VARSITY SPECIAL 2019

7 May 2019 7 Mai 2019

Varsity Special Pullout Atodiad Rhydd Arbennig Varsity

gair rhydd Cardiff Uni’s student paper | est . 1972

WELSH VARSITY 2019

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WELSH VARSITY 2019 Sport Editors Reece Chambers Rosie Foley John Jones Laura Price Jack Vavasour George Willoughby Gair Rhydd Editor Jess Warren Photography Credits Mike Hall Steve Hinder (page 10) Contributors Ashley Boyle Charlotte King Christian Moore Emily Hatter Indigo Jones Jess Warren Liv Raciniewska Lowri Pitcher Luke Wakeling Matt Tomlin Llion Carbis Michael Ash Olly Allen Rhianna Hurren-Myers Sam Saunders Sam Tilley Silvia Martelli Thomas Walker Tomos Evans Ynyr Clwyd

Cardiff Victories Men’s Rugby.............................Page 3 Ladies’ Hockey.........................Page 6 Men’s Cricket...........................Page 8 Ladies’ Lacrosse......................Page 8 Freshers’ Rugby.......................Page 9 Men’s Basketball......................Page 9 Men’s Tennis...........................Page 10 Ladies’ Tennis.........................Page 10 Rowing.....................................Page 14 Squash.....................................Page 14 Ladies’ Basketball.................Page 15 Badminton...............................Page 15 Swansea Victories Ladies’ Rugby............................Page 4 Ladies’ Football.........................Page 5 Men’s Hockey............................Page 6 American Football.....................Page 7 Ladies’ Football.........................Page 5 Kickboxing................................Page 15 Draw Men’s Football............................Page 5 Boxing...........................................Page 7 Canoe Polo.................................Page 7 Varsity Cymru Pêl-droed..................................Page 12 Rybgi..........................................Page 12 Saethyddiaeth..........................Page 12

Cardiff secure the double with Varsity Shield and Cup victories for second year running

by Reece Chambers

W

final score: 29-17

elsh Varsity 2019 was another record-breaking sporting event for Cardiff University as they secured the prestigious Double for the second year running.

The lead up to Welsh Varsity Day on April 10 was overshadowed by controversy in the men’s rugby.

Swansea were set to field an unfamiliar side having been denied the opportunity to play their BUCS Super Rugby play-off against Nottingham Trent on an alternative day.

The final score in the men’s rugby tells you all you need to know about the level of team Cardiff came up against.

Despite Cardiff deserving great credit for their sensational victory, there may well be a feeling in the camp that they would have wanted to play the very best Swansea side possible.

Elsewhere, the ladies’ rugby proved to be an exciting spectacle.

For Cardiff, facing superior opposition in Swansea was a great op-

portunity to test themselves in the Welsh national stadium.

Cardiff looked to have won the game with just seconds left on the clock as Swansea went over to make the score 27-30 to the visitors.

Throughout the day, Gair Rhydd had the pleasure of reporting on some very good quality sport.

A personal highlight, for me, was walking past Y Plas at around 3pm to hear the roar of the crowd as the boxing started to heat up. Boxing has been growing in popularity

over the last couple of years here in Cardiff, and it proved to be a great spectacle in our very own Students’ Union.

Credit must also be paid to ladies’ fencing for rounding off their fantastic season with a comprehensive 135-47 win over Swansea.

As a side note, I would just like to say a huge thank you to all the reporters, editors and copy editors for helping produce, what we hope, is an informative and enjoable Varsity Special, see you in 2020.

In pictures: Cardiff University host Varsity 10: 30am

11:00am

Ladies’ lacrosse take the first point of Varsity for Cardiff, making it 4.5 to 2.5 overall

Swansea pick up their first point of the day in swimming down at Cardiff International Pool

12:24pm

3:00pm

Cardiff and Swansea Freshers’ Rugby do battle in the Cardiff Arms Park

Cardiff fail to emulate their success of last year in the men’s hockey as they fall to a 2-6 defeat

3:20pm

4:15pm

Cardiff show their support at Sport Wales in their numbers

Cardiff 2-3 Swansea Ladies’ football narrowly lose out to Swansea in a tight affair

7:01pm

8:54pm

Cardiff and Swansea lead their teams out ahead of the Varsity Cup showdown

Cardiff’s captain Tom Wilson is presented with the Varsity Cup Full time: 78-7

VARSITY CYMRU 2019

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Men’s Rugby complete rout over Swansea

Cardiff XV C. Davies B. Edwards F. Barnes L. Waller C. Stonehill T. Wilson (C) A. Everett G. Ansell O. Davies J. Davies M. Ramage C. Dyde R. Wall G. Thomas O. Williams

Swansea XV T. Northey (C) G. Jawad T. Harper J. Anderson M. Dodd J. Grabham R. Johnson J. Williams H. Williams P. Jones H. Doel Z. Ward A. Claypole P. Carter T. Gray

Replacements E. Thompson C. Lewis J. Outlaw S. Herold G. Ramage J. Oakley H. Roberts H. Griffiths

Replacements J. Ingamels L. Davies D. Hughes E. Herbert B. O’Sullivan T. Lucas G. Parks B. Wood

by John Jones

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ardiff University’s Men’s 1st XV scored 11 tries as they stormed to an emphatic win over Varsity rivals Swansea at the Principality Stadium.

After Team Cardiff had earlier retained the Varsity Shield, many home fans were hoping to see the day capped with a win in the final event, but few would have expected the magnitude of what was to follow.

Prior to kick-off, there was speculation surrounding the quality of the visiting side as, with their regular first team unable to reschedule their crucial BUCS Super Rugby playoff final against Nottingham Trent, Swansea were forced into fielding what they described as a “Barbarians style” team to compete for the Varsity Cup. Whilst many believed that this would lead to a lopsided clash against an effective second-string side, however, the inclusion of regional academy brought a degree of uncertainty to proceedings.

Nevertheless, right from the whistle, the sheer gulf in quality between the two teams was clearly evident, as, after James Davies slotted a penalty for Cardiff ’s first points of the

Cardiff 78-7 Swansea

evening, the hosts crossed for their opening try with just five minutes on the clock.

An aimless kick downfield from Swansea was gratefully scooped up

by Owen Davies who, surging forward, carved through the opposition defence with a cute little dink, before comfortably gathering the ball and winning the race to the line to make it 8-0, with his namesake James adding the extras.

With the wind in their sails, Cardiff were attacking with intent, and soon delivered a stunning move deep into the opposition 22. Drawing his man expertly, James Davies did well pop outside to Marcus Ramage who, in turn, burst through the Swansea defensive line and found Owen Williams in acres of space on the left wing to touch down for his side’s second try.

Though stunned by a magnificent opening 10 minutes from the hosts, Swansea began to settle, and, for a few moments at least, stemmed the flow of points, despite sustained Cardiff pressure in their half.

Minutes later, however, Williams was in again, as James Davies floated an inviting ball over the Swansea

back line, who were slow to react, and the full back did well to collect and ride a challenge to make it 22-0 after 16 minutes.

Cardiff soon grabbed their fourth, as an electrifying burst down the right wing from Rhodri Wall saw him dot down in the corner, whilst Davies’ reliable right boot propelled Cardiff into an unassailable lead.

By now, Cardiff were oozing confidence going forward, and their slick, quick passing was causing a real headache for a comparatively lethargic Swansea side, as they shifted the ball through the hands with devastating efficiency.

Perhaps inevitably, therefore, it wasn’t long until the wingers got in on the act, with Ramage and George Thomas both breaking free to cross the whitewash, leaving Swansea crying out for the half time whistle.

With four changes made at the break, Swansea looked more assured in the opening exchanges of the second period, forcing their way briefly in to the Cardiff 22, but ultimately could not find their way through the big red wall that met them.

