We are holding a girls 7s festival at Colwyn Bay RFC on Sunday 10 January - starting at 1.30pm. All welcome - U15s & U18s, all abilities.
Tuesday, 15 December 2009
Wednesday, 25 November 2009
Latest
Not much Mermaids news lately as all the U18 Mermaids are currently involved with the regional squad. Hopefully normal service will resume after Christmas - watch this space.
Tuesday, 6 October 2009
Mermaids 19 - Glossop 14
The U18 Mermaids travelled to Glossop on Sunday, aiming to keep their unbeaten record this season intact. The team however was anything but intact - with their full-back, fly-half, top try scorer and several other key players missing, it was always going to be an uphill struggle.
The Colwyn Bay team agreed to play with less players than Glossop in order to prepare for the inevitably tough matches coming up against the other welsh regions.
Captain for this match, Kumari Tilakawardane chose to receive kick off, and in rainy conditions, the match kicked off.
As it was a training game, play was allowed to continue despite errors, and this made for a scrappy start, particularly for the Bay, and Glossop soon scored two converted tries, making the most of chances given and the two player overlap.
At 14-0 down the Mermaids knew they had to pick up their game, and they soon did - Gwen Harries making some thunderous tackles in the mid-field to keep Glossop in their own half. Due to the lack of players and in preparation fo rthe regional campaign, positions were rotated, with Cara Hope and Chloe Dymond alternating between flanker and centre, and Abi Beards and Kaya Harding taking turns at scrum-half.
Through tenacity, determination and by showing great skill the Mermaids worked their way up-field and good interplay between backs and forwards allowed Dymond to step her way through the last line of Glossop defence in the 22, with Hope adding the conversion.
The match was hard-fought, and tempers began to flare as the second half began, and the visitors refused to let their heads down, and in experimenting with different moves and set-pieces, worked their way down to the Glossop try-line. After several missed chances and infringements by the opposition, the Welsh team managed to form a strong maul which resulted in Hope, spurred on by vociferous Glossop supporters, driving through to touch down in the corner. The difficult conversion attempt was pulled just wide, which left the score at 14-12 to the home team.
With 15 minutes left the Mermaids sustained several injuries, with Harding leaving the field temporarily to have a knee wound treated, Dymond sustaining an ankle injury and Hope with a minor head/neck injury. There were no substitutes to take their places, nevertheless play continued with even more determination, and through consistent phases, and phenominal driving from Amelia stubbs, the ball was released to Harding who side-stepped through to score what would ultimately be the match winning try. Hope added the conversion and the game ended with some heroic defence in the last 10 minutes, which saw play kept in Glossop's 22 until the referee blew the whistle for full time on a tense match.
Although the entire team showed amazing spirit and togetherness to win the game from 14-0 down, the Mermaids coaching staff decided to nominate Kaya Harding and Kumari Tilakawardane as joint player of the match, for outstanding play and leadership.
The Colwyn Bay team agreed to play with less players than Glossop in order to prepare for the inevitably tough matches coming up against the other welsh regions.
Captain for this match, Kumari Tilakawardane chose to receive kick off, and in rainy conditions, the match kicked off.
As it was a training game, play was allowed to continue despite errors, and this made for a scrappy start, particularly for the Bay, and Glossop soon scored two converted tries, making the most of chances given and the two player overlap.
At 14-0 down the Mermaids knew they had to pick up their game, and they soon did - Gwen Harries making some thunderous tackles in the mid-field to keep Glossop in their own half. Due to the lack of players and in preparation fo rthe regional campaign, positions were rotated, with Cara Hope and Chloe Dymond alternating between flanker and centre, and Abi Beards and Kaya Harding taking turns at scrum-half.
Through tenacity, determination and by showing great skill the Mermaids worked their way up-field and good interplay between backs and forwards allowed Dymond to step her way through the last line of Glossop defence in the 22, with Hope adding the conversion.
The match was hard-fought, and tempers began to flare as the second half began, and the visitors refused to let their heads down, and in experimenting with different moves and set-pieces, worked their way down to the Glossop try-line. After several missed chances and infringements by the opposition, the Welsh team managed to form a strong maul which resulted in Hope, spurred on by vociferous Glossop supporters, driving through to touch down in the corner. The difficult conversion attempt was pulled just wide, which left the score at 14-12 to the home team.
With 15 minutes left the Mermaids sustained several injuries, with Harding leaving the field temporarily to have a knee wound treated, Dymond sustaining an ankle injury and Hope with a minor head/neck injury. There were no substitutes to take their places, nevertheless play continued with even more determination, and through consistent phases, and phenominal driving from Amelia stubbs, the ball was released to Harding who side-stepped through to score what would ultimately be the match winning try. Hope added the conversion and the game ended with some heroic defence in the last 10 minutes, which saw play kept in Glossop's 22 until the referee blew the whistle for full time on a tense match.
Although the entire team showed amazing spirit and togetherness to win the game from 14-0 down, the Mermaids coaching staff decided to nominate Kaya Harding and Kumari Tilakawardane as joint player of the match, for outstanding play and leadership.
Thursday, 1 October 2009
Interesting website
There is a new website for women's rugby - ScrumQueens - there is a link in the box below on the right.
Sunday, 27 September 2009
Fund raising
I am selling the original Mermaids jumpers to raise money towards our tour. £10 each. Numbers available: 2,4,8,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20.
I am also trying to arrange some bag packing for a Saturday in December.
I am also trying to arrange some bag packing for a Saturday in December.
Friday, 25 September 2009
Sunday 27 September
Sunday training is at 2pm due to pitch space problems. All girls welcome - U15s can join in too if they want.
Tuesday, 22 September 2009
Kicking training
Louis has arranged for a specialist kicking coach to come along on this Thursday evening to Colwyn Bay RFC at 6.45pm.
