Match Reports for Under 15's Season 2010-2011

Aberavon Quins Under15s (14) v Nantyffyllon Under15s (6)
Sun 14th May Osprey Shield Final at Maesteg RFC

This was an enthralling tense encounter which the Quins deservedly won by 14 points to six. Fly Half Kieran Davies was the hero scoring all his sides points with a smartly taken try and three penalties. The last of these was a brilliant effort from way out on the touchline. It wasn't a great spectacle but it was all about the win not the performance at this stage of the season

The forwards laid the foundation with strong scrummaging from Mike Burgess, Tyler Hopkins and Luke Davies whose work rate was outstanding. Defence were on top for most of the game with the Nanty boys defending well in midfield. The Quins could not break them down and it took an individual effort from Kieron to break the deadlock. Dylan Mclachlin led by example with some driving runs and his riping in the tight was awesome.

In the second period the Quins were under pressure for long periods but only conceded a penalty by Rhodri Davies who had earlier kicked another. During this period Rhys Livingstone and Dylan made some invaluable turnovers which helped to relieve the pressure. The replacements made a big impression with Jack Coughlin turning over two crucial line outs and Daniel Helson driving into the heart of the Nanty defence. From one of these turnovers Nanty were penalised and Kieran knocked over a penalty to give the Quins some breathing space. With only a minute left on the clock Kieran put the game beyond Nanty with that superlative penalty.

Regan Grace ran strongly but saw little of the ball, Jack Dacey and Calvin Wellington defended strongly in midfield and Jacob Flynn was his usual feisty self and captained the side intelligently making all the right decisions.

Well done boys enjoy the summer break and come back fresh for the new season !!

Aberavon Quins Under15s (31) v Pencoed Under15s (0)
Sun 13th Feb (Home)

Played in atrocious conditions it was a credit to both sides that they tried to play running rugby. The Quins got off to a good start with a series of pick and drives, more appropriate in the conditions, with Daniel Helson ploughing over near the posts. Calvin Wellington scored an impressive individual try when he cut back against the grain to score wide out from 40 metres.
The second half saw Pencoed come more into the game but staunch tackling kept them on the back foot. Winger Kyle Williams was next on the score sheet after some deft handling by the three quarters put him clear to the corner. The Quins kept coming and Calvin got his second score after more assured handling by forwards and backs worked him clear.
Near the end a sweeping movement took play into deep into the Pencoed 22. Jacob Flynn kept the momentum going working the blind side. Slick handling put Keanu Piles diving in at the corner.
Callum Beynon growing in confidence as a goal kicker slotted 3 conversions, 2 from wide out, no mean feat in such slippery conditions. Luke Davies impressed again as did Mike Burgess and Kieran Davies. Jack Dacey called the shots at fly half and put in 6 tackles.
Well done both sides it was good to get a game, hopefully the weather will be kinder next time!!

Match Reports for Under 15's Season 2010-2011

Aberavon Quins Under15s (8) v Glamorgan Wanderers Under15s (0)
Sun 6th Feb (Home)

In a tough uncompromising encounter at Trelai playing fields the Quins came out on top. The Wanderers didn't offer much in attack but their defence was outstanding. Jack Dacey varied his tactics well at fly half and kicked astutely using a tricky wind to advantage, keeping Wanderers on the back foot for most of the first half.
The Quins took on a much bigger and heavier pack with Luke Davies, Dylan McLaughlin, Danny Henson, Jonathan Thomas (the fifth Beatle) and Kyle Williams battering away at their opponents. From one charge Kyle got over the try line but was prevented from grounding the ball. The Quins kept coming and a score had to come when Luke charged into the heart of Wanderers defence, a quick offload to the blind side saw Dylan diving over in the corner.
The same pattern emerged in the second period with the Quins throwing everything at stubborn, resolute defenders. A Callum Beynon penalty was the only score in the second half which was enough to secure the win.
Jacob Flynn covered and kicked well in the second half and Jordan Doyle ran cleverly and defended well. Regan Grace at centre caused the opposition lots of problems with some elusive running.
This was a much needed game for the boys, let's hope the weather is kinder for the rest of the season !

Match Reports for Under 15's Season 2010-2011

Aberavon Quins Under15s (24) v Morriston Under15s (5)
Sun 16th Jan (Osprey's Cup)

