Colwyn Bay U18 Mermaids

? end of the road

2011-01-28T16:01:00.000-08:00

There is nothing to report for the Mermaids as there have been no games to play due to the lack of opposition teams plus the waning of enthusiasm among the remaining players. The present management and coaching staff will be standing down at the end of the season so this blog will be closing down.

Girls rugby tournament at CBRFC

2010-09-22T15:09:00.000-07:00

Sunday 19 September – Girls Rugby Tournament at Colwyn Bay RFC

The rains moved away from Colwyn Bay for the start of the mini tournament of girls rugby.

The kick off had to be delayed and modified to accommodate the many organisational confusions and frustrations of the day. However this did not affect the sprits of the girls who gathered on the field to kick off the new season.
The turnout for the Mermaids was poor. From a possible contingent for the day of 19 only 14 showed up. However those that were there bravely played in positions that were not quite familiar to them and faced up to the teams from across the border. Amongst these were some new additions to the U18 squad. This was to be their baptism of fire.

The Manchester team quite sportingly offered to either drop a player or lend one to match up the squads. However the Mermaids decided to play together as a team of 14, possibly good preparation for the eventuality of such in the future.

U18 Mermaids v Manchester
Mermaid’s captain: Cara Hope
The game was evenly contested. Cara Hope, Becca Broadway and Eloise Dorey carried the ball well, driving way past the gain line and setting up phases of play for the backs to work on. From the base of the scrum Kaya Harding again delivered good ball to Gwen Harries. The backs interacted well with centres Iona Evans and Alaw Hughes, combining well with Rachael Edwards and Emily McMullen in the wings. The first try came when Gwen Harries sidestepped, leaving the defence flat, and ran past clutching hands to open the scoring for the afternoon. Manchester fought back hard and made forays into Mermaids territory time and again but the defence held with Cara Hope leading the team to make the many tackles necessary to stop them. Eurgain Llwyd, quiet today in attack, however played a good positional game at full back and did well to thwart the attacks. However Manchester were rewarded for their enterprise and scored before the second half. At half time the scores were even.

The second half carried on much the same way as the first with both sets of forwards striving to dominate the other. The Mermaids forwards, led well by Cara Hope and lifted by the strong constant presence of Eloise Dorey, held the advantage. The Mermaids backs began to play more adventurously with this domination. Kaya Harding looped around to collect the scrum to break through Manchester backs and released the backs who passed back and forth for Iona Evans to open her scoring for this season. Cara Hope converted to give the Mermaids a 7 point cushion. Despite the valiant attempts of Manchester the Mermaid defence held and the one try was enough to see them through to victory.

The second U18 match of the tournament was a derby away from English soil for Manchester and Tyldesley.
The game again was evenly contested hard fought. Tyldesley however were victorious.

U18 Mermaids v Tyldesley
Mermaid’s captain: Gwen Harries
This set the teams up for a finale of victors to end the day with the Mermaids facing Tyldesley. This game too was a hard fought forwards dominated game. Both teams tried to release the backs out wide but were thwarted by some determined tackling and defence. It was Tyldesley who had the majority of possession and territory throughout the game. Time and again they were right up to the Mermaids try line, staying there for most of the first half. The Mermaids defence was awesome - regrouping again and again and at least on three occasions forced Tyldesley to make mistakes at the try line and kicked the ball into neutral territory and safety. The half time whistle was blown with no score for either side but the Mermaids defence, led by Cara Hope, had bragging rights.
The second half saw a little bit more adventure from the Mermaids. They were attempting to turnover the mistakes of the first half of playing too long in their own half and relinquishing too much possession to Tyldesley’s aggressive play. Again, Cara Hope, Eloise Dorey and Becca Broadway led from the front taking on the physical Tyldesley forwards. They succeeded a few times and the ball was swung wide. One or two good moves brought them up to the Tyldesley try line. One particularly successful foray saw good interplay between backs and forwards with second rower Megan Parry at the end of the move close to the try line. However tired hands and a good defence prevented a score. Iona Evans and Gwen Harries had good games but found the defence too close at hand to clear the ball away. Unable to make headway, Tyldesley were thwarted as well and tried to kick deep into Mermaids territory to break the deadlock. However, Eurgain Llwyd at full back was equal to the task; effectively collecting and clearing the lines to push them back time and again up to the half way line.

The Mermaids were unlucky to have the rub of the green and the decisions not going their way. Tyldesley rode their luck playing the game close to the law at the breakdown and frustrated the Mermaids. The Mermaids briefly let their frustrations rule them and Tyldesley made capital of this and the loss of Elose Dorey through injury for a while reducing their numbers, to score a converted try. The Mermaids regrouped and tried hard to make headway but this was not to be their match. The decisions went against them and Tyldesley held strong to come home the victors of a hard fought encounter.
Well done Tyldesley.

For the Mermaids the 14 who put their hands up did the team and the region proud. Newcomers Catrin Roberts, Megan Parry, Sara Williams, Non Evans, Emily McMullen, Becca Broadway and Eurgain Llwyd played well. Sara Williams and Non Evans played with great maturity. Seniors Kaya Harding, Gwen Harries, Alaw Hughes and Iona Evans played well amongst the backs and Emily McMullen and Rachael Edwards playing with maturity and skill for their first outing at this level. However the forwards Eloise Dorrey and Cara Hope were the cream of the team. The Mermaid’s most experienced player, Kumari Tilakawardane, was unable to play through injury but used her experience to coach from the sidelines.

For her efforts both as Captain and as possibly the hardest working and visionary back rower, Cara Hope is the Mermaids Player of the Tournament.

U15 Mermaids v Manchester

The U15 Mermaids are not yet up to full strength, with many of the team leaving at the end of last season due to age restrictions. However the few that remain, along with some newcomers, invited Manchester to bring their U15s to Colwyn Bay. Nia Ritchie, Nant Conwy girls coach kindly offered to take charge of this match and indeed brought along players from other North Wales clubs to make up a Colwyn Bay team. Her efforts were certainly successful as the Mermaids, led by captain Naomi Turner, won 51-10.

Pics

2010-09-19T15:01:00.000-07:00

Pics from today's matches at Colwyn Bay RFC are on www.philreesphotography.co.uk

Scores

2010-09-19T10:44:00.001-07:00

Match 1 - U18 Mermaids 12 Manchester 5. Match 2 - U18 Mermaids 0 Tyldesley 7.
U15 Mermaids 51 Manchester 10

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Sunday

2010-09-17T11:07:00.001-07:00

Meet at Colwyn Bay RFC 1.15pm to be ready for a 2.30 ko.

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Sunday

2010-09-17T11:05:00.001-07:00

Meet at Colwyn

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Farewell Anna

2010-09-15T15:46:00.001-07:00

We sadly said au revoir to Anna Parkin, former u18 player and later coach to the u18 Mermaids tonight as she is leaving to study maths at university. We will miss Anna both for her enthusiasm and friendship but wish her all the best for this new phase in her life. Anna is packing her boots and will be looking to join the university rugby team.
See you at Christmas Anna.

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U18 Mermaids at the National 10s Llandovery 12 September 2010

2010-09-13T14:02:00.000-07:00

Team:

Paige Davies
Hayley Ellis
Eloise Dorey
Swyn Lewis
Rebecca Broadway
Cara Hope
Kaya Harding
Rhian Pritchard
Emily McMullen
Rachael Edwards
Iona Evans (Nant Conwy)
Alaw Hughes (Caernarfon)
Eurgain Llwyd (Nant Conwy)
Elin Royle (Nant Conwy)
Megan Parry (Bro Ffestiniog)
Sara Williams (Nant Conwy)

Head Coach: Louis Tilakawardane
Forwards Coach: Kumari Tilakawardane

Match 1 – vs Cardiff Quins
Captain: Cara Hope
Final Score: Cardiff Quins 22 Mermaids 0

A rusty start by the Mermaids, playing against a well organised team. The absence of match practice and fitness showed. The Mermaids competed for the first 5 minutes but the Quins pulled away with a display of well organised rugby. The Mermaids missed tackles and were frequently caught out of position. However despite the gloomy dawn, rays of light were showing through in Rhian Pritchard, Cara Hope, Hayley Ellis and newcomers Emily McMullen and Becca Broadway. Rhian & Cara in particular excelled in throwing tackle after tackle at the Quins. Swyn Lewis and Sara Williams played very well showing that there was much to hope for in the days to come.

