50 yards to score. This try converted by Steve O’Connor put Swansea back into the lead.
Caerphilly redoubled their efforts. They were rewarded with a try by back row forward Luke Morgan, again converted by David Hicks. Despite Swansea’s attacks the Caerphilly defence held on to give them victory and the plate trophy.
The trophy was presented by Gerwyn Price, the Neath RFC hooker. Gerwyn has been a product of District youth rugby and stood as an excellent role model for the future for the players who had shown outstanding talent during this hard fought match
