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Week Ending 20th May

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORT FOR MONDAY 16^TH MAY 2011

WREXHAM   66        MENAI BRIDGE      0

Wrexham retained their place in North Wales Division Two with an emphatic 66-0 victory over Division Three champions Menai Bridge in a crunch play-off contest at Denbigh Rugby Club.

They struggled to make headway in the opening quarter due to a catalogue of mistakes, the kind that had dogged them all season and forced them into this play-off match. There was, however, a moment to cheer when their threequarters broke quickly from their half in the 7^th minute and centre Josh Francis fed wing Jack Radcliffe who stretched his legs to score under the posts.

Scrum-half Owain Turner missed the simple conversion and then failed with a penalty attempt, but Wrexham soon started to dominate the game through their more powerful pack and hungry young threequarters. It was an older hand, wing Scott Davies, who made a big difference in the 23^rd minute when he made about 30 metres of ground down the left wing and then offloaded to his forwards who released flanker Phil Williams for a great try under the posts.

Outside-half Mike Powell took over the conversion kicking duties but he too failed with a straightforward attempt. However, with Williams securing a stream of possession from the line-outs, number eight Troy Roberts softening up the Menai Bridge defence with his powerful thrusts and centre Dave Sully stopping any counter attacks, Wrexham soon hit top gear.

A neat break and a 20 metre run produced a try for Josh Francis in the 26^th minute, and he came back to score another one only moments later with a delicate pirouette. A run by Sully then set up a final try before the break, Scott Davies taking a scoring pass from Mike Powell. Despite using different kickers, all conversion attempts failed, leaving Wrexham with a lead of 25-0.

Menai Bridge pressed hard at the start of the second-half with an increasing breeze at their backs. Their opponents had to use their dominant pack to drive back the Gwynedd side from their line and were greatly relieved when Ratcliffe broke out and scored under the posts. That wasn’t converted but the next one, Ratcliffe’s hat-trick, was converted by skipper Mike Jones to a loud cheer.

By now Menai Bridge perhaps had their minds on their North Wales Intermediate Cup Final against Llanidloes tomorrow night and offered little resistance with this game lost. Further tries followed from replacements Rhydian Jones and Ian Sanger, full-back Andy Clutton, Scott Davies and a final try from Francis that brought up his hat-trick. Jones added two conversions.

Having secured their future in Division Two after the efforts and worries of recent weeks, Wrexham should be in a good mood to celebrate the end of this season at their Presentation Evening at Wrexham Rugby Club on Friday evening.                            

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEW FOR MONDAY 16^TH MAY 2011

MENAI BRIDGE V WREXHAM

Wrexham meet Menai Bridge at Denbigh Rugby Club this evening in a North Wales Division Two play-off match that could be a defining moment in the future of both clubs (kick-off at 7.30pm). 

Success for Wrexham will ensure that they stay in their current division for another year, but defeat would condemn them to a place in Division Three where they would encounter a mixed bag of games. On the positive side, they would renew their old rivalry against their close neighbours Rhos, but they would also have to travel to Anglesey more regularly to take on clubs like Benllech, Llangoed and Holyhead.

Guy Bingham returns at prop to add more power to the scrum, while Troy Roberts will inject some pace in the back-row. Joint top try scorer Jack Ratcliffe and Josh Francis will make up a formidable partnership in the centre, while the powerful Scott Davies will be difficult to stop on the wing.

Wrexham have a side capable of challenging Menai Bridge who are the Division Three champions. Poor tackling, a lack of pace and the failure to capitalise on scoring chances have let them down this season, but they now have the opportunity to make amends and retain their place in Division Two. 

REPORT FOR SATURDAY 14^TH MAY 2011

RHYL YOUTH          24        WREXHAM YOUTH           31

Wrexham Youth had to come from behind at Rhyl to defeat the Seasiders by 31-24 and claim third place in this season’s North Wales Division One Championship.

The game exploded into life midway through the first-half when Rhyl broke through to open the scoring with a converted try. Three minutes later, Wrexham outside-half James Price kicked a penalty to narrow the gap, but the home side quickly replied with another converted try to stretch their lead to 14-3.

Undeterred, Wrexham stormed back with their first try when lock Jamie Weston took a quick tap penalty and crashed over, Price adding the extra points with a neat conversion. Back came Rhyl with a penalty before the visitors replied with a try out wide by centre Owain Turner and another Price conversion. A minute later, the ball landed in the hands of Price from Rhyl’s kick-off and he ran it straight back to score under the posts before adding the conversion.

That gave Wrexham a 24-17 lead, which they held until half-time. Rhyl put in a big effort after the break but were rocked by a second try from Owain Turner after only five minutes of play. Price converted again from wide-out and, although Rhyl came back with a converted try in the 60^th minute, Wrexham held onto their 7 point lead to claim victory in an excellent match.

Flanker Matt Evans did everything that was expected of a good back-row player while the big lock Ryan Jones carried the ball superbly to set up a number of attacks by the victors.               

Week Ending 13th May

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 7^TH MAY 2011

MACHYNLLETH     60        WREXHAM   17

Machynlleth guaranteed their existence in North Wales Division Two with a comprehensive 60-17 home victory over Wrexham, who now face a play-off against Division Three champions Menai Bridge for a place in the second division next season.

Despite having to field a makeshift backline, the visitors played well in an evenly matched first-half and reached the break with the scores level at 17-17. Good line-out work by skipper Mike Jones resulted in a driving maul that ended with prop Dave Gard crashing over for a try. Centre Jack Ratcliffe added the extra points with a well-struck conversion. .... more

WREXHAM YOUTH           0          RUTHIN YOUTH     32

Wrexham Youth were knocked out of the North Wales Youth Cup at the semi-final stage by visitors Ruthin Youth, who delivered another powerful performance against their close rivals and won by 32-0 at Bryn Estyn Road.

The home side competed very well in the first-half of the game and created a couple of scoring chances without being able to capitalise on them. Prop Aaron Hughes unfortunately lost control of the ball as he dived to score. Skipper Declan Simms, playing on the flank, led by example and proved a thorn in Ruthin’s side until he had to leave the field with a facial injury.

Prop Szymon Galarowicz, operating in an unaccustomed role on the wing, proved to be a revelation when he continued to frustrate some of Ruthin’s attacking moves with some all-embracing tackles. The visitors are the class act in Youth Division One this season, however, and they eventually wore Wrexham down and scored the tries that earned them a place in the cup final.     

Week Ending 29th April

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 30^TH APRIL 2011

WREXHAM FIRSTS

Wrexham First Team have a blank Saturday while they prepare for next week’s crunch match at Machynlleth in a Division Two basement battle. If they win at Machynlleth they will have a chance of avoiding a play-off for their survival at this level against new Division Three champions Menai Bridge, but if they lose they will have to play the Anglesey club at a neutral venue late in May.

WREXHAM YOUTH V DENBIGH YOUTH

Having competed in a hard fought league match at Denbigh last Saturday, with Wrexham Youth edging home by 14-10, the same teams will contest a quarter-final game in the North Wales Youth Cup competition at Bryn Estyn Road tomorrow (kick-off at 2.30pm).

The outcome of matches between the two clubs in league and cup competitions have always been difficult to predict, but Wrexham are expected to be boosted by the return of centre Josh Francis and scrum-half Owain Turner who were on First Team duty last week.

WREXHAM SECONDS

No game.     

WREXHAM REPORT FOR SATURDAY 23^RD APRIL 2011

DENBIGH     27        WREXHAM   19

Wrexham went desperately close to achieving a much needed victory at Denbigh after leading by 19-3 at the break and then going off the boil in the final quarter to lose by 27-19.

A fine team performance in the opening-half led to scores by scrum-half Owain Turner, wing Jack Ratcliffe and flanker Phil Williams. Ratcliffe, not known previously as a goal kicker, stepped up to the mark and landed two successful conversions to increase Wrexham’s advantage to a hefty sixteen points at half-time.

Prop David Gard stood out in the pack for his impressive all round strengths, and centre Josh Francis was outstanding in attack and defence. Denbigh, out of sorts early on, found their rhythm after the break and struck back with a couple of tries. The visitors seemed to lose their concentration, holes appeared at the back and they fell away towards the end to lose a match that they had within their grasp.  

DENBIGH YOUTH    10    WREXHAM YOUTH    14

WREXHAM 2NDS    17    MOLD 2NDS    12

Week Ending 22nd April

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORT FOR WEDNESDAY 20^TH APRIL AND PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 23^RD APRIL 2011

WELSHPOOL           10        WREXHAM   41

Wrexham climbed above Machynlleth in their bid to avoid the Division Two play-offs with a 41-10 victory under floodlights at Maesydre Recreation Recreation Ground. Winger Jack Ratcliffe scorched over for a hat-trick of tries and lock Joss Stott crossed twice for the visitors before leaving the field with a suspected dislocated shoulder. DENBIGH v WREXHAM

Wrexham visit Denbigh in the penultimate game of the season in Division Two (k.o.2.30pm).

David Gard will return to prop-up the front row and Michael Powell is expected to continue at outside-half where he has performed well since his return to playing rugby. Wrexham lost at home by 14-51 when the two sides met in January but Wrexham were very match rusty after the long Christmas lay-off at the time and are aiming to do better at Denbigh this time.