Despite a more promising start, Swansea were soon undone again by

sloppy mistakes, as a limp clearance was charged down by Charlie Dyde just inside their own half, with the Cardiff inside centre winning the footrace by a nose to touch down and secure a half century for the hosts.

Even at fifty points for the good, Cardiff showed no signs of letting up, with Gareth Ansell and Charlie Stonehill both crashing over either side of a stunning, yet sadly disallowed, team move.

Cardiff ’s players and coaching staff deserve great credit for remaining professional throughout As the game entered its final minutes, another well-worked set piece move saw Rhodri Wall in for his second, and Cardiff ’s tenth (10) of the night.

However, Swansea had something to show for at the final whistle. After some sustained pressure on the fringe of the Cardiff 22, centre Andy Claypole burst through from the

right, evading the outstretched arms of Williams to touch down by the posts.

It was Cardiff, however, who had the final word, as replacement Huw Roberts became the beneficiary of a Swansea error to dive under the posts as the clock turned red.

What was, in the end, a truly emphatic victory for Cardiff capped a highly successful day for the university’s sports teams, and showed the true benefit of experience and understanding your teammates.

Special credit must go to the visitors, therefore, who, whilst disadvantaged on this front, were nonetheless resilient in their play and gracious in defeat.

With their first team winning their play-off against Nottingham Trent, there was to be some joy for Swansea, as they became the third Welsh team to join next season’s BUCS Super League, setting up some mouth-watering local derbies in the process.

Whilst Cardiff can rightfully bask in Varsity glory for now then, they will know all to well that they won’t have it so easy next season, especially when they return to the Liberty Stadium next April.

4 WELSH VARSITY 2019

Swansea edge Cardiff in Ladies’ Rugby thriller

Cardiff concede last-minute try to hand Swansea victory Cardiff XV M Danks (capt.)

E Preece C Jones D Saverton L Akinn M Jenkins A Borthwick L Podpadec M Compton B Lewis V Butt C Edwards A Voyce K Thomas P Booth Replacements C Pritchard M Ambler R Foley B Eyres J Yandle G Harvey C Pugh L Davalou

by Jack Vavasour Cardiff................................................27 Swansea.............................................30

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ardiff Ladies’ kicked off proceedings in the Principality as underdogs against a very strong Swansea side. Despite having a smaller crowd than their male counterparts, their game was far more enthralling.

Cardiff started poorly, losing a line out and then conceding a scrum.

Off the scrum full-back Booth made a wonderful try saving tackle to stop Cardiff from conceding the first points. Fly-half Lewis made a few good breaks in the opening minutes and looked dangerous in parts. The real danger though was Swansea, who dominated the opening ten minutes. Cardiff defended desperately and managed to keep out the superior outfit.

On the 14 minute mark, following a tap penalty by Molly Danks, Jenkins powered her way over the line to open the scoring. Swansea appeared shell shocked as they hadn’t expected such a determined response from Cardiff after they had controlled the early stages. Edwards failed to get the conversion.

Swansea were right back on the attack and Lewis was forced to bring down Swansea’s winger five metres

out. Swansea’s fullback, who looked more dangerous as the match continued, collected a poor Cardiff clearance kick and counter-attacked immediately.

She made some good metres, darting in and out of players and avoiding tackles very successfully.

Play then continued and Swansea’s outside centre put on a good pass to send their 15 over in the corner.

Swansea then received a yellow card for their number 8.

Compton was then forced to hold Swansea up over the line in yet another desperate defensive showing from Cardiff. Sadly this defence didn’t last and Swansea’s second-row crossed to give her side the lead.

Cardiff replied almost instantly as Podpadec somehow bulldozed her way over for a try to level the scores.

However, Podpadec’s joy didn’t last long as she attempted to end the half by throwing the ball into touch. This resulted in a penalty and Swansea tapped it and scored from the penalty to go into half time five points ahead.

Cardiff came out raring to go in the second half still with everything still to play for. The home advantage was beginning to pay off as the stadium gradually gained more supporters and the seats filled up.

Cardiff scored with only three

minutes on the clock in the second-half. Edwards ran in a simple try under the posts, making the game look easy. This drew Cardiff level and made the game extremely exciting.

Swansea then received their second yellow of the game, with Cardiff only five metres out. Cardiff knocked the ball on at the line out then continued their scrum dominance and won the ball back. After some dangerous play, and some white line fever, Thomas managed to find a gap a crossed to give Cardiff the lead.

Despite having a smaller crowd than their male counterparts, their game was far more enthralling Swansea, again, hit back immediately to draw level following yet another dangerous run from their fullback. Eventually their outside centre bundled over with about five players trying to tackle her at once.

Cardiff then took a 27-20 lead as

Podpadec crossed for her second of the game by picking up at the back of a ruck and sprinting for the line untouched. Edwards got the conversion, the first and final successful kick of the game. Cardiff were now in a solid position to close out the game.

With just five minutes left Swansea’s winger dotted down in the corner following impressive sustained attack from Swansea.

In the 79th minute Swansea dropped the ball over the line, as Cardiff once again gave everything they had on the defensive end.

All Cardiff had to do was win the resultant scrum and kick the ball out, sadly they lost the scrum and Swansea’s substitute scrumhalf pounced on the loose ball and scored the winning try. Making the final score 27-30.

Cardiff will be proud of their performance as they challenged the favourites and so nearly came away with the victory. They will, however, be disappointed that their defence and scrum cost them the game in the dying moments, as this had been so strong throughout and they had been reluctant to bring fresh legs on.

Cardiff will look to continue to improve for next varsity, sadly 2019 just wasn’t their year.

Swansea XV R Lewis A Mokhtar B Williams R Ellis E Sheppy C Davies D Dinapoli J McCreery (capt.)

A Leeds C Hurenkamp R Higgins C Keight D Allcock E Hennessy Replacements V Allen E Thomas K Hall B Taylor V Mince C Dean B Redmond L Hemming

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VARSITY CYMRU 2019

Spoils shared in the Men’s Football

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Nothing to split Cardiff and Swansea in 2-2 draw

by Olly Allen

Cardiff....................................................2 Swansea.................................................2

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or the second year in a row, it ended honours even in the men’s football as Cardiff earned a hardfought 2-2 draw on the Sport Wales grass pitch.

The game was an entertaining encounter from the off, and it took just eight minutes for Cardiff to take a surprise lead as the ball fell to Joe Martin inside the box.

The number ten kept his cool to poke the ball into the back of the net before making sure to celebrate in front of the goading Swansea fans.

However, going behind seemed to galvanise Swansea, and they began to dominate proceedings.

Much of their threat came from set-pieces as they looked to exploit the height advantage they had, but Cardiff ’s defence held firm to clear a header off the line and goalkeeper Brady Lambert was called into action for the first time to push wide a Swansea effort from outside the box.

Despite Cardiff ’s resistance, the visitors did score a deserved equaliser just before the half hour mark, with Will Toms tapping in from close range after a cross arrived from the righthand side. Shortly after, they had completed the turnaround as Tom

Johnston unleashed an unstoppable shot from 25 yards out that left Lambert with no chance.

It could have been 3-1 before halftime as Johnston tried to replicate his goal to no avail, whilst Cardiff captain Scott Dabbs put in a vital block in the six-yard box.

Cardiff will have been disappointed with the way they began the second half, as Swansea continued to have the better of the chances and the game began to turn cagey.

Marley Bishop-Wisdom, academy player for Bristol City, had come on at half-time for the visitors, and arguably should have put the game to bed with a number of good chances.

the path of Mandaza, who was unmarked in the box and calmly slotted into the net.

It seemed as though both teams would not settle for the draw, with the last 10 minutes seeing a flurry of chances.