U18 Mermaids v Waterloo 20.9.09
Colwyn Bay Mermaids first home game of the season was against Waterloo and the Mermaids were keen to keep up their winning streak after last week's hard-fought win over Sandbach. This season the captaincy will be rotated throughout the season to give a selection of players a chance; Abi Beards was chosen to be captain this match, while Colwyn Bay loaned Amelia Stubbs to Waterloo to even up the sides. In usual form the Bay couldn't get the phases and handling together at the start, and it was only some great last-ditch tackling that prevented Waterloo from scoring in the first quarter, which was played with the Mermaids one player down as Elin Royle was late arriving from her weekend job!
The second quarter showed more promise from the home team, with moves from the likes of the captain, Alaw Hughes and Elin Royle kick-starting the rest of the team into action. Despite this, Waterloo managed to exploit the few defensive weaknesses of Colwyn Bay for Kayleigh Southerland to score a try with an impressive move, with Jenny Carney adding the conversion. This spurred the hosts on, and some positive moves off the back of an ever improving scrum performance eventually led to a try. Scrum-half Kaya Harding passed out to Gwen Harries, who slipped the ball out to new Mermaid Charlotte Pirie, attacking from full-back to cross the line, Cara Hope unlucky with the difficult conversion attempt.
This seemed to give the Bay the incentive they needed and soon they were playing an open, attacking brand of rugby. Following breaks from the backline and great support play from the forwards, Waterloo found themselves pinned in their own 22, and after impressive side-stepping through the defence, support play from Kumari Tilakawardane brought the second try to put Colwyn Bay into the lead, Hope just missing with the conversion attempt.
With the score almost equal the play evened out and there were some ferocious tackles to halt both teams' progress. Bay were unlucky not to score on a number of other occasions, a number of moves just not going to hand at the last phase. An unlucky mistake out wide from the Bay resulted in Waterloo advancing to the try line. The home team managed to drive the opposition back for a few phases, but eventually the inevitable push came on and Waterloo were leading 12-10 after Jade Hanbury touched down.
Colwyn Bay's heads did not go down, however - they came back at Waterloo even more determined than before. Gradually working their way downfield, the Mermaids managed to get the ball to the Waterloo 22, for Elin Royle to sprint past two defenders and offload to Charlotte Pirie for her second try of the game, putting Colwyn Bay into the lead - 15 to 12.The last three minutes of play were tense for all Bay supporters, as Waterloo kicked over the top of the Bay defence line and it was body-on-the-line stuff for the remainder of the game, before Hughes kicked the ball out to end the game.
Another all-round good performance from the Mermaids resulted in their second win in two weeks. Waterloo voted Beards their player of the match, while the Colwyn Bay/Gogledd Cymru coaching team gave their accolade to Gwen Harries. The Mermaids voted Bojan Johnson as the Waterloo player of the match but as she had left early a substitute had to be brought on for the traditional (non alcoholic) drinking contest, which Waterloo won with ease, Beards having trouble putting away a pint of cola.
Sunday, 20 September 2009
Today's match
Final score:
U18 Mermaids/Gogledd Cymru 15 - Waterloo 12
Well played both teams. Always a pleasure to welcome the Waterloo crowd to Colwyn Bay.
Match report will (hopefully) be written tonight and posted here tomorrow.
DVDs of the match will be available to buy later in the week - all funds raised towards our tour.
U18 Mermaids/Gogledd Cymru 15 - Waterloo 12
Well played both teams. Always a pleasure to welcome the Waterloo crowd to Colwyn Bay.
Match report will (hopefully) be written tonight and posted here tomorrow.
DVDs of the match will be available to buy later in the week - all funds raised towards our tour.
Tuesday, 15 September 2009
Next match
Waterloo are bringing a team down to our festival on Sunday so get ready for another game. I will give you all the details at training.
Monday, 14 September 2009
Mermaids 20 - Sandbach 10
Colwyn Bay U18 Mermaids’ first game of the season didn’t get off to the best of starts when the bus had difficulty in leaving the club’s driveway; all passengers had to exit the vehicle to watch the careful manoeuvring of the driver to stop the steps from scraping the floor. Once that was sorted, the team travelled to Sandbach with some mixed emotions – with a number of new players in tow there were plenty of nerves coupled with the usual excitement of a match against one of the teams from over the border.
Once at the club the first XV was decided for the first quarter of 15 minutes. Scrum-half-cum-flanker Abi Beards was the first captain of the day. Amelia Stubbs led the team in the customary war cry of ‘oggy oggy oggy!’ to put the fear into Sandbach. To begin with, the referee decided to play uncontested scrums to ease the new players into the game, however this didn’t stop Beards from leading from the front and applying unrelenting pressure on the opposing scrum-half Jordan Morris.
The first ten minutes saw a lot of dropped balls, and a few scrappy mistakes before the game got into full flow. One of the first Bay players to get into the swing of things was undoubtedly Iona Evans, whose inspirational slamming tackles and clearing kicks paved the way for the Mermaids’ impressive display.
Despite sustained pressure and good attacking rugby from the away side, Sandbach managed to kick through to Colwyn Bay’s 22, where only body-on-the-line defensive work from the defending team saved a try. Nevertheless, Bay fought back determinedly and through some strong rucking from the likes of Cara Hope, Chloe Dymond and Hayley Ellis, the ball soon found its way to winger Elin Royle’s hands, who sprinted clear past the Sandbach players to cross the try-line, even going so far as to continue to run under the posts with a would-be defender hanging onto her leg.
After the opening try, Colwyn Bay began to play more expansive, attractive rugby, helped hugely by the performance of the forwards at the set-pieces – Emma Beaumont consistently stealing opposition line-out was complemented by Ellis’ hooking of the ball at scrums and Rozena Edwards’ ever-improving throwing in.
