Rugby back at Jenner Park - 08/12/06
The first rugby match to be played at Barry's Jenner Park in
over twenty years has been hailed as a huge success.
The clash between the Cardiff Blues and Ospreys under 18's on
Wednesday 29th November saw the Blues win 25-22 in front of a crowd
of around 1,300 – a record attendance for an under 18's game.
The fans who took advantage of the free admission were treated
to Blues tries from captain Jake Thomas, Christian Dacey and Lloyd
Williams, plus three conversions and a long-range penalty from Joe
Deacon.
Gafyn Cooper, High Performance Manager for the Blues, was
delighted with another excellent performance, saying: “The team
that played at Jenner Park made history as there has never been a
Cardiff RFC or Blues team play at the ground previously. Based on
the success of the evening we would like to see further regional
games hosted by Jenner Park in the future.”
Ospreys under 18's Head Coach Phil John was equally as pleased
for his team to have played at the stadium, adding: “We were very
excited to be playing in a well attended superb setting that saw
two of the best teams in the area meet for an excellent game of
rugby.”
Blues player Liam Griffin said: “It was a good experience and it
really added to the occasion to have the band lead us out. After
the match it was lovely to have children ask us for
autographs.”
Blues Assistant Coach and Vale of Glamorgan Council Rugby
Development Officer Matt Silva added: “This shows both mutual crowd
and player appreciation. It hopefully encourages grass root
development of rugby too as spectators were treated to an exciting
display of high-class rugby showcased by potential future Welsh
national side players. Post match feedback has already been
outstanding - we really could not have asked for more from all of
those who were involved.”
Rachel McGuinness, Dragon Sports Co-ordinator, was one of the
event organisers, ensuring that the sports development teams at
Bridgend and the Vale of Glamorgan Council's distributed tickets to
local schools and rugby clubs. Vale support was received from
Barry, Dinas Powys, Sully, Llantwit Major, Cowbridge and Penarth
rugby clubs along with the majority of Vale schools.
Rachel said: “Such tremendous local family support created an
electric atmosphere. A special mention must go to Barry and Vale
Harriers Athletic Club who co-operated to move their regular
training night to make way for the special match.”
Organisers also thanked The Royal Welsh Regiment drumming
display band that led out the two teams. They included Goat Major
Sergeant David Joseph BEM, Drum Sergeant Andy Jones and mascot
Shenkin the goat.
Post-match the pitch remains in a high quality condition; 120
tons of sand have already been scattered on Jenner Park during
2006, ensuring that it repairs easily and limits weather
damage.
To find out more about Dragon Sports, a Sports Council for Wales
initiative encouraging grass roots sporting opportunities for 7 -
11 year olds, please call Rachel McGuinness on 01446 704681. For
further information on rugby development in the Vale of Glamorgan
contact Matt Silva on 01446 704603. Alternatively, you can visit
www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk for
further details on sports development in the area.