The British and Irish Cup game was played in dismal conditions with the Sardis Road pitch living up to its old nickname of ‘Dan’s Muckhole’ which McIntosh related as a key factor in the way the contest progressed.
“The elements dictated the course of the game” said McIntosh. “We had to roll up our sleeves and just play to the conditions. We needed to control areas of the pitch, and to pressurise Leeds into committing errors, which we did.
“Dai Flanagan controlled the game well from outside half and there were big performances from Chris Dicomidis, Wayne O’Connor, Ed Siggery, Carl Thomas and defensively, Dafydd Lockyer.
“The set pieces were crucial and we gained parity in that area. Young tight head prop Bradley Thyer made his first start for the club and had a huge game. The other props who featured, Scott Roberts, Chris Phillips and Keiron Jenkins all made a contribution.”
McIntosh once more referred to the huge challenge faced by the Pontypridd squad in taking on fully professional opposition.
“The difference in preparation for a big game like this, between semi pro and fully pro teams is a big factor, but one that we can overcome. We could not train in the week leading up to the Leeds game due to the weather conditions which was not ideal, but it would be easy to look for excuses not to perform.
“We knew the job in hand and it’s a huge accolade to the players that they just got on with it. This squad is fully professional in attitude.”
An abrasive match was once more played out in front of a big and noisy crowd at Sardis Road, which was appreciated by the Pontypridd coach and players.
“The support was again outstanding,” said McIntosh. “The noise coming from the shed was phenomenal, and that lifts the squad to achieve great things.
“We can move on now, back to league business with big games coming up at home to Carmarthen and away to Cardiff over the Christmas period. With that continued support behind us and the commitment of the squad, hopefully we can keep our momentum going.”