DENBIGH YOUTH V WREXHAM YOUTH

Wrexham Youth travel with their senior side to Denbigh for the penultimate league game of their  North Wales Youth Division One campaign (k.o.2.30pm). They defeated Denbigh by 15-10 at Bryn Estyn Road last September and are hoping that they can repeat that success tomorrow to keep in contention for a top three finish in the league table.

WREXHAM 2NDS V MOLD 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds have home advantage when they take on their local rival Mold Seconds in a rearranged Division Four contest (k.o.2.30pm). Mold lost the corresponding match by 11-17 at Chester Road a month ago but will be aiming to square the series at Wrexham. 

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORT FOR WEDNESDAY ^16TH APRIL 

Wrexham competed well for 70 minutes in a titanic struggle with Division Two championship contenders Llanidloes at Bryn Estyn Road, but they conceded 3 converted tries as they ran out of steam in the closing period and finished unwarranted 3-32 losers. ..... more

Wrexham deserved more for their efforts and aim to bounce back with a win when they visit Welshpool in a rearranged Division Two league contest on Wednesday evening (kick-off at 7.30pm).  

Week Ending 15th April

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEWS FOR SATURDAY 16^TH APRIL 2011

Following their try feast against Welshpool on Wednesday evening, Wrexham will have to come down to earth quickly when they take on visitors Llanidloes in a Division Two match (k.o.2.30pm).

Llanidloes are a high scoring side who currently occupy third place in the table and will prove to be a handful against a Wrexham team that is struggling to maintain its survival in this division. Coach Rob Thomas was impressed with his side’s winning performance on Wednesday and is counting on the boost in confidence produced by that success to spur Wrexham on to a good performance against Llanidloes.

REPORT FOR WEDNESDAY 13^TH APRIL 2011

WREXHAM   71        WELSHPOOL           5

Wrexham claimed their first victory since February when they overwhelmed bottom club Welshpool by 71-5 in a floodlit Division Two contest at Bryn Estyn Road.  

Lock Ian Sanger, the home team’s top try scorer, forced his way over the Welshpool line to open the scoring in the 3^rd minute of the game and this was followed by breakaway tries from wingers Leighton Cox and Owain Harry, the last one converted by full-back Andy Clutton. ... more   

 

OTHER TEAMS

Wrexham Youth Team and the Second XV are both hoping to arrange last minute games from the local fixture pool.

SUNDAY 17^TH APRIL 2011

On Sunday, Wrexham Rugby Club will be staging their highly popular Annual Anglo/Welsh Tournament at their Bryn Estyn Road ground with teams from all over Wales and England taking part in this mini and junior rugby event. . 

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 9^TH APRIL 2011

ABERGELE   35        WREXHAM 1STS     5

Wrexham lost ground in their bid to avoid the end of season play-offs when they were defeated by 35-5 at Abergele. ... more      

WELSHPOOL YOUTH        0          WREXHAM YOUTH           50

Wrexham Youth claimed a place in the quarter-finals of the North Wales Youth Cup with a 50-0 demolition of an under powered Welshpool side at Maesydre Recreation Ground.

The game was totally dominated by the visitors who raced to their winning total in only 50 minutes before the game was stopped under the competition rules. Number eight Dafydd Kember claimed a hat-trick of tries as a reward for a fine performance and there were single touchdowns from centre Josh Francis, lock Christian Burgoyne, wing Shaun Ferrari, full-back Nathan Jones and hooker Rob Evans who also put in an excellent effort.  

Outside-half James Price converted 5 of the 8 tries for his team who will have home advantage when they meet Denbigh Youth in the quarter-finals, the date to be arranged. 

Week Ending 8th April

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEWS FOR SATURDAY 9^TH APRIL 2011

ABERGELE V WREXHAM 1STS

Wrexham Firsts travel to Abergele to take on the North Wales Division Two ‘new boys’ in a league game that has added significance now that the season is drawing to a close (kick-off at 2.30pm).

Abergele are holding a safe mid table position after making good progress in their first season since being elevated from Division Three. Wrexham, on the other hand, have won only 3 of their 16 league games so far. They are fourth from bottom of the table with the prospect of having to face a play-off game against the new Division Three champions if they slip one place further.

Top try scorer Ian Sanger, with 8 touchdowns to his credit this season, is expected to play in the pack while Andy Clutton, who missed February’s home game when Abergele won by 33-16, will add strength in the backs. Skipper Mike Jones, whose departure due to a shoulder injury in that game led to a loss of momentum, will start in the second-row.     

WELSHPOOL YOUTH V WREXHAM YOUTH

Wrexham Youth Team visit Welshpool for a re-arranged North Wales Youth Cup round one contest at the early kick-off time of 1.00pm. They have a good record in the competition in recent times but went out to Mold last year at the quarter-final stage and want to improve on that this season.

WREXHAM 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds are hoping to arrange a game from the local fixture pool.

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORT FOR WEDNESDAY 6^TH APRIL 2011

WREXHAM   7          COBRA          41

Wrexham’s woes continued as they delivered a poor performance and were thrashed 41-7 by visitors Cobra and a North Wales Division Two contest.

The team from Meifod in mid Wales went ahead, against the run of play, in the 5^th minute when their lively young full-back Sion Wyn Williams accelerated from the half-way line and scored wide-out. Wrexham tried to force their way into the game but were disjointed and fell further behind when they conceded a penalty in front of their posts that was kicked by scrum-half Alwyn Williams. .... more

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 2^ND APRIL 2011

WREXHAM 1STS V WELSHPOOL

Wrexham First Team’s Division Two match was postponed on Saturday morning when visitors Welshpool had to cry-off due to a lack of players.

RUTHIN YOUTH     56        WREXHAM YOUTH           5

Wrexham Youth had high hopes of matching the North Wales Youth Division One leaders at Cae Ddol but Ruthin pulled out all the stops in the second -half and raced to a crushing 56-5 victory.

Although they conceded an early try, Wrexham competed well for a period with skipper Declan Simms leading by example on the flank and number eight Dafydd Kember impressing at number eight. Kember crossed for a deserved try in the 25^th minute to reduce the deficit to 2 points but then the home side changed the course of the game when they used their superior pace to great effect.

Ruthin established a 22-5 lead by half-time and then stretched away with 34 unanswered points to complete a notable double over their close rivals.     

WREXHAM 2NDS   37        LLANDUDNO 2NDS           24

Wrexham Seconds made it five victories in a row when they overcame visitors Llandudno Seconds by 37-24 in a Division Four contest.

Scrum-half John Gormley kicked the home side into a 9-0 lead with 3 well struck penalties before Llandudno shook them by replying with a converted try. With former Youth Team player Jake Edwards making a big impression at prop, and lock Tom Williams making Llandudno turn with his long runs, Wrexham soon dominated the game again.

Centre Scott Davies and number eight Keir Harding scored a brace of tries apiece, all of them converted by the on form Gormley, before Llandudno narrowed the gap with a couple of consolation scores late on.

Week Ending 1st April

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 2^ND APRIL 2011

WREXHAM 1STS V WELSHPOOL

Wrexham Firsts take on Welshpool at Bryn Estyn Road in a key North Wales Division Two contest, knowing that they must fashion a victory over the mid Wales club to protect their current position above the relegation zone (kick-off at 2.30pm).

Youth Team forward Gruffudd Jones will make his senior debut in the back-row where his pace should give his side an advantage in attack and defence. Dave Gard returns at prop but hooker Paul Allen and full-back Owain Harry will face late fitness tests after suffering injuries at Dolgellau last week.

Wrexham will miss the services of outside-half Roger Chadwick, the team’s top scorer, who is unavailable, but skipper Mike Jones is confident that he has the strength in depth within the squad to plug the gap. Due to the severe winter, Wrexham haven’t met Welshpool this season, but they managed a 28-15 victory at Bryn Estyn Road last season and are aiming to repeat that success.   

RUTHIN YOUTH V WREXHAM YOUTH

Wrexham Youth visit North Wales Youth Division One league leaders Ruthin at Cae Ddol for a top of the table contest (k.o. 2.30pm). The Clwyd Valley team hammered the home side by 56-9 when they visited Bryn Estyn Road last month, but Wrexham have improved since then and should give a better account of themselves tomorrow.   

WREXHAM 2NDS V LLANDUDNO 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds entertain Llandudno Seconds in a Division Four contest, aiming to build on an impressive run of four successive victories against quality opposition (k.o.2.30pm).   

WREXHAM REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 26^TH MARCH 2011

DOLGELLAU           42        WREXHAM   7

Wrexham gave an improved account of themselves at Dolgellau against the Division Two title chasers, but early mistakes led to them conceding four early tries and there was no way back from that handicap as they lost by 7-42. ... more

WREXHAM YOUTH           50        BALA YOUTH          14

Wrexham Youth enjoyed their biggest victory of the season when they defeated visitors Bala by 50-14 at Bryn Estyn Road.

The first-half was an evenly balanced contest with the home side just edging it by 19-14 at the break, but Wrexham improved dramatically while Bala seemed to run out of steam in the second-half. Lock Jamie Weston and flanker Dafydd Kember grabbed a brace of tries apiece while centre Scott Jones, full-back Nathan Jones, scrum-half Tom Robinson and prop Szymon Galarowicz notched a try apiece.