The second quarter began with Charlotte Pirie captaining from full-back. With newfound confidence, Bay began to play the way they do best; aggressive defence and solid, quick attacking ball. Flanker Dymond put in some thunderous tackles to halt many Sandbach moves, while the introduction of contested scrums only helped the Bay’s cause, with the entire pack putting in an impressive effort.
Many more attacking opportunities were launched from this platform – Ellie Jones was unlucky not to score after crashing through two defenders in the opposition 22. This attack did, however lead to a strong drive in the corner, with Royle piling over for her second try of the half. Hope was handed another difficult conversion from the touchline which just drifted right of the uprights. Pirie led by example, instigating many potent attacking moves, and sustaining the solid defence line that effectively won Colwyn Bay the game, despite occasional indiscipline which cost too many penalties.
The majority of play saw Sandbach pinned back in their own half, but when they did manage to break through Bay fly-half Alaw Hughes was a revelation in defence, making last-ditch cover tackles to regain territory for the Welsh side.
The forwards continued the hard-work at the breakdown, winning quick ball from the rucks, which gave the backs a great advantage – fantastic communication between the backs saw a loop between Ellie Rawicki and Evans almost result in more points. Despite this, the lack of support from some Bay breaks saw chances go begging.
No 8 Kumari Tilakawardane captained the third quarter, which began with Pirie sustaining a head injury and leaving the field. The competitive scrummaging allowed the Bay to gain momentum and territorial advantage, and with Jones taking over at 9, Beards linked up with the captain for back-row moves edging the Mermaids closer to the try-line. However no advantage could be gained and some scrappy play resulted in Sandbach working their way down the field, where they were camped out on the Bay 5m line, held back by heroic defence, especially from Hope and Royle. However, a penalty was awarded to the home side on the 5m line, and a quick tap could not be stopped, resulting in Sandbach’s first try from Amy Johnson. This only made Colwyn Bay more determined, and after the kick-off was chased down a strong maul led by Hughes and Tilakawardane drove ten metres, before the referee called the play back and awarded a scrum to the Bay, which halted the momentum of this move.
The next few phases saw Sandbach edge forwards, but a spilled ball was pounced upon for the lightning-quick Royle to score an opportunistic try. After this the advantage was firmly with the away team, Hope impressively stealing the ball from Sandbach players and launching another attack.
The final quarter saw Pirie return to the field and Hughes captain, and soon after become the beneficiary of Loz McGee’s offload to score in the corner. Sandbach had one more charge for the Colwyn Bay line, with the away team being saved by a strong clearance kick from Pirie.
No sooner had Pirie returned to the field than Bay were forced to play with only 14 players on the field after McGee retired from the pitch injured. However sharp reflex tackles from Beaumont and quick attacking play from the likes of Jones and Royle saw no overlaps being exploited.
As the game entered the final stages, Sandbach scored an impressive try, which started from their 22 and was finished off with brilliant support play by Hannah Johnson.
Determined not to let the English team have the final say, the Bay launched one last spirited charge on the try-line from the final restart. Continued surges forwards from all the Bay players in turn resulted in a penalty for Sandbach’s hands in a ruck. Stubbs made a powerful charge for the line, which soon resulted in a heated confrontation, as a Sandbach player was sent off for eye-gouging. Sandbach stole the ball illegally from the resulting ruck and threw it out, after which the referee decided to end the game.
Although this was not an ending either side enjoyed, the game was hard-fought and a highly entertaining one for spectators. It was also an ideal opportunity for Colwyn Bay players to warm up for the upcoming Gogledd Cymru matches against the four other regions. Sandbach chose Hope as the player-of-the-match, while the Colwyn Bay coaches Anna Parkin, Tom Rogers and Louis Tilakawardane thought the efforts of Dymond and Evans deserved special mention.
Many thanks to the Gogledd Cymru players from other clubs who strengthened the Colwyn Bay side to enable a competitive 15 a side game: Alaw Hughes (Caernarfon), Iona Evans (Nant Conwy), Ellie Jones (Oswestry).
By Kumari Tilakawardane
Once at the club the first XV was decided for the first quarter of 15 minutes. Scrum-half-cum-flanker Abi Beards was the first captain of the day. Amelia Stubbs led the team in the customary war cry of ‘oggy oggy oggy!’ to put the fear into Sandbach. To begin with, the referee decided to play uncontested scrums to ease the new players into the game, however this didn’t stop Beards from leading from the front and applying unrelenting pressure on the opposing scrum-half Jordan Morris.
The first ten minutes saw a lot of dropped balls, and a few scrappy mistakes before the game got into full flow. One of the first Bay players to get into the swing of things was undoubtedly Iona Evans, whose inspirational slamming tackles and clearing kicks paved the way for the Mermaids’ impressive display.
Despite sustained pressure and good attacking rugby from the away side, Sandbach managed to kick through to Colwyn Bay’s 22, where only body-on-the-line defensive work from the defending team saved a try. Nevertheless, Bay fought back determinedly and through some strong rucking from the likes of Cara Hope, Chloe Dymond and Hayley Ellis, the ball soon found its way to winger Elin Royle’s hands, who sprinted clear past the Sandbach players to cross the try-line, even going so far as to continue to run under the posts with a would-be defender hanging onto her leg.
After the opening try, Colwyn Bay began to play more expansive, attractive rugby, helped hugely by the performance of the forwards at the set-pieces – Emma Beaumont consistently stealing opposition line-out was complemented by Ellis’ hooking of the ball at scrums and Rozena Edwards’ ever-improving throwing in.The second quarter began with Charlotte Pirie captaining from full-back. With newfound confidence, Bay began to play the way they do best; aggressive defence and solid, quick attacking ball. Flanker Dymond put in some thunderous tackles to halt many Sandbach moves, while the introduction of contested scrums only helped the Bay’s cause, with the entire pack putting in an impressive effort.
