It has been the best-ever season by both the Bargoed and Merthyr clubs, who had finished first and third respectively in league play but it was the Blues of Bargoed who were clear and deserved winners over the Ironmen of Merthyr.
The opening quarter saw Bargoed lead 14-0 but Merthyr were still in it as the interval was reached with Merthyr ahead at 20-10. Though Merthyr closed it to seven points, Bargoed then used their powerful pack and the scrummage in particular to wear their opponents down as they led 39-13 until the final seconds.
It was goodbye to both fly halves as the talented Josh Prosser of Bargoed has now signed for Cross Keys and Josh Flye is leaving Merthyr to play for Swansea. Prosser was luckier to have a powerful eight and a lively partner in scrum half Craig Morgan in front of him.
Both clubs are determined to fight their way upwards in Welsh rugby but on this occasion Bargoed, even without James Pizey and Lewis Protheroe, were stronger than Merthyr, who missed skipper Matthew Rees (holiday) and Dean Gunter (cup-tied).
No 8 Ross Coombs, brother of Wales international Andrew, opened the scoring after just five minutes and Prosser converted before hooker and captain Leigh Meades surged over from a lineout ploy and again Prosser added the extras.
Merthyr suddenly woke up and luck was with full back Dan Parry for a kick and chase try that somehow he did not convert as Prosser struck back with a penalty four minutes later.
Again Merthyr hit back as wing Aaron Howard nipped in at the corner but again the boot of Prosser struck a penalty over just before the break.
Though Parry kicked a good penalty after 45 minutes it was Bargoed’s pack who took over with flanker Adam Coupe, then a penalty try and finally a second touchdown by Coombs bringing the five-pointers, plus two conversions by Prosser, to keep the scoreboard ticking over.
Merthyr had the final say as they flung the ball around and teenage replacement prop Sam Evans did well to score with Parry drop-kicking the conversion.
It was a deserved win for Bargoed and crowned a season they will never forget while young North Walian referee Owain Griffiths gave another excellent display in allowing the game to flow.
Once again the partnership of Worthington and the Mid District committee had joined to help provide a fitting end to the season.
Scorers: Bargoed – Tries: R Coombs 2, L Meades, A Coupe, pen try. Cons: J Prosser 4. Pens: J Prosser 2.
Merthyr – Tries: D Parry, A Howard, S Evans. Con: D Parry. Pen: D Parry.