Match 2 – vs Cynon Valley
Captain: Hayley Ellis
Final Score: Cynon Valley 22 Mermaids 0

If the Mermaids were trounced by the well organised game of the Quins, individual performances by Cynon Valley players caused havoc amongst the rusty Mermaids. The second break away try by Cynon Valley was a masterpiece of controlled football with the ball kicked all the way past the grabbing hands of the Mermaids. Tackles were missed; the organisation still not good enough to stop Cynon Valley. However, the Mermaids began to assert some control. They had learned the lesson of playing too often in their territory and attempting a run and pass game which caused the problems of the first fixture. Good tactical kicking by Alaw Hughes and Iona Evans allowed Mermaids to venture closer to the opposition try line. Good leadership by Hayley Ellis showing the way ball in hand made forays into the opposition half but the Mermaids were unable to breach the Cynon Valley defence. Again, Rhian Pritchard, Emily McMullen and Cara Hope put in a sterling performance. Rachael Edwards too started showing promise by making forays, side stepping past the gain line. Eloise Dorey began to punch holes in the opposition defence by a fabulous display of power driving to get past the gain line time and again. Eurgain Llwyd had an excellent game playing at 9. She showed skill and imagination in getting the ball out from the set pieces and when necessary running with purpose. However the rustiness of the Mermaids still showed but the passion and the organisation was beginning to appear.

Match 3 – vs Newport
Captain: Rhian Pritchard
Final Score: Mermaids 12 Newport 0

A lunch break and focussed discussion amongst the team members created a desire to show results for this venture into the south. The team they were up against included some big names of Welsh junior rugby and some whose skill and talent had led them to Welsh national sides.

The Mermaids were led for this last match by Rhian Pritchard. She was given this honour for the indomitable manner in which she played, the way she was fearless in defence and tireless in trying to carve out a platform for attack in the previous two matches. As the game began the team showed some wonderful interactions between players. The leading roles were taken by Cara Hope and Hayley Ellis. Kaya Harding playing at 9 seemed to have woken from a slumber and began to do the things around the scrum that she had done last season. Eurgain Llwyd playing now on the wing showed dazzling speed and linked up with the others. The Mermaids made purposeful moves for the first time that day. The forwards combined well, with Cara, Hayley Eloise, Becca, Swyn, Sara, Megan Parry all picking the ball and driving at the opposition. Iona Evans kicked, Alaw Hughes carried the ball. Emily McMullen controlled and passed the ball with assuredness.
Rachael Edwards however was the first to score for the day, collecting the ball and sidestepping three or four of the Newport backs to break through at the end and score a wonderful try. The second try was a good move with forwards and backs combining well, Kaya Harding looping to link with Eurgain Llwyd who danced through the defence to score under the post. Eurgain converted the try.
This was the signal for the Mermaids to come alive. All 16 players were rotated adroitly by Kumari managing the forwards and Cameron mixing the backs. All played with equal courage and tenacity carving out waves of phased play when attacking and tackling fiercely and effectively in defence. They contained a heavier faster Newport team with determined tackles. Cara Hope was all over the park in defence. However, the moment of the match was yet to come. Finally it seemed Newport had finally broken through and would deprive the Mermaids of a clean sheet. Rhian Pritchard, playing on the left wing, streaked all the way down the pitch to perform a perfect tackle yards from the right corner flag, bringing down the player and knocking the ball forward. The Mermaids won the scrum and again danced back into Newport territory and safety.

The afternoon ended on this happy note. The cobwebs have been partly cleared. The only regret is that had there been greater numbers and commitment to training in the pre season a better display at the tournament would have been possible. As it is we have shown what the Girls from the North are capable of. Let’s hope we live the promise through the remainder of the season.

Player of the tournament: Rhian Pritchard
The U18 Mermaids would like to thank Cameron McMullen for his invaluable help on the day.

National 10s

2010-09-12T06:40:00.001-07:00

U18 Mermaids lost to Cardiff Quins 22-0, lost to Cynon Valley 22-0, beat Newport 12-0. Match report later.

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National 10s

2010-09-11T04:11:00.001-07:00

Not looking forward to the early start but looking forward to seeing how the new U18 Mermaid squad play.

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Regional girls

2010-09-09T07:55:00.000-07:00

The squad list for RGC1404 U18 girls is on the blog - www.northwalesrugby.blogspot.com - 11 Mermaids on the list so far! Well done girls.
I had a quick count of how many girls we have this season - so far we've got 14 - we need a few more so if you know anyone who wants to play tell them to come along to training.

Team for Sunday

2010-09-09T03:50:00.001-07:00

Finally got enough girls together to form a squad for Sunday. Let's hope the lack of training by some can be overcome. Still, there's hope for the rest of the season - the U18s now have 14 players so far - a great relief considering we only had 6 last week.

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It's all coming together

2010-09-07T14:21:00.001-07:00

We now have a team for Sunday. Let's hope the weather improves.

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Early birds

2010-09-07T09:35:00.001-07:00

Very early start on Sunday I am afraid girls.

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Back to business

2010-09-05T05:19:00.001-07:00

First official training of the season today. Just to make it feel like normal rugby, it rained!

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Back to business

2010-09-04T07:59:00.001-07:00

First official training tomorrow 11-1 at Colwyn Bay RFC. Yearly subscription due - £25 or £50 family membership.

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National 10s

2010-08-18T02:06:00.000-07:00

The U18s are entered for the National 10s in Llandovery on Sunday September 12. The WRU have kindly offered to organise transport for us. There's not much time for training before then, especially as the official sign on day isn't until September 5 at CBRFC but you are welcome to come along and join in the regional training sessions on Wednesday evenings - 6 to 8pm - at Llandudno RFC. We are not sure yet when we will be starting training at CBRFC.
The National 10s will be a competitive experience but we will have a fun day as well. New team members are always welcome - get in touch if you want to join the Mermaids - WRU Team of the Year for the previous 5 years.

Game on

2010-07-23T05:02:00.000-07:00

What started as a request for a game to kick start the season has now turned into a girls rugby festival. Sunday 19 September - at present we have 3 U18 teams, 2 or 3 U15 teams and 2 ladies teams converging on Colwyn Bay RFC at 2pm.

End of season presentations for the U18 Mermaids

2010-05-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

Anna Parkin, assistant coach for the U18 Mermaids welcomed the girls and their families to the club on a gloriously sunny day. She also introduced special guest Jenny Davies, who has been awarded 43 caps for Wales women.
This season has not been as busy as in the past due to the scarcity of opponents in this area. Nevertheless the Mermaids have carried themselves well despite the difficulties of maintaining girl’s rugby in North Wales. They managed to overcome the absence of teams in North Wales and have carried on with their long relationship with the teams from across the border: Sandbach and Waterloo, who have become regular opponents over the years, and this season they have also played Tyldesley and Glossop. The girls have beaten all the teams they met this year and still remain the unbeaten champions of North Wales.
This year as before they have provided the core of players to form the Gogledd Cymru U18 girls who themselves had a good season; all of the U18 Mermaids were selected and have played for Gogledd Cymru.
Several girls have left the team during this season for various reasons and at present there are only 10 players registered with the club. Amongst them are girls who travel long distances to come to Colwyn Bay to train and to play - from Anglesey, Argoed, Llanfairfechan, Nant Conwy and St Asaph.
Medals were presented to those who have remained with the Mermaids:
Bethan Lloyd Jones, Cara Hope, Chloe Dymond, Elin Royle, Gwen Harries, Kaya Harding, Kumari Tilakawardane, Paige Davies.
Players not present at the ceremony: Laureanna Mc Gee and Hayley Ellis.
For the other awards there were several candidates in each category:
Most improved Player:
Chloe, who played for the first time this season. She announced her presence crash tackling everyone in sight at a development day in Denbigh. She has continued to do this ever since in all our games.
Cara, who joined us from Bangor. Again she showed amazing skills, giving us headache as to find her a definitive place, was she to join the front row- she was good there; was she to be amongst the backs because she could run and kick, or was she to play in the back row because she was fearless in winning the ball on the floor.
Bethan, who again joined us last season from Bangor, having played against us before. She came up here as a shy, retiring, unlikely front row player and has grown in stature. This season she led the front row, for the Mermaids and Gogledd Cymru. Her progress has been so dramatic that she was called by the Elite Development Team at the National Centre of Excellence in Cardiff, without any referrals from the coaches, as is normal, but was head hunted by the Welsh coaches to come up for trials for Wales U20s after they viewed a DVD of one of the regional matches.
After much consideration we thought that the player who has progressed the most this season is Bethan Lloyd Jones.

