BALA 24

LLANGEFNI 11

THE battling qualities came to the fore as Bala continued their brilliant winning run.

It's now eight wins in a row for the lads from Maes Gwyniad on the back of their 24-11 home triumph versus Llangefni.

Victory was by no means assured for Bala against their lowly opponents.

With the elements at their backs in the opening period, the Anglesey side were able to boast a 6-0 advantage at the interval.

However, after a stern talking to at the break, Bala improved in the second half and they grabbed four tries to secure their latest success.

Bala chairman Tony Parry said: "It's eight wins in a row now, but fair play to Llangefni, it was a tough game on Saturday.

"They were 6-0 up at half-time and they had the slight elements at that time."

It was all about Bala in the second half, though, thanks to a rethink in their tactics.

"We had to make changes at half-time," added Parry.

"We were trying to play too much rugby in the first half and we changed tactics for the second half."

Front row forward Garen Davies grabbed two of Bala's tries during the second 40 minutes.

A penalty try and a score from replacement scrum half Dion Atherton made sure Bala picked up a bonus point.

Owain Aled converted one of the tries on a tricky day for the kickers.

A testing spell now awaits Bala as they look to continue their winning run.

They travel to second-placed Pwllheli on Saturday, before hosting the same team in cup action seven days later.

On February 16, league leaders Llandudno will pay a visit to Maes Gwyniad.

Turning back to Saturday's action and a last-gasp penalty ensured Bala 2nds were pipped 9-6 in their derby meeting with Ruthin 2nds.