Outside-half James Price converted 5 of the 8 tries and there were impressive performances from newcomer Haydn Kidd, who demonstrated his strength in the threequarters, and Galarowicz who provided extra thrust in the pack on his introduction as a replacement. 

MOLD 2NDS 11        WREXHAM 2NDS   17

Wrexham Seconds were overjoyed with their impressive 17-11 success at Mold in a Division Four local derby contest.

After Mold took an early lead with a penalty, Wrexham countered with a try by lock Jason Parry and a conversion by outside-half Ross Roberts before Mold recovered the lead with an unconverted try before half-time.

It continued to be a well-contested affair after the break, but a second try for Parry and a stylish touchdown by number eight Iwan Roberts won the game for the visitors. Gavin Brace impressed at scrum-half and flanker Tim Roberts, back in the side after recovering from long-term injury, performed well in the pack.       

Week Ending 25th March

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEWS FOR SATURDAY 26^TH MARCH 2011

DOLGELLAU V WREXHAM 1STS

Wrexham captain Mike Jones will make his 150^th senior appearance for his club when they visit North Wales Division Two leaders Dolgellau tomorrow afternoon (kick-off at 2.30pm).

Jones, a former Youth Team player at Wrexham, made his senior debut in 2003 when he helped his side to secure a narrow 18-15 away victory over a very good Llandudno side. He usually plays as a lock or a number eight in the pack, but has also featured with some success in the threequarters and can kick goals if called upon.

Jones will need all of his skills and leadership to overcome a high scoring Dolgellau side who look set to return to Division One as champions of their division by the end of this season. They whitewashed a weakened and out of sorts Wrexham by 51-0 when they visited Bryn Estyn Road in October and will be clear favourites to repeat the treatment on their home ground.

Wrexham will be more competitive on this occasion, however they may need to make changes in the pack as an injury to Dave Gard will enforce a fitness test before being pronounced fit to play . Winger Jack Ratcliffe, who threatened to score several times against Rhyl last week, may make a difference at Dolgellau if he receives the support from his colleagues that his strong running demands.         

WREXHAM YOUTH V BALA YOUTH

Wrexham Youth entertain Bala in a North Wales Youth Division One game at Bryn Estyn Road (k.o.2.30pm).

Having put a stop to a period of poor form with a highly committed 15-6 victory at Mold last week, Wrexham are in third place in the table and are aiming to finish the season on a high note. They drew by 13-13 at Bala in January but should claim the full points this time to keep in touch with the league leaders.  

MOLD 2NDS V WREXHAM 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds travel the short distance to Mold to take on their local rivals in a Division Four Championship match. They lost by 6-43 at the same ground last year but should make it a more even contest this time (k.o.2.30pm). 

WREXHAM REPORT FOR SATURDAY 19^TH MARCH 2011

WREXHAM 1STS     5          RHYL     24

Wrexham were caught napping at the start of their crucial Division Two game against Rhyl at Bryn Estyn Lane and never managed to get back on terms with the Seasiders who eventually triumphed by 24-5. .... more

Having missed an early penalty, the visitors surged to the Wrexham line in the 7^th minute and no one managed to lay a hand on scrum-half James Farrell who dived over from a ruck. Centre Rob Manley added the extra points with a well struck conversion and the home side then had to defend desperately through centres Troy Roberts and new recruit Dave Sully as Rhyl threatened to run away with it.

The difference in confidence levels was very apparent with Rhyl having been boosted by their 67-0 demolition of Bangor on the previous Saturday and Wrexham trying to recover from an 8-69 humiliation at Bala. Veteran number eight Ian Sanger raised the home side’s spirits with a surge that led to a penalty in the 14^th minute, but outside-half Roger Chadwick failed with his kick.

Wrexham’s forwards, on Rhyl’s own admission, dominated the set-scrum, but they were less incisive in the rucks and mauls where the visitors were able to claim plentiful possession to feed their lively threequarters. Manley extended Rhyl’s lead with a penalty in the 28th minute and then converted a try by winger Paul Sellwood only four minutes later.

On the stroke of half-time, however, Wrexham winger Dave Thomas intercepted an attacking move by Rhyl on their own 22 and he stretched his legs to score a fine opportunist try that Chadwick was unable to improve. This led to an improved performance from the home side at the start of the second-half, but a penalty effort by Dave Thomas failed to reach the posts.

Left wing Jack Ratcliffe enjoyed a couple of stirring runs that forced Rhyl on the defensive and replacement flanker Keir Harding was outstanding with his ball winning skills. On the right wing, Thomas was always industrious as he went in search of a second try, and the introduction of Mike Jones to the pack gave Wrexham a steady stream of possession from the line-out.

The problem for Wrexham was that although some decent attacking moves were created, support for the ball carriers was often slow to arrive, wrong options were taken and there was little structure to their play. Rhyl came back in the final quarter with a try by Farrell from a 40 metre run that should have been stopped at source, Manley adding his third conversion of the game.       

MOLD YOUTH         6          WREXHAM YOUTH           15

Wrexham Youth defied their current form and won the local derby at Mold by 15-6, avenging a previous heavy defeat on their home ground.

Missing several key players, the visitors had to switch scrum-half Owain Turner to centre to form a new partnership with Nathan Jones. Mold pressed hard from the beginning and went into a 6-0 lead with a brace of penalties. Wrexham had chances to level the scores with penalty kicks of their own, but outside-half James Price failed to find the target.

Price’s sound work in defence was invaluable, however, and the visitors started to dominate the game. Their reward came towards the end of the half when number eight Dafydd Kember powered over for a fine try that Price converted to give his side the lead.

A second try from Kember extended Wrexham’s advantage in the second-half but they had to use all of their experience to keep the home side at bay and eventually close down the game. A late penalty from Price sealed it for the visitors in what was an excellent team effort coupled with a fine individual performance from Turner in his first appearance in the centre. 

Week Ending 18th March

WREXHAM PREVIEWS FOR SATURDAY 19^TH MARCH 2011

WREXHAM 1STS V RHYL

Wrexham front-row forward Nick Perrin will make his 100^th senior appearance for his club when they take on Rhyl at Bryn Estyn Road in a North Wales Division Two Championship contest (2.30pm).

Perrin is one of those unsung heroes of the game who has always been able to contribute a determined performance for his side, wherever and whenever they may play. A product of Wrexham’s successful youth team policy, he made his senior debut in 2002 in South Wales against Hendy in a Swalec Welsh Cup contest, the home side winning by 63-24.  

Wrexham suffered a similar defeat in their most recent game at Bala a fortnight ago when they were hammered by 69-8 with a weakened side. Against Rhyl at home, however, the team should be at full strength with Roger Chadwick returning at outside-half and Mark Gasson slotting in on the wing.

The home side are in a precarious position in Division Two at the moment, hovering above the play-off zone where they would have to beat a Division Three side at the end of the season in order to maintain their survival at their current level. Machynlleth, just below Wrexham, are picking up vital points at the moment and therefore skipper Mike Jones and his side need to get back to winning ways to ensure their safety.

MOLD YOUTH V WREXHAM YOUTH

Wrexham Youth visit local rivals Mold Youth in a top of the table North Wales Youth Division One clash (kick-off at 2.30pm).

Matches between the two sides have been well contested in recent years, but a Wrexham side lacking match practice due to the bad winter was cruelly exposed by a good Mold side at Bryn Estyn Road last month and lost by 7-32. That defeat effectively ended Wrexham’s hopes of catching league leaders Ruthin, but they will still have plenty of pride to play for at Chester Road and hope to bounce back with a narrow win.  

Week Ending 11th March

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEW FOR FRIDAY 11^TH MARCH 2011

COBRA YOUTH V WREXHAM YOUTH

Wrexham Youth travel to Meifod tomorrow night (Friday) to take on Cobra Youth in a re-arranged North Wales Youth Division One contest (k.o.7.30pm).

The visitors are aiming to bounce back from last week’s heavy defeat by runaway championship leaders Ruthin and secure a victory that will keep them in the race for a top three finish to the season. They defeated Cobra by 10-5 when the two sides met at Wrexham last October and are looking forward to playing under floodlights for the first time this year. 

 

Wrexham 2nd Xv play Rhos prior to Wales v Ireland KO 1.00pm

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 5^TH FEBRUARY 2011

BALA 69 WREXHAM 8

Wrexham suffered a humbling experience at Bala where they went down to the strong North Wales Division Two championship contenders by 69-8. ... more

WREXHAM YOUTH           9          RUTHIN YOUTH     56

Wrexham Youth Team suffered a mortal blow to their North Wales Youth Division One Championship hopes when they were humbled 56-9 by the current leaders Ruthin at Bryn Estyn Road.

Lack of match practice may have been one reason for Wrexham failing to match up to their close rivals, but mostly it was due to a difference in class on the day, Ruthin performing like a senior side. The home side kept going throughout, however, and made Ruthin pay for some indiscipline with 3 penalties from outside-half James Price.  

WREXHAM 2NDS   11        DENBIGH 2NDS      0

Wrexham Seconds completed a league double over their Denbigh counterparts with an 11-0 home victory. Full-back Sion Lloyd-Jones grabbed an unconverted try and outside-half Carl Pugh landed two penalties.

