PEMBROKE Panthers travelled to Abercynon with a bare 15, which made their task even harder.

The step-up to the Championship has proved a huge challenge and the Panthers are yet to record a win after four rounds in this nine-team league.

Abercynon meanwhile had only won one in five, so the Panthers despite their lack of numbers fancied their chances of claiming a win.

The whole match was played at a high tempo, with both sides showing early intent.

Panthers lost a player to injury in the first quarter, then suffered a yellow card; these two incidents gave the home side the advantage they needed to establish a healthy lead.

But the visitors plugged away and got themselves back into the match, reducing the deficit by half time.

However, the extra player and fatigue eventually told and the home side grabbed their chances, scoring more tries to cement a deserved home win by 49-21.

The Panthers’ players and management however, were pleased with the positive aspects of their performance, which demonstrated their ability to function effectively at this level.

The First XV had been due top travel to Aberystwyth, but Aber were scheduled to play a WRU Division 4 Cup match in Cefneithin.

The Youth were supposed to entertain Taibach in a replay of last week’s postponed WRU Shield Rd 1 match, but very disappointingly, Taibach pulled out early Saturday morning as they were unable to field a side; as a result Pembroke have been awarded the tie.

The Junior age groups were out in force across the district, with their coaches registering some really positive individual and team performances.

Three lads from the U11s have been involved in and playing really well for the County U11s. Connor Cram, Billy Beynon and Caeleb Richards have been starting their representative journey in recent weeks and contributed very positively in games to date.

The October Player of the Month for the First XV was Zak Shaw, for his unwavering effort, commitment and energy in all matches.

Up-coming matches include, Youth play Neyland at home this Friday KO 7pm; First XV home to Crymych on Friday, 11 November in Pembs Cup Quarter Final, KO 7pm and 21 November at home to Llangwm KO 2.30pm. Panthers at home to Lampeter 15 November.