On a dark and dismal Sunday morning with conditions under foot far from ideal both the Quins and Morriston to their credit tried to play open attacking rugby. It took the Quins 20 minutes to open the scoring and had an element of luck about it. The ball bobbled about between both teams before Jack Coughlin grabbed it and dived over. Just before half time Morriston levelled the scores when they crossed wide out after a 5 metre penalty awarded for indiscipline by the Quins.
With the wind at their backs in the second period the Quins, especially fly half Kieran Davies, used the elements to perfection. He kept Morriston on the back foot for much of the half with some astute kicking into the corners. Good driving forward play by Kieran Aaron Davies, Rhys Livingstone, Luke Davies, Mikey Burgess and Dylan McLaughlan gave Kieran the platform he needed to control things.
The deadlock was eventually broken when the Quins were awarded a penalty try for interference when Kieran took a quick tap penalty. He knocked over the conversion. Minutes later Kieran was the catylist for a further score when he took a quick tapped penalty and offloaded brilliantly out of the tackle for supporting flanker Conor O'Callaghan to dive over. Kieran converted superbly via the crossbar from near the touchline.
In the closing minutes Kieran killed the game when he intercepted a loose pass to race 50 metres to score.
Keanu Piles played well out of position at scrum half as did second row Kyle Williams filling in at full back and perpetual motion wing Regan Grace playing at outside centre making tackle after tackle.
Well done both teams!

Match Reports for Under 15's Season 2010-2011

Aberavon Quins Under15s (57) v South Gower Under15s (5)
Sun 21st Nov (Osprey's Cup)

The Quins played some scintillating rugby in this Osprey Cup encounter with South Gower. They attacked from the kick off and the talismanic Dylan McLaughlin burst through a number of tackles before Jack Dacey picked up the loose ball to dive over. South Gower hung on but had no answer to the Quins and prop Luke Davies powered over from close range. Sensing Gower were struggling Regan Grace outpaced the defence before fly half Kieran Davies dived over for a corner try. He brought the first half to a close with a smartly taken dropped goal.
Kieran continued to impress in the second period putting momentum into the Quins attacks. Calvin Wellington raced in for two70 metre solo tries. Flying wing Kyle Williams galloped over for one and Regan got his second before Jack D got his second and James Evans-Price rumbled over for another. Mikey Burgess and Kieran added a conversion each.
Towards the end of the game South Gower rattled the Quins cage with a fine individual try.
The Quins were irresistible with Rhys Livingstone Dylan McLaughlin and Daniel Helson carrying the ball strongly. Conor O'Callaghan was an invaluable link, ensuring continuity, between forwards and backs. Callum Beynon had a shaky start but grew in confidence to play really well. Jacob Flynn was excellent at scrum half upping the tempo whenever he had the opportunity. Not afraid to take on defenders he created a number of openings for his team mates. Quade Boal ran strongly and Mike Burgess led the forwards with verve and determination.
The Quins return to cup action in the New Year and on this form they will be formidable opposition.

Match Reports for Under 15's Season 2010-2011

Aberavon Quins Under15s (24) v Hendy Under 15s (13)
Sun 24th Oct (Away)

The Quins took an early lead on their first visit to Hendy when fly half Kieran Davies latched onto a loose pass and dived over. He converted from wide out to add the extra two points. Hendy hit back when their winger outstripped the Quins defence to score an unconverted try. They took the lead with a well struck penalty shortly after. The Quins exerted a lot of pressure and first Dylan McLaughlan powered over followed by impressive second row Rhys Livingstone who forced his way over. There was a long delay when a Hendy player suffered a neck injury and had to be taken to hospital, followed in the second half by two of his team mates. They all recovered sufficiently to be allowed home later. Hendy got back into the game with another try but Dylan got his second, and another conversion from Kieran ended the scoring in what was a hard but entertaining game between two capable sides.

Aberavon Quins Under15s (44) v Pencoed 15s (12)
Sun 10th Oct (Away)

With a depleted squad the Quins pulled off an emphatic win by 44 points to 12 against Pencoed who scored first. Jack Dacey, Jordan Patterson, Calvin Wellington and Dylan May all got on the score sheet with a try apiece. Dylan McLaughlin and Kyle Williams both got a brace, Callum Beynon and Kyle added conversions.
With some players playing out of position this was an excellent performance from the boys. There are some more tough fixtures imminent so this win was a welcome confidence booster after last weeks Osprey Cup disappointment

Aberavon Quins Under15s (10) v Resolven Under 15s (20)
Sun 10th Oct (Home)

Resolven avenged an early season defeat by the Quins with a deserved win in the first round of the Osprey Cup Pool 1.

In a tale of two halves both teams played better against a strong gusty wind  than with it. In the first half Resolven took advantage of some sloppy Quins handling to score early on. The Quins hung on but two tries and a conversion gave Resolven the cushion they needed. A penalty in the first few minutes of the second half extended their lead but from then on it was the Quins forwards who took control.

Rhys Livingstone, impressed throughout with strong ball-carrying and aggressive tackling, and he deservedly got the Quins on the score sheet when he drove over. Kyle Williams also impressed and he scored the Quins second from short range. The referee seemed to be unsighted when  Dylan McLaughlin went over under the posts and the Quins had to settle for a 5 metre scrum.

This was Resolven's day and they go on to the second round full of confidence. The Quins have to pick themselves up from this disappointment and try and win their remaining two pool games.