 MACCLESFIELD VETS      33        WREXHAM VETS    8

Wrexham Vets were out muscled 33-8 by a top class Macclesfield Vets side in Cheshire. The visitors were slightly under strength up front and found it difficult to got going as the home side gained a firm grip on the game. Wrexham did have a period of pressure and claimed a consolation try through flanker Kerry Powell and a penalty by outside-half Richard Lloyd. Powell and number eight Gareth Sanger were the pick of the bunch.

Week Ending 4th March

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEWS FOR SATURDAY 5^TH MARCH 2011

BALA V WREXHAM 1STS

Following their promising performance against Newtown at Bryn Estyn Road last week, Wrexham hope to maintain that improvement when they visit high-flying Bala for a North Wales Division contest (k.o.2.30pm).

Bala are in third place in the Championship, but are only one point off leaders Abergele with a game in hand. They defeated a weakened Wrexham side by 17-13 when they visited in October but came near to losing that match when Wrexham closed the gap with tries from wing Sion Lloyd-Jones and hooker Nick Perrin.

Wrexham centre Jack Ratcliffe, who had a try disallowed in that game, is rapidly developing into an excellent player with four tries to his credit so far. He has lacked a regular partner in the centre all season but has shown that he has the skill to make breaks on his own and will no doubt cause Bala a few problems on this occasion.

With the season now starting to reach its decisive stage, Wrexham skipper Mike Jones and his side need at least two more wins to secure their existence in Division Two next season. They have secured more losing bonus points than any other club in the division this year, indicating how competitive they have been, but they now need to start winning the close games to finish the season in style.     

WREXHAM YOUTH V RUTHIN YOUTH

Wrexham Youth Team face their toughest game of the season when they take on championship leaders Ruthin at Bryn Estyn Road in a North Wales Youth Division One game on Saturday (k.o.2.30pm).

Wrexham currently occupy fourth place in the table but have two games in hand on the leaders who defeated them at home and away last season. This encounter promises to be a very close game and the hosts are expected to be strengthened by the return of scrum-half Owain Turner who was unavailable for Wrexham’s narrow win at Colwyn Bay last Saturday.  

WREXHAM 2NDS V DENBIGH 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds entertain Denbigh Seconds, hoping to complete the double after defeating Denbigh by 12-5 at Craig Road last October (k.o.2.30pm). Much depends on which players are available for this contest, but Wrexham can perform well if wings Kevin Trousellier and Gareth Bostock hit top form.   

MACCLESFIELD VETS V WREXHAM VETS

Wrexham Veterans will play their first game since January when they visit Macclesfield for an eagerly awaited return match (k.o.2.30pm). They excelled themselves when they overcame the highly regarded Cheshire side by 24-19 at Wrexham last October but will have to step up another gear to defeat Macclesfield on their home turf.

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORT FOR FRIDAY 25^TH FEBRUARY 2011

WREXHAM   20        NEWTOWN   25

Wrexham outscored visitors Newtown by 3-1 on try count in their floodlit Division Two game at Bryn Estyn Road, but they incurred the wrath of the match referee in the execution of their play and had to settle for a losing bonus point as they went down by 20-25.

The first penalty was conceded in the second minute of the game as a Wrexham forward went in from the side of a ruck while trying to stem Newtown’s early onslaught. Centre Matthew Jones made no mistake with the penalty but he was left flat-footed only three minutes later when centre Jack Ratcliffe finished off a sparkling Wrexham threequarter movement with an unconverted try wide-out. ... more

COLWYN BAY YOUTH     5          WREXHAM YOUTH           12

Wrexham Youth defeated Colwyn Bay Youth by 12-5 at Brookfield Drive to maintain the pressure on North Wales Youth Division One leaders Ruthin who visit Wrexham next Saturday.

Week Ending 27th February

WREXHAM PREVIEW FOR FRIDAY 25^TH AND SATURDAY 26^TH FEBRUARY 2011

WREXHAM 1STS V NEWTOWN

Wrexham take on Newtown under floodlights at Bryn Estyn Road tonight in a re-arranged North Wales Division Two contest (k.o.7.30pm).

Andy Clutton looks set to reclaim his place in the squad following a successful return from injury last Saturday when he scored a hat-trick of tries in a Second Team match. Skipper Mike Jones passed a fitness test on his injured shoulder on Tuesday night and will return to strengthen the pack, while hooker Paul Allen will join the front-row at some stage of the proceedings to make his 50^th senior appearance for the club.

Wrexham have failed to defeat Newtown in their seven league and cup meetings since they won in mid Wales by 24-18 in 2008. Games have usually been close with the Wrexham pack often performing better in the forward exchanges, but Newtown possess a nippy set of backs and usually exploit this advantage in the closing stages.

Caretaker coach Rob Thomas has encouraged his side to play a more open style of rugby and that was evident when they took on Abergele in their last league game. The players obviously enjoyed that experience and, if they can replicate it against Newtown tonight and maintain a tightly knit defence, they may be able to claim a much needed win.     

COLWYN BAY YOUTH V WREXHAM YOUTH

Wrexham Youth Team visit Colwyn Bay for a North Wales Youth Division One match tomorrow, hoping to claim a victory that would enable them to keep up the pressure on championship leaders Ruthin.

They completed a notable double over the Seasiders last season and can do so again if they can play to their strengths. Nathan Jones looks set to continue at full-back having made a successful transition from centre last week, while lock Christian Burgoyne will be a key player in the pack. The match kicks-off at the early time of 12.30pm so that players can watch the televised Six Nations game between Italy and Wales in the clubhouse afterwards.       

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 19^TH FEBRUARY 2011

WREXHAM YOUTH           21        LLANGEFNI YOUTH          7

Wrexham Youth bounced back into contention for the North Wales Youth Division One Championship with a well-worked 21-7 home victory over a competent Llangefni side.

There was, however, a shock in the third minute of the game when a Wrexham attack broke down in the Llangefni 22 and a visiting back intercepted before running over 80 metres to score under the posts. The simple conversion left the home side trailing by 0-7, but it wasn’t long before they managed to reduce that lead with a brace of penalties from outside-half James Price.

Wrexham then dominated play but could not find a way of crossing the Llangefni line until lock Christian Burgoyne used his considerable presence to crash over for a try just before the break. Price converted to put his side 13-7 in the lead but it took until the 50^th minute before he was called on again, this time to attempt to convert a try by prop Aaron Hughes who had sprinted 30 metres to score.  

Price’s difficult kick fell wide of the target but he made no mistake in the 65^th minute when he added a third penalty to his impressive tally and put the game beyond Llangefni’s reach. Aaron Hughes made a significant contribution on his return from injury and Nathan Jones won praise for his sound play, having made a switch from centre to full-back.

CAER BORDERERS            7          WREXHAM 2NDS   69

Wrexham Seconds picked up a last minute league fixture with Caer Borderers and celebrated with a return to form and a decisive 69-7 victory.

Team Manager Pete Blakemore opened the scoring with a typical hooker’s try from close-in and the points soon piled up with hat-tricks for wing Gareth Bostock and centre Andy Clutton who was returning from injury. Other touchdowns came from wing Kevin Trousellier, lock Jason Parry, prop Danny Wolfenden and outside-half Roger Chadwick who also kicked seven conversions.

There was disappointment for flanker Keir Harding who was heavily engaged in the action but had two ‘tries’ disallowed. It was a good team effort that won the day for Wrexham and lock Tom Williams stood out for his excellent performance in an outstanding pack.  

Week Ending 18th February

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 19^TH FEBRUARY 2011

WREXHAM 1STS AND 2NDS

The Wrexham First and Second Teams are both looking for games from the fixture pool after Cobra Firsts had to postpone their scheduled visit to Bryn Estyn Road due to a Swalec Cup commitment and the Seconds have been unable to replace their fixture with Corwen who withdrew from their league a few months ago.

WREXHAM YOUTH V LLANGEFNI YOUTH

The Wrexham Youth Team game against Llangefni is set to go ahead at Bryn Estyn Road with a 2.30pm kick-off. Wrexham won the corresponding fixture at Llangefni by 27-10 last October and are hoping that they can win again to complete their first double of the season. They still lie in fourth place in the North Wales Division One Championship despite a heavy defeat to Mold last week and should have benefited from that stirring encounter after being out of action for the previous month.

WREXHAM RUGBY RESULTS FOR SATURDAY 12^TH FEBRUARY 2011

WREXHAM 1STS     16        ABERGELE   33

Wrexham, forced to make 5 changes to their line-up due to the unavailability of players, dominated most of the first-half of the league and cup double-header against visitors Abergele but then became sloppy in defence and ultimately crashed to a 16-33 defeat.

Despite this reverse against the title chasers, the work of caretaker coach Rob Thomas appears to be bearing fruit and the Wrexham players confessed afterwards that they enjoyed playing an expansive game that gave their wingers opportunities to play attacking rugby. The downside of an exciting match was that skipper Mike Jones had to leave the field with a shoulder injury and is expected to be missing for several weeks. ... more        

WREXHAM YOUTH           7          MOLD YOUTH         3

 Wrexham Youth, out of action for a month due to adverse weather conditions, found it difficult to rediscover their usual momentum against visitors Mold and crashed to a 7-32 defeat at Bryn Estyn Road.

