Neath RFC beat Neath Cricket

Match Report: Neath Rugby v Neath Cricket

Following their 42-21 opening win over Pontypridd, Neath RFC enjoyed another victory ……. at cricket !

The Blacks played their neighbours Neath Cricket Club at The Gnoll in a fun evening before a goodly crowd and the rugby men surprised even themselves by coming out on top.

The Cricketers batted first and Richard Grant was soon into his stride, depositing three sixes into the rugby field, on his way to 32. Simon Thomas contributed a hard-hit half century before retiring and Steve Harris stroked 25.

The fitness of the Ruggerites served them well in the field and Adam Jones demonstrated considerable dexterity behind the stumps. Coach Lyn Jones showed he has lost none of the pace from his Cwmavon days and secretary Mike Price bagged 3 for 11, other wickets being taken by Shaun Connor, John Leyshon, Steve Tandy and Barry Williams.

The Cricketers were finally all out for 140 in 20 overs.

Despite the first ball dismissal of Llandeilo star Barry Williams, the Ruggerites were launched on their way by an excellent second-wicket partnership between Adrian Durston and Shaun Connor who was eventually dismissed for 16. Steve Tandy then joined Durston in a match-winning stand.

By the time Tandy was dismissed for 31, the game was all but won and Durston was in full flow on his way to a superb 66 not out which included 3 sixes in an over.

John Leyshon chipped in with 15 and it only remained for coach Jones to take centre-stage for the winning run. The Ruggerites won with four wickets in hand but the importance of the event was the continued improvement in relations between the neighbouring sports.