Aberavon Quins Under15s (34) v Resolven Under 15s (11)
Sun 12th Sept (Home)

The first game of the season for both sides saw the Quins emerge deserved winners but it was far from easy. They took an early lead when fly half Kieran Davies dummied his way over. Resolven, the current District Cup holders, drew level with a well worked try almost immediately. Dylan Mclaughlin increased the Quins lead but two penalties for indiscipline cost the Quins dearly and they led by only one point at the interval.

The introduction of Kieran Aaron Davies who was next on the scoreboard, Jonathan Thomas, Lee Evans and Jordan Doyle saw the Quins pull away. Jordan Patterson  and Regan Grace took full advantage of a period of dominance to score good ties and although Resolven kicked a penalty it was not enough to subdue the Quins.

Rhys Livingstone, on debut, was unlucky not to score but made his presence felt in the scrum and loose play. Outside half Kieran Davies always looked impressive as did Jack Dacey, Calvin Wellington, Mike Burgess and Kyle Williams.

There is long way to go in the season, and a return game against Resolven in the Osprey Cup is something to look forward to , but the Quins will be happy with this start.

Match Reports for Under 14's Season 2009-2010

Reeds Tourists Weybridge RFC under 14s March 28th March 2010
Aberavon Quins 48 – Reeds 0

Captain Calvin Wellington led the way for this victory and scored the opening try after just one minute. The Quins continued to dominate the committed Reeds Weybridge RFC tourists with two tries from Conor Callaghan and a fifty metre run in from full back Jordan Paterson. James Evans-Price showed strength and a deceptive turn of pace for a big lad to score next and Dylan Thomas got his first try for the club when he was in up in support to score under the posts. Kieran Davies added three conversions for a 36 points to nil half time lead.

In the second period a sweeping attack saw Harley Evans outpace the defence to score. Mike Burgess added the conversion. Jack Dacey then ended the try scoring when he raced 60 metres to score under the posts. Dylan Mclaughlin, Daniel Helson, Tyler Hopkins and Kyle Williams who both thought they had scored, Kieran Aaron Davies and Dylan May all played well.

Reeds were excellent opponents and enjoyed their first trip to Port Talbot. Good luck lads against Bridgend Athletic and for the rest of the season.

Aberavon Quins Under14s (12) v Swansea UplandsUnder 14s (26)
Sun 21st March (Away)

The Quins struggled throughout the game to come to terms with the referees interpretation of the rules  conceding 17 penalties to the Uplands 5. Nevertheless Uplands were good value for their win. They were 14 points up after 15 minutes but the Quins hit back with two tries of their own from Calvin Wellington and Regan Grace. Kieran Davies converting one. Uplands hit back immediately to increase their lead and near the end went further ahead when Uplands appeared to knock on but the referee awarded the try.

This was a good effort from the Quins with Jordan Paterson, Kieran Davies, Kyle Williams, Kieran Aaron Davies and Conor O'Callaghan having big games.

Aberavon Quins Under14s (19) v Llandaff Under 14s (12)
Sun 24th Jan (Away)

This game was played in bright sunshine and the standard of rugby matched the conditions. Nanty took the lead after 10 minutes with their big forwards making telling runs at the Quins defence. The Quins hit back almost immediately when slick handling saw Conor O'Callaghan pass around a defender to put Regan Grace away. He ducked one defender and raced away to score with consummate ease. Jacob Flynn added the conversion. Nanty hit back when a Quins player was caught offside, their big second row was unstoppable from 5 metres. The Quins upped the pace and Jack Dacey looked as if he would score but a desperate tackle held him up,  he offloaded to Jordan Paterson who dived over to put the Quins in front at half time.
In the second period Nanty looked to have secured the win with a converted try but with time running out the Quins opted for a scrum after a Nanty player played the ball in front of the kicker. With all the backs lined up to the right of the posts Conor broke left and released Jordan Condon who scampered over to level the scores. Conor now had the unenviable task of kicking the conversion to secure the win. No pressure Con!! He held his nerve and slotted it, no problem, to win the game the Quins must have thought was out of reach.
Calvin Wellington was a threat throughout the game and Daniel Helson, Kyle Williams, Jack Coughlin and Mike Burgess battled well in the boiler house. Nanty attacked the 10/12 channel continuously but Jacob Flynn, playing out of position at fly half, and Jack Dacey tackled everything that moved. The game was very competitive and well refereed by Chris Williams whose refereeing of the breakdown ensured the game opened up so that everyone could express themselves and display their skills for an appreciative Mothering Sunday crowd.

Aberavon Quins Under14s (19) v Llandaff Under 14s (12)
Sun 24th Jan (Away)

This was a scrappy lacklustre performance from the Quins who hadn't played since December 13th but just before half time Calvin Wellington gave the Quins the lead when he out paced the Llandaff defence from half way to score.

