October 28 saw an incredibly intense and exciting RWC Final being played in Paris, after one of the most entertaining competitions. Although some had criticised the so called lop sided groupings, Warren Gatland put the record straight when he said “teams should have played better at the previous World Cup”, because this had a huge bearing on the seeding and group structures this time. South Africa proved too resilient, whilst fourteen man NZ missed an opportunity to draw late on, but the inconsistencies in card awards seemed to blight what was a marvellous contest; congratulations to South Africa. Thanks go to Mark and Rosemary Richards at Southdown Farm for supplying the food provided for members watching the match at the club.
The First XV are back in action Nov 4 away to Aberaeron, then play two consecutive home games Nov 11 and 18 against Neyland and St Davids all KOs 2.30pm. The squad has a Bye in the WRU National Div 3 Cup and await the draw. The Youth could be playing Bethesda at home on Nov 11, KO 5.30pm after the First XV in the WRU National Youth Cup (tbc). The Panthers are due to play Porthcawl away on Nov 5 and have been drawn away to Holyhead in the WRU National Bowl (date tbc).
The club’s experienced Youth squad has made an exceptionally good start to their League season and their coaching group has been very pleased with the lads’ individual and collective contributions, in some impressive performances to date. This season the squad is being sponsored by Steve Adams at the Cresselly Arms (and a number of other contributors); the photograph shows the squad on a recent visit to see Steve and say a sincere thank you for his generous support.
The Ladies Committee XMAS FAYRE will take place on Sunday November 19, 11am-5pm, everyone is welcome to come along for some festive fare. The first Winter Quiz will be on Friday December 8 starting at 7.15pm for teams of 4-6. The weekly Turkey Trots continue with tickets on sale in Pembroke pubs and the clubhouse. Every first Monday evening per month there is Bingo at the club, starting at 7pm. The children’s Halloween party last Sunday proved a massive success; thanks to Leanne and team for organising the event.
A number of members in our junior section are taking the opportunity to take their children to watch the Wales V Barbarians match in Cardiff on Nov 4, which is being hailed as a tribute match for the retiring Alun Wyn Jones, who served Ospreys, Wales and B&I Lions with honour over many years.