 Mold settled well from the start and held a deserved 17-0 lead at half-time as Wrexham struggled to shrug off their match rustiness. However, they performed much better after the break with wing Haydn Kidd making a promising debut and hooker Mike Moore returning to the side after injury. 

The forwards produced a powerful drive towards the Mold line mid-way through the half and  number eight Gruffudd Jones made no mistake when he picked up the ball and powered over for Wrexham’s consolation try. Outside-half James Price added an angled conversion.   

Week Ending 11th February

WREXHAM PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 12^TH FEBRUARY 2011

WREXHAM 1STS V ABERGELE

Wrexham Firsts take on an ambitious Abergele side in a ‘double-header’ league and cup contest at Bryn Estyn Road (kick-off at 1.30pm).

Scrum-half John Gormley, who had deputised with great authority at scrum-half in recent games, broke a finger in his hand at Bangor last week and is expected to miss this crucial encounter. The team has been further disrupted by players travelling to Scotland to support Wales in their Six Nations game, but the pack is relatively unchanged and should compete well against the visitors.

This will be the first time that Wrexham have played Abergele at this level, the Seasiders having fought their way up from the minor leagues to seal their place in Division Two by winning the Division Four Championship last term. They have carried on where they left off and are currently in fifth place in the championship race but are only two points behind leaders Rhyl.

As well as vital league points being at stake, the clubs are playing for a place in the third round of the North Wales Intermediate Cup. Wrexham booked their place in round two with a hard fought 21-13 victory over Shotton at Bryn Estyn Road last November. They are hoping that with top try scorers Ian Sanger and Jack Ratcliffe in their side they can advance to the latter stages of this competition to be played as ground conditions improve in the Spring.       

WREXHAM YOUTH V MOLD YOUTH

Wrexham and Mold Youth Teams meet for the first time this season at Bryn Estyn Road in what promises to be a typical local derby encounter (k.o.2.00pm).

The home side enjoyed three very close victories over their rivals in league and friendly fixtures last term, but they eventually fell by 8-12 to a rejuvenated Mold side in a North Wales Cup quarter-final match. Both clubs have been out of action for lengthy periods due to this winter’s adverse weather conditions, but once they have overcome some rustiness they promise to produce yet another nail-biting contest.    

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORT FOR SATURDAY 5^TH FEBRUARY 2011

Wrexham completed the double over Bangor and achieved their first league victory since September when they overcame a competitive local side at Cae Milltir to record a 17-11 success.

In poor conditions but with the wind at their backs, Wrexham opened strongly and claimed a deserved lead in the 12^th minute when centre Jack Ratcliffe intercepted a Bangor move on the half-way line and sprinted away to score under the posts. Outside-half Roger Chadwick made no mistake with the conversion to send confidence surging through his team.  

The visiting forwards, with skipper Mike Jones restored to his familiar number eight position alongside Phil Williams and Gareth Owen, pressed hard and soon dominated proceedings. They earned their reward in the 31^st minute when top try scorer Ian Sanger powered his way over the home line from a maul and Chadwick added the conversion.

Sensing the game running away from them, Bangor countered effectively and reduced the arrears with two well-struck penalties before the break. That setback could have unsettled Wrexham who had to face the gale in the second-half, but they defended well on the restart and limited the home team to a single unconverted try.

The last quarter belonged to Wrexham as they pressed hard and contained Bangor in their own half with the visiting forwards again dominant. Eventually Bangor made an error in defence and Roger Chadwick punished them with an excellent penalty to wrap up a long awaited victory for his hard working side.  

Week Ending 4th February

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEWS FOR SATURDAY 5th FEBRUARY 2011

BANGOR V WREXHAM 1STS

Wrexham Firsts, out of action for the last three weeks due to adverse weather conditions, expect to be back in action at Bangor tomorrow in a North Wales Division Two contest (k.o.2.30pm).

The presence in the pack of top try scorer Ian Sanger will boost the Wrexham squad while Leighton Cox should pose a few problems for the Bangor defence with his pace on the wing. The Gwynedd side are still looking for their first win in this division and they have a history of performing well against visiting teams on their home midden at Cae Milltir.

Wrexham will recall that their last league victory was achieved in September when they defeated Bangor at Bryn Estyn Road by 29-6. They have played well in patches since, but without success, and they know that a win at Bangor this time is essential if they are to maintain their position just above the relegation and play-off zones.

COBRA YOUTH V WREXHAM YOUTH

Wrexham Youth visit Cobra in Mid Wales for a North Wales Youth Division One Championship match (k.o.2.30pm).

They defeated Cobra by 10-5 at Bryn Estyn Road in October and are currently lying in fourth place in the table with five more wins out of seven matches to their credit. Cobra have won only three of their eight games but have claimed the notable scalps of Bala and Llangefni in home games and will therefore be treated with the greatest respect by the visitors.

WREXHAM VETERANS V NEWCASTLE-UNDER LYME VETS

Wrexham Veterans take on Newcastle-under-Lyme Veterans in a league game at Bryn Estyn Road (k.o.2.30pm).      

Week Ending 28th January

WREXHAM PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 29^th JANUARY 2011

WREXHAM 1STS V ABERGELE

Wrexham Firsts Take on Abergele at Bryn Estyn Road in a re-arranged North Wales Division Two contest tomorrow afternoon (k.o.2.30pm).

Prop David Gard, who has appeared for the senior side more than anyone else this season, will once again be the cornerstone of the pack. John Gormley displayed his versatility in Wrexham’s last game by switching successfully from outside-half to scrum-half, and he may be called on to repeat that performance if Roger Chadwick occupies the fly-half role.

This will be the first time that Wrexham have played Abergele at this level, the Seasiders having fought their way up from the minor leagues and sealed their place in Division Two by winning the Division Four Championship last term. They have adjusted well to the demands of higher league rugby this season and currently occupy second place in the Championship.

Wrexham have won only two league games this term and badly need a win to boost their confidence and keep them above the relegation zone. They competed well at times in their recent game against Denbigh who are the only club to have beaten Abergele on their home ground this season. Another strong team performance and a tightened defence could see Wrexham claiming some much need points.       

RHYL YOUTH V WREXHAM YOUTH

Wrexham Youth visit Rhyl Youth for a top of the table game in North Wales Youth Division One. They defeated Rhyl in a league game at Bryn Estyn Road by 33-21 in September but then suffered a 14-17 home defeat to the same club in a friendly played a month later. It should therefore prove to be another closely contested at The Waen this time with both sides needing a win to keep in touch with Championship leaders Ruthin (k.o.2.30pm).   

RHYL 2NDS V WREXHAM 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds visit Rhyl Seconds, hoping to complete their first double of the season over the Seasiders, having won their home game in October by 50-0 (k.o.2.30pm).     

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 22^ND JANUARY 2011

WREXHAM 2NDS   5          RUTHIN 2NDS         44

Wrexham Seconds fought hard but were outclassed 5-44 by visitors Ruthin Seconds in a North Wales Second Team Championship game at Bryn Estyn Road.     

 The home side dominated up-front in the first-half but lacked the finishing touches needed to reward their efforts with scores. The visitors had no such problems and moved the ball swiftly through the hands to open up the home defence on a number of occasions.

 Wrexham’s consolation score came mid-way through the second-half when flanker Phil Williams and lock Joss Stott combined to send their French winger Kevin Trousellier scampering over to a fine try wide-out. Williams was making a welcome return after long term injury and number eight Dean Griffiths also made a useful contribution in a determined home display that deserved a closer scoreline.       

Week Ending 21st January

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 15^TH JANUARY 2011

WREXHAM 1STS     14        DENBIGH     51

Wrexham led visitors Denbigh for thirty minutes in their North Wales Division Two match at Bryn Estyn Road, but they eventually ran out of steam against a stiff breeze and a lively back division before slumping to a 14-51 defeat.

The home side made a bright start with their scrum in dominant form and they claimed the lead in the 5^th minute when outside-half Roger Chadwick dropped a neat goal from the Denbigh 22. They continued to press with John Gormley sniping well at scrum-half and Chadwick using his fine kicking skills to gain territory or to keep the visitors pinned in their half. ... more

WREXHAM YOUTH           12        CAERNARFON YOUTH     7

Wrexham Youth Team maintained their title challenge for the North Wales Youth Division One Championship with a hard-earned 12-7 home victory over recent leaders Caernarfon. The game was evenly matched throughout with Caernarfon establishing a first-half lead with a converted try.

Within five minutes of the start of the second-half, Wrexham drew level when prop Szymon Galarowicz used his strength, pace and determination to power over for a try that was converted by outside-half James Price. With hooker Jonathan Huxley and lock Christian Burgoyne making a big impression against a very good visiting side, Wrexham searched for the winning points.

They came from an exciting passage of play that started when number eight Gruffudd Jones picked up the ball from a ruck inside his own half and then sprinted 60 metres upfield. He was hauled down by a defender just before the Caernarfon line, but his momentum carried him over for a memorable try. After that, the visitors mounted a terrific onslaught in the Wrexham 22, but the home side did just enough to hold on until the final whistle.