In the second period Llandaff came back into it and after Regan Grace scored a typical long range try the home team scored one of their own.  They levelled the scores with a few minutes left but when a Llandaff kick was charged down Regan was on hand to put the result beyond doubt with another blistering race for the line. Kieran Davies was his usual accurate self and added three conversions.

Harley Evans was  aggressive in contact, tackling and running like a runaway bison. Quade Boal, Jack Coughlin, Tyler Hopkins and Kyle Williams all worked hard but the long lay off was all too apparent. Next week should see a big improvement!

Aberavon Quins Under14s (70) v Bryncoch Under 14s (0)
Sun 13th Dec (Away)

Hat tricks from Kyle Williams and Harley Evans, a brace apiece from Regan Grace and Calvin Wellington plus tries from Daniel Helson and Ryan Phillips saw the Quins score an emphatic win over a committed but under strength Bryncoch side.

Jack Dacey notched 2 conversions with Calvin, Jacob Flynn and Ryan 1 each.

Jack “Alun Wyn” Coughlin, Dylan May, Tyler Hopkins, Keanu Piles and Kieran Aaron Davies all stood out for the Quins.

Aberavon Quins Under14s (52) v CORUS Under 14s (0)
Wed 25th Nov (Away)

In very slippery conditions both sides played some enterprising football but the Quins, with the swirling wind conditions in their favour, took the lead when prop James Evans-Price propelled himself at the Corus players. He was surrounded by defenders but blasted his way through them to score the first try. Kieran Davies notched the first of his seventeen point contribution when he kicked a difficult conversion. Two tries from Harley Evans, who tore the Corus defence apart with aggressive running, one from close range by Jack Coughlin and two typical springbok like runs from wing Regan Grace and three more conversions from Kieran brought the score to thirty eight points to nil at half time.

In the second period Corus used the wind advantage to put pressure on the Quins but mesmerising running from Calvin Wellington and Harley ensured Corus could never settle. One break out saw the Quins go fifty metres and ended when Kieran dived over in the corner. The final nail in the coffin was driven home when a surging move by Harley was supported by Jack Dacey. He threatened to score from forty metres but the cover defence got to him, he kept his composure and threw a scoring pass for Regan to bound over under the posts. This was the final score when referee Geoff Woods blew to end the game after a Corus player suffered a knee injury.

This was a fine performance from the Quins. The coaches must have been pleased that their hard work on rucking and counter-rucking payed off in this game, especially in the first half when Dylan Mclaughlin, Kyle Williams, Tyler Hopkins, Conor O’Callaghan, Dylan May, Daniel Helson and flanker Kieran Davies all hit the rucks powerfully and correctly.

Aberavon Quins Under14s (12) v Camarthen Quins 14s (10)
Sun 8th Nov (Home)

The try count ended two apiece and the only conversion of the game, a brilliant effort from fly half Kieran Davies way out on the left against the wind, effectively won the game for Aberavon.

The early exchanges were inconclusive with both sides cancelling each other out with strong defence. Eventually Aberavon gained momentum when flanker Conor O’Callaghan stepped a defender to hand on to winger Regan Grace who grabbed the half chance to race away and score.

It was the turn of Carmarthen to exert pressure and a sweeping move ended with a try in the corner to level the scores at half time.

In the second period Aberavon put pressure on themselves giving away silly penalties. Carmarthen took full advantage of Aberavon’s indiscretions to take the lead for the first time. To their credit Aberavon hit back with the impressive Dylan Mclaughlin driving at the Carmarthen defenders. With their defence stretched Dylan forced his way over in the corner to level the scores. Kieran clinched the game with that monumental conversion.

This was a great advert for junior rugby, very competitive with tremendous defence and a good attitude from both sides well refereed by Chris Williams without whom the game could not have gone on. Thanks Chris!!

Players who stood out for Aberavon were Daniel Helson who tackled really well early on, Jack Dacey put in some big hits and  Kyle Williams ruled the lineout leaping like a salmon to secure his own ball, pinching a few off the opposition into the bargain.

It has been something of a mishmash of a season to date but this performance gave glimpses of what Aberavon are capable of and augurs well for the rest of the season.

Aberavon Quins Under14s (35) v Resolven 14s (5)
Sun 11th Oct (Away)

In poor conditions the Quins emerged victorious from this compelling match against a very strong and committed Resolven side. The Quins attacked from the first whistle with Keanu Piles running cleverly but it was the pace and strength of centre Harley Evans that produced the first score when he dived over with defenders hanging on to him. Kieran Davies added the extra points.

In a riveting first period Dylan McLaughan lifted the Quins forwards with two typically aggressive tries. Kieran converted one of these. Resolven hit back just after half time with a well deserved try but almost immediately full back Calvin Wellington fielded a high ball and raced seventy metres to score unopposed under the posts. Kieran bagged another two points.