Clwyd produced one of the moments of the game as he appeared

from nowhere to slide in and clear the ball off the line. Meanwhile, substitutes Charlie Thompson and Chris Hollands wasted shots for Cardiff, who also failed to make anything of a last minute corner.

In the end, a draw was the reward for a strong defensive display from Cardiff, who had set up with three

centre-backs for much of the game.

One of that trio, Ryan Dabbs, said afterwards: “We set up to nullify their threats and did very well I thought.

I thought we deserved to maybe win the game, but the keeper made some incredible saves for us as well. We’ve done better than I thought we would, so it’s incredible”.

It seemed as though both teams would not settle for the draw, with the last 10 minutes seeing a flurry of chances Swansea were made to pay for those missed opportunities, as Cardiff substitute Munashe Mandaza levelled the match with 20 minutes to go.

A shot from Ynyr Clwyd, known affectionately as Dave, deflected into

Cardiff Ladies’ fall short despite spirited second-half performance +1

by Thomas Walker

Cardiff.......................................................2 Swansea....................................................3

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very good second half display from Cardiff wasn’t quite enough to find an equaliser against Swansea in a game that was filled with plenty of physicality and quality.

Swansea started the game the better side, taking the lead in the 15th minute after a Swansea player wriggled away from her marker and slotted it past the Cardiff goalkeeper.

Cardiff number ten Davies, who led the line well all game, then struck back only five minutes later, finding herself at the back post and smashing it into the Swansea net.

However, Swansea’s pressure persisted and was rewarded by another goal in the 20th minute. Their lead was almost extended twice in the following 10 minutes as they hit the crossbar from a freekick and had a goal rightly ruled out for offside.

Despite this, the pace Cardiff ’s front three had was always going to cause a threat on the break and they eventually levelled the score through an Edwards volley in the 32nd minute from a Davies cross. Swansea were to retake the lead only three minutes

later from the penalty spot which ended up being the last goal of the game.

They still had a fair bit of defending to do, including a brilliant block from the inspired captain Fletcher Cardiff came out in the second half with a point to prove and were instantly on the front foot. They were able to get more players into the final third and getting the ball down the wings with more intent which really troubled Swansea.

They still had a fair bit of defending to do, including a brilliant block from the inspired captain Fletcher, who was solid all game. The second half was constantly disrupted by injuries and Cardiff ’s only real chance of note as the game ticked on was an unfortunate mis-hit from Fletcher in the 56th minute that dribbled just wide.

Overall, it was a performance that Cardiff can be proud of against a very physical opposition who killed the game effectively in the second half.

WELSH VARSITY 2019

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Two goals from Ashley Davies secured a 2-1 victory for Ladies’ Hockey

by John Jones Cardiff.......................................................2 Swansea....................................................1

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wo goals from Ashley Davies helped Cardiff Women’s Hockey team to overcome the disappointment of last year’s Varsity with a 2-1 victory at the Sport Wales National Centre.

The hosts were quickest out of the blocks, keeping possession and spreading the ball around the back well, whilst forcing errors from a shaky looking Swansea side with a strong press.

Cardiff nearly capitalised on their early dominance, as Jasmine Kirkwood made a surging run forward, but having chosen unselfishly to look for a pass, could only watch as the ball trickled wide.

After two unsuccessful Swansea short corners, Kirkwood was again unlucky, as she got on the end of a stinging cross at the back post, only for the opposition goalkeeper to make a remarkable save with her feet.

Two more accomplished saves from the Swansea keeper kept her side in it, but could do nothing as a

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deflection off the post fell to Davies, who reacted first to poke home five minutes before the break.

A quieter second half again saw Cardiff dominate possession and, after a series of short corner attempts, Davies grabbed another, as she got on the end of a dangerous ball into the Swansea D to find the net from close range.

Though Swansea had the final word as a deflected short corner effort crept in at the near post, the home side held on to secure a deserved victory, to the delight of coach Chris Maz.

Its difficult to bring your A-game, but you’ve got to find a way to win and stick at it, and we did enough. I think we were the better team After the game, Maz said: “If I’m honest we probably weren’t at our best today, but on occasions like

this, form goes out of the window and you have to play the game rather than the occasion.”

“Especially for the girls whose final year it is, they are so keen to

win, and the emotion gets high and its difficult to bring your A-game, but you’ve got to find a way to win and stick at it, and we did enough; I think we were the better team to be

honest.”

“We probably weren’t tidy enough with the ball, but we stuck in there and a win’s a win, and yeah, I’m really proud of the girls.”

Men’s hockey team slump to disappointing defeat against Swansea

by John Jones

Cardiff.................................................2 Swansea...................................................6

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fter comfortably dispatching a hapless Swansea side at Sketty Lane twelve months ago, Cardiff 1st XI Men’s hockey team went into this year’s Varsity clash hopeful of a repeat affair.

However, it was their turn to be on the end of a thumping, as they were

outclassed by the visitors, who were relentless in attack and more disciplined in defence.

An electric opening saw both teams driving forward with purpose, but it was Swansea who broke the deadlock after 12 minutes, as a speculative ball driven in from the left bounced awkwardly through the Cardiff bodies in the D and was slapped against the backboard from close range.

Moments later, Swansea had their second score, as they lashed home

from a short corner, stunning Cardiff who suddenly found themselves with it all to do.

Cardiff captain Ed Carr brought his side back into the game soon after, however, as two short corner attempts either side of half-time found their way past the imposing Swansea keeper to draw the scores level.

However, after Swansea grabbed a third through a scorching effort from a short corner, the visitors began to run away with it, scoring three more

two short corner attempts either side of half-time found their way past the imposing Swansea keeper to draw the scores level

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in the final fifteen minutes to truly put the game to bed.

Their final goal was arguably the pick of the lot, as their winger beat his man on the left flank, before cutting inside and driving into the D to fire across the goal and find the far corner.

Such a crushing defeat proved a disappointing end to an extremely successful season for the Cardiff men’s team, who were crowned national champions last month with a 3-1 win over Edinburgh in the Big BUCs final.

VARSITY CYMRU 2019

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Cardiff fail to secure boxing varsity shield in tight affair =

by Sam Tilley

Cardiff.................................1 Swansea..............................1

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oxing fever overtook Y Plas earlier this month as boxers from Cardiff and Swansea, alongside invited competitors from Barry Island Boxing Club and London Metropolitan Police, fought for the honour of taking home the Boxing Varsity Shield. In total, there were six bouts; the first being only an exhibition, the rest being competitive but only the final two fights counted towards the Varsity Shield.

The first match pitted Swansea University in the red corner against a boxer from the London Metropolitan Police in the blue. The first bout was a frantic affair and evenly matched with both fighters drawing blood from the other. As the match was only an exhibition, no winner was announced, but it was the perfect way to warm up the crowd.

Swansea remained in the red corner for their second match; this time against a boxer from Barry Island.

The first competitive match of the afternoon was a close middleweight bout in which the Swansea fighter was up against the ropes a number of times during the second round. A strong third round showing however was enough

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by George Willoughby

for the red fighter to take the match via split decision.

Cardiff ’s first match of the event was against a fighter from Barry Island Boxing Club. Cardiff, in the red corner, started strongly against their opponent but, by the time of the third round, appeared to have been drained by his earlier effort. As a result of the tempo of the bout falling by the end of the final round, the fighter from Barry was able to get right back into the match; eventually taking the victory also via split decision.

The fourth fight took place between Swansea, in the blue corner, and the London Metropolitan Police in the red.

This was a complete mismatch from the start and after two standing counts of eight, the referee waved off the fight after the Swansea fighter was rocked for a third time.

