21/12/2025
Riders Dominate Bridgend Sports in Memorable Double-Header at Cae Gof
On a cold, crisp afternoon at Cae Gof, the Riders welcomed nearest rivals Bridgend Sports for a true rugby feast. On a rare occasion — the first time in over ten years — both the 1st XV and 2nd XV played at home on the same day, with the 2nd XV kicking things off earlier in the afternoon.
The day started perfectly for the Riders as the 2nd XV ran out convincing 37–5 winners. From the opening minute, the pack dominated proceedings and, but for a lack of discipline from an over-eager and fired-up side, the Riders could easily have been two tries ahead inside the opening five minutes.
Man of the Match Darris Lyddon was immense in both attack and defence, helping himself to a try and proving a constant threat ball in hand. The new centre partnership of Andrew John and Matthew Burnell, who had only met 30 minutes before kick-off, caused chaos for the Sports defence throughout. An honourable mention also goes to Graham “The Gooch” Burford, who made a welcome return after a long injury lay-off and looked as though he’d never been away.
The Super 2s now sit proudly at four wins from four — the future is bright.
The 1st XV were in no mood to let festive cheer distract them from the task at hand. Playing in front of a strong crowd and attacking into a stiff breeze, the Riders struck early through number eight Dylan Thomas-Jones, with skipper Tom Carpenter adding the conversion.
7–0
To their credit, Bridgend Sports responded immediately with a well-worked try of their own.
7–5
From that point on, however, it was all Riders. Two quick scores followed — another for Thomas-Jones and one for young centre Ieuan Allen — before lively winger Alex Underhill crossed to extend the lead. Centre Ifan Rossister then danced over for another just before half-time.
With Carpenter accurate from the tee, the Riders went into the break leading 31–5.
Despite several changes at half-time, the Riders only increased the tempo. With the wind now at their backs, they were ruthless in attack, turning almost every visit to the Sports 22 into points. Lewis Rees and Lloyd Allen both got on the scoresheet, as did ho**er Harri Williams, while replacement centre Lewis Anderson crossed before flanker Lewis Rees added another.
The final quarter saw no let-up. Underhill grabbed his second of the afternoon, Carpenter capped off a fine performance with a well-deserved try of his own, and replacement flanker Lewis Allen rounded off the scoring.
Carpenter was in excellent form with the boot, missing just two conversions all afternoon.
Full credit to Bridgend Sports, who battled until the final whistle on what proved to be a tough day against a Riders side improving week on week.
Final Scores at Cae Gof
• 1st XV: Riders 83 – 5 Bridgend Sports
• 2nd XV: Riders 37 – 5 Bridgend Sports
You would have to go back over 15 years to find such a comprehensive home scoreline.
Reflection
As the Riders head into the closing stages of the first part of the season, performances like this underline the progress being made across the club. With strength in depth and confidence growing every week, both squads look forward to the second half of the season with real optimism.
A huge thank you, as always, to our Home Match sponsors! 🙌
Your continued support means the world to the team. 💪
🏇Simon suss Thomas
🍻 Justin Rees – The Swan, Aberkenfig
👏 Man of the Match: Dylan Rocky Jones-Thomas (4 tries)
🤝 Teammate of the Match:
Harri Williams
Thank you to Alan Evans for the pictures 📸
Finally, we would like to wish all our loyal supporters a very Merry Christmas and a fantastic New Year.
Next fixture: Maesteg (Away) — 10th January 2026