Buoyed by their first half performance the Quins continued to dominate and when Kieran added the points to Dylan’s third try the game was over.

Kyle Williams, Daniel Helson and Conor O’Callaghan were outstanding up front with Mike Burgess, James Price-Evans and flanker Kieran Davies making telling contributions.

In the backs Regan Grace did not have many opportunities to show his pace but his defence was superb launching himself scud-like into tackles. Jack Dacey directed operations in midfield, scrum half Jacob Flynn was on top of his game spoiling and harassing and Luke Keogh tackled strongly.

Coach Paddy O’Callaghan’s  mantra win the territory and keep the pressure on certainly paid off in this game for the Quins boys.

Aberavon Quins Under14s (35) v Tondu 14s (12)
Sun 4th Oct (Away)

The Quins were full value for their first win of the season against a tenacious Tondu side. Both sides were under strength but the Quins were always dangerous when wing Regan Grace had the ball. He racked up three tries and threatened on a number of occasions. Jack Dacey ran cleverly in midfield and tackled strongly well supported by the strength of centre partner Harley Evans.

Outside half Kieran Davies kicked well out of hand and picked up five conversions.

The arrival of Dylan McLaughlin in the second period sparked a purple patch for the Quins when he raced over for a try and pounded into the opposition well supported by James Price-Evans, Kyle Williams, flanker Kieran Davies and Jack Coughlin. After one such burst from Dylan prop Daniel Helson picked up and dived over under the posts.

Tondu were not giving up and scored two good tries of their own one of which was very well converted.

Coach Andrew Dacey hopes to be able to pick from a full strength squad for the first time this season when the Quins take on Resolven.

Match Reports for Under 13's Season 2008-2009

Corus Festival of Rugby
Sun 19th April

The Quins rounded off the season with three wins in the Corus Rugby Festival played in brilliant sunshine. Someone up there likes you Mike!!!

Bryncoch, Tonmawr and Corus found themselves on the end of some brilliant Quins rugby. The muscular Harley Evans played with enterprise and alacrity and was voted the Quins player of the tournament.

Kyle Williams, Quade Boale and Mike Burgess were powerful throughout with Jacob Flynn, Kieran Davies, Jack Dacey and Sam Tucker complementing their power with poise and electric handling.

Keanu Piles overcame some robust tackling to put the Quins on the offensive and lay the foundation for assaults on the opposition lines. Calvin Wellington and Regan Grace had indecent pace but Tyler Hopkins, Levi Roberts and Conor O’Callaghan, who had an inspirational influence on the festival, provided the backs with oodles of ball. 

This was a showcase for local talent and Jack Anderson of Bryncoch, Kieran Harris of Tonmawr and Joe Gage from Corus all stood out. Well done boys see you all again next season

Aberavon Quins Under13s (21) v Tonmawr 13s (7)
Sun 12th April (Home)

In terms of territory and possession the Quins maintained a grip for most of the game; however, Tonmawr survived the powerful start of the Quins and took a seven point lead with a try out of the blue. It was a clever individual try from their fly half who scorched through some weak tackling to score. H e also knocked over the extra two points. The Quins were not going to subside and after pressure from their forwards Jack Dacey darted and dazzled between two defenders to score under the posts. Kieran Davies levelled the score with a straightforward conversion.

Tyler Hopkins helped keep the pressure on Tonmawr by dominating the hooking duel and from one strike against the head the powerful Harley Evans forced his way over. Kieran converted brilliantly from wide out.

In the second period Dylan Mclaughlin, Jack Coughlin, and Kyle Williams worked Levi Roberts over from short range. Kieran converted from wide out on the right hand touchline. Coach Andrew Dacey rang the changes and replacements Cory Bradley, Calvin Jones, Keanu Piles and Jordan Doyle made important contributions, and after a six week layoff flanker Conor O’Callaghan made a big impact with strong running, mauling and tackling. Full back Calvin Wellington returning after a skiing holiday looked sharp and his positional play was superb. One couldn’t tell that he had a hard week on the piste.

This was a great advert for local rugby well refereed by Jeff Woods.

Aberavon Quins Under13s (45) v Corus 13s (5)
Sun 29th March (Home)

Corus put up a brave rearguard performance but eventually capitulated to the Quins pace and power. The Quins are capable of both collective and individual brilliance and was epitomised by Calvin Wellington who was really up for this game. He snatched 3 tries, with Harley Evans two and Regan Grace and prop Levi Roberts one each. Corus pulled one back just before the interval with some smart passing along their three quarter line.

When opportunities presented themselves the Quins were ruthless and Corus had no answer to the speed of Regan Grace. The crowd looked on in awe at his blistering pace when he sprinted 50 metres to score under the posts. He surely has a big future in the game. Top class performances from Kyle Williams, who rampaged around the field like Paul Tito, Jonathan Thomas, who is a legend, Calvin Jones, Mike Burgess and Quade Boal laid the foundation for this hard earned win. With Keanu Piles moving between fullback, centre and wing the Quins kept Corus on the back for most of the game. Kieran Davies converted 5 out of the seven tries and has laid claim to the 10 shirt for seasons to come. Jacob Flynn, under pressure from Corus players, sent out a stream of quick accurate passes, surely one of the best passers of the ball at half back in the Osprey region.

