Due to the conditions, it was never going to be a classic but the commitment and passion shown by both set of girls made this a thrilling encounter to watch for the healthy number of supporters from both teams.
The Panthers, wearing their new kit funded through a grant by Principality, certainly looked the part as they entered the field, but it was Abergele who scored first through winger Lucy Edwards.
Conceding early tries has been the Panthers Achilles heel in the league but the young side didn’t panic and got back into the game.
Following the restart the Panthers built up some momentum with outside half Alanna Woodford showing some silky foot work and diving in the corner to make the score 7-5 to Abergele.
With the visitors having the bigger side their plan was to keep it tight but on every occasion the Panthers tried to spread the ball and make them run, this tactic brought great success with two quick tries from player of the game scrum half Catrin Rees and powerful prop Jo Taylor crossing over to make the score 15-7 at half time.
The second half started as same as the first with Abergele pressing hard to cross the whitewash but a monumental defensive effort by the Panthers held them at bay until Sarah Reece finally crossed the whitewash to make it 15-12.
With the field now getting very heavy underfoot the tempo naturally slowed and the Panthers played out the game to get the winning start under their belt.
For the victors, the Panthers front row acquitted themselves superbly against much heavier opposition – Danielle Jenkins, Kirsty Hopkins (who gained their first senior caps) and workhorse Jo Taylor who played prop for the first time.
Coach Hywel Thomas said: “This was always going to be a tough game, but I’m delighted with how the girls performed and it’s great to register our first win in the Super Cup.”
The Panthers next game is away to Bargoed Bears.