The second trophy was for Coaches Player:

Kaya, who brought to the team her remarkable natural skills as a scrum half, and commitment to the team by attendance at training over the season,
Elin, our last line of defence and who has held firm match after match, against high balls, against fast wingers and the big girls wanting to breach our try line. It has been a joy this season to see Elin stand firm under charging opponents all by herself, pick up the high ball and dart away from clutching hands to take the ball away from danger to attacking positions.
Gwen, who has managed to translate the visions of game plans that the coaches had put together, and make them work on the field.
After much discussion and consideration it was eventually decided the Coaches Player for this season is Elin Royle.

The Third Trophy was for the Player of the Season. We considered the players who have made a contribution to the game and who have become a leader or a role model for other players to follow this season.
We again considered Bethan, who by her hard work and attitude had forced herself into recognition as a player. Bethan is the player we know will be there at every training, at the bottom of every ruck, looking worried and trying to better things she has done well, helping with translating the coaches’ ideas into reality by leading the front row.
Kumari has been at the heart of the team and also the core of the development of the game at Gogledd Cymru. She has brought to the team her knowledge of rugby, the player who can take up matters of rugby law with the referee and puts him under pressure, says the witty comments on the field, neutralising the opposition and helping the team to smile when the going is tough. She is the natural leader of the forwards and the senior figure of the team. She has also contributed to the game off the field. She has completed Level 1 as a referee, Level 1 as a coach and is a player/coach for the Mermaids and Gogledd Cymru. She has become the regular author of the team reports after each of the matches. Her talents in this regard have been recognised and she has now been invited to become the official reporter for the RGC 1404 Senior Team.

We thought hard about the contributions each had made to the image of the game and the team this season.
It was decided that the player of the season is Kumari Tilakawardane.

Flowers were then presented to Ann for her hard work as manager this season.

Kumari then stepped forward to thank Anna for her hard work as assistant coach this season. Anna is leaving the team and club to take up a university place after taking a gap year. She was presented with an engraved glass trophy – a dodgy move as Anna is sometimes rather accident prone!

Several of the team then went out for a well deserved and delicious Sunday lunch. We now look forward to the coming season.

Presentations

2010-05-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

Most Improved Player: Bethan Lloyd Jones
Coaches Player: Elin Royle
Player of the Year: Kumari Tilakawardane

Canadian game

2010-04-09T00:36:00.000-07:00

For match report of Canadian game go to www.northwalesgirlsrugby.blogspot.com

Team List for Sunday 28 March

2010-03-25T13:58:00.000-07:00

Team list for Sunday's match V Winston Churchill High School

1 Amelia Stubbs - Gogledd Cymru
2 Paige Davies - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
3 Eloise Dorey - Blaenau
4 Catrin Roberts - Blaenau
5 Catrin Williams - Gogledd Cymru
6 Chloe Dymond - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
7 Cara Hope - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
8 Kumari Tilakawardane - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
9 Kaya Harding - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
10 Gwen Harries - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids - Captain
11 Rhian Pritchard - Gogledd Cymru
12 Iona Evans - Gogledd Cymru/Nant
13 Alaw Hughes - Gogledd Cymru/Caernarfon
14 Nicola Williams - Llangollen
15 Elin Royle - Gogledd Cymru/Mermaids
16 Swyn Lewis - Gogledd Cymru
17 Ellie Jones - Oswestry
18 Nicola Jones - Blaenau
19 Cari Hicks - Blaenau

Tyldesley 5 - Mermaids 20

2010-03-14T14:03:00.000-07:00

The U18 Mermaids travelled over the border to Liverpool St Helens RUFC after Tyldesley's original opponents cancelled their planned match. It was the first time the girls had pulled on the famous pink shirts for 23 weeks and indeed 19 weeks since they had played any competitive rugby at regional or club level. At such short notice only 11 players were available, with one rising from her sickbed to travel with her compatriots. Loz McGee was Captain for this encounter, with Gwen Harries as Vice Captain.
From the first whistle it was clear the girls had lost none of their flair or competitive edge. In fact Tyldesley were put immediately under the cosh as Bay attacked relentelessly with some excellent link play between the backs and with excellent support play from the forwards. The first try was scored by Gwen Harries under the posts and from then on the Mermaids managed to score three more adventurously constructed and perfectly executed tries - a second from Harries and a further two by Cara Hope (though Paige Davies also had her hands on the ball) and scrum half Kaya Harding.
As the game progressed the Colwyn Bay girls grew more and more adventurous and began putting together some advanced and intricate moves that time and again allowed them to break the gain line. Towards the end of the game Tyldesley began putting some phases together and were richly rewarded with a try of their own by Jenny Carney.
Colwyn Bay Mermaids overcame their long absence from the game with a fantastic display of attacking, defensive and support play. The coaching team were so impressed with the entire team display that each and every player was awarded the player of the match award.
Todays team:
Loz McGee (Captain)
Gwen Harries (Vice Captain)
Kumari Tilakawardane
Kaya Harding
Paige Davies
Cara Hope
Bethan Lloyd Jones
Elin Royle
Amelia Stubbs
Alaw Hughes
Iona Evans

Sunday 22 February

2010-02-19T23:45:00.000-08:00

We have been invited to Nant Conwy RFC on Sunday afternoon to take part in a tournament.

Latest

2010-02-15T13:16:00.000-08:00

The proposed match v Winston Churchill High School, Canada will now take place at Eirias Arena on Sunday 28 March at 2pm due to a pitch space problem. Many thanks to Kenton Morgan and the staff at Eirias.

Festival

2010-01-06T13:40:00.000-08:00

The festival scheduled for Sunday 10 January has been postponed due to the atrocious weather.

Girls festival

2009-12-15T04:31:00.000-08:00

We are holding a girls 7s festival at Colwyn Bay RFC on Sunday 10 January - starting at 1.30pm. All welcome - U15s & U18s, all abilities.

Latest

2009-11-25T05:54:00.000-08:00

Not much Mermaids news lately as all the U18 Mermaids are currently involved with the regional squad. Hopefully normal service will resume after Christmas - watch this space.

Mermaids 19 - Glossop 14

2009-10-06T16:20:00.000-07:00

The U18 Mermaids travelled to Glossop on Sunday, aiming to keep their unbeaten record this season intact. The team however was anything but intact - with their full-back, fly-half, top try scorer and several other key players missing, it was always going to be an uphill struggle.
The Colwyn Bay team agreed to play with less players than Glossop in order to prepare for the inevitably tough matches coming up against the other welsh regions.

Captain for this match, Kumari Tilakawardane chose to receive kick off, and in rainy conditions, the match kicked off.
As it was a training game, play was allowed to continue despite errors, and this made for a scrappy start, particularly for the Bay, and Glossop soon scored two converted tries, making the most of chances given and the two player overlap.

At 14-0 down the Mermaids knew they had to pick up their game, and they soon did - Gwen Harries making some thunderous tackles in the mid-field to keep Glossop in their own half. Due to the lack of players and in preparation fo rthe regional campaign, positions were rotated, with Cara Hope and Chloe Dymond alternating between flanker and centre, and Abi Beards and Kaya Harding taking turns at scrum-half.
Through tenacity, determination and by showing great skill the Mermaids worked their way up-field and good interplay between backs and forwards allowed Dymond to step her way through the last line of Glossop defence in the 22, with Hope adding the conversion.

The match was hard-fought, and tempers began to flare as the second half began, and the visitors refused to let their heads down, and in experimenting with different moves and set-pieces, worked their way down to the Glossop try-line. After several missed chances and infringements by the opposition, the Welsh team managed to form a strong maul which resulted in Hope, spurred on by vociferous Glossop supporters, driving through to touch down in the corner. The difficult conversion attempt was pulled just wide, which left the score at 14-12 to the home team.