COLWYN BAY 2NDS V WREXHAM 2NDS

Match postponed – pitch waterlogged at Colwyn Bay

WREXHAM VETS 25  CHESTER VETS 22

A last minute penalty by outside-half Ross Roberts sealed a 25-22 victory for Wrexham Veterans over their Chester counterparts in a floodlit game at Bryn Estyn Road.

 

In a well contested match, the home side led by 12-8 at the break through tries by wing Barry Lewis and centre John Roberts with a conversion by full-back Darrell Hughes. A further try by replacement scrum-half Kelvin Bryan at the start of the second-half put Wrexham in the driving seat, but Chester came back strongly to lead through a brace of converted tries by their skipper Andy McAdam.  

 

The home side then switched to forward power and levelled the scores with a great try from lock Mike McLeod. With John Roberts making a big impression in all areas, Wrexham pressed hard and finally got their reward when Chester transgressed in the final moments and outside-half Ross Roberts celebrated his 50th birthday by kicking a match winning penalty.   

Week Ending 14th January

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEW FOR FRIDAY 14^TH JANUARY 2011

 

WREXHAM VETS V CHESTER VETS

Wrexham Veterans take on their counterparts from Chester in a floodlit match at Bryn Estyn Road this evening. They have defeated Chester twice at Hare Lane this term but matches are always well contested at this level and the result is never a foregone conclusion (k.o.7.30pm).

WREXHAM RUGBY CLUB PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 15^TH JANUARY 2011

WREXHAM 1STS V DENBIGH

Wrexham take on Denbigh in a North Wales Division Two contest at Bryn Estyn Road on Saturday, their first game on their home ground since late November (kick-off at 2.30pm).  

Flankers Troy Roberts and Keir Harding as well as outside-half Roger Chadwick, all unavailable last week, return to strengthen the squad. Skipper Mike Jones, who was last week’s top performer in the team’s defeat at Llanidloes, is set to claim the number eight spot behind lock Tom Williams and prop Guy Bingham.

Denbigh were leaders of Division Two until last week’s round of league games when they suffered a calamitous 18-43 home defeat at the hands of Bala and slumped to fifth place in a fiercely contested championship, now led by Llanidloes. Wrexham are four places lower in the table with only two wins to their credit from what was an unsettled first half of the season.

Mike Jones and his side last played Denbigh in a floodlit friendly three years ago and emerged with a 20-19 victory over a club that was playing in a division above them at the time. Although Wrexham were generally outclassed in last week’s match, they finished strongly with a good team effort and will try to make that count against a Denbigh side that needs a win to get back in the title race.  

WREXHAM YOUTH V CAERNARFON YOUTH

Wrexham Youth entertain Caernarfon, the only side to beat them in the league this season, in a North Wales Youth Division One game at Bryn Estyn Road (k.o.2.30pm).

 Caernarfon defeated Wrexham by 31-5 on the opening day of the season and led the championship until they suffered an 8-30 home defeat at the hands of new leaders Ruthin last week. Wrexham are currently in fourth place in the table but can close the gap on Ruthin if they can demonstrate the form that they displayed before the big December freeze and Christmas.   

COLWYN BAY 2NDS V WREXHAM 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds visit Colwyn Bay Seconds for a league contest and will be hoping that they can avenge the 8-29 cup defeat that they suffered at the same ground in November. They hammered the Seasiders at Wrexham by 66-7 last September and they know that a victory at Brookfield Drive would earn them their first double of the season (k.o.2.30pm).

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 8^TH JANUARY 2011

LLANIDLOES          34        WREXHAM 1STS     0

Wrexham put in a good effort on their return to the North Wales Division Two Championship at Llanidloes, but early lapses cost them dear and they were eventually defeated by 34-0.  .... more    

BALA YOUTH          13        WREXHAM YOUTH           13

Wrexham Youth managed a 13-13 draw at Bala in their first North Wales Youth Division One outing of the New Year. It was an amazing contest where, as soon as one side pushed into the lead, the other levelled the scores two minutes later.

Hooker Rob Evans dived over near the corner to put the visitors in front in the 10^th minute and outside-half James Price did well to kick the conversion from wide-out. Bala came back with a converted try two minutes later but Price then kicked a penalty in the 25th minute, only to have it cancelled out by a similar effort from the home side.

With the scores level at 10-10 at the break, Wrexham worked hard to get in front again in the second-half with Gruff Jones proving a real powerhouse at number eight and Pete Atkin showing up well on the wing following his return from university. A 60^th minute James Price penalty appeared to have won the game for the visitors but once again Bala levelled the scores two minutes later with another penalty.  

ABERGELE 2NDS   36        WREXHAM 2NDS    3

Wrexham failed to shine against a powerful Abergele Second Team and started off the year with a 3-36 away defeat. Lacking their regular pack, the visitors struggled for possession and conceded 17 first-half points, their only reward being a tremendous penalty from the half-way line by centre Dave Thomas.

Week Ending 7th January

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 8^TH JANUARY 2011  

The funeral of Major John ‘Felix’ Richards will take place at Pandy New Cemetery, Wrexham, next Monday 10th January at 1.30pm with readings and hymns at the cemetery.

 A one- minute silence will be observed this Saturday prior to kick off, as a mark of respect for one of Wrexham’s keenest supporters, who passed away last week following a long battle with cancer.  

‘Felix’, as he was affectionately known, was raised in the Newtown area of mid Wales and served with the Welsh Guards/Parachute Regiment and the Special Air Service in a distinguished army career. He became a dentist in Wrexham after leaving the Army in 1947 and in later years became a company commander in the Territorial Army. Felix also farmed in the Rhos area before eventually retiring to live in Wrexham.

Rugby was a very important part of Felix’s life, starting with the Welsh Academicals club based in South Wales. He then became a fervent supporter of Wrexham Rugby Club and journeyed with them up to recent times on many of their international tours that included the United States, Canada and South Africa. He was a great Welshman and travelled widely to support the Welsh Rugby Union side in all competitions, winning many friends from many countries in the process.

LLANIDLOES V WREXHAM 1STS

Wrexham Firsts resume their North Wales Division Two league programme after a month-long enforced gap with a visit to Llanidloes (k.o.2.30pm).       

BALA YOUTH V WREXHAM YOUTH

Wrexham Youth travel to Bala for a North Wales Division One contest, their first since Saturday 20^th November. They defeated the home side by 17-0 when they last visited Bala four years ago but the mid Walians have improved since then and, although both teams will be match rusty, will test them the visitors to the full (k.o.2.30pm).

ABERGELE 2NDS V WREXHAM 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds visit Abergele Seconds and are eagerly awaiting the resumption of games after the long Christmas and weather enforced lay-off. They defeated tomorrow’s opponents in the opening game of this season by 43-9 but can expect a much more demanding game at Abergele this time (k.o.2.30pm).

Week Ending 17th December

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 11^TH DECEMBER 2010

NEWTOWN   37        WREXHAM 1STS   7

Wrexham battled hard in difficult conditions at Newtown but fell away in the last quarter and were knocked out of the Swalec Bowl competition by 37-7 in the third round.  .. more

Newtown pressed harder in the second-half and Wrexham wing Mark Gasson demonstrated his excellent tacking abilities as he made a major contribution in stemming attacks from the home threequarters. Wrexham ran out of steam in the final quarter, however, and Newtown finished with a flurry of tries to seal their passage into the fourth round of the national competition.           

CHESTER VETS                   12        WREXHAM VETS    32                   

Wrexham Vets, victors over their Chester counterparts by 32-0 a month ago, scored the same number of points in their 32-12 success at the same venue on Saturday. They played particularly well in the first-half on a heavy pitch and secured their victory with a brace of tries from lock Iwan Roberts and single touchdowns from number eight Llyr Williams, wing Rich Weston, flanker Mark Lloyd, centre Sion Lloyd-Jones. Full-back Darrell Hughes added a conversion and the outstanding performers were the try scorer Llyr Williams and prop Paul Lloyd.

Week Ending 11th December

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 11^TH DECEMBER 2010

NEWTOWN V WREXHAM ISTS

A last minute pitch inspection at Newtown will determine whether Wrexham Firsts can resume their weather interrupted rugby programme with a game against the mid Wales side in the third round of the Swalec Bowl competition (k.o.2.30pm).

Flanker Keir Harding is keen to make his 50^th senior appearance while Andy Clutton is expected to retain his place in the centre with Ashley Wrathall at full-back. Wrexham were defeated by 21-17 at Newtown in September but that was a marked improvement on previous performances against the mid Walians and Wrexham will travel with high hopes of achieving a win this time.     

WREXHAM YOUTH V MOLD YOUTH

Pitches at Bryn Estyn Road have been ice-bound for a fortnight, but may recover in time for Wrexham Youth to proceed with their North Wales Youth Division One local derby game against Mold (k.o.2.30pm). Wrexham won the corresponding fixture by 29-24 last season and then went on to complete a rare double over their close rivals, but they know that they will have to pull out all the stops to repeat that success.       

WREXHAM 2NDS V MOLD 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds take on their local rivals Mold in a Second Team championship game at Bryn Estyn Road. Last season’s corresponding game ended in a very close 10-7 success for Wrexham and put an end to a string of disappointing results against other clubs from North Wales (k.o.2.30pm).  

CHESTER VETS V WREXHAM VETS

Wrexham Vets visit Chester Vets for the second time in four weeks and hope to repeat the 32-0 victory that they achieved at Hare Lane last time (k.o.2.30pm).

