April 25, 2026 - 222 views
RGC’s season came to a dramatic end with a 36–30 defeat to Llandovery in a pulsating SRC play-off quarter-final.
In a fast-paced encounter played in warm conditions, both sides showed attacking intent from the outset, moving the ball wide and looking to exploit space. It was RGC who struck first after early pressure on the Drovers’ line, with Dion Jones spinning out of a tackle to score. Billy McBryde’s conversion attempt hit the upright.
Llandovery responded immediately, prop Jamie Hughes powering over from close range, though Ioan Hughes also saw his conversion effort strike the post.
RGC continued to threaten, particularly through the pace of Caio Parry on the wing, and edged ahead thanks to a McBryde penalty. The visitors enjoyed a strong spell, camped deep in Llandovery territory, but were unable to turn pressure into points as the home side cleared their lines.
The match continued at a relentless tempo, with both teams creating opportunities. Llandovery regained the lead through a second try from Hughes, this time converted, before RGC hit back in style. Gareth Parry sparked a break, linking with McBryde, and Delwyn Jones finished strongly to score, with McBryde adding the extras.
Chances came and went, including a promising break from Caio Parry that ended in a turnover, before Llandovery struck again just before half-time. Hooker Cameron Lewis crossed from close range, and Hughes’ conversion gave the hosts a four-point lead at the break.
The second half began with Llandovery on the front foot, and Lewis grabbed his second try from a driving maul, with Hughes extending the advantage from the tee.
RGC struggled to build momentum as handling errors, knock-ons and lineout issues disrupted their rhythm at crucial moments. Despite mounting pressure and a rising penalty count against Llandovery, the Gogs were unable to capitalise during key spells near the try line.
Their breakthrough eventually came when a loose clearance kick from the Drovers was gathered by Dafydd Thirsk, who crossed for a vital score, though McBryde was unable to convert.
A Hughes penalty soon after stretched Llandovery’s lead to nine points heading into the final ten minutes. RGC responded with determination, earning a McBryde penalty and pushing hard for a late comeback.
The closing stages were tense, with Caio Parry racing down the wing in a thrilling break, only for a kick ahead to evade him at the crucial moment.
With RGC chasing the game, Llandovery sealed victory when Harry Doel intercepted to score, Hughes converting to put the result beyond doubt.
There was still time for a late consolation, as Parry crossed in the final play, converted by McBryde, but it proved too little too late.
In the end, missed opportunities and costly errors in the second half proved decisive, as RGC’s season came to an end in a hard-fought contest.