With 15 minutes left the Mermaids sustained several injuries, with Harding leaving the field temporarily to have a knee wound treated, Dymond sustaining an ankle injury and Hope with a minor head/neck injury. There were no substitutes to take their places, nevertheless play continued with even more determination, and through consistent phases, and phenominal driving from Amelia stubbs, the ball was released to Harding who side-stepped through to score what would ultimately be the match winning try. Hope added the conversion and the game ended with some heroic defence in the last 10 minutes, which saw play kept in Glossop's 22 until the referee blew the whistle for full time on a tense match.

Although the entire team showed amazing spirit and togetherness to win the game from 14-0 down, the Mermaids coaching staff decided to nominate Kaya Harding and Kumari Tilakawardane as joint player of the match, for outstanding play and leadership.

Interesting website

2009-10-01T16:44:00.000-07:00

There is a new website for women's rugby - ScrumQueens - there is a link in the box below on the right.

Coach

2009-09-27T17:29:00.000-07:00

Next Sunday - coach time: be at club by 10.15 for journey to Glossop.

Fund raising

2009-09-27T08:59:00.000-07:00

I am selling the original Mermaids jumpers to raise money towards our tour. £10 each. Numbers available: 2,4,8,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20.
I am also trying to arrange some bag packing for a Saturday in December.

Sunday 27 September

2009-09-25T16:29:00.000-07:00

Sunday training is at 2pm due to pitch space problems. All girls welcome - U15s can join in too if they want.

Kicking training

2009-09-22T04:05:00.000-07:00

Louis has arranged for a specialist kicking coach to come along on this Thursday evening to Colwyn Bay RFC at 6.45pm.

U18 Mermaids v Waterloo 20.9.09

2009-09-22T03:29:00.000-07:00

Colwyn Bay Mermaids first home game of the season was against Waterloo and the Mermaids were keen to keep up their winning streak after last week's hard-fought win over Sandbach. This season the captaincy will be rotated throughout the season to give a selection of players a chance; Abi Beards was chosen to be captain this match, while Colwyn Bay loaned Amelia Stubbs to Waterloo to even up the sides. In usual form the Bay couldn't get the phases and handling together at the start, and it was only some great last-ditch tackling that prevented Waterloo from scoring in the first quarter, which was played with the Mermaids one player down as Elin Royle was late arriving from her weekend job!
The second quarter showed more promise from the home team, with moves from the likes of the captain, Alaw Hughes and Elin Royle kick-starting the rest of the team into action. Despite this, Waterloo managed to exploit the few defensive weaknesses of Colwyn Bay for Kayleigh Southerland to score a try with an impressive move, with Jenny Carney adding the conversion. This spurred the hosts on, and some positive moves off the back of an ever improving scrum performance eventually led to a try. Scrum-half Kaya Harding passed out to Gwen Harries, who slipped the ball out to new Mermaid Charlotte Pirie, attacking from full-back to cross the line, Cara Hope unlucky with the difficult conversion attempt.
This seemed to give the Bay the incentive they needed and soon they were playing an open, attacking brand of rugby. Following breaks from the backline and great support play from the forwards, Waterloo found themselves pinned in their own 22, and after impressive side-stepping through the defence, support play from Kumari Tilakawardane brought the second try to put Colwyn Bay into the lead, Hope just missing with the conversion attempt.
With the score almost equal the play evened out and there were some ferocious tackles to halt both teams' progress. Bay were unlucky not to score on a number of other occasions, a number of moves just not going to hand at the last phase. An unlucky mistake out wide from the Bay resulted in Waterloo advancing to the try line. The home team managed to drive the opposition back for a few phases, but eventually the inevitable push came on and Waterloo were leading 12-10 after Jade Hanbury touched down.
Colwyn Bay's heads did not go down, however - they came back at Waterloo even more determined than before. Gradually working their way downfield, the Mermaids managed to get the ball to the Waterloo 22, for Elin Royle to sprint past two defenders and offload to Charlotte Pirie for her second try of the game, putting Colwyn Bay into the lead - 15 to 12.
The last three minutes of play were tense for all Bay supporters, as Waterloo kicked over the top of the Bay defence line and it was body-on-the-line stuff for the remainder of the game, before Hughes kicked the ball out to end the game.
Another all-round good performance from the Mermaids resulted in their second win in two weeks. Waterloo voted Beards their player of the match, while the Colwyn Bay/Gogledd Cymru coaching team gave their accolade to Gwen Harries. The Mermaids voted Bojan Johnson as the Waterloo player of the match but as she had left early a substitute had to be brought on for the traditional (non alcoholic) drinking contest, which Waterloo won with ease, Beards having trouble putting away a pint of cola.

Today's match

2009-09-20T11:36:00.000-07:00

Final score:
U18 Mermaids/Gogledd Cymru 15 - Waterloo 12
Well played both teams. Always a pleasure to welcome the Waterloo crowd to Colwyn Bay.
Match report will (hopefully) be written tonight and posted here tomorrow.
DVDs of the match will be available to buy later in the week - all funds raised towards our tour.

Next match

2009-09-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

Waterloo are bringing a team down to our festival on Sunday so get ready for another game. I will give you all the details at training.

Mermaids 20 - Sandbach 10

2009-09-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

Colwyn Bay U18 Mermaids’ first game of the season didn’t get off to the best of starts when the bus had difficulty in leaving the club’s driveway; all passengers had to exit the vehicle to watch the careful manoeuvring of the driver to stop the steps from scraping the floor. Once that was sorted, the team travelled to Sandbach with some mixed emotions – with a number of new players in tow there were plenty of nerves coupled with the usual excitement of a match against one of the teams from over the border.

Once at the club the first XV was decided for the first quarter of 15 minutes. Scrum-half-cum-flanker Abi Beards was the first captain of the day. Amelia Stubbs led the team in the customary war cry of ‘oggy oggy oggy!’ to put the fear into Sandbach. To begin with, the referee decided to play uncontested scrums to ease the new players into the game, however this didn’t stop Beards from leading from the front and applying unrelenting pressure on the opposing scrum-half Jordan Morris.
The first ten minutes saw a lot of dropped balls, and a few scrappy mistakes before the game got into full flow. One of the first Bay players to get into the swing of things was undoubtedly Iona Evans, whose inspirational slamming tackles and clearing kicks paved the way for the Mermaids’ impressive display.
Despite sustained pressure and good attacking rugby from the away side, Sandbach managed to kick through to Colwyn Bay’s 22, where only body-on-the-line defensive work from the defending team saved a try. Nevertheless, Bay fought back determinedly and through some strong rucking from the likes of Cara Hope, Chloe Dymond and Hayley Ellis, the ball soon found its way to winger Elin Royle’s hands, who sprinted clear past the Sandbach players to cross the try-line, even going so far as to continue to run under the posts with a would-be defender hanging onto her leg.
After the opening try, Colwyn Bay began to play more expansive, attractive rugby, helped hugely by the performance of the forwards at the set-pieces – Emma Beaumont consistently stealing opposition line-out was complemented by Ellis’ hooking of the ball at scrums and Rozena Edwards’ ever-improving throwing in.

The second quarter began with Charlotte Pirie captaining from full-back. With newfound confidence, Bay began to play the way they do best; aggressive defence and solid, quick attacking ball. Flanker Dymond put in some thunderous tackles to halt many Sandbach moves, while the introduction of contested scrums only helped the Bay’s cause, with the entire pack putting in an impressive effort.
Many more attacking opportunities were launched from this platform – Ellie Jones was unlucky not to score after crashing through two defenders in the opposition 22. This attack did, however lead to a strong drive in the corner, with Royle piling over for her second try of the half. Hope was handed another difficult conversion from the touchline which just drifted right of the uprights. Pirie led by example, instigating many potent attacking moves, and sustaining the solid defence line that effectively won Colwyn Bay the game, despite occasional indiscipline which cost too many penalties.
The majority of play saw Sandbach pinned back in their own half, but when they did manage to break through Bay fly-half Alaw Hughes was a revelation in defence, making last-ditch cover tackles to regain territory for the Welsh side.
The forwards continued the hard-work at the breakdown, winning quick ball from the rucks, which gave the backs a great advantage – fantastic communication between the backs saw a loop between Ellie Rawicki and Evans almost result in more points. Despite this, the lack of support from some Bay breaks saw chances go begging.

