By Nathaniel Baker
USW were outclassed by four tries to one against Cardiff University at the Sport Park, despite battling to the very end.
While Cardiff coach Charlie Crichton acknowledged graciously that his team was made to work hard, there never really looked much doubt about the result.
Cardiff winger Ieuan Crowe breaking the USW line early on to cross for a try after some smooth passing from the back line, though the the subsequent conversion was missed by captain Owain Ashley.
The game became scrappy, littered with turnovers by both sides which disrupted the flow.
Just as USW appeared to be taking control a loose pass allowed Cardiff second row Brad Smith to intercept the ball around halfway and run it under the posts for their second try. This time Ashley converted well and gave Cardiff a lead of 12-0.
With half-time looming Cardiff used their momentum to force USW winger Ryan Snow into a mistake trying to catch a high ball on his own 22, and as the ball bobbled Cardiff’s Ben Hollingworth claimed it to score under the posts once more.
With a successful conversion by Ashley Cardiff went in at half time with a convincing 19-0 lead.
The second half was much more of an even affair with USW doing well to cut out the mistakes, although they still had to withstand heavy pressure.
This pressure proved vital for Cardiff as late on in the second half they got their fourth try, with Johnny Lack going over in the corner to make their lead even more convincing – especially after Ashley’s conversion.
Late on in the match Cardiff’s strong defence was eventually breached as some good passing from USW allowed winger Snow to make up for his previous mistake by scoring in the corner.
Snow’s failed conversion was the final act of the match.