LLANGEFNI 26

BALA 37

ANOTHER year... and yet another final fling!

Some things change each year, but one of those that don't is the fact that Bala line-up in the showpiece North Wales Senior Cup final.

Runners up for the past two seasons, Bala once more booked their spot in the final of the competition with a comfortable 37-26 last-four success at Llangefni.

"It was a comfortable win and we were always in the driving seat," said Bala chairman Tony Parry.

"It's quite nice to get to the final again!

"It's job done and the lads were very happy with that."

Bala built-up a 20-15 lead by the time the half-time whistle was sounded and they eased further clear in the second half.

Try scorers for Bala on the night were Rhydian Jones (2), Ilan Rowlands and Robin Jones.

The final will be played on Saturday, May 12.

It turned out to be an excellent week all round for Bala, who saw off Gwynedd rivals Bro Ffestiniog 16-7 on Saturday to cement their position in the top-three in WRU League Division One (North).

"The Bro match wasn't a fantastic game and a few players had knocks and the young lads had a bit of a chance," added Parry.

"It was a scrappy game, but it's another one that ticks the box."

Bro were in the box seat at the interval and they held a 7-5 advantage at the interval at Maes Gwyniad.

However, the visitors failed to add any points to their tally in the second half and Bala were able to secure their 13th league triumph of the campaign.

Miallt Roberts crossed the whitewash for the home side in the opening period, but a converted try had Bro Ffestiniog narrowly in front.

Bala were the better team after the interval and skipper Ilan Rowlands added his side's second try.

The boot of Rhydian Jones added the remaining Bala points, courtesy of two successful penalties.

This victory means there is still a strong chance that Bala could end the season in the top-two of Division One (North).

Bala now have 64 points, just one behind their North Wales Cup final opponents Pwllheli.

"We are one point behind and they have a game in hand, so it will still be a bit of a job to finish in the top-two," added Parry.

"Our minds will be on the cup final as well.

"It's a matter of resting some of the players and getting them back to full fitness to get them ready for the final.

"Finishing second would be nice, but we've got to make sure of third."