The Quins have two remaining games this season and are hoping to finish in style.

Aberavon Quins Under13s (19) v Swansea Uplands Under 13s (19)
Sun 22nd March (Home)
Ospreys Cup - Semi Final

This Osprey Cup semi final was a great confrontation, passionate and tense. The tension was sometimes unbearable for the large crowd who turned out on Mothering Sunday when many of them could have been saying it with flowers elsewhere.

With the scores level at the end the Uplands went through to the final on the away team rule, that is, when the scores are level and the try count is equal the away team goes through. Unsatisfactory perhaps and I think both sides wanted an outright winner. A replay would have been preferable, such was the intensity and competiveness of all the players and I’m sure they would have wanted to do it all over again.

The quality of rugby matched the occasion and beautiful weather. In the early stages the Quins made two crucial mistakes which allowed the Uplands to score two simple converted tries. In the meantime gritty scrum half Jacob Flynn shrugged off a number of attempted tackles to dive over for a 14 points to 5 Uplands lead at the interval.

In the second period the Uplands extended their lead when their wing raced away to score. At this point it looked all over the Quins but inspired by Dylan Mclaughlin who was unstoppable when he crashed over they came back into it. With Harley Evans making inroads into Uplands territory slick passing along the backline allowed Regan Grace to outpace a desperate defence to score. Kieran Davies put over two brilliant touchline conversions prompting first XV coach David McGrath to comment that “not many first team players would have kicked those”.

The Quins would surely have gone on to win but the final whistle ended a compelling game well refereed by Jeff Woods. Thanks Jeff for all your support this season the boys have appreciated it.

Good luck to Swansea Uplands in the final. Go for it boys!!

Aberavon Quins Under13s (21) v South Gower 13s (05)
Sun 8th March (Home)

The Quins led 21 – 0 after just 15 minutes and it looked as if South Gower would be overwhelmed but heroic defence and plenty of confidence in attack ensured the game was never dead.

Harley Evans opened the scoring in the first minute when he stepped outside a number of defenders to score under the posts. Kieran Davies added the two points. In a planned move Calvin Wellington hit a gap at pace to evade tacklers and score out wide. Kieran notched the conversion from near the touchline.

In atrocious conditions both teams tried to be enterprising but it was Harley who claimed the Quins third and his second try. Kieran once again slammed over the conversion from way out on the right touchline. A few minutes later Regan Grace crossed under the posts but was prevented from grounding the ball by a great tackle.

As conditions and the playing surface deteriorated the defence of both sides dominated the remainder of the match. Levi Roberts with some strong mauling, Jack Dacey, Daniel Helson, Jack Coughlin, Sam Tucker, Kyle Williams and Kieran Davies all excelled in the tackle area and prevented the South Gower boys from threatening the try line although a kick and chase almost resulted in a score but the ball just eluded a diving South Gower player and was just out of play before he could get his hands on the slippery ball.

Both teams should be commended for trying to play expansive rugby in trying conditions, and for the spirit it was played in. Well done both teams.

Aberavon Quins Under13s (51) v Gorseinon Under13s (0)
Ospreys Cup
Sunday 22nd Feb (Away)

A beautiful morning and a pitch in top condition welcomed both teams but turned out to be a one- sided contest. A comprehensive 9 try victory for the Quins against a gritty and committed Gorseinon side whose second rows and scrum half battled bravely but could not prevent the Quins prevailing.

From the kick off Calvin Wellington plucked the ball out of mid air and out paced the Gorseinon players to score. Kieran Davies added the extra two points. Jack Coughlin followed this with a surging run to score for Kieran to convert. Slick handling from Conor O’Callaghan put Regan Grace hurtling down the touchline to touchdown. Kieran once again added the extras.  Regan was unstoppable at this point and he raced over for another try. Mesmeric handling by the three quarters saw Kieran Davies claim another.

The Quins were now on their mettle and one felt that Gorseinon would pay the price. So it proved when scrum - half Jacob Flynn waltzed through a stretched defence to score. Centre Sam Tucker was soon on the score sheet with a mazy run which saw him beat three defenders to score under the posts.

The Quins continued in the same vein in the second half and wing Harley Evans outwitted determined defenders to score. It was just a matter of time before the Quins ended the game with another score. Prop Lee Evans went on a lung bursting surge for the line but was halted short, front row colleague Tyler Hopkins was in support to brush aside desperate tacklers to score and bring the game to an end. 