Many more attacking opportunities were launched from this platform – Ellie Jones was unlucky not to score after crashing through two defenders in the opposition 22. This attack did, however lead to a strong drive in the corner, with Royle piling over for her second try of the half. Hope was handed another difficult conversion from the touchline which just drifted right of the uprights. Pirie led by example, instigating many potent attacking moves, and sustaining the solid defence line that effectively won Colwyn Bay the game, despite occasional indiscipline which cost too many penalties.
The majority of play saw Sandbach pinned back in their own half, but when they did manage to break through Bay fly-half Alaw Hughes was a revelation in defence, making last-ditch cover tackles to regain territory for the Welsh side.
The forwards continued the hard-work at the breakdown, winning quick ball from the rucks, which gave the backs a great advantage – fantastic communication between the backs saw a loop between Ellie Rawicki and Evans almost result in more points. Despite this, the lack of support from some Bay breaks saw chances go begging.
No 8 Kumari Tilakawardane captained the third quarter, which began with Pirie sustaining a head injury and leaving the field. The competitive scrummaging allowed the Bay to gain momentum and territorial advantage, and with Jones taking over at 9, Beards linked up with the captain for back-row moves edging the Mermaids closer to the try-line. However no advantage could be gained and some scrappy play resulted in Sandbach working their way down the field, where they were camped out on the Bay 5m line, held back by heroic defence, especially from Hope and Royle. However, a penalty was awarded to the home side on the 5m line, and a quick tap could not be stopped, resulting in Sandbach’s first try from Amy Johnson. This only made Colwyn Bay more determined, and after the kick-off was chased down a strong maul led by Hughes and Tilakawardane drove ten metres, before the referee called the play back and awarded a scrum to the Bay, which halted the momentum of this move.
The next few phases saw Sandbach edge forwards, but a spilled ball was pounced upon for the lightning-quick Royle to score an opportunistic try. After this the advantage was firmly with the away team, Hope impressively stealing the ball from Sandbach players and launching another attack.
The final quarter saw Pirie return to the field and Hughes captain, and soon after become the beneficiary of Loz McGee’s offload to score in the corner. Sandbach had one more charge for the Colwyn Bay line, with the away team being saved by a strong clearance kick from Pirie.
No sooner had Pirie returned to the field than Bay were forced to play with only 14 players on the field after McGee retired from the pitch injured. However sharp reflex tackles from Beaumont and quick attacking play from the likes of Jones and Royle saw no overlaps being exploited.
As the game entered the final stages, Sandbach scored an impressive try, which started from their 22 and was finished off with brilliant support play by Hannah Johnson.
Determined not to let the English team have the final say, the Bay launched one last spirited charge on the try-line from the final restart. Continued surges forwards from all the Bay players in turn resulted in a penalty for Sandbach’s hands in a ruck. Stubbs made a powerful charge for the line, which soon resulted in a heated confrontation, as a Sandbach player was sent off for eye-gouging. Sandbach stole the ball illegally from the resulting ruck and threw it out, after which the referee decided to end the game.
Although this was not an ending either side enjoyed, the game was hard-fought and a highly entertaining one for spectators. It was also an ideal opportunity for Colwyn Bay players to warm up for the upcoming Gogledd Cymru matches against the four other regions. Sandbach chose Hope as the player-of-the-match, while the Colwyn Bay coaches Anna Parkin, Tom Rogers and Louis Tilakawardane thought the efforts of Dymond and Evans deserved special mention.
Many thanks to the Gogledd Cymru players from other clubs who strengthened the Colwyn Bay side to enable a competitive 15 a side game: Alaw Hughes (Caernarfon), Iona Evans (Nant Conwy), Ellie Jones (Oswestry).
By Kumari Tilakawardane
Sunday, 30 August 2009
Let's get going!
OK girls. Summer's over (not that I noticed it arriving) and it's time to get back to training. We are trying to arrange fixtures for the new season and fit them in around the Gogledd Cymru regional fixtures (which almost all of you will be involved with anyway).
Training back to normal - Thursdays 6.45pm and Sundays 10.45am (when we don't have matches).
Training back to normal - Thursdays 6.45pm and Sundays 10.45am (when we don't have matches).
Thursday, 20 August 2009
More committment needed
More committment is needed if we are to continue the winning streak we have enjoyed so far. Numbers at training have been low. We will be continuing the trend of treats and days out as rewards for committment - no committment, no treats.
Friday, 31 July 2009
First game
Training has started for the new season. The first game is 13 September so more committment to training is needed. Training will continue on Thursdays at 6.45pm unless otherwise notified.
Monday, 27 July 2009
Pre season training
Training is starting on Thursday 30 July to prepare for the new season. 6.45pm at CBRFC.
Wednesday, 22 July 2009
Development days
The first of the development days is taking place this Sunday at Mill Bank, Holyhead 12.30 - 4.30. Remember your gumshields, boots etc. If anyone needs a lift or directions text or phone me.
Ann
Ann
Monday, 20 July 2009
First match
We are in the process of arranging the first match of the new season - probably 13 September away at Sandbach.
Tuesday, 30 June 2009
Keep active
Don't get complacent just because we're having a short break from training. Be assured that Louis is putting training plans together for the pre-season training and you will need to be fit to keep up with them so keep up and improve your fitness levels. I know it's hot but not too many ice creams girls!
Tuesday, 26 May 2009
Monday, 25 May 2009
Mermaids v Sleaford
The U18 Mermaids played their last match of the season at Colwyn Bay Rugby Club in glorious Bank Holiday sunshine. This set the tone for the day’s rugby. The match was a poignant affair as some of the girls who have played in the team together since the inception of girl’s rugby at CBRFC in 2005 have now become of age and move on to senior level rugby.
Sleaford were enjoying a tour of North Wales. As one of the coaches put it, their stay in Wales had long days and late nights - in other words it would appear they had enjoyed their tour.