The first of two Varsity-level matches took place after a short interval. Swansea, in the blue, started strongly, bobbing and weaving to avoid some frantic hooks from the Cardiff fighter. Swansea also started the second round strongly but, after a rally from the Cardiff boxer, the Swansea fighter was rocked into a standing count as the round drew to a close. The third round was a more even affair but the Swansea representative was again forced into a standing

Cardiff ’s failure to win both of the Varsity fights means that the shield is retained by Swansea for another year A thunderbolt of a left hook opened a second round which was heavily dominated by the Cardiff boxer. The fighter from Swansea rallied towards the end which led to a third, winner-takes-all round. The final round was well contested with both fighters landing clean shots, but the match was eventually given to Swansea.

Cardiff ’s failure to win both of the Varsity fights now means that the shield is retained by Swansea university for another year.

Draw: Cardiff failed to take the boxing Varsity Shield (Credits: Sam Tilley)

Spirited Cobras lose out to Swansea Titans

Cardiff....................................................13 Swansea..................................................36

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account after some strong jabs found their mark. A late rally from the blue corner was not enough and Cardiff took the first match by split decision.

The final match was fraught with high stakes with Cardiff needing to take the match to ensure the Varsity Shield would return to the capital. A strong first round from both fighters set the scene for what would be a heavily charged fight.

could feel the excitement of the Cardiff players whilst I travelled on the team coach to their game.

Looking to avenge last year’s heavy defeat, the Cobras were confident in their preparations to make this Varsity match a competitive encounter.

I spoke with club president before the game, and he was quick to point out the importance of learning from defeat last time out.

“Last year we started really poorly and gifted them some free points and it turned the scales quickly.”

Conditions would be challenging with the odd gust of wind which would undoubtedly impact the ability to pass the ball through the air. Establishing a run game early would be critical to success for both teams, as it would allow them to move the ball up the field smoothly, and also the added benefit of being able to manage the game significantly easier.

Swansea would begin proceed-

ings and they were ruthless in their opening drive. Marching into Cardiff territory, the Titans quarterback completed two crucial third and long

Cardiff can take many positives from this defeat, none more so than the fact they were blown away by Swansea last year, so to produce this competitive showing was great to see throws to set up a red zone opportunity. A chance they took and raced out to an early 6-0 lead.

In the following set of plays, the Cobras were forced to punt, and Swansea regained possession. However, with the visitors looking to extend their lead, an overly ambitious pass downfield was expertly picked off by cornerback Arthur Redwood.

The Cardiff offence was able to

move the ball onto the Swansea five-yard line, but a decision to opt out of a field goal on 4th and inches backfired as the Titans defence stood firm and denied running back Russ Ludlow from making forward progress.

Unfortunately for the Cobras, they found themselves two touchdowns behind as Swansea went over the goal-line for the second time in the preceding possession. But, back-toback failed two-point conversions left the score 12-0 at the interval.

Cardiff showed glimpses of threatening in the first two-quarters of play, enough to produce an immediate response in a brilliant third quarter showing.

A perfectly designed screen play saw running back Ross Ludlow go 55-yards for a score and then shortly after a great defensive stop, the Cobras took the lead with Ludlow again finding the endzone. 13-12 to the Cobras with only a quarter to play.

However, the jubilation was shortlived. Cardiff kicked the ball back after their score, only to find the Swansea special team player run the

It was a good game, just quite not enough from us. Swansea are a fantastic side, it would take 100% to get the edge and we were 90% there ball from his own 15-yard line all the way into the Cardiff end zone. A deflating moment having performed so well to fight back.

From then on, the Cobras struggled to rekindle their earlier momentum, and at the start of the fourth quarter, the visitors affirmed their grip on the game. A fumble meant the Titans took over in great field possession and subsequently scored a decisive touchdown.

Swansea added to their lead with another touchdown late on, but the scoreline really wasn’t a true reflection of the game. Cardiff can take many positives in this defeat, none

more so than the fact they were blown away by Swansea last year, so to produce this competitive showing was great to see.

Shortly after the match, I was able to catch up with quarterback Max Milburn, and this is what he had to say: “It was a good game, just quite not enough from us. “[Swansea] are a fantastic side it would take 100% to get the edge on them and we were 90% there.

“It’s all such fine margins,” said Milburn “We had a couple of mistakes and penalties but overall it was a really even game.

“Credit to Swansea, they kept battling and kept going even when we were ahead.”

There is certainly added optimism for Cardiff ’s new season, especially as they gave a very good account of themselves against a team in the division above. Milburn was pleased with the performance of his side and he has already got big plans for next year with promotion the ultimate aim.

8 WELSH VARSITY 2019

Cardiff hit Swansea for six

by Laura Price Cadiff...............................................167/6 Swansea...................................148a/o

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fter speculation as to whether the match would go ahead due to the rain, Cardiff University Cricket Club took to the wicket at Newport Cricket Club in a gripping T20 against Swansea on the Wednesday of this years varsity.

After losing the toss Cardiff were set to bat first hoping to give Swansea a big score to chase.

Opening pairing Sam Wood and Harry Lloyd struggled in the first over, Wood out for eight following a big LBW appeal from Swansea.

Swansea were lulled into a false

by Jack Vavasour

the middle by club Chairman Callum Russell.

Unfortunately the Chairman didn’t last long, caught behind for 1.

New pairing Freddie Austin and Andy Gorvin turned it on for the side, Austin whacking the spinners about taking the team to 83/5 off 14.

Swansea started to get a lot quieter following Gorvin’s six, the pair looking strong on 99/5 off 15.

Cardiff hit the hundred mark but unfortunately Austin was bowled soon after, 101/6 off 15.4 overs. New batter Todd Wilcox took to the wicket to join in the six hitting.

Gorvin brings up his 50 to finish the innings on 56, Cardiff finishing overall on 167/6.

The Cardiff fans kept the energy

up during the interval, Vengaboys ringing around the ground helping to maintain energy levels and keeping Swansea subdued.

Todd Wilcox opened the bowling getting the second innings underway. Swansea’s openers put in a convincing effort starting the innings strongly, Swansea quickly making it to 35/0 off 3 overs.

Cardiff looked shaky in the field, a dropped catch seeing Swansea to 42/0 off 4. Wilcox’s second over looked much stronger, Swansea only taking one from the over, now 43/1 off 5.

More wickets followed, Swansea batters falling quickly. Gorvin took two in two balls which marked a change in momentum for Cardiff

Ladies’ Lacrosse ease past Swansea

Cardiff.....................................................21 Swansea.................................................10

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sense of security with their chants getting louder. Cardiff were having none of it, Kit Secretary Ben Howe designated DJ for the day drowning out Swansea and getting Cardiff fans on their feet.

The boys were looking more comfortable at 43/2 off 7. Entering the eighth over, third and fourth batsman James Kinder and Shailen Assani looked to be setting up a comfortable partnership starting to rack up some more runs when Kinder was bowled for 17.

Swansea quick to the ball in the field were giving nothing away to Cardiff, the boys struggling to put an intimidating score together. Assani was bowled coming down the wicket looking for a big shot, replaced in

n a brisk morning at Sport Wales the Ladies’ Lacrosse team were prepared for their match with Swansea. Despite it seeming more like the middle of December rather than the middle of April. This didn’t put the Cardiff players off, they began well with consistent pressure, before eventually breaking the deadlock with a well taken goal. For the first period of the game Cardiff and Swansea exchanged blows until Cardiff began to move ahead from 3-3. Swansea’s keeper appeared to forget her goal and began wandering downfield with the ball in her possession, she then attempted a pass which was subsequently intercepted and the Cardiff attacker practically ran the ball into an open goal. This merely added insult to injury before the end of the first half as Cardiff went into the break 13-4 up on the score-

board.

