The Blues were quickly at the races and gained good field position from the opening plays and tested the Scarlets defence. Early pressure led to the opening points of the game from the boot of Blues Full back Rhys Bow (Merthyr) who slotted a penalty.

The lead was then increased shortly after as Number 8 Jay Evans (Merthyr RFC) who at short notice was drafted up from the bench to replace the injured Ed Jones (Pontyclun) powered over in the corner for an unconverted try. Lapses in concentration from the restart lead to an infringement which Scarlets outside half Ben Williams (Burry Port RFC) took full advantage and converted into 3 points.

This gave the Scralets a boost which resulted in them keep hold of the ball for longer periods of play, building up phases with lively scrum half Josh Thomas (Pontyberem RFC) keeping the Blues on their toes with some sharp breaks around the rucks and mauls.

Before the half hour the Blues were rewarded for a brave decision to kick for touch rather than taking the points as Hooker and Captain Nathan Mason (Mountain Ash) reacted quickest at a ruck near the posts to claim the second try of the game which was converted by Outside Half Liam Jones (Aberdare RFC).

With the body language now visibly in the Blues favour, they started to enjoy more possession and keep their opponents pinned in their own half with some good work through the forwards. But the warning signs were still there for the Blues as Williams doubled his points tally with a 3 pointer from in front of the posts.

Shortly before the break the Blues managed to once again increased their lead when centre Luke Davies (Gilfach Goch) managed to find a gap and score under the posts. Bow adding the additional points from the conversion.

HT Blues North 22 - Scarlets (East) 6

The Blues came out after the break looking to build on their first half performance and keep hold of the lead with a similar brand of rugby that worked so well in the first half. But sadly, the second half never really got going as both teams became frustrated by what seemed to be set piece after set piece, which slowed the game down considerably and no momentum could be generated by either side.

Into the last quarter of the of the second half the Scarlets threw everything they had at the Blues line and with the ever increasing penalty count going against them and with a man in the bin, it was inevitable that their try line would be breached at it was only a matter of time before they scored under the posts. It was now game on as the Scarlets clearly had their tales up and the bit between their teeth.

Going into the highly charged closing moments the Blues had to endure a relentless onslaught that needed a huge defensive effort from all, and to a man everyone delivered.
FT Blues North 22 - Scarlets (East) 13