It became a special day of entertaining rugby. The first ten minutes saw close quarter skirmishes as both teams sought to shake off their nerves and sluggish legs. There was to and fro movement between the 22 metre lines. The Mermaids were the first to get a scoring chance with a penalty far to the left - outside Sleaford 22. Ellen Jones (Mwsh) failed the difficult kick. Sleaford fought their way to the Mermaids 22 with the kick off. The first try of the match resulted from this foray. The Mermaids won the breakdown within their own 22; the forwards combining with the backs, when well timed passes, going beautifully to hand, ended with Charlotte Pirie at the wing going over for a try at the Club House end. Mwsh had left her kicking boots at home and the conversion went awry.
Sleaford came back strongly. No quarter was asked or given. There were some strong attacking displays of back and forward play from both teams. Elin Lloyd Jones in the pink jersey was in the thick of it with some wonderful carries. Initially, the Mermaids were possibly too ambitious in playing a passing game against determined and feisty Sleaford forwards. Once they found a balance between ball retention and controlled passing, the game slowly swung their way. The breakdowns were crucial. The Sleaford girls were very handy at the rucks turning the ball over, sometimes seemingly against all odds. The Mermaids usually holding their own in the ruck, mauls and scrums against heavier opposition before now, had to change their game. They did. The forwards attacked the Sleaford inside three quarters and quick ball was found. They moved the ball with some beautiful angled running before releasing the wings. Once the key was found to break the Sleaford defence, the Mermaids played a game of very entertaining running rugby. Sleaford, two tries adrift started chasing the score putting together some well run attacks themselves. This made for glorious Bank Holiday ‘sunshine’ rugby.
For the Mermaids, this was one of the best team efforts seen this season. They communicated well. The leadership of Sarah Johnston and Anna Parkin was strong, leading the pack and the backs respectively. In the loose the team played well together but good calls and decision making by Abi Beards and Kumari Tilakawardane, the latter making a comeback after a long period of injury, made a big difference to the decisions.
The forwards performed well. The line outs came back to be a strong feature after disappearing in the last few matches. Intelligent line out calls, plenty of variety, with front peels and throws to the back in equal measure, good timing between the throwers, jumpers and lifting pods gave them the edge to carry battle to the opposition half. This was backed with some good kicking by Anna Parkin and Mwsh Jones finding touch to relieve pressure. ‘Well done’ to the line out units comprising Sarah Johnston, Mwsh Jones, Emma Beaumont, Cara Bryan, Bethan Lloyd Jones and Kumari Tilakawardane.
The scrums held their own against a possibly heavier set of Sleaford forwards. Quick strikes at the scrum by Sarah Johnston and with Abi Beards combining well with Anna Parkin at fly half, saw the ball to safety in defence and over the gain line in attack.
In defence Emma Beaumont carried on the good back row work she has taken on this season.
The team effort was completed with the speed of Charlotte Pirie and the tenacity and evasion of Ellie Jones.
Sleaford mounted a strong opposition but this was not their day. They played well together continuing to attack when a chance was given before injury brought the match to a premature close.
The good news at the end was that Ellie Jones who had to be ambulanced away with a suspected neck injury is well and looking forward to carrying on next season. So too are those Mermaids staying behind to fight another season.
Final score: Mermaids 36 Sleaford 0
Tries: Charlotte Pirie (3), Sarah Johnston, Ellen (Mwsh) Jones, Ellie Jones
Conversions: Ellen ‘Mwsh’ Jones (3)
Sleaford were enjoying a tour of North Wales. As one of the coaches put it, their stay in Wales had long days and late nights - in other words it would appear they had enjoyed their tour.
It became a special day of entertaining rugby. The first ten minutes saw close quarter skirmishes as both teams sought to shake off their nerves and sluggish legs. There was to and fro movement between the 22 metre lines. The Mermaids were the first to get a scoring chance with a penalty far to the left - outside Sleaford 22. Ellen Jones (Mwsh) failed the difficult kick. Sleaford fought their way to the Mermaids 22 with the kick off. The first try of the match resulted from this foray. The Mermaids won the breakdown within their own 22; the forwards combining with the backs, when well timed passes, going beautifully to hand, ended with Charlotte Pirie at the wing going over for a try at the Club House end. Mwsh had left her kicking boots at home and the conversion went awry.
Sleaford came back strongly. No quarter was asked or given. There were some strong attacking displays of back and forward play from both teams. Elin Lloyd Jones in the pink jersey was in the thick of it with some wonderful carries. Initially, the Mermaids were possibly too ambitious in playing a passing game against determined and feisty Sleaford forwards. Once they found a balance between ball retention and controlled passing, the game slowly swung their way. The breakdowns were crucial. The Sleaford girls were very handy at the rucks turning the ball over, sometimes seemingly against all odds. The Mermaids usually holding their own in the ruck, mauls and scrums against heavier opposition before now, had to change their game. They did. The forwards attacked the Sleaford inside three quarters and quick ball was found. They moved the ball with some beautiful angled running before releasing the wings. Once the key was found to break the Sleaford defence, the Mermaids played a game of very entertaining running rugby. Sleaford, two tries adrift started chasing the score putting together some well run attacks themselves. This made for glorious Bank Holiday ‘sunshine’ rugby.
For the Mermaids, this was one of the best team efforts seen this season. They communicated well. The leadership of Sarah Johnston and Anna Parkin was strong, leading the pack and the backs respectively. In the loose the team played well together but good calls and decision making by Abi Beards and Kumari Tilakawardane, the latter making a comeback after a long period of injury, made a big difference to the decisions.