Swansea came out fighting and snatched two quick goals after halftime. This momentum was swiftly stopped by Cardiff who regained their goal scoring form and continued to dominate. Swansea managed some goals late on to finish the game, including a very impressive length of the field run from their defence which resulted in a goal, the final one of the game. Cardiff thrashed a poor Swansea side 2110. Cardiff put in a well-rounded display, defending and attacking impressively. They will be disappointed to not have scored more goals, following an impressive display from the Swansea keeper. They still managed to crush their rivals and have definitely earned the bragging rights well and truly until next year.

Not only did Cardiff perform on the pitch, but also the atmosphere around the pitch was phenomenal with the Lacrosse club out in full force to cheer on their Varsity side.

This clearly gave the Cardiff side an invaluable added boost on the day.

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with the visitors 74/4 off 8.

It was still anyone’s game at the halfway point Swansea on 86/4.

Russell took a catch in the 10th over, and Wilcox in the 15th, Swansea slipped to 126/6.

35 off 24 needed, Swansea needed a good display if they were to win it back. Swansea now needed 22 from Gorvin’s final over but only made three.

Cardiff won by 19 to take the trophy home.

Even more impressive, was that this was the sixth-straight Varsity victory in a row for the cricket team.

This is a remarkable run of wins over Swansea, and it is a trend I am sure the cricket team will want to continue.

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VARSITY CYMRU 2019

Cardiff win scrappy Freshers rugby clash

by Jack Vavasour Cardiff......................................................22 Swansea...................................................13

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reshers rugby was the first rugby event of the day, kicking off at 12:00. Many fans turned up and the Cardiff supporters were in good voice getting behind their first year side.

The teams came out and almost immediately the sun started shining, these were ideal conditions for rugby.

Cardiff began dominantly and looked assured in what they were doing.

They did, however, attempt too many fancy moves and tricks early on which didn’t pay off.

Their impatience to go through the phases and play a stable game of rugby cost them early on as they kicked a poor box kick which was collected by Swansea’s winger who

by Christian Moore

metre line, the Cardiff winger was put over by a beautiful pass straight from the scrum.

A wonderful piece of opportunism from the young side, at last, their creativity and flair had paid off.

Cardiff continued to lack tactical nous with their kicking and this almost cost them a try on more than one occasion The scrum-half then put Cardiff in the lead with a dummy and dart from the back of a ruck before beating two defenders and powering over the line to score the try under the posts, leaving an easy kick for the fly-half to convert.

Cardiff once again crossed as their hooker managed to muscle his way

through Swansea’s defence from close quarters.

The fly-half was now into his stride and converted, making the score 19-7 at half-time.

Poor discipline in the second half almost cost Cardiff as they conceded two early penalties, fortunately one was missed.

Both were easily kickable and Cardiff should have been punished for their lapse in concentration.

Cardiff then scored in the corner, with the right winger again dotting down.

Sadly, it was disallowed as the offload to him was deemed to have gone forward.

The game became increasingly scrappy as both teams looked to improve their position on the scoreboard.

Cardiff made some try saving tackles in a desperate defensive effort, one in the corner which should have been a try for Swansea.

Cardiff continued to lack tactical

Convincing win for Men’s Basketball

Cardiff...........................................................96 Swansea........................................................78

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stepped his way into a gap along his wing.

He passed to his inside centre who drew the last man and returned the ball to his winger to dot down in the corner.

A poor defensive display from Cardiff and wasteful kicking.

Cardiff continued to try audacious offloads and dangerous passes which didn’t pay off and Swansea continued to almost capitalise on these mistakes.

Cardiff ’s inexperience was evident throughout the game as they failed to fully enter their stride as they struggled endlessly with inconsistency.

Cardiff ’s fly-half then missed an easy penalty that would have put them right back in the game.

They were all over Swansea but nothing seemed to be working and they kicked away possession on too many occasions.

Finally, following a succession of dominant scrums on Swansea’s 5

ardiff men’s basketball entered Varsity with high spirits and eagerness to replicate theirprevious 2018 Varsity win over Swansea.

Cardiff started strong offensively, with captain Reyes and Wouters splashing threes to give the home side an early lead.

The visitors responded converting lay ups and providing tough defence.

However Liang was able to cut and weave through the defence and force an aggressive power lay up with four minutes remaining in the quarter.

Swansea struggled to get their shots to fall as the quarter progressed, only for Reyes to make nothing but net and secure another three for the home side. With a minute left Dullo takes a charge with Ford and Povous

making both their free throws with seconds remaining on the clock, ending a dominant quarter from Cardiff 24-16.

After the break, Swansea reduced the lead and started positively drawing fouls and converting from the free throw line. Despite a quiet period from the home side, Cardiff turned up the heat with Dullo calling a play from behind the arch, firing a pass to Brocklesby who assisted Ford with the lay up. The away side struggled to convert their shots through robust defence from Cardiff, however a flurry of fouls led to Swansea making 4/6 from the free throw line and enabled them to gain a foothold back in the quarter.

After hot shooting from Wouters and Liang, captain Reyes rose up for the lay up but was powerfully blocked by the Swansea centre and crashed down, sliding across the court.

Subsequently being carried off injured to an eruption of applause.

Cardiff ended the quarter strongly with Liang on fire from behind the arch beating the buzzer to convert the three.

Ending the first half 55-37 after a scorching first half shooting performance from the home side.

In the third quarter Swansea were able to reduce the deficit after a more pressing offence led by aggressive drives that enabled them to register points on the board.

However despite a slow start, Cardiff found form after Delaney euro stepped his way to the rim created by a crucial block from Wouters.

Cardiff ’s full court pressure proved difficult for the visitors to handle leading to turnovers; enabling Cardiff to achieve a 7-0 run with Dullo and Liang consistently linking up and going to work in the paint.

As the score read 78-58, chants of ‘Cardiff ’ reverberated around the court as the players took their positions ready for the final quarter.

Swansea continued their improved second half performance, consistently converting their jump shots and free throws.

However Cardiff were determined to add to the score board with Liang capitalising on the and-one play and Rose swerving through the static defence for the lay up.

After a quarter that was more closely matched, the score read 96-78 to Cardiff as they were able to comfortably secure the win over Swansea.

Thomas Wouters described the win as ‘’immense’’ and credited both teams for their performance.

Wouters mentioned the 18-point lead at Varsity was the ‘’biggest since he has been playing’’ and credited the teamsaying ‘’no one had a bad game in the squad’’.

This enabled Cardiff University to convincingly clinch the win, and subsequently come away victorious in the men’s Varsity basketball 2019.

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nous with their kicking and this almost cost them a try on more than one occasion.

Swansea converted an easy penalty to leave them needed a converted try to take the lead.

Fortunately Cardiff ’s fly-half had his kicking boots on and slotted a near impossible kick from the halfway line.

It was like Elliot Daly was on the pitch, the distance was phenomenal.

Cardiff took the game 22-13, yet their players will have to become far more clinical if they are wanting to graduate into the Super Rugby side next season.

Without a doubt, some of the Cardiff players have big futures with the club, but they need to cut out the errors if they are to continue their progession.

Either way, it was a well-deserved victory for the Cardiff team who showed real promise in their win over bitter rivals Swansea which the boys should be pleased with.

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10 WELSH VARSITY 2019

Men’s tennis sees Cardiff secure a winning streak

by Tomos Evans Cardiff..........................................................6 Swansea.......................................................0

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n Cardiff Lawn Tennis Club, Cardiff ’s home side took on the visitors from Swansea University.

The competition got off to a great start for Cardiff with a win on Court 1 in the men’s doubles, Owain Atkinson and Tom Davenport winning in straight sets against Swansea’s Matt Lloyd and Matt Sharp (6-3, 6-2).

Another win in the doubles came Cardiff ’s way on Court 2, with Aydin Caglayan and Rob Knight winning against Swansea’s Ryan Winter and Miguel Garcia-Matas, also in straight sets, (6-3, 6-4).