No 8 Kumari Tilakawardane captained the third quarter, which began with Pirie sustaining a head injury and leaving the field. The competitive scrummaging allowed the Bay to gain momentum and territorial advantage, and with Jones taking over at 9, Beards linked up with the captain for back-row moves edging the Mermaids closer to the try-line. However no advantage could be gained and some scrappy play resulted in Sandbach working their way down the field, where they were camped out on the Bay 5m line, held back by heroic defence, especially from Hope and Royle. However, a penalty was awarded to the home side on the 5m line, and a quick tap could not be stopped, resulting in Sandbach’s first try from Amy Johnson. This only made Colwyn Bay more determined, and after the kick-off was chased down a strong maul led by Hughes and Tilakawardane drove ten metres, before the referee called the play back and awarded a scrum to the Bay, which halted the momentum of this move.
The next few phases saw Sandbach edge forwards, but a spilled ball was pounced upon for the lightning-quick Royle to score an opportunistic try. After this the advantage was firmly with the away team, Hope impressively stealing the ball from Sandbach players and launching another attack.

The final quarter saw Pirie return to the field and Hughes captain, and soon after become the beneficiary of Loz McGee’s offload to score in the corner. Sandbach had one more charge for the Colwyn Bay line, with the away team being saved by a strong clearance kick from Pirie.
No sooner had Pirie returned to the field than Bay were forced to play with only 14 players on the field after McGee retired from the pitch injured. However sharp reflex tackles from Beaumont and quick attacking play from the likes of Jones and Royle saw no overlaps being exploited.
As the game entered the final stages, Sandbach scored an impressive try, which started from their 22 and was finished off with brilliant support play by Hannah Johnson.
Determined not to let the English team have the final say, the Bay launched one last spirited charge on the try-line from the final restart. Continued surges forwards from all the Bay players in turn resulted in a penalty for Sandbach’s hands in a ruck. Stubbs made a powerful charge for the line, which soon resulted in a heated confrontation, as a Sandbach player was sent off for eye-gouging. Sandbach stole the ball illegally from the resulting ruck and threw it out, after which the referee decided to end the game.
Although this was not an ending either side enjoyed, the game was hard-fought and a highly entertaining one for spectators. It was also an ideal opportunity for Colwyn Bay players to warm up for the upcoming Gogledd Cymru matches against the four other regions. Sandbach chose Hope as the player-of-the-match, while the Colwyn Bay coaches Anna Parkin, Tom Rogers and Louis Tilakawardane thought the efforts of Dymond and Evans deserved special mention.
Many thanks to the Gogledd Cymru players from other clubs who strengthened the Colwyn Bay side to enable a competitive 15 a side game: Alaw Hughes (Caernarfon), Iona Evans (Nant Conwy), Ellie Jones (Oswestry).

By Kumari Tilakawardane

Let's get going!

2009-08-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

OK girls. Summer's over (not that I noticed it arriving) and it's time to get back to training. We are trying to arrange fixtures for the new season and fit them in around the Gogledd Cymru regional fixtures (which almost all of you will be involved with anyway).
Training back to normal - Thursdays 6.45pm and Sundays 10.45am (when we don't have matches).

More committment needed

2009-08-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

More committment is needed if we are to continue the winning streak we have enjoyed so far. Numbers at training have been low. We will be continuing the trend of treats and days out as rewards for committment - no committment, no treats.

First game

2009-07-31T15:22:00.000-07:00

Training has started for the new season. The first game is 13 September so more committment to training is needed. Training will continue on Thursdays at 6.45pm unless otherwise notified.

Pre season training

2009-07-27T09:50:00.000-07:00

Training is starting on Thursday 30 July to prepare for the new season. 6.45pm at CBRFC.

Development days

2009-07-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

The first of the development days is taking place this Sunday at Mill Bank, Holyhead 12.30 - 4.30. Remember your gumshields, boots etc. If anyone needs a lift or directions text or phone me.
Ann

First match

2009-07-20T16:22:00.000-07:00

We are in the process of arranging the first match of the new season - probably 13 September away at Sandbach.

Keep active

2009-06-30T17:30:00.000-07:00

Don't get complacent just because we're having a short break from training. Be assured that Louis is putting training plans together for the pre-season training and you will need to be fit to keep up with them so keep up and improve your fitness levels. I know it's hot but not too many ice creams girls!

U18 Mermaids v Sleaford - extra pictures

2009-05-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

Pictures courtesy of Phil Rees Photography

http://www.philreesphotography.co.uk/

Mermaids v Sleaford

2009-05-25T08:13:00.001-07:00

The U18 Mermaids played their last match of the season at Colwyn Bay Rugby Club in glorious Bank Holiday sunshine. This set the tone for the day’s rugby. The match was a poignant affair as some of the girls who have played in the team together since the inception of girl’s rugby at CBRFC in 2005 have now become of age and move on to senior level rugby.

Sleaford were enjoying a tour of North Wales. As one of the coaches put it, their stay in Wales had long days and late nights - in other words it would appear they had enjoyed their tour.

It became a special day of entertaining rugby. The first ten minutes saw close quarter skirmishes as both teams sought to shake off their nerves and sluggish legs. There was to and fro movement between the 22 metre lines. The Mermaids were the first to get a scoring chance with a penalty far to the left - outside Sleaford 22. Ellen Jones (Mwsh) failed the difficult kick. Sleaford fought their way to the Mermaids 22 with the kick off. The first try of the match resulted from this foray. The Mermaids won the breakdown within their own 22; the forwards combining with the backs, when well timed passes, going beautifully to hand, ended with Charlotte Pirie at the wing going over for a try at the Club House end. Mwsh had left her kicking boots at home and the conversion went awry.

Sleaford came back strongly. No quarter was asked or given. There were some strong attacking displays of back and forward play from both teams. Elin Lloyd Jones in the pink jersey was in the thick of it with some wonderful carries. Initially, the Mermaids were possibly too ambitious in playing a passing game against determined and feisty Sleaford forwards. Once they found a balance between ball retention and controlled passing, the game slowly swung their way. The breakdowns were crucial. The Sleaford girls were very handy at the rucks turning the ball over, sometimes seemingly against all odds. The Mermaids usually holding their own in the ruck, mauls and scrums against heavier opposition before now, had to change their game. They did. The forwards attacked the Sleaford inside three quarters and quick ball was found. They moved the ball with some beautiful angled running before releasing the wings. Once the key was found to break the Sleaford defence, the Mermaids played a game of very entertaining running rugby. Sleaford, two tries adrift started chasing the score putting together some well run attacks themselves. This made for glorious Bank Holiday ‘sunshine’ rugby.

For the Mermaids, this was one of the best team efforts seen this season. They communicated well. The leadership of Sarah Johnston and Anna Parkin was strong, leading the pack and the backs respectively. In the loose the team played well together but good calls and decision making by Abi Beards and Kumari Tilakawardane, the latter making a comeback after a long period of injury, made a big difference to the decisions.

The forwards performed well. The line outs came back to be a strong feature after disappearing in the last few matches. Intelligent line out calls, plenty of variety, with front peels and throws to the back in equal measure, good timing between the throwers, jumpers and lifting pods gave them the edge to carry battle to the opposition half. This was backed with some good kicking by Anna Parkin and Mwsh Jones finding touch to relieve pressure. ‘Well done’ to the line out units comprising Sarah Johnston, Mwsh Jones, Emma Beaumont, Cara Bryan, Bethan Lloyd Jones and Kumari Tilakawardane.

The scrums held their own against a possibly heavier set of Sleaford forwards. Quick strikes at the scrum by Sarah Johnston and with Abi Beards combining well with Anna Parkin at fly half, saw the ball to safety in defence and over the gain line in attack.

In defence Emma Beaumont carried on the good back row work she has taken on this season.

The team effort was completed with the speed of Charlotte Pirie and the tenacity and evasion of Ellie Jones.

Sleaford mounted a strong opposition but this was not their day. They played well together continuing to attack when a chance was given before injury brought the match to a premature close.

The good news at the end was that Ellie Jones who had to be ambulanced away with a suspected neck injury is well and looking forward to carrying on next season. So too are those Mermaids staying behind to fight another season.