The forwards performed well. The line outs came back to be a strong feature after disappearing in the last few matches. Intelligent line out calls, plenty of variety, with front peels and throws to the back in equal measure, good timing between the throwers, jumpers and lifting pods gave them the edge to carry battle to the opposition half. This was backed with some good kicking by Anna Parkin and Mwsh Jones finding touch to relieve pressure. ‘Well done’ to the line out units comprising Sarah Johnston, Mwsh Jones, Emma Beaumont, Cara Bryan, Bethan Lloyd Jones and Kumari Tilakawardane.
The scrums held their own against a possibly heavier set of Sleaford forwards. Quick strikes at the scrum by Sarah Johnston and with Abi Beards combining well with Anna Parkin at fly half, saw the ball to safety in defence and over the gain line in attack.
In defence Emma Beaumont carried on the good back row work she has taken on this season.
The team effort was completed with the speed of Charlotte Pirie and the tenacity and evasion of Ellie Jones.
Sleaford mounted a strong opposition but this was not their day. They played well together continuing to attack when a chance was given before injury brought the match to a premature close.
The good news at the end was that Ellie Jones who had to be ambulanced away with a suspected neck injury is well and looking forward to carrying on next season. So too are those Mermaids staying behind to fight another season.
Final score: Mermaids 36 Sleaford 0
Tries: Charlotte Pirie (3), Sarah Johnston, Ellen (Mwsh) Jones, Ellie Jones
Conversions: Ellen ‘Mwsh’ Jones (3)
Sunday, 24 May 2009
Presentations 2008 - 2009
The presentations were made by Jon Shaw, Honorary Secretary at CBRFC, who was instrumental in setting up girls rugby at Colwyn Bay following a conversation with Joely Benton in 2005. Joely, a former Mermaids captain, was unable to attend for the match or presentation.
Retiring Mermaids:
Joely Benton (not present at ceremony)
Anna Parkin
Sarah Johnston
Ellen Jones (Mwsh)
Honorary Mermaids:
Elin Lloyd Jones
Bethan Lloyd Jones
Players player:
Anna Parkin
Coach's player:
Abi Beards
Most improved player:
Ellen Jones (Mwsh)
Ellen Jones (Mwsh)
3 more awards were made:
Fastest player to reach the side of 2 handsome rugby players:
Kumari Tilakawardane
Award for acting surprised to be presented with awards (after being presented with the same awards a week earlier by aforementioned handsome rugby players):
Anna Parkin & Abi Beards
(See pictures below for proof.)
Sunday, 17 May 2009
Mermaids come down with a case of Scarlets fever!
Colwyn Bay U18 Mermaids were invited to Parc y Scarlets to meet some of the players and watch the end of season clash with Ulster on Saturday. Not all the team could attend due to other commitments so the invitation was extended to those Gogledd Cymru U18s who have shown exceptional commitment to training this season.
The girls were welcomed into the training barn by Kate Jenkins and Jon Daniels and introduced to star players Regan King and Jonathan Davies, who were happy to pose with the girls and also take part in some important presentations – more on this subject next week!
After this excitement the girls entered the new stadium and took their seats – but only for a short time, as they were called pitchside to take part in the pre-match parade, which they all enjoyed.
Following this excitement there was more excitement to come as the Scarlets took on Ulster with a convincing 43-17 win. Tries were scored for the Scarlets by Daniel Evans, Dominic Day, Lee Williams, Darren Daniel, Martin Roberts and David Lyons, with conversions (5) by Rhys Priestland plus a penalty.
Following the excitement the girls slept all the way home!
The trip was arranged partly as a thank you to the girls for their efforts over the season and also as a means of player education. We feel it is important for the girls to see top class rugby whenever possible to enable them to move further forward in their own rugby careers. The Scarlets are a good help in this with their cash-back scheme, whereby groups of 20 or more get half the ticket price refunded to their club or organisation, therefore making professional rugby more affordable.
Many thanks to Gareth Jenkins, Jon Daniels, Kate Jenkins, Regan King and Jonathan Davies for the hospitality offered. Also thanks to Brian Roberts, Chairman CBRFC and Bryn Williams (CBRFC) for arranging transport to enable the girls to travel to Llanelli.
Friday, 1 May 2009
Presentations
As several of you cannot make it on the 10th (or at least be there at the same time) we have decided to do the U18 Mermaids end of season (and end of an era) presentations after our last match on May 24th.
If you are free on the 10th come along for the funday and barbecue though.
If you are free on the 10th come along for the funday and barbecue though.
Sunday, 26 April 2009
Friday, 24 April 2009
Sunday's match
Don't forget - we have a match on Sunday - this is the last but one match that this team will play this season. Meet at CBRFC at 12.30.
Tuesday, 21 April 2009
Fundraising
We have big plans for our tour next season - but we need to do a huge amount of fundraising. We are not going to announce where we are planning to go until we know if it is possible to raise the necessary funds. A fundraising committee will be formed to sort out some activities to raise cash. Everyone needs to get involved if they want to come on tour.
Next match
Match V Sandbach at CBRFC on Sunday 26 April at 2pm - meet at club at 12.30. Sandbach are struggling for numbers so it may not be 15 a side - we will have to see how many players they bring on Sunday and decide then.
Important to get to training on Thursday so Louis can work out who is playing where. Also we are looking to see who is in contention to be the new captain next season - at this moment we are open minded - all will be decided in the next few weeks.
Important to get to training on Thursday so Louis can work out who is playing where. Also we are looking to see who is in contention to be the new captain next season - at this moment we are open minded - all will be decided in the next few weeks.
Sunday, 19 April 2009
Looking to the future
We are already making plans for next season. We will lose a number of players due to age restrictions but we will gain some younger girls. However the new girls will not be as experienced as the current squad so lots of hard work ahead. Training will continue over the summer - not every week - squad members will be notified when and where.
Next season Louis will be joined by a new assistant coach - Anna Parkin, currently captain of Gogledd Cymru U18 girls, has agreed to stay on as assistant coach to the U18 Mermaids. Anna recently passed the Level 1 referees course with a near perfect score, so don't try and get any dodgy moves past her!