Aberavon Quins Under13s (26) v Pencoed Under13s (12)
Ospreys Cup
Sunday 15th Feb (Home)

This was an impressive performance from the Quins although at times in the first half they were guilty of some defensive lapses which infuriated their coaches. In a frantic, compelling and enjoyable game the Quins came home comfortably in the end.
From the outset the Quins were committed to playing a high tempo game spreading the ball wide at every opportunity. They were rewarded for this approach when a half break and pass out of the tackle by centre Sam Tucker sent full back Calvin Wellington racing away to score. Kieran Davies knocked over a brilliant conversion. Pencoed hit back immediately and scored through their powerful forwards. The conversion failed. The Quins retaliated when Conor O’Callaghan, Jonathan Thomas and Jack Dacey worked Kieran Davies clear for him to dive over in the corner. The conversion was unsuccessful.Pencoed hit back once again through their forwards to score under the posts. This time the conversion went over to level the scores at half time.
In the second period the Quins attacked the breakdown more meaningfully through Dylan McLaughlin, Kyle Williams, Jack Coughlin and Calvin Jones. This gave scrum half and captain Jacob Flynn much better quality ball and two strikes against the head from hooker Tyler Hopkins presented him with even more possession which he used to great effect. Winger Regan Grace’s ability to exploit space proved decisive when he ducked and weaved his way over under the posts. Kieran added the two points. The Quins were on top at this point and when a Pencoed passing move broke down in midfield Sam Tucker hacked on, Harley Evans continued the kick and chase. He picked up the bouncing ball and linked with the supporting Dylan McLaughlin. When he was tackled Dylan off-loaded to Sam Tucker who side-stepped two desperate defenders to score a try that came from exerting pressure and maintaining their composure. Kieran ended the game with another fine conversion and a twenty six points to twelve victory.

Aberavon Quins Under13s (17) v Porthcawl Under13s (19)
Ospreys Cup
Sunday 25th Jan (Away)

This was a game that could have gone either way but Porthcawl after being behind on three occasions managed to slot the conversion that mattered to give them a hard earned win.
The Quins struggled for ball but whenever they got it wide first Regan Grace raced from 60 metres to score and then Calvin Wellington also raced 60 metres to score with Kieran Davies slotting one excellent conversion. Each time Porthcawl hit back but in the second half Harley Evans, in only his third game at fullback this season got better and better as the game wore on, broke through some half hearted tackling to make it into the opposition 22 before putting Kieran over.
Dylan Mclaughlin, Mike Burgess and Jack Coughlin battled hard up front in a forward contest that at times became attritional. Jacob Flynn at scrum half suffered high and late tackles but sniped around the fringes and varied his game well when possession allowed.
Porthcawl snatched victory in the last few minutes but the Quins are still very much in the hunt for the Cup but they must win their two remaining games against Pencoed and Gorseinon to progress.

Aberavon Quins Under13s (20) v Bryncoch Under13s (7)
Ospreys Cup
Sunday 25th Jan (Home)

This was an uncompromising cup encounter between two very good sides. The Quins excelled from one to fifteen but the pack was particularly outstanding with Dylan McLaughlin, Quade Boal, Tyler Hopkins Levi Roberts, who scrummaged with relish,  while Jack Coughlin, Kyle Williams and Daniel Helson rucked and mauled strongly to prevent Bryncoch getting any parity. The Quins played with rare pace and attacking power to secure this very important win. It was to their credit that danger man Jack Anderson’s threat was nullified by the midfield pairing of captain Jack Dacey and Sam Tucker. It took a moment of magic when the result was beyond doubt for Anderson to kick and catch to race clear under the posts for a converted try.
Conor O’Callaghan foraged and disrupted Bryncoch’s ball throughout the game. Martin Wiliams look out!!
A sustained period of pressure culminated in Conor setting up Calvin Wellington for the opening score with Dylan powering over for two more. Harley Evans, who has settled into his new role at full back dived over for another. Late on one half of the impressive boiler house, Kyle Williams claimed a well deserved try. Kieran Davies slotted two conversions, one from wide out, and kicked and passed intelligently.
Regan Grace made the most of the few chances that came his way. One searing run resulted in a try for Harley. Jacob Flynn at scrum half cajoled his pack and made some telling forays into much bigger players and proved a nightmare for the opposition and the referee.
When they came on Calvin Jones, Keanu Piles and Jonathan Thomas defended as if their lives depended on it.
This game was a credit to both teams.
Great stuff boys!!!

Aberavon Quins Under13s (20) v Pontypridd 13s (5)
Sun 11th Dec (Away)

This was a tough encounter for the Quins pack but they stuck together with the uncompromising Dylan McLaughlin ripping and mauling strongly throughout the game. Kyle Williams and Jonathan Thomas backed him up with Tyler Hopkins, Calvin Jones, Conor O’Callaghan and Quade Boal lending much needed support against a much bigger set of forwards. Scrum half Jacob Flynn coped well under pressure from the Ponty forwards and managed to give his fly half partner a swift accurate service.