Week Ending 20th November

WREXHAM REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 20^TH NOVEMBER 2010

WREXHAM 1STS     21        SHOTTON     13

Wrexham Firsts bounced back from two successive defeats, and a four week lay-off, by securing a hard earned 21-13 victory over visitors Shotton in the first round of the North Wales Intermediate Cup competition.

The contrast in styles was marked with Wrexham starting in ponderous mood while Shotton were far more lively in everything that they did. The solid approach work of the home side paid dividends, however, in the 13^th minute when winger Jack Ratcliffe latched on to a well worked move by forwards and backs and scored an unconverted try in the corner. .....  more

RHYL YOUTH          14        WREXHAM YOUTH           17

Wrexham Youth were missing a few regulars in their non-league game at The Waen but still managed to come home with a narrow 17-14 victory over the current league champions.

They opened the scoring in the 20^th minute with a powerhouse try from their big lock Christian Burgoyne and a conversion from outside-half James Price. Minutes later, they stretched that lead with an unconverted try from centre Josh Francis to reach half-time with a 12-0 advantage.

Their game plan in containing Rhyl with a strong forward performance worked well and it wasn’t long after the restart that Burgoyne ploughed through the home defence to notch his second try of the game. Rhyl kept plugging away, however, and suddenly opened up the game with two converted tries within three minutes.

The visitors battened down all the hatches with Josh Francis and number eight Gruff Jones delivering excellent performances, and they clung on in a nail biting finish to avenge Rhyl’s narrow win in another friendly game at Wrexham last month.           

WREXHAM 2NDS V MOLD 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds were forced to postpone their home league game against close rivals Mold Seconds when they found themselves without enough experienced players to field a front-row in their pack.              

CHESTER VETS           0         WREXHAM VETS    32

Wrexham Vets agreed to help out their cross-border rivals Chester Vets who were left without a game when their scheduled opponents cried-off last week. A strong Wrexham Vets side took the field at Vicars Cross and finished with a comprehensive 32-0 victory.

Wing Sion Lloyd-Jones grabbed a brace of tries while full-back Darrell Hughes, wing Richard Weston, centre Anthony Lang and outside-half Richard Lloyd claimed a try apiece, Lloyd also kicking a single conversion. Centre Derek Edwards was voted Man of the Match.     

Week Ending 19th October

WREXHAM REPORT FOR SATURDAY 13^TH NOVEMBER 2010

WREXHAM YOUTH           29        COLWYN BAY YOUTH     8

Wrexham Youth had to come from behind and struggled at times against a good Colwyn Bay visiting side, but once they had found some cohesion in the second-half they pulled away to record a 29-8 victory.

The visitors opened the scoring with a 35^th minute penalty before Wrexham replied with an unconverted try by lock Owain Jarvis who latched on to the end of a smart handling movement and scored wide-out. Outside-half James Price missed the difficult conversion but was on target soon after the break when he kicked a penalty.

Colwyn Bay continued to offer stiff resistance and levelled the scores in the 58^th minute with an unconverted try. Two minutes later, however, Wrexham reclaimed the lead when centre Josh Francis scythed through to grab a try that Price converted.

Soon afterwards, replacement wing Aaron Davies outpaced the flagging Colwyn Bay defence to touch down in the corner with Price landing the conversion from the touchline. With replacements Jonathan Huxley and Syzmon Galarowicz bolstering the Wrexham pack, the game reached an exciting conclusion with a second try for Francis and a final conversion for Price.        

Week Ending 12th October

WREXHAM YOUTH V COLWYN BAY YOUTH

Wrexham Youth Team, currently lying in fourth place in Division One of the North Wales Youth League, take on Colwyn Bay in an early kick-off game at Bryn Estyn Road on Saturday (12.30pm).

Both teams are likely to be a bit rusty because they haven’t played for a month due to the interruption of their league programme by Regional Academy games and now the Autumn international matches. They have been training hard, however, and should provide a keen contest for local rugby supporters before they all sit down in the Wrexham clubhouse to watch Wales taking on the South African Springboks in Cardiff.

Leading players like flanker Dafydd Kember, centre Josh Francis and scrum-half Owain Turner have made a big impact recently when they have played for the senior sides. The younger Wrexham Youth players will look to them on Saturday to inspire them against a Colwyn Bay side that has won only one of its five games but will still test them to the full.          

Week Ending 29th October

WREXHAM PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 30^TH OCTOBER 2010

WREXHAM FIRSTS

Wrexham Firsts were due to take on Benllech in the second round of the Swalec Bowl competition at Bryn Estyn Road this Saturday, but this has now been cancelled as the Anglesey club has elected to withdraw from this national contest. Wrexham are not due to play again until Saturday 20^th November when they will entertain visitors Shotton in a North Wales Intermediate Cup first round match.

DENBIGH 2NDS V WREXHAM 2NDS

Wrexham Seconds, hammered with a depleted side by Ruthin last week, should be back to full strength for their visit to Denbigh Seconds on Saturday. Outside-half Dave Thomas is expected to return from First Team duty while Tim Roberts will continue his rehabilitation in the pack following his return from long term injury (k.o.2.30pm).

WINNINGTON PARK VETS V WREXHAM VETS

Wrexham Veterans are looking for a replacement game after Winnington Park Vets were unable to raise a side for their scheduled home game against Wrexham this Saturday.

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 23^RD OCTOBER 2010

WREXHAM 1STS     0          DOLGELLAU           51

Wrexham Firsts, fielding a makeshift side for the second week in succession, played bravely against a competent Dolgellau side at Bryn Estyn Road, but eventually succumbed to the inevitable and were whitewashed by 51-0.

It took the visitors three minutes to open the scoring, centre Carwyn Pugh finishing off a simple handling movement to score wide-out. Boosted by the introduction of several Youth Team players, the home side came back keenly and put Dolgellau under some pressure with a solid forward drive from a scrum in the 8^th minute, but they were quickly turned over and forced to defend again. .... more

WREXHAM 2NDS   10        RUTHIN 2NDS         52

A depleted Wrexham Second Team delivered a spirited performance against Ruthin Seconds in a non-league game at Bryn Estyn Road, but they fell away towards the end and were defeated by 52-10. Outside-half Ross Roberts stirred his side with a superb early try and then lock James Bellis, returning after a lengthy absence, added another touchdown. Tim Roberts made a welcome return from injury at number eight and there was an excellent performance from veteran Carl Pugh at full-back.   

Week Ending 22nd October

WREXHAM RUGBY PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 23^RD OCTOBER 2010

WREXHAM 1STS V DOLGELLAU

Wrexham Firsts welcome their old adversaries Dolgellau for a North Wales Division two game at Bryn Estyn Road that they must win to get their championship aims back on track (k.o.2.30pm).

John Gormley claims the key role at outside-half and Youth Team centre Josh Francis is chosen to add pace in the centre. In the pack Kerry Powell makes a welcome return from short-term injury to the back-row and Marius Arendacz will partner Tom Williams in the second-row.

Dolgellau were relegated from Division One last season but are riding high this term, having won four of their six games compared to Wrexham’s two successes. They last visited Bryn Estyn Road for a league game in 2004 but made little headway against a team that included current squad players Mike Jones, Kerry Powell and Gareth Noon, and were soundly defeated by 20-3.  

This time, promotion chasing Dolgellau will start as favourites to add another win to their impressive run this season, but Wrexham will field a young mainly untried side and are capable of springing a surprise.

WREXHAM 2NDS V CORWEN

Wrexham Seconds return to action with a home game against Corwen, determined to maintain their good run at Bryn Estyn Road that has produced victories over Abergele, Colwyn Bay and Rhyl. The experienced Jason Parry is likely to fill the crucial role linking forwards and backs at number eight with Sion Lloyd-Jones providing an attacking option down the wing.   

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 16^TH OCTOBER 2010

RHYL 58 WREXHAM 1STS  10

A makeshift Wrexham side, including only five of the players who appeared in the opening win of the season against Machynlleth, was soundly thrashed 58-10 by Rhyl in a North Wales Division Two game on Saturday. .... more          

LLANGEFNI YOUTH          10        WREXHAM YOUTH           27

Wrexham Youth were in impressive form at Llangefni where they defeated the hosts by 27-10 in a fine open game. Flanker Owain Jarvis powered over from a line-out to claim the opening try in the 25^th minute, Llangefni then replied with a penalty but a well struck penalty by outside-half James Price ensured that Wrexham reached the break 8-3 in the lead.  

Five minutes after the restart, scrum-half Owain Turner nipped through for an excellent try, converted by Price. With number eight Gruff Jones making a big impression on his return from injury, the visitors went further ahead when wing Ryan Crump touched down in the corner from a sparkling handling move.

In the final quarter Tom Robinson, who had a storming game at full-back, wrong footed the home defence in another well worked back movement and scored near the posts. Price added the extra points with his conversion before Wrexham piled on replacements and Llangefni claimed some consolation with a neat converted try.   

WREXHAM VETS    24        MACCLESFIELD VETS      19

Wrexham Vets were delighted with their 24-19 home victory over Macclesfield Vets, particularly as the visitors hadn’t conceded any points previously this season. Tries came from scrum-half Kelvin Bryan, flankers Danny Munro and Llyr Williams, and lock Mike McLeod. Outside-half Richard Lloyd crowned an outstanding performance by kicking two conversions and the forwards drew praise for their efforts, especially in the second half.