Next season Louis will be joined by a new assistant coach - Anna Parkin, currently captain of Gogledd Cymru U18 girls, has agreed to stay on as assistant coach to the U18 Mermaids. Anna recently passed the Level 1 referees course with a near perfect score, so don't try and get any dodgy moves past her!
Tuesday, 14 April 2009
Next match
First of all - well done those who acted as ball girls for the international today - you did the job so well that the senior Gogledd Cymru team management mentioned that they would like to use you for future games - another chance to wear the fetching day-glo vests!
Fixture now confirmed for Sunday 26 April V Sandbach at Colwyn Bay RFC - KO probably 2pm - will confirm time.
Thursday, 9 April 2009
International on Tuesday
Those girls who are acting as ball girls for the Wales V England U20 match on Tuesday - I will phone you with final details but remember the skills session with Jason Lewis will run from 10 - 12 before the match.
Tuesday, 7 April 2009
Esher V Mermaids
Final score: Mermaids 3 - Esher 36A full match report will be posted as soon as possible but in the interim:
A very tough game against a very strong team. Unfortunately we were let down by a number of players who said they were coming and then never bothered to let us know that they had changed their minds. We only had 15 players on the day, one of whom - Tara Griffiths - had never played rugby before and in fact had only attended one training session - she thought she would just have a 10 minute try out on the pitch but bravely played for the whole match - Well Done Tara. Other players who joined the Mermaids for the day: Bethan & Elin Lloyd Jones (Bangor), Cara Bryan (Oswestry), Suzie Walker and Tara Griffiths (Llangollen), Charlotte Pirie (Pwllheli) and Jess McAuley (Coleg Meirion Dwyfor).
As usual the Mermaids were in second gear for the first 15 minutes, by which time Esher had capitalised on the mistakes and handling errors and scored 21 points. The Mermaids then began to play rugby and were very impressive in the scrum but, due to lack of match experience, fared badly in the line outs. Jess McAuley looked to be in perfect position to score a try but keeled over with an ankle injury and had to sit out the rest of the game. The game was further interrupted by injuries to 2 of the Esher girls in a scrum and they were taken to the local hospital to be checked out. The game was moved to another pitch while the girls were being dealt with and Ellen Jones scored 3 much needed points for the Mermaids with a penalty.
After the match there was much laughter and singing in the clubhouse before the Esher girls set off, first to pick up their strays at the hospital, then for the long trek back to Surrey.
Thursday, 2 April 2009
Sunday's match
Bring your black Gogledd Cymru polo shirts to wear after the match, rather than your Mermaid shirts. We are meeting at the club at 12 - 12.15.
Sunday, 29 March 2009
Next match
Remember you have a match V Esher next Sunday (April 5). KO 2pm - meet in changing room 12.30 at latest. Try and get to training on Thursday as Louis needs to work out positions. Email or text me if you need any more details.
Monday, 23 March 2009
U18 Mermaids – the Italian job
The U18 Mermaids flew to Rome for their annual tour early on Saturday morning. They were determined to make it a tour to remember as several of the girls will leave the team to take up the challenge of senior rugby at the end of the season.
The tour was only possible due to the generous sponsorship of Chris at Ticketbooth – http://www.ticketbooth.org.uk/ – who not only supplied the tickets to the Italy-France 6 Nations clash, but also subsidised the accommodation budget, meaning that the girls spent 2 nights in a swish 4* hotel in Rome.
The tour was only possible due to the generous sponsorship of Chris at Ticketbooth – http://www.ticketbooth.org.uk/ – who not only supplied the tickets to the Italy-France 6 Nations clash, but also subsidised the accommodation budget, meaning that the girls spent 2 nights in a swish 4* hotel in Rome.
After flying in to Ciampino airport the team was chauffeured to the hotel and then on to Stadio Flaminio to watch an exciting game of rugby, which unfortunately the host country lost. The girls all enjoyed the game and immediately after went to Finnegan’s Irish pub to watch the England-Scotland clash and then the eagerly anticipated Grand Slam decider between Wales-Ireland. A party of (very) vocal and patriotic Welsh girls in a pub packed with Irish supporters certainly raised a few eyebrows, not to mention the noise levels!
After the tense and nail-biting finish, we all trooped off to a local restaurant for what we all agreed were the best pizzas ever. Sunday was spent on the move, with Chris from Ticketbooth giving us a guided tour of Rome, which included stops for ice cream and hot chocolate – deemed essential by the Mermaids to keep them going. The evening was spent in Alfredo’s – a (before we arrived) quiet, typically Italian restaurant. Here we were served with a wide range of local delicacies (the adults and older girls also sampled the local beverages!). The evening ended with a competition. The Mermaids were split into 3 groups. The first task was to give a rendition of the Italian national anthem, which the girls had been previously told to learn. The first group (Abi, Kumari & Loz) gave their own version of the anthem, having rewritten the lyrics to tell of their days in Rome: the second group (Joely, Sarah & Mwsh) had to enlist the help of one of the waiters but the third group (Anna, Emma, Ellie & Gemma) admitted that they had not learnt the anthem and instead gave a rousing rendition of Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau. The second task was a rugby related quiz, with questions concerning the Italy-France game. Points were then added for attendance at training over the season. It was a close contest but the eventual winner was Loz, who was thrilled with her prize – the unique ‘players only’ t-shirt worn for pre-match training by Italian player Mirco Bergamasco. It was a great end to a fabulous weekend and the tired party fell into bed ready for the journey home the next morning.
The tour party – Anna, Kumari, Loz, Ellie, Sarah, Abi, Emma, Mwsh, Joely, Gemma, Gill, Louis and Ann are extremely grateful to Chris at Ticketbooth for his friendship, kindness, patience, humour and generous support to the U18 Mermaids. The girls certainly had a tour to remember and all agreed that it was the best tour ever!
