Fixture

                 [North Div 2 Playoffs ] 25.03.2017

A dramatic try from Dolgellau replacement second row, Marius Jones which was converted by stand-off Jac Roberts, with less than three minutes of the match remaining secured a memorable draw for Dolgellau here at Bryn Estyn Road against a committed Wrexham side who had led all game and looked to have done just enough to clinch the points.

Wrexham were well up for the stern challenge that Dolgellau provided and went ahead after nine minutes as wing Eddie Evans gathered a neat chip ahead to touchdown. Centre James Pryce added the conversion to go 7-0 ahead.  Dolgellau responded ten minutes later with a push over try from prop Geraint Evans form a five  metre lineout. However  after twenty five minutes Wrexham went further ahead when their hard working forwards released flanker Rob Moore in for the score to make it 12-5.  Dolgellau came agonisingly close scoring at the end of the half but second rows Berwyn Hughes and Rhys Roberts were halted on the try-line, and the half ended with no further score.

Wrexham were penalised for being off-side fifteen minutes into a very even second period resulting in another catch a drive from the visiting forwards that saw Geraint Evans cross for his second try of the game.  Centre Gareth Hughes’ conversion going agonisingly wide again.  With the tension mounting, Wrexham had a try disallowed for a forward pass, and Dolgellau brought on Jac Kelly for his senior debut and second row Marius Jones.

With ten minutes remaining, Wrexham were awarded a kickable penalty and opted for the touch. Dolgellau managed to clear their lines but Wrexham prop, John Gill gathered the clearance on the right touchline to squeeze over in the corner to make the score 17-10.  But with time runnings as  out, and to Dolgellau’s immense credit, they carved an opening when centre Gareth Hughes broke down the left side and into the red zone and was aided by wing Rob Pugh, who was hauled down on the try line. However replacement  Marius Jones was at hand to touch down.  This time stand-off Jac Roberts coolly slotted over the conversion to secure the visitors a draw that had looked unlikely, but what their resolve deserved.

Referee  : Ed Brown [Denbigh]