Fixture

Flint welcomed Shotton to Cae Castell in the loose sense of the word as derby rivalry is never going to lead to a friendly affair!!

 

Flint were forced into some last minute changes with influential back row Danny Langford withdrawing due to a knock picked up playing for the RAF last week and inform center Dan Stokes failing a last minute fitness test. This offered an opportunity for others to step up showing the strength in depth this season.

 

The first 40 minutes saw Shotton's big pack make some early ground, putting the Flint side on the back foot. Flints midfield defence held up strong, however and the danger men in Shotton's back line weren't able to breakthrough.

 

A missed tackle in the midfield saw the Shotton 10 exploit the gap and created an overlap allowing a score out wide (conversion successful). Flint pack gained some parity as the half unfolded allowing the backs to open up and attack out wide. Though close on a few occasions the Shotton defence held up. (0-7 HT)

 

After some open and honest discussions at the break, Flint started the stronger and their fitness started to show, putting pressure on the visiting side. Flint on reflection won't be happy on some decsion making and missed chances to kick touch.

 

Shottons 10 again saw a gap as they attacked the midfield and ghosted under the sticks for a 2 try advantag. Mentally stronger this season, Flint weren't going to crumble and some excellent work in the loose by back rower Owain Hedd led to a turn over and the ball went wide for Jamie Elder to power over (conversation successful). The game started to boil over as the pressure of a win was clear, though Flint stood firm and furthrt pressure saw a penalty opportunity. The boot of winger James Bedford was successful (10-14).

 

The last 15 minutes was a niggly affair with Flint putting their bodies on the line in defence. Shotton pressured the scrum and two penalties we're given. The descisions seemed harsh from the side lines, but Shotton were happy for the chance of more points, the latter in the dieing embers of the game. The final score took a much deserved losing bonus point from Flint that was a hard take.

 

Flints development this season is clear to see going toe to toe with a Shotton side that had gained division 1 status at the end of the 2017/18 season. Although falling short on this occasion the side will re-group for next weeks league game away at Menai Bridge, and without doubt relish a crack at Shotton later in the season. Thanks for the support from a great crowd; the lads & coaches appreciate it 👍👍👍

 

Report by Mark Parry