We are Neath!

It was Cup Final day in Wales today, where my club Neath R.F.C. went up against old rivals Pontypridd R.F.C. Pontypridd have been streets ahead of all clubs in the Premiership this season, and were clear favourites to win, but even though we've had our problems this year we knew if we could play well we would have a chance in a one off game.

Sadly it wasn't to be, after leading 13-9 at half time through a cracking Dafydd Howells try, Ponty turned the pressure up in the second half and went on to win 34-13. Deserved Winners though! I hope Ponty go on now to win the League, even though they finished 26 points ahead of everyone else at the end of the season, they now have to play a one off game against either Llandovery or Llanelli, to be crowned Champions. Madness!

I'm so proud of my club today, as this season has been tough in so many ways and for us to even get to the final was an achievement in itself. To push Ponty like we did and briefly have a chance of beating them, was even better. At the back end of 2012 I was very despondent about rugby, but since Christmas we've turned the corner. The coaches, players, medical staff and support staff have all grouped together, and have come out fighting and the results have come with that. The passion in the maltese cross shirt is back, we will fight to the end and we will be back!

So whilst today may have been the end for some of the team, either through retirement or moving on to pastures new, the youngsters that have come through this year have gained a lot of experience and will be better for it next season. We may have lost but I don't feel down, I feel quite excited that the club has gone back to its roots and found its heart again and will be back stronger than ever!

WE ARE NEATH!