The combination of the Cardiff sun and the gentle breeze was not enough to take the wind out of Cardiff ’s sails as their winning streak continued in the men’s singles. Indeed, Cardiff ’s players furthered their lead over Swansea, without dropping a set in all four of their sin-

by Matt Tomlin

We had a strong team, we had a really good year. Both our first and second teams had a really good year was closely followed by Cardiff ’s Aydin Caglayan winning against Swansea’s Miguel Garcia-Matas (6-3, 6-1) on Court 1, meaning that it was no longer possible for Swansea to win the men’s tennis.

A short break from play followed, with the players getting ready for the final two singles matches. Safe in

the knowledge that an overall victory was on the cards, Cardiff ’s Tom Davenport took on Swansea’s Ryan Winter on Court 2 with a win (6-0, 6-2). The final match on Court 1 was between Cardiff ’s Tim Gale and Swansea’s Darren Kappala-Ramsey, with the former securing the final win for Cardiff (6-2, 6-1).

After the result, Cardiff ’s doubles player Rob Knight said: “This is my seventh Varsity…so it’s really nice to finish the year, my last ever BUCS match, with a win.”

Cardiff singles player Aydin Caglayan commented that it was “good to get the win today”, elaborating that “we didn’t drop a set”.

Overall, despite a valiant effort from Swansea, it was a strong showing from Cardiff University’s Tennis Club, not dropping a set in any of their singles or doubles matches, resulting in an impressive result.

Cardiff fought hard for a win in ladies’ tennis

Cardiff......................................................6 Swansea....................................................0

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gles’ matches. The competing began on Court 2 with Cardiff ’s President Dom Pearson winning against Swansea’s Bradley Phillips (6-0, 6-3). This

he women’s tennis for Welsh Varsity saw Cardiff championing over its opposition in five of six games played throughout the day.

Initially, the competition was fairly equal, but the two matches of women’s doubles resulted in victories for Cardiff.

Kicking off at 11.30am, Cardiff ’s Rebecca Astill and team captain Anna Rolfe won against Swansea’s Jess Diack and Izzy Abernethy after over an hour of play on Court 3.

Winning both sets, the score for the first was 6-4 and the score for the second was 7-5.

Meanwhile on Court 4, Cardiff ’s Alice Warren and Panteleima Nicolaidou went up against Swansea’s Amy Basford and Lena Klein. This match began with Warren and Nicolaidou losing their first set 3 games to Basford and Klein’s 6.

However, they made a small comeback in their second set, reversing the score to be 6-3 to Cardiff. Ultimately though it was Swansea who won this match, with a champion’s tie break resulting in a score of 10-6 to Basford and Klein.

Later, in the women’s singles, Cardiff ’s Nicolaidou returned to compete in the first of the four singles matches on Court 4.

She beat Swansea’s Izzy Abernethy after dominating the two sets, winning 6 games to Abernethy’s 1 in the first and 5-0 in the second.

Following on from this was a close match on Court 3 between Cardiff ’s Alex Boardman and Swansea’s Jess Diack.

Diack was victorious in the first set, winning 6 games to Boardman’s 2. Despite this, Boardman reversed

this score in the second set with a result of 6-2 to her.

In the champion’s tie break, the two girls fought hard, with a final result of 10 points earned by Cardiff ’s Boardman, and 5 by Swansea’s Diack, giving Cardiff another win.

By this point, the men’s and the women’s matches had been won primarily by Cardiff ’s team.

Both player and coach Dom Pearson and Rebecca Astill told us there was now “no way” for Swansea to stage a comeback which would win them this year’s tennis contest.

However, this did not put the Swansea players off from trying. The third of the singles matches was a tightly fought match, with Cardiff captain Anna Rolfe playing against Swansea’s Amy Basford.

Rolfe won the first set 7 games to Basford’s 5, but did not quite manage to sustain this lead in the second set, which saw Basford stage a comeback of 6 games to Rolfe’s 4.

This made for another result decided by a champion’s tie break, with Rolfe relieved afterwards to have won this with a score of 10-3.

The women’s singles concluded around 4pm after Cardiff ’s Alice Warren and Swansea’s Lena Klein played a long-delayed match on Court 3.

Despite Klein having won against Warren when competing earlier in the doubles, this match did not see the same result for her when they faced off as individuals. Warren won the final match for Cardiff, with a score of 6-3 in the first set, and 6-4 in the second.

After the game, we spoke to doubles player Rebecca Astill who was happy to play in her first Varsity in Cardiff since coming to university.

“There was a lot more home support this year, and all of my housemates came to watch me play which was great.

“There’s 9 of them so I really felt the support. There’s always an added feeling of comfort playing at home on a court surface you’re used to, and winning made it even better,” said Astill.

Astill was also keen to point out that the club wanted to take their league momentum into an important Varsity match.

“While we were over the moon about our season already - we were expected to win our league easily so for us, Varsity was the real challenge we were looking forward to, with Swansea being 2 leagues above us.

“The momentum meant we were on a high as a team anyway and gave us the confidence to clench the win in some close matches.

“We made sure we carried on training regularly after the leagues finished so we were on the same level of match fitness.”

Playing against a team in a higher division should, perhaps, have been more challenging than it turned out, but Astill believes that the unity within the squad was crucial in ensuring a comprehensive victory.

“The key was definitely the confidence we had as a team going into Varsity - we’re all very close as a team and train a lot.

“We have particularly been working on doubles, and our tactical play and confidence has improved massively over the year.

Our captain is very organised and motivated, which inspired the rest of the team to work hard, which made the result all the more rewarding,” said Astill.

Overall, the win for Astill and the rest of her team shows just how much the club have improved as a unit over the last few years.

They will be hoping to do the same next year when they travel to Swansea.

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VARSITY CYMRU 2019

Canlyniadau cymysg i Gaerdydd Dynion: Caerdydd 78- 7 Abertawe Menywod: Caerdydd 27 - 30 Abertawe

Siomedigaeth i saethyddiaeth

gan Osian Dafydd Carroll

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afwyd diwrnod grêt o saethyddiaeth yn Varsity.

Ond, er ein bod wedi colli y gystadleuaeth yn ei chyfanrwydd, roedd hi’n agos iawn trwy’r dydd. Y sgôr yn y diwedd oedd 9-2 i Abertawe, ond roedd tri o’r ‘one to ones’ yn agos, â dim ond un pwynt ynddi.

Beth mae’n rhaid inni ei gofio hefyd ydi fod Abertawe’n ymarfer chwe gwaith yr wythnos, tra’n bod ni ond yn ymarfer ddwywaith yr wythnos, ac yn cynnwys ‘freshers’ yn ein tîm.

Ond mae’n rhaid dweud, ar ddiwedd y dydd, Caerdydd a wnaeth ennill Varsity, felly ni ydi’r ennillwyr go iawn.

Roedd yna chwe cystadleuaeth saethyddiaeth ar y dydd, pedwar gwahanol bwa yn cael eu gwhanu ar sail rhyw (sydd yn golygu wyth medal i’w hennill), un digwyddiad tîm sydd wedi eu gwahanu ar sail rhyw, a un gystadleuaeth tîm cymysg sydd yn golygu 11 cystadleuaeth i’w hennill.

