The form book decreed that the Caernarfon Vs Bala Under 14's game would be a tight affair - and for once the form book was not wrong !
Both teams had strong packs, and it seemed from the outset that the team that could vary it's game, and come up with something different, would be the one that would gain the upper hand.
Certainly Bala's rolling maul was effective, and the first 5 minutes were spent almost exclusively in the Caernarfon half. However a quick tap penalty close to the Caernarfon 10 metre line, set Tomos Jones on his way, and whilst he took the long way round, skirting left round the Bala defence, his strength and speed meant he grounded the ball under the posts. A simple conversion for Aled Jones meant that Caernarfon were 7-0 up. The rest of the half was spent on the Caernarfon side of the field, with each team taking it in turn to win scrums against the head, and to set up rolling mauls, but both defences proved too good for the respective attacks.
Only 3 minutes into the second half, outside half Aled Jones chipped neatly over the encroaching Bala back line, wonderful hands by Centre Tomos Jones, picking the ball up off his bootlaces, and excellent support running by Dwyryd Rhys Williams, saw Caernarfon score again. However the angle was too great for the conversion, but Caernarfon were 12-0 up.
Bala continued to attempt to vary their attacks, with chips and cross field kicks over the Caernarfon back line, however the Cofi defence stood firm. But having crossed the line at least twice with the ball held up, Bala forwards were eventually rewarded with a try, and despite the acute angle the conversion meant they now stood at 12-7.
Both teams played well, with good strong forwards for the final quarter, but neither team were able to break through the respective defensive lines. However for their ability to vary their play, Caernarfon were worthy winners 12-7