Final score: Mermaids 36 Sleaford 0

Tries: Charlotte Pirie (3), Sarah Johnston, Ellen (Mwsh) Jones, Ellie Jones
Conversions: Ellen ‘Mwsh’ Jones (3)

Presentations 2008 - 2009

2009-05-24T15:20:00.000-07:00

The presentations were made by Jon Shaw, Honorary Secretary at CBRFC, who was instrumental in setting up girls rugby at Colwyn Bay following a conversation with Joely Benton in 2005. Joely, a former Mermaids captain, was unable to attend for the match or presentation.

Retiring Mermaids:

Joely Benton (not present at ceremony)

Anna Parkin

Sarah Johnston

Ellen Jones (Mwsh)

Honorary Mermaids:

Elin Lloyd Jones

Bethan Lloyd Jones

Players player:

Anna Parkin

Coach's player:

Abi Beards

Most improved player:
Ellen Jones (Mwsh)

3 more awards were made:

Fastest player to reach the side of 2 handsome rugby players:

Kumari Tilakawardane

Award for acting surprised to be presented with awards (after being presented with the same awards a week earlier by aforementioned handsome rugby players):

Anna Parkin & Abi Beards

(See pictures below for proof.)

Mermaids come down with a case of Scarlets fever!

2009-05-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

Colwyn Bay U18 Mermaids were invited to Parc y Scarlets to meet some of the players and watch the end of season clash with Ulster on Saturday. Not all the team could attend due to other commitments so the invitation was extended to those Gogledd Cymru U18s who have shown exceptional commitment to training this season.
The girls were welcomed into the training barn by Kate Jenkins and Jon Daniels and introduced to star players Regan King and Jonathan Davies, who were happy to pose with the girls and also take part in some important presentations – more on this subject next week!
After this excitement the girls entered the new stadium and took their seats – but only for a short time, as they were called pitchside to take part in the pre-match parade, which they all enjoyed.
Following this excitement there was more excitement to come as the Scarlets took on Ulster with a convincing 43-17 win. Tries were scored for the Scarlets by Daniel Evans, Dominic Day, Lee Williams, Darren Daniel, Martin Roberts and David Lyons, with conversions (5) by Rhys Priestland plus a penalty.
Following the excitement the girls slept all the way home!
The trip was arranged partly as a thank you to the girls for their efforts over the season and also as a means of player education. We feel it is important for the girls to see top class rugby whenever possible to enable them to move further forward in their own rugby careers. The Scarlets are a good help in this with their cash-back scheme, whereby groups of 20 or more get half the ticket price refunded to their club or organisation, therefore making professional rugby more affordable.
Many thanks to Gareth Jenkins, Jon Daniels, Kate Jenkins, Regan King and Jonathan Davies for the hospitality offered. Also thanks to Brian Roberts, Chairman CBRFC and Bryn Williams (CBRFC) for arranging transport to enable the girls to travel to Llanelli.

Presentations

2009-05-01T11:15:00.001-07:00

As several of you cannot make it on the 10th (or at least be there at the same time) we have decided to do the U18 Mermaids end of season (and end of an era) presentations after our last match on May 24th.
If you are free on the 10th come along for the funday and barbecue though.

Mermaids V Sandbach

2009-04-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

Mermaids 5 - Sandbach 5

Sunday's match

2009-04-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

Don't forget - we have a match on Sunday - this is the last but one match that this team will play this season. Meet at CBRFC at 12.30.

Fundraising

2009-04-21T14:50:00.001-07:00

We have big plans for our tour next season - but we need to do a huge amount of fundraising. We are not going to announce where we are planning to go until we know if it is possible to raise the necessary funds. A fundraising committee will be formed to sort out some activities to raise cash. Everyone needs to get involved if they want to come on tour.

Next match

2009-04-21T14:46:00.000-07:00

Match V Sandbach at CBRFC on Sunday 26 April at 2pm - meet at club at 12.30. Sandbach are struggling for numbers so it may not be 15 a side - we will have to see how many players they bring on Sunday and decide then.
Important to get to training on Thursday so Louis can work out who is playing where. Also we are looking to see who is in contention to be the new captain next season - at this moment we are open minded - all will be decided in the next few weeks.

Looking to the future

2009-04-19T12:03:00.000-07:00

We are already making plans for next season. We will lose a number of players due to age restrictions but we will gain some younger girls. However the new girls will not be as experienced as the current squad so lots of hard work ahead. Training will continue over the summer - not every week - squad members will be notified when and where.
Next season Louis will be joined by a new assistant coach - Anna Parkin, currently captain of Gogledd Cymru U18 girls, has agreed to stay on as assistant coach to the U18 Mermaids. Anna recently passed the Level 1 referees course with a near perfect score, so don't try and get any dodgy moves past her!

Next match

2009-04-14T16:04:00.000-07:00

First of all - well done those who acted as ball girls for the international today - you did the job so well that the senior Gogledd Cymru team management mentioned that they would like to use you for future games - another chance to wear the fetching day-glo vests!

Fixture now confirmed for Sunday 26 April V Sandbach at Colwyn Bay RFC - KO probably 2pm - will confirm time.

International on Tuesday

2009-04-09T16:43:00.000-07:00

Those girls who are acting as ball girls for the Wales V England U20 match on Tuesday - I will phone you with final details but remember the skills session with Jason Lewis will run from 10 - 12 before the match.

Esher V Mermaids

2009-04-07T09:20:00.000-07:00

Final score: Mermaids 3 - Esher 36

A full match report will be posted as soon as possible but in the interim:

A very tough game against a very strong team. Unfortunately we were let down by a number of players who said they were coming and then never bothered to let us know that they had changed their minds. We only had 15 players on the day, one of whom - Tara Griffiths - had never played rugby before and in fact had only attended one training session - she thought she would just have a 10 minute try out on the pitch but bravely played for the whole match - Well Done Tara. Other players who joined the Mermaids for the day: Bethan & Elin Lloyd Jones (Bangor), Cara Bryan (Oswestry), Suzie Walker and Tara Griffiths (Llangollen), Charlotte Pirie (Pwllheli) and Jess McAuley (Coleg Meirion Dwyfor).

As usual the Mermaids were in second gear for the first 15 minutes, by which time Esher had capitalised on the mistakes and handling errors and scored 21 points. The Mermaids then began to play rugby and were very impressive in the scrum but, due to lack of match experience, fared badly in the line outs. Jess McAuley looked to be in perfect position to score a try but keeled over with an ankle injury and had to sit out the rest of the game. The game was further interrupted by injuries to 2 of the Esher girls in a scrum and they were taken to the local hospital to be checked out. The game was moved to another pitch while the girls were being dealt with and Ellen Jones scored 3 much needed points for the Mermaids with a penalty.

After the match there was much laughter and singing in the clubhouse before the Esher girls set off, first to pick up their strays at the hospital, then for the long trek back to Surrey.

Sunday's match

2009-04-02T14:24:00.000-07:00

Bring your black Gogledd Cymru polo shirts to wear after the match, rather than your Mermaid shirts. We are meeting at the club at 12 - 12.15.

Next match

2009-03-29T07:56:00.000-07:00

Remember you have a match V Esher next Sunday (April 5). KO 2pm - meet in changing room 12.30 at latest. Try and get to training on Thursday as Louis needs to work out positions. Email or text me if you need any more details.

U18 Mermaids – the Italian job

2009-03-23T14:53:00.000-07:00

The U18 Mermaids flew to Rome for their annual tour early on Saturday morning. They were determined to make it a tour to remember as several of the girls will leave the team to take up the challenge of senior rugby at the end of the season.

The tour was only possible due to the generous sponsorship of Chris at Ticketbooth – http://www.ticketbooth.org.uk/ – who not only supplied the tickets to the Italy-France 6 Nations clash, but also subsidised the accommodation budget, meaning that the girls spent 2 nights in a swish 4* hotel in Rome.

After flying in to Ciampino airport the team was chauffeured to the hotel and then on to Stadio Flaminio to watch an exciting game of rugby, which unfortunately the host country lost. The girls all enjoyed the game and immediately after went to Finnegan’s Irish pub to watch the England-Scotland clash and then the eagerly anticipated Grand Slam decider between Wales-Ireland. A party of (very) vocal and patriotic Welsh girls in a pub packed with Irish supporters certainly raised a few eyebrows, not to mention the noise levels!