The tour party – Anna, Kumari, Loz, Ellie, Sarah, Abi, Emma, Mwsh, Joely, Gemma, Gill, Louis and Ann are extremely grateful to Chris at Ticketbooth for his friendship, kindness, patience, humour and generous support to the U18 Mermaids. The girls certainly had a tour to remember and all agreed that it was the best tour ever!
Friday, 20 March 2009
Update
Better numbers at training last night though I believe some of you were misbehaving while I was away dealing with an injury to one of the U15s. Well done to those who acted their age and did not rise to the bait. You will all know who I mean.
Early night tonight for those coming to Rome - 4am start!
Early night tonight for those coming to Rome - 4am start!
Wednesday, 18 March 2009
Match V Esher
This match is now confirmed for Sunday 5 April at 2pm. We are trying to get all the Gogledd Cymru U18s together - not sure yet which kit you will play in - we'll take a vote.
Thursday training
Training tomorrow at 6.45pm - try and be there as I need to finalise details for tour plus Louis needs to talk to you about rugby matters.
Monday, 16 March 2009
Numbers
Very disappointing turn out at training yesterday, even though the girls who did turn up enjoyed the session. I am not confirming any more games until I can be sure of numbers. I am keeping a record of attendance and there will be rewards for those who make the effort.
Friday, 13 March 2009
Tuesday, 3 March 2009
Match
We have a match V Esher U18s on Sunday 5 April, probably at 2pm, probably at CBRFC. More details will follow. I need to know asap if you are available to play.
Monday, 23 February 2009
Training changes
Next training is Thursday at 7pm.
Sunday training will be slightly later - at 12 - due to pitch availability.
Sunday training will be slightly later - at 12 - due to pitch availability.
Wednesday, 18 February 2009
Sunday, 8 February 2009
Sunday 8 February - training
Good indoor tactical session today watching past Mermaid matches. Shame more of you didn't bother to turn up. Sarah and Emma are the only ones who let me know they couldn't make it. Those who have consistently missed training without letting me know are going to miss out on our end of season treats.
Wednesday, 4 February 2009
Sunday 8 February - training
We have decided to have an indoor tactical training session and maybe watch a DVD. Meet in the President's lounge in the clubhouse at 11am.
Tuesday, 3 February 2009
Possible game
We may have a game in Northwich on Sunday 15 Feb (the day after the Wales-England game). Let me know asap if you can play so I can book transport. Try your best as games are few and far between at the moment.
Saturday, 31 January 2009
Sunday 8 February - training
The proposed regional match has been postponed due to our problems with numbers. There are problems with pitch space at the club on Sunday 8 Feb so we will discuss on Thursday what we are going to do on Sunday. Those who have not given me the rest of the money for the Rome tour - make sure you pay it this week or you will have to find your own hotel rooms.
Friday, 30 January 2009
Thursday training
Only 6 girls at training last night. I know some of you were ill or otherwise unable to come and let me know, but those who consistently miss training with no excuses will miss out on some proposed treats we have in store later in the season. I am keeping a record of attendance and only the girls who make an effort to try and come to regular training will be rewarded.
Monday, 26 January 2009
Development of girls rugby in North Wales
I have just returned from a meeting of the Development Sub-Committee of the North Wales Rugby Union Council where I represent girls and women's rugby in North Wales and the committee are very enthusiastic about helping us to develop girls rugby. There will be a special meeting on Tuesday 17 February at 7.30pm to discuss girls and women's rugby. Anyone interested in the subject is welcome - if you want to come along or just pass on any ideas, please contact me.
Friday, 23 January 2009
Sunday
The game V Pwllheli is postponed as they don't have a team. After taking a vote we have decided to cancel training this Sunday - back to normal on Thursday.
Tuesday, 20 January 2009
Possible bad news
Our eagerly anticipated game against Pwllheli on Sunday may be off as they are struggling to find a team. Their club chairman says they only have 3 girls available. We are trying to find another game but it's a bit short notice.
Sunday, 18 January 2009
Training today
Nice to see you all having fun in training today.
Hope you're all as fast next week.
Shame about the knee injury Joely - good job you're a brave girl!
Shame about the knee injury Joely - good job you're a brave girl!Saturday, 17 January 2009
Training tomorrow (18 January)
Tomorrow's training will be at Eirias astroturf at 11am as once again there is no room for us at the club. If anyone has problems getting there please contact me or Louis and I will try and arrange transport.
Friday, 16 January 2009
Come fly with me!
Girls - tickets booked for our flight to Rome! Make sure you've got your passports ready.
Sunday, 11 January 2009
Training issue
Apologies to those who turned up for training today. Unfortunately the Junior Chairman cancelled all training but 'forgot' to inform us. We will ask for a meeting with the Chairman of the senior committee to resolve these issues asap.
Friday, 9 January 2009
Money
Don't forget - you need to bring the money for the plane tickets by Thursday. Anyone who hasn't paid by then will have to make their own travel arrangements.
Monday, 5 January 2009
Thursday, 1 January 2009
Fundraising
Well done to those involved in the various fundraising efforts over the Christmas holidays.
Abi, Emma, Anna, Loz, Ellie and Kumari walked round with the Round Table Christmas float rattling collection buckets.
Asda bagpacking: Kumari, Loz, Abi and Anna put in 2 full days and Joely, Emma, Sarah, Jane and Jade helped for shorter periods. Any funds we are allocated from the the club due to these efforts will be shared out according to how much effort you put in.
Abi, Emma, Anna, Loz, Ellie and Kumari walked round with the Round Table Christmas float rattling collection buckets.
Asda bagpacking: Kumari, Loz, Abi and Anna put in 2 full days and Joely, Emma, Sarah, Jane and Jade helped for shorter periods. Any funds we are allocated from the the club due to these efforts will be shared out according to how much effort you put in.
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