The Quins struggled for quality possession but when the ball was moved wide Sam Tucker and Calvin Wellington threatened the home defence, but it took 20 minutes for Regan Grace to cross wide out. Harley Evans at full back always on the alert to counter attack entered the line to score, again wide out on the left.

In the second period the Quins were under intense pressure but Kieran took full advantage of a fortunate ricochet to grab the ball to race clear and score. This was followed by a long period of Ponty pressure where they scored a try with referee Jamie Morgan unsighted. This was the signal for the Quins to lay siege to the Ponty line after a brilliant drop out from Kieran. They camped on the Ponty line for the remainder of the game. Slick passing between Jack Dacey and Sam saw wing Calvin Wellington wrong foot the home defence to claim a well deserved try.

This was another hard game for the Quins but excellent preparation for the tough Osprey Cup games to come. Coaches Andrew and Paddy have a lot to work on but the commitment from the boys is second to none.

Have a great Christmas everyone.  There is everything to play for in the New Year!!!

Aberavon Quins Under13s (12) v Bridgend Athletic 13s (17)
Sun 14th Dec (Away)

The Quins gave a very strong Athletic side 12 points start with poor organisation and slipshod handling early on. As the game wore on the boys gradually got the “bus” out of their systems and the forwards piled on the pressure. Quade Boal, Jack Coughlin and Kyle Williams put in big efforts in this phase of the game and surprisingly won more than their fair share of lineout possession against much bigger opposition. Jacob Flynn sent out a stream of good passes but the Athletic managed to cope defensively although they were stretched to the limit on a number of occasions.

In the second period Harley Evans, who was outstanding throughout, made some dangerous forays into Athletic territory and kicked intelligently to mount pressure on the Athletic defence. The Quins got back into the game when the ever dangerous Regan Grace jinked his way into space and raced away to score. Conor O’Callaghan added the extra points.

The Quins were now on top and Harley was unlucky not to score. Sam Tucker and Jack Dacey worked overtime in defence and both put in some deft kicks to pressurise the Athletic defenders. When the Quins were penalised for being in front of the kicker their defence went walkabout and allowed the Athletic to get a decisive score.

Not deterred by this setback the forwards again took the initiative with the impressive Dylan McLaughlin driving at the heart of the home defence. When the Athletic were penalised he took a quick tap penalty and pounded his way through would be tacklers to get a deserved score.

This was a very entertaining game but the Quins cannot afford to give sides as good as Bridgend Athletic a start. They will learn from this knowing that a bit more belief and concentration could have seen a very different result 

Aberavon Quins Under13s (57) v Corus 13s (5)
Sun 30th Nov (Away)

Corus gained a consolation score through Rhys Edmonds but were up against it from the word go. Kieran Davies outstripped the defence to score the first of a hat trick and Regan Grace raced away for his customary try. Harley Evans benefitted from slick centre play by Sam Tucker and co-centre Calvin Wellington to out pace Corus players and score.

Kieran knocked over three conversions while Regan helped himself to another try. Calvin W notched up another and slotted a conversion.

In the second half debut making prop Calvin Jones supported his namesake Calvin W to drive over for his first try for the club. Calvin W raced clear to end the try scoring and Kieran and Mike Burgess stroked over one conversion apiece for an emphatic victory over local rivals Corus.

Jack Coughlin, Kyle Williams, Levi Roberts, Lee Evans, Tyler Hopkins and Daniel Helson all worked hard up front but Conor O’Callaghan at open side was the pick of the forwards with some driving play and intelligent support work.

The lead up to Christmas will be a particularly hard time for the Quins with away games against Pontypridd and last seasons Osprey Cup winners Bridgend Athletic. 

Aberavon Quins Under 13s (22) v Nantyffyllon Under 13s (12)
Sun 16th Nov (Away)

The Quins were up against it for long periods with the Nanty forwards particularly aggressive at rucks and mauls. They took the lead early on but the Quins worked flying winger Regan Grace clear to score wide out. The Quins took the lead soon after when Regan once again outpaced Nanty’s cover defence to score under the posts. Conor O’Callaghan converted.

The Quins withstood early pressure from Nanty but hit back when Regan raced 50 metres to register his hat trick in the corner. Nanty hit back with a try from one of their second rows but pressure from the outstanding Dylan McLoughlin enabled Tyler Hopkins to dive over a pile of bodies to score.

This was a very good win for the Quins made possible by sound defence from Jack Dacey, Sam Tucker and Conor O’Callaghan. Jonathan Thomas,   Daniel Helson, Jack Coughlin and Levi Roberts battled well, supported by Tyler, Lee Evans, Kyle Williams, Quade Boal and Tom Grace. Calvin Wellington shone on debut with some powerful runs and solid defence.

This performance should set the Quins up for the remainder of the season.