After the tense and nail-biting finish, we all trooped off to a local restaurant for what we all agreed were the best pizzas ever. Sunday was spent on the move, with Chris from Ticketbooth giving us a guided tour of Rome, which included stops for ice cream and hot chocolate – deemed essential by the Mermaids to keep them going. The evening was spent in Alfredo’s – a (before we arrived) quiet, typically Italian restaurant. Here we were served with a wide range of local delicacies (the adults and older girls also sampled the local beverages!). The evening ended with a competition. The Mermaids were split into 3 groups. The first task was to give a rendition of the Italian national anthem, which the girls had been previously told to learn. The first group (Abi, Kumari & Loz) gave their own version of the anthem, having rewritten the lyrics to tell of their days in Rome: the second group (Joely, Sarah & Mwsh) had to enlist the help of one of the waiters but the third group (Anna, Emma, Ellie & Gemma) admitted that they had not learnt the anthem and instead gave a rousing rendition of Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau. The second task was a rugby related quiz, with questions concerning the Italy-France game. Points were then added for attendance at training over the season. It was a close contest but the eventual winner was Loz, who was thrilled with her prize – the unique ‘players only’ t-shirt worn for pre-match training by Italian player Mirco Bergamasco. It was a great end to a fabulous weekend and the tired party fell into bed ready for the journey home the next morning.

The tour party – Anna, Kumari, Loz, Ellie, Sarah, Abi, Emma, Mwsh, Joely, Gemma, Gill, Louis and Ann are extremely grateful to Chris at Ticketbooth for his friendship, kindness, patience, humour and generous support to the U18 Mermaids. The girls certainly had a tour to remember and all agreed that it was the best tour ever!

Update

2009-03-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

Better numbers at training last night though I believe some of you were misbehaving while I was away dealing with an injury to one of the U15s. Well done to those who acted their age and did not rise to the bait. You will all know who I mean.

Early night tonight for those coming to Rome - 4am start!

Match V Esher

2009-03-18T10:23:00.000-07:00

This match is now confirmed for Sunday 5 April at 2pm. We are trying to get all the Gogledd Cymru U18s together - not sure yet which kit you will play in - we'll take a vote.

Thursday training

2009-03-18T10:21:00.000-07:00

Training tomorrow at 6.45pm - try and be there as I need to finalise details for tour plus Louis needs to talk to you about rugby matters.

Numbers

2009-03-16T05:13:00.000-07:00

Very disappointing turn out at training yesterday, even though the girls who did turn up enjoyed the session. I am not confirming any more games until I can be sure of numbers. I am keeping a record of attendance and there will be rewards for those who make the effort.

Tour to Rome

2009-03-13T15:40:00.000-07:00

It's nearly time girls! Early night next Friday - we've got a very early start.

Match

2009-03-03T08:44:00.000-08:00

We have a match V Esher U18s on Sunday 5 April, probably at 2pm, probably at CBRFC. More details will follow. I need to know asap if you are available to play.

Training changes

2009-02-23T13:30:00.000-08:00

Next training is Thursday at 7pm.
Sunday training will be slightly later - at 12 - due to pitch availability.

Training as usual

2009-02-18T11:49:00.000-08:00

Normal training tomorrow - 6.45pm at CBRFC

Sunday 8 February - training

2009-02-08T11:07:00.000-08:00

Good indoor tactical session today watching past Mermaid matches. Shame more of you didn't bother to turn up. Sarah and Emma are the only ones who let me know they couldn't make it. Those who have consistently missed training without letting me know are going to miss out on our end of season treats.

Sunday 8 February - training

2009-02-04T08:45:00.000-08:00

We have decided to have an indoor tactical training session and maybe watch a DVD. Meet in the President's lounge in the clubhouse at 11am.

Possible game

2009-02-03T10:00:00.001-08:00

We may have a game in Northwich on Sunday 15 Feb (the day after the Wales-England game). Let me know asap if you can play so I can book transport. Try your best as games are few and far between at the moment.

Sunday 8 February - training

2009-01-31T11:40:00.000-08:00

The proposed regional match has been postponed due to our problems with numbers. There are problems with pitch space at the club on Sunday 8 Feb so we will discuss on Thursday what we are going to do on Sunday. Those who have not given me the rest of the money for the Rome tour - make sure you pay it this week or you will have to find your own hotel rooms.

Thursday training

2009-01-30T00:44:00.000-08:00

Only 6 girls at training last night. I know some of you were ill or otherwise unable to come and let me know, but those who consistently miss training with no excuses will miss out on some proposed treats we have in store later in the season. I am keeping a record of attendance and only the girls who make an effort to try and come to regular training will be rewarded.

Development of girls rugby in North Wales

2009-01-26T14:16:00.000-08:00

I have just returned from a meeting of the Development Sub-Committee of the North Wales Rugby Union Council where I represent girls and women's rugby in North Wales and the committee are very enthusiastic about helping us to develop girls rugby. There will be a special meeting on Tuesday 17 February at 7.30pm to discuss girls and women's rugby. Anyone interested in the subject is welcome - if you want to come along or just pass on any ideas, please contact me.

Sunday

2009-01-23T09:40:00.000-08:00

The game V Pwllheli is postponed as they don't have a team. After taking a vote we have decided to cancel training this Sunday - back to normal on Thursday.

Possible bad news

2009-01-20T15:18:00.000-08:00

Our eagerly anticipated game against Pwllheli on Sunday may be off as they are struggling to find a team. Their club chairman says they only have 3 girls available. We are trying to find another game but it's a bit short notice.

Training today

2009-01-18T12:47:00.001-08:00

Nice to see you all having fun in training today.

Hope you're all as fast next week.

Shame about the knee injury Joely - good job you're a brave girl!

Training tomorrow (18 January)

2009-01-17T05:37:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow's training will be at Eirias astroturf at 11am as once again there is no room for us at the club. If anyone has problems getting there please contact me or Louis and I will try and arrange transport.

Come fly with me!

2009-01-16T10:36:00.000-08:00

Girls - tickets booked for our flight to Rome! Make sure you've got your passports ready.

Training issue

2009-01-11T07:55:00.000-08:00

Apologies to those who turned up for training today. Unfortunately the Junior Chairman cancelled all training but 'forgot' to inform us. We will ask for a meeting with the Chairman of the senior committee to resolve these issues asap.

Money

2009-01-09T16:38:00.000-08:00

Don't forget - you need to bring the money for the plane tickets by Thursday. Anyone who hasn't paid by then will have to make their own travel arrangements.

Tour to Rome

2009-01-05T08:58:00.000-08:00

Can you all get Monday 23 March off school/college? Let me know asap.

Fundraising

2009-01-01T11:36:00.001-08:00

Well done to those involved in the various fundraising efforts over the Christmas holidays.

Abi, Emma, Anna, Loz, Ellie and Kumari walked round with the Round Table Christmas float rattling collection buckets.
Asda bagpacking: Kumari, Loz, Abi and Anna put in 2 full days and Joely, Emma, Sarah, Jane and Jade helped for shorter periods. Any funds we are allocated from the the club due to these efforts will be shared out according to how much effort you put in.

Bagpacking etc

2008-12-19T13:48:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the long delay in updating the blog but as you know I have been dealing with some very sad happenings lately.

Short notice but bagpacking is going on at ASDA Llandudno on Monday and Tuesday from 9am to 9pm. We are expected to turn up for as many sessions as we can manage. Don't forget - this is how the club manages to fund such things as transport, food and laundry etc so we need to help as much as possible.

Tracksuits

2008-11-24T08:31:00.000-08:00

The tracksuits have arrived girls! I will bring them on Thursday but you will only get yours if you have fully paid.

2008-11-17T06:10:00.000-08:00

U18 Mermaids V Pwllheli
Score: Mermaids 20 – Pwllheli 0

Originally the U18 Mermaids fixture was planned against Ysgol Botwrnog, with the help of Ellie Wynn Jones. Pwllheli agreed to fill the breach as the school were unable to raise an U18 team. We are grateful to Ellie Wynn Jones and the coaching staff at Pwllheli, Sian and Linda, for organising this planned practice fixture.

The Mermaids were joined by sisters Bethan and Elin Lloyd Jones from Bangor rugby club, Ellie Jones, Cara Smith and Kelly Staples from Oswestry rugby club and Eluned Rogers from Ruthin RFC.

