Fixture

Bridge claimed their first win of the season, after a couple of near misses, against a very competitive Bangor University side.

The match, played at Cae Milltir in Bangor, gave the opportunity for both sides to test their squads, albeit that the students had enough players to field two sides.

A strong start from Bridge put early pressure on the University scrum. From the resulting plays, Bridge carried effectively in the forwards and a couple of quick phases in the opposition 22 led to a quick passing move where centre Vaughn Francis cruised through the defence.
Bridge were able to maintain the pressure, with some astute tactical kicking from fly half McGrath and the forwards were happy to turn the screw. The next try was started and finished by Bridge scrum half Ed Williams who had an outstanding game. A 22 clearance was charged down by Williams, the forwards carried towards the try line and, despite some tenacious defence, Williams spotted a gap for a well deserved try. The next score for Bridge, which would have pleased new backs coach Keith Withers, was a try for winger Sion Owen who was put in space by Dion McGrath executing an excellent two against one.

Despite extending their lead to three tries, this was far from a one sided contest. The students were dogged at the breakdown, contesting hard and winning lots of ball. Their back line looked threatening when they moved the ball. It was a sweeping move that led to their try. Quick ball spun wide, created a huge overlap for their right winger to touch down. Despite numerous further breaks, often from deep, they were unable to add to their try count, balls were dropped or last ditch tackles made.

In the final quarter, the scorers were not troubled as defences for both sides came out on top. Neither team was able to break the deadlock despite an ambition to play anything that offered an attacking opportunity.

Bridge now look forward to  a week of preparation for their next fixture which is an away league match at Holyhead, where they will look to avenge their home cup reverse at the hands of the Harbourmen.

MBRFC rugby correspondent Ailsa Rheng