Week Ending 15th October

WREXHAM PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 16^TH OCTOBER 2010

RHYL V WREXHAM 1STS

Wrexham Firsts face a tough encounter at Rhyl where the home side will be keen to avenge the close 24-21 Swalec Cup defeat that they suffered at Bryn Estyn Road last week (k.o.2.30pm).

 Skipper Mike Jones is unavailable and the Cheesbrough brothers are still injured, but coach Gareth Barrett has high hopes that top try scorer Ian Sanger will pass a late fitness test on an injured leg to enable him to return to the pack. Troy Roberts and Jack Ratcliffe may continue their new partnership in the centre, both of them claiming tries last Saturday.

Having suffered defeat in three of the five Division Two league games that they have played so far, Wrexham need to secure a win at Y Waen to keep them in contention in the championship race. They know that winning at Rhyl be difficult, but the inclusion of Andy Clutton at full-back and the pace of newcomer Martin Wright at hooker may give them the edge.

LLANGEFNI YOUTH V WREXHAM YOUTH

Wrexham Youth visit Llangefni for a North Wales Division One game that is expected to go down to the wire. They last met two seasons ago and each club won the home contest, although by only four points in each case (k.o.2.30pm).

WREXHAM VETS V MACCLESFIELD VETS

 Wrexham Veterans, who played well despite losing narrowly at Manchester last week, face Cheshire side Macclesfield Vets at Bryn Estyn Road. With their First Team riding high in the English National League, Macclesfield will have plenty of talent throughout their sides and a win for the quickly improving Wrexham Vets would be a major achievement (k.o.2.30pm).   

WREXHAM RUGBY RESULTS FOR SATURDAY 9^TH OCTOBER 2010

WREXHAM 1STS     24        RHYL 21

Wrexham progressed to the second round of the Swalec Bowl competition with a 24-21 success against visitors Rhyl, the lead changing hands six times during an enthralling contest.

Fielding a side showing seven changes from last week’s selection, Wrexham quickly settled and claimed the lead in the 5^th minute. Centre Troy Roberts made the initial break, lock Joss Stott hacked on after Roberts was tackled and then centre Jack Ratcliffe used his pace to complete the touchdown. Skipper Mike Jones was just off target with his conversion attempt. .... more

WREXHAM YOUTH           17        RHYL YOUTH          23  

Rhyl Youth emerged as narrow 23-17 victors of a friendly fixture at Bryn Estyn Road to avenge a recent league defeat at the same ground. Centre Josh Francis grabbed two tries and Matthew Evans claimed another touchdown for the home side who failed to rise to the high standard of their recent performances. Nathan Jones added the conversion.

MANCHESTER VETS          41        WREXHAM VETS    31

Wrexham Veterans were slow out of the blocks at Manchester and gifted the home side 19 points before closing the gap and falling to an eventual 31-41 defeat. Once the powerful visiting pack started to win possession, Wrexham took the game to Manchester with flanker Dave Morris powering through for a hat-trick of tries. Number eight Iwan Roberts claimed another two scores,  outside-half Darrell Hughes landed three conversions but two late breakaways settled it in favour of the home team.

Week Ending 8th October

WREXHAM PREVIEW FOR SATURDAY 9^TH OCTOBER 2010

WREXHAM 1STS V RHYL

The focus at Bryn Estyn Road will switch from league to cup rugby when Rhyl visit Wrexham Firsts in the opening round of the Swalec Bowl competition (k.o.2.30pm).

Skipper Mike Jones, unavailable last week, is expected to return to the second-row to partner Richard Greensmith. Lock Phil Williams will be missing for another four weeks with a knee injury, and wing Mark Gasson is still sidelined while he fully recovers from facial damage. However, Jack Ratcliffe impressed on the wing last week and can use his pace to unlock the Rhyl defence.

Rhyl emerged 20-10 victors when they last visited Wrexham in a league game a year ago. The home side could count themselves unlucky to lose on that occasion due to a combination of wayward kicking and simple errors, having done most of the pressing. Both clubs lost in close league games last week and their keenness to resume winning ways should guarantee an enthralling contest.

WREXHAM YOUTH V RHYL YOUTH

Wrexham Youth, conquerers of North Wales Youth Division One champions Rhyl a fortnight ago, take on the same club in a friendly at Bryn Estyn Road. Freed from the pressure of league competition, both sides will have the opportunity to field some of their up-and-coming players and try out new combinations (k.o.2.30pm).

MANCHESTER VETS V WREXHAM VETS

Wrexham Veterans resume their travels with a visit to Manchester Vets (k.o.2.30pm).    

WREXHAM REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 2^ND OCTOBER 2010

WREXHAM 1STS      13        BALA  17

Injury depleted Wrexham survived a first-half pummelling by Bala at Bryn Estyn Road and then came back to almost overtake the visitors in the dying minutes, eventually having to accept a 13-17 defeat.

The home side kicked off with the elements in their favour but, without their unavailable skipper Mike Jones and several of their key players, they took time to find some cohesion and came under heavy pressure from the hard driving visitors. Prop David Gard tackled well to stem the Bala assaults and number eight Gareth Noon worked wonders to keep Wrexham supplied with possession from the line-outs .....  more

WREXHAM YOUTH 10        COBRA YOUTH                    5

Wrexham Youth made it three wins in a row when they overcame visitors Cobra by 10-5 in a close North Wales Youth Division One game at Bryn Estyn Road.

Starting off well, Wrexham suffered the frustration of missing out on two clear scoring chances by taking a wrong option in one case and dropping a pass in the other. Cobra grew in confidence and ensured that the match remained scoreless and well balanced at half-time.

Eventually the home side gained the opening that they had been seeking to create when flanker Dafydd Kember made a break in the 55^th minute, centre Josh Francis carried it on and then wing Scott Jones touched down wide-out. Outside-half James Price added the extra points with a difficult conversion.

Nathan Jones kept the game boiling with his powerful runs through the centre and it wasn’t long before Price kicked a penalty to put his side at least two scores ahead. Cobra refused to buckle, however, and gained some consolation with an unconverted try ten minutes before the end of a keenly fought contest.   

WREXHAM 2NDS     50        RHYL 2NDS   0

Wrexham Seconds, resplendent in new kit supplied by Central Station and Williams Financial Services, produced a stunning performance to see off visitors Rhyl Seconds by 50-0. Tries came from lock Iwan Roberts (2), number eight Jason Parry (2), flanker Richard Platt, centre Mike Randle and lock Joss Stott while outside-half Dave Thomas enjoyed a near faultless day by kicking 6 conversions and a penalty.

There was an impressive debut from hooker Martin Wright and a good all round display from wing Adam Jones. The team wished to thank young helpers Gareth Parry and Jake Jones who helped with the team drinks and kit.    

Week Ending 1st October

WREXHAM RUGBY REPORTS FOR SATURDAY 25^TH SEPTEMBER 2010

COBRA          8          WREXHAM 1STS    3

Wrexham performed well at Cobra but ended up 3-8 losers due to an isolated case of indiscipline and simple bad luck in their North Wales Division Two contest.

They started well and claimed a 12^th minute lead when outside-half Roger Chadwick landed a penalty to punish the home side for not releasing the ball at a breakdown. With the scrums being evenly contested and locks Richard Greensmith and Mike Jones winning a stream of line-out possession from hooker John Gill’s throw-ins, Wrexham went in pursuit of more points. ... more

WREXHAM YOUTH           33        RHYL YOUTH          21

Wrexham Youth demonstrated that they are becoming a force to be reckoned with this season by defeating reigning champions Rhyl by 33-21 in a North Wales Youth Division One contest at Bryn Estyn Road.

Lock Jamie Weston stretched over the Rhyl line to claim the opening try in the 6^th minute and outside-half James Price made a successful debut as a goal kicker by landing an angled conversion. Although Rhyl countered with a breakaway try and a conversion to level the scores, the home side soon stretched away with touchdowns from wing Peter Atkin and centre Tom Robinson, Price adding both conversions for a 21-7 half-time lead.

After the break, Dafydd Kember ran 20 metres and handed off several defenders to score a fine try in the corner, Price failing this time with a difficult conversion into the wind. The visitors were awarded a penalty try when a player was tripped but Atkin, in his last game before leaving for university, restored Wrexham’s advantage with a neat break and a superb try under the posts. Price added the extra points before Rhyl had the final say with a late breakaway try.

RUTHIN 2NDS         32        WREXHAM YOUTH           0 

Wrexham Seconds, despite limiting wind assisted Ruthin Seconds to a 5-0 lead at half-time and dominating possession in the second-half, fell victim to breakaways and finished up 32-0 losers at Cae Ddol. Flanker Richard Platt proved to be a real powerhouse for the visitors until he had to retire with a shoulder injury just before the break. Outside Sion Lloyd-Jones was also on top form and the Wrexham pack delivered an excellent performance even though the scoreline didn’t reflect it.

WREXHAM VETS V LYMM VETS

Cheshire side Lymm Vets were unable to raise a side for their scheduled visit to Wrexham and the game had to be postponed.      

Week Ending 24th September