Gemma Tilyard and Ellie Rawicki in the first half and Kelly Staples and Ellie Jones in the second half were loaned to Pwllheli who were also joined by a few girls from Ysgol Botwrnog to make for a more reasonable 15 a side game. This helped to fulfil partly the objectives of the journey, to train together and play a mixed squad which would help develop the game and individual players in North Wales.

There appeared to be sufficient pride in the jerseys to make for a feisty and passionate encounter.

The first half belonged to the Mermaids who stormed from the kick off to camp almost exclusively in the Pwllheli half, launching wave upon wave of their now trade mark style of phased play from rucks and mauls. They have also managed to develop speed amongst the backs which helped them spread the attack wide when necessary. Four tries resulted. None of them were converted.

The second half began much the same way the first ended with the Mermaids foraging into the Pwllheli half. However, unnecessary penalties and dropped balls saw them squander scoring opportunities on the Pwllheli try line. Pwllheli changed tactics using long range kicks to get out of their half. They were eventually rewarded spending the last 10 minutes or so of the match close to the Mermaids try line. However the Mermaids survived some anxious moments, and some detained and fierce tackling saw them keep a clean sheet at the end.

Sisters Bethan and Elin Lloyd Jones had en excellent game, complementing the Mermaids forwards, with some fine clearing and rucking at the breakdowns and carrying the ball past the gain line many times. All the forwards had good games with Emma Beaumont, Sarah Johnston, Kumari Tilakawardane, and Joely Benton doing well as always. It was particularly rewarding to see Gemma Tilyard gaining in confidence and showing a fine display of tackling and ball carrying and to see Eluned Rogers gelling well with the forwards. Eluned had an exceptional game amongst an unfamiliar squad and should be a name to watch out for in the future. Another newcomer to rugby, Cara Smith from Oswestry gave a superb account of herself in the second row, again a name to be followed in the future.

Amongst the backs Elin Royle played with the assurance and élan that we have come to expect of her at full back. She collected the high ball with ease and glided well past the Pwllheli attackers time and again. She was unfortunate to be deemed to have knocked the ball on close to the try line, the referee being momentarily unsighted. All the backs performed well as a unit with good support and communication keeping the ball alive and joining in with the forwards to keep momentum. Abi Beards, Loz McGee, Ellie Jones had good games with ball in hand and tackling. Anna Parkin marshalled her backs well. Sian Williams had many breaks into the opposition two ending in tries.

In a good team it is difficult to pikc a player of the match for the side but it would be fair that Eluned Rogers and Cara Smith, having very good games on their debuts, should share the accolade.

The Pwllheli girls played well together and showed that they are used to playing together. There is talent in abundance in Pwllheli and they will become even more formidable with match experience.

Certainly the way ahead to develop girls’ rugby in the region has been forged. Thanks are due to the management of Ysgol Botwrnog, Pwllheli, Colwyn Bay, Bangor, Oswestry and Ruthin rugby clubs for their support. Today the planned joint training sessions did not take place. Maybe in the days to come, combined training sessions would be a more comfortable place for all club squads to visit, setting alight the talent that is available in the region for Gogledd and Welsh squads.

Tries were scored by: Sian Williams (2), Anna Parkin, Joely Benton.

Sunday's plan

2008-11-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

The coach will be leaving Colwyn Bay RFC at 11am to go to Pwllheli. The coach will be making a stop in Bangor to pick up some of you. We are having a joint training session and then playing a friendly match against a combined team from Ysgol Botwrnog/Pwllheli.

Next match

2008-11-09T14:19:00.000-08:00

We are playing Ysgol Botwrnog next Sunday at Pwllheli RFC. Will give you details of coach pick up times on Wednesday or Thursday.

Tracksuit update

2008-11-06T07:51:00.001-08:00

The tracksuits may be ready in a week or so - make sure you have paid the full price or you will have to wait.

Possible match

2008-11-03T05:03:00.001-08:00

We may have a new fixture lined up - more details on Thursday.

Training

2008-11-02T11:05:00.000-08:00

Very disappointing turn out at training today. We will have to reconsider the numbers for the tour - no commitment, no tour.

Tour and fundraising

2008-10-18T02:01:00.000-07:00

We need to seriously start fundraising now to book our flight tickets to Rome - I estimate we need at least £100 per person so if we don't do any joint fundraising you will all have to raise this amount yourselves. Louis & I cannot do all the thinking here - you girls need to start organising things as well. Start thinking girls.

Update

2008-10-18T01:57:00.000-07:00

No training tomorrow as most of you will be playing for Gogledd Cymru in the afternoon.
Next Thursday there is no pitch available to train at the club as there is a women's match being played on pitch 2 so Eirias Arena has been booked for training. However, those who come to Bangor for training on Wednesday (7pm) can skip training on Thurday and go along to support the Colwyn Bay women's team - we will tell you more tomorrow.

Mermaids V Waterloo

2008-10-12T12:31:00.000-07:00

U18 Mermaids V Waterloo

Final score: Mermaids 54 - Waterloo 7

The U18 Mermaids welcomed old friends Waterloo to Brookfield Drive on a sunny Sunday afternoon (a welcome change from the recent torrential rain!). The Mermaids were joined by guest players from Pwllheli, Nant and Oswestry – the Oswestry girls later changed shirts to bolster the Waterloo team.

The match began with Waterloo in attacking mood launching ferocious assaults on the team in pink. The Mermaids looked anxious and unsettled but the defence held. Turn over ball passed quickly through the hands resulted in a try by Jane Owen. This settled the Mermaids and they played with more authority. They played the game they had become good at of retaining the ball over many phases before releasing players over the try line. Charlotte Pirie from Pwllheli, playing in the pink shirt for the first time showed significant speed to score the second try. Tries followed at regular intervals.

Waterloo put in many good efforts but valiant defending by the girls in pink frustrated them. In the second half Waterloo put in a period of sustained pressure, staying in the Mermaid 22 for a prolonged period and were rewarded by a well constructed try under the post. However, this was the only success they were to have today as the Mermaid defence held and managed to increase the score by further tries.

The Mermaids were led by the new captain for the season Sarah Johnston. She has continued in splendid form this season and displayed new found vigour, celebrating her call to the Welsh under 20 squad. She proved a sterling asset in the scrums. She, and in her absence Ellen Jones won virtually every scrum to deny Waterloo balls at the scrum. The Mermaids did well to push and dominate the heavier Waterloo pack. In the loose Emma Beaumont continued to excel in the back row. All the forwards played well together to harass Waterloo when they attacked and claiming the ball at the breakdown.

The backs found new vigour with the vision and darting breaks of Sian Williams with support from speedy wings, which meant that when the ball was released wide that the Mermaids gained ground with ease. Elin Royle had an excellent game as full back, coping well when Waterloo tested her with high ball - she did better than cope, turning these into attack with some fine running from the back. She created many tries and was herself rewarded with a try from these efforts.

The score line does not reflect the attacking play of Waterloo, more it is a testament to the Mermaids superb defence. It was not to be Waterloo’s day. Surely they will return to avenge this one that got away in the near future.

Tries:
Abi Beards – 2
Emma Beaumont – 1
Sian Williams – 1
Charlotte Pirie (borrowed player) – 2
Jane Owen – 1 try, 2 conversions
Elin Royle (borrowed player) – 2
Elan Jones (borrowed player) - 1

Waterloo – 1 converted try

Team news

2008-10-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

Latest news:
Sarah Johnston is taking over as Captain this season.

Training tonight

2008-10-09T13:37:00.000-07:00

Good turn out for training tonight girls - I don't know if it's because of the matches coming up or the thought of going to Rome on tour that's spurring you on but keep it up!

Congratulations

2008-10-08T09:38:00.000-07:00

Sarah Johnston has been selected for the Wales U20 squad following trials in Cardiff last Saturday.
Joely Benton and Anna Parkin have been asked to trial again in the future.
Well done to all of you.

Update

2008-10-05T10:35:00.000-07:00

Now you all know where and when we are going on tour! We need to do loads of fundraising between now and then. Also some players need to show more committment to the team - training has been very poorly attended of late. I will be keeping a register and some of you may not get the opportunity to come on tour if you keep letting the team down.
We have a match next Sunday so maximum turn out for training on Thursday.

Tour news

2008-10-01T09:50:00.000-07:00

Really exciting news about our tour girls! I will tell you all on Thursday evening so make sure you're at training.