Colwyn Bay Youth 0 – 48  Union Sportive L’isle Jourdan

Colwyn Bay Youth were recently honoured to entertain an under 19’s French touring side from L’ise Jourdan. The visitors had already beaten a strong Caldy RFC side so the Bay knew they were facing a strong challenge from the visitors.

On a hot and sunny evening more suited to France than North Wales the match kicked off with the Bay soon in a good attacking position. However, despite this early pressure the visitors defence was well organised and kept the home side out.  Following this early pressure most of the first half was played in the middle of the field with neither side gaining any significant advantage, with the Bay’s scrumaging power negating the excellent line out play of the visitors.   

Then with some five minutes left of the first half the French visitors were awarded a penalty straight in front of the post, which was easily converted. This gave the visitors a great deal of confidence and they were soon on the attack again and as a result just before the half ended they forced their way over for a converted try, making the half time score 10-0 to the visitors.

During the break the visitors made a number of tactical changes that strengthened their three quarters, this was apparent as they were soon making significant breaks through the Bay’s defence.  Despite this the home side continued to hold out and defended resolutely.

However, as the match wore on it was apparent that the French side was both better organised and fitter than the home side. As a result the points began to flow with the visitors scoring almost at will and running in a number of tries from their own half. Although outplayed, the young Bay squad refused to give in and finished the game strongly with a number of drives close to the base of the scrum, forcing L’isle Jourdan back deep into their own half. This performance should give the squad a great deal of confidence for next year.

Following the game the teams and their officials retired to the clubhouse and exchanged gifts while enjoying good Welsh hospitality.