Roedd y canlyniadau saethyddiaeth ar y dydd fel y ganlyn: Bwa cyfansoddol dynion - Abertawe Bwa cyfansoddol menywod - Abertawe Bwa hir dynion - Abertawe Bwa hir menywod - Abertawe Adwyro dynion - Abertawe Adwyro menywod - Caerdydd Bwa moel dynion - Abertawe Bwa moel menywod - Abertawe CRB (tîm) dynion - Abertawe CRB (tîm) menywod - Abertawe Tîm adwyro (cymysg) - Caerdydd Yn dilyn y canlyniadau, dywedodd William Beaumont a wnaeth gystadlu yng nghystadlaethau’r saethyddiaeth: “Roedd saethyddiaeth yn erbyn Abertawe yn linyn anodd o gystadleuthau pen wrth ben. Roedd ysbrydion yn llon ac roedd bloeddiadau yn canu fel cloch wrth i’r ddwy ochr saethu. Yn y diwedd, roedd offer drud a hyfforddwr cymwys a’r ffaith bod Abertawe’n saethu chwe gwaith yr wythnos yn ddigon i Abertawe fynd â hi, ond rhoddodd Caerdydd gystdleuaeth teilwng. Gwnaeth Laura a’r tîm adwyro ddangos i Abertawe sut oedd gwneud.

Ar y cyfan, roedd hi’n gêm dda a nid wyf yn medru aros tan y flwyddyn nesaf ar gyfer ein cyfarfod nesaf ag Abertawe.”

Felly, ar y cyfan, roedd hi’n ddiwrnod gwych i bawb a oedd yn cymryd rhan.

Saethyddiaeth: Rhai o’r cystadleuwyr yn anelu eu bwâu yn barod i saethu’r targedau. (Tarddiad: Osian Dafydd Carroll).

gan Llion Carbis

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yn i’r un bêl gael ei chicio ar dir Stadiwm y Principality, roedd buddugoliaethau mewn chwaraeon eraill wedi seilio llwyddiant Varsity Cymru, i Brifysgol Caerdydd am flwyddyn arall. Er gwaethaf buddugoliaeth arall i Brifysgol Caerdydd yn Varsity, y rygbi oedd uchafbwynt chwaraeon y diwrnod, a chafwyd cwpl o gemau cyffrous iawn yng nghartref y tîm cenedlaethol.

Yn gyntaf, roedd menywod Caerdydd yn herio Abertawe, yn benderfynol i wrthdroi eu colled i’r Elyrch yn Stadiwm Liberty y llynedd.

Ar ôl dechrau tanllyd gan Abertawe, Caerdydd sgoriodd cais agoriadol yr ornest ar ôl chwarter awr. Ond pedair munud yn ddiweddarach, llwyddodd Abertawe i unioni’r sgôr gan osod patrwm am weddill y gêm.

Ni lwyddodd yr un tîm i ddatblygu mantais yn fwy na phum pwynt tan i Gaerdydd drosi cais ar ôl 69 munud.

Dilynodd y gêm strwythur rhagweladwy iawn; wrth i un dîm sgorio cais, roedd y gwrthwynebwyr yn ymateb gyda chais eu hun.

Sgoriodd Abertawe eu pumed cais gyda phum munud o’r gêm yn weddill, i gwtogi mantais Caerdydd i ond cwpl o bwyntiau, 27-25. Ar ôl amddiffyniad arwrol i rwystro Abertawe ar y linell gais yn ystod munudau olaf y gêm, ni lwyddodd Caerdydd i gadw meddiant yn dilyn sgrym yn

Rygbi: Cafodd Caerdydd ddiwrnod llwyddiannus yn rygbi’r dynion.

22 eu hunain. Tasgodd y bêl yn rhydd fodlon ail-drefnu’r gêm, er i Aber- ben ei hun, cyn cicio’r bêl dros ben i eilydd Abertawe a enillodd y gêm, tawe gynnig sawl opsiwn a dyddiad yr amddiffynnwr olaf i sgorio cais sayn llythrennol yn yr eiliad olaf. Tor- amgen. fonol tu hwnt. Parhaodd oruchafiaeth calonnus i Gaerdydd, gorfoledd i AbDan yr amgylchiadau, felly, roedd Caerdydd yn yr ail hanner, gyda phum ertawe. tîm Prifysgol Abertawe, a oedd yn cais arall i’r tîm cartref, cyfanswm o 11 Yn gyferbyniol, stori dra gwahanol ôl y sôn, ond wedi cael un sesiwn yn yr ornest i Gaerdydd. ydoedd i’r dynion. Datgelodd Gair ymarfer gyda’i gilydd cyn y gêm, wedi Fodd bynnag, rhaid canmol AberRhydd yn ecsliwsif ddiwrnod cyn perfformio’n ganmoliaethus. tawe am ddyfalbarhau wrth iddynt y gêm bod Caerdydd yn disgwyl i Ond, nid oeddent yn gallu rhwystro sgorio eu cais cyntaf gyda phedair muchwarae tîm wedi ei wanhau, ar ôl i’r dawn a llyfnder chwarae Caerdydd, nud yn weddill.

BUCS, corff llywodraethu chwaraeon perfformiad campus ydoedd gyda rygWedi’r cyfan, perfformiad hynod Prifysgolion, gorfodi iddynt chwarae bi i ddiddanu’r miloedd o fyfyrwyr yn greadigol ydoedd gan Gaerdydd i engêm hollbwysig yn erbyn Notting- Stadiwm y Principality. nill yr ornest am y drydedd flwyddyn ham Trent ar yr un diwrnod â VarSgoriodd Caerdydd chwe chais yn yn olynol, gyda’r sgôr gorau yn hanes sity. Roedd y BUCS yn ymwybodol o yr hanner agoriadol, gan gynnwys sgôr y gystadleuaeth. A fydd Caerdydd yn Varsity Cymru, ond nid oedden nhw cofiadwy gan fewnwr y tîm, a thorrodd efelychu’r llwyddiant yn 2020? Amser na Phrifysgol Nottingham Trent yn drwy linell amddiffynnol Abertawe ar a ddengys.

Canlyniad cyfartal i dîm pêl-droed dynion Caerdydd =

gan Ynyr Clwyd

Caerdydd...................................................2 Abertawe...................................................2

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echreuon ni ar y droed flaen ac fe gawsom gyfle cynnar gyda’n hymosodwyr yn gweithio hi’n dda drwodd un wrth un yn erbyn y gôl-geidwad, ond fe aeth yr ergyd heibio’r postyn.

Yn lwcus, ni wnaeth hyn ein effeithio’n ormodol, ac fe ddisgynnodd y bêl i’r un chwaraewr wedi tua 10 munud.

Ni wnaeth yr un camgymeriad ddwywaith, gan basio’r bêl i’r rhwyd i’n rhoi ni ar y blaen. Ein gôl gyntaf mewn gêm Varsity ers pedair mlynedd, gyda’r dathliadau a ddilynodd yn arddangos hyn.

Ar ôl sgorio, wnaeth ein tempo ddisgyn ychydig, ac ar ôl cyfnod o bwysau,daeth gôl gyntaf Abertawe ar ôl rŷw 25 munud. Fe weithion nhw’r bel i’r asgell ac fe orffennodd eu hymosodwr nhw yn daclus o groesiad da.

Roedden nhw ar y blaen bellach, yn cadw a symud y bêl yn dda. Ar ôl cyfnod da o feddiant yn ein hanner ni, disgynnodd y bêl i draed eu chwaraewr canol cae ryw 30 llath allan, ac fe darodd yr ergyd i’r gornel uchaf gan adael dim cyfle i’n gôl-geidwad, ni.

Pêl-droed: Canlyniad cyfartal oedd i Gaerdydd yng nghystadleuaeth bêl-droed y dynion.

Fe gadwon ni hi’n dynn wedyn i bei- a chyflwyno rhai eilyddion, fe dyfon ni wedyn, efo dim ond ychydig o handio ildio cyn yr hanner i aros yn y gêm yn ôl fewn i’r gêm, a dechrau symud y ner cyfleon i’r naill dîm a’r llall. gyda’r sgôr ar yr hanner yn 2-1. bêl yn well.

Gwnaethon ni reoli’r gêm yn efFe ddaethon nhw allan yn gryf a chaDaeth ein gôl i sgwario pethau efo feithiol iawn yn y munudau olaf, yn fon nhw swmp o gyfleon yn chwarter llai na 15 munud i fynd. Ar ôl i er- hapus iawn i gymryd gêm gyfartal awr cynta’r ail hanner. gyd ar ymyl y cwrt gael ei gau lawr, yn erbyn tîm oedd bellach dau gynClirion ni’r bêl oddi ar y llinell ddw- disgynnodd y bêl i un o’n heilyddion, ghrair uwch ein pennau. ywaith, ac fe arbedodd ein gôl-gei- ac fe slotiodd y bêl heibio’r gôl-geiPerfformiad da iawn gan yr hogiau, dwad, ni yn wych ambell i dro. dwad yn wych i unioni’r sgôr. gyda phawb yn gwneud eu gorau Ar ôl gwrthsefyll y cyfnod o bwysau Trodd y gêm yn eithaf bratiog glas.

VARSITY CYMRU 2019

Chelsie Walters

Llywela Edwards

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Disgyblaeth: Pêl-droed Blwyddyn: 3 Gradd: Y Gyfraith

Disgyblaeth: Kayako Blwyddyn: 2 Gradd: Meddygaeth

wyf yn fy ail flwyddyn eleni fel aelod o dîm kayako Caerdydd. Rwyf wedi cael llu o brofiadau amrywiol trwy fod yn aelod ac wedi gwneud ffrindiau gydol oes.

Mae’r clwb yn cwrdd yn aml iawn ar gyfer ymarfer, teithiau ar afonydd ac i dreulio amser yn gymdeithasol. Rydym yn ymarfer ddwywaith yr wythnos, un sesiwn o sgiliau ac un sesiwn o ymarfer polo canŵ. Mae’r clwb yn arbenigo yn nisgyblaeth dŵr gwyn a pholo canŵ. Rydym yn treulio amser yn kayako ar draws y DU yn ystod y flwyddyn ar afonydd amrywiol megis y Teifi, y Dart ac afonydd lleol megis y Taf, Ogmore, y Rhondda a Mellte i enwi ond ychydig. Rydym yn cynnal sosial pob yn ail wythnos ac yn gwneud llawer o weithgareddau allgyrsiol ychwanegol fel clwb megis mynd i barc dŵr, chwarae golff hwyl neu farbeciw ar y traeth.

Rydym yn cystadlu yn aml yn nisgyblaeth polo canŵ yng nghynghrair y de orllewin, cystadleuaeth CUCP a chystadleuaeth BUCS. Mae polo canŵ yn faes cyffrous sy’n datblygu yn gyflym yn y DU. Dyma ein maes ar gyfer Varsity eleni. Eleni fe wnaeth tîm y merched ennill 7-1. Roedd y gêm yn un gyffroes gyda datblygiad amlwg yng ngallu’r tîm. Dominyddodd Caerdydd yr hanner cyntaf gyda sgôr o 5-1 a gwnaethant sicrhau ei buddugoliaeth wrth sgorio dwy gôl yn ychwanegol yn yr ail hanner. Fe wnaeth tîm y dynion golli 0-6, roedd y gêm yn un gystadleuol gyda Chaerdydd yn cael trafferth cael y bêl ar darged.

Roedd y diwrnod yn un cyffrous ac yn brofiad da i’n timoedd wrth baratoi tuag at gystadleuaeth BUCS yn ystod gwyliau’r Pasg.

Mae yna groeso i aelodau newydd yn ogystal â rhai gydag arbenigedd yn y maes. Mae’n glwb cyfeillgar sy’n llawn bwrlwm, mae yna rywbeth yn digwydd bob penwythnos.

Kayako: Kayako yw’r ddisgyblaeth orau yn Varisty yn nhyb Chelsie Walters. (Tarddiad: Chelsie Walters).

Ben Edwards Disgyblaeth: Rybgi Blwyddyn: 2 Gradd: Y Gyfraith

13

wyf wedi bod yn aelod o glwb pêl-droed merched Prifysgol Caerdydd ers tair blynedd bellach, ac wedi mwynhau pob eiliad. Ni fyddai bywyd y Brifysgol wedi bod yr un peth imi heb y clwb. Mae wedi bod yn gyfle gwych imi gyfarfod a genod newydd gyda’r un diddordeb a mi, ac wedi arwain ataf yn gwneud ffrindiau oes. Mae ein gemau bob dydd Mercher, ac rydym wedi trafeilio ar draws Cymru a Lloegr yn chwarae – o Aberystwyth i Lundain! Fel clwb, mae gennym dîm cyntaf, ail dîm a thîm datblygu, sy’n rhoi cyfle i bob aelod o’r clwb i chwarae.

Ond os nad ydych yn hoff o chwarae, neu fod gennych ddwy droed chwith, yna mae posib bod yn aelod cymdeithasol o’r clwb – mynychu gemau i gefnogi, a dod allan i gymdeithasu wedyn.

Be bynnag fo’ch diddordebau, mae croeso cynnes i bawb ymuno.

Diwrnod Varsity Cymru yw uchafbwynt y flwyddyn i lawer o fyfyrwyr Prifysgol Caerdydd.

Mae’n ddiwrnod llawn chwaraeon rhwng Prifysgol Caerdydd a Phrifysgol Abertawe. Er mai’r rygbi sy’n sugno’r sylw i gyd ar y diwrnod, mae gêm y bêl gron hefyd yn un o uchafbwyntiau’r dydd.

Mae tîm Caerdydd yn chwarae yn Uwch-gynghrair y Prifysgolion, ac Abertawe yn chwarae dwy gynghrair yn is. Felly ar bapur, Caerdydd sydd a’r fantais – ond dydi Varsity byth yn hawdd!

Pêl-droed: Mae croeso cynnes i bawb i ymuno ’r clwb pêldroed: (Tarddiad: Mark Jones).

Chwarae’n troi chwerw: Campau Iestyn Harries Disgyblaeth: Golff campus Blwyddyn: 2 Gradd: Cymraeg

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ad does unrhyw gêm yn cymharu i’r gêm Varsity. Heb os nac oni bai, dyma yw uchafbwynt y tymor. Mae pob aelod yn y clwb rygbi yn breuddwydio o chwarae gêm Varsity, er mwyn rhedeg allan o’r stadiwm genedlaethol, syllu ar filoedd o fyfyrwyr yn gwisgo crysau coch a gwyrdd yn cydganu’r anthem cyn y gêm, ac yna i obeithio maeddu’r hen elyn, Prifysgol Abertawe. Blwyddyn diwethaf, yn Stadiwm Liberty yn Abertawe, roedd yr awyrgylch yn y stadiwm yn drydanol, ac o ganlyniad i’r gefnogaeth gawsom o’r llu o fyfyrwyr Caerdydd, fe wnaethom ennill y gêm a dod â’r cwpan nôl i Gaerdydd.

Ond eleni, roedd y gêm nôl yn ein cartref ni, Stadiwm y Principality, a gyda thua 16,000 o docynnau rygbi wedi’u gwerthu roedd y ddiwrnod yn un anddisgrifadwy. Fel aelod o’r tîm eleni eto, rwyf yn siarad ar ran y bois gan ddweud bod cymorth myfyrwyr y brifddinas yn y stadiwm yn ddylanwadol iawn i ni fel tîm, ac felly roedd y lefelau egni anferthol, a oedd yn fwy pwerus nag y llynnedd, wedi helpu sicrhau’r fuddugoliaeth y flwyddyn hon. Ar ôl flwyddyn gystadleuol yn ‘BUCS Super Rugby’, a sicrhau ein safle yn y cynghrair blwyddyn nesaf, fel tîm roeddem ni’n edrych ymlaen at chwarae gêm olaf y tymor o flaen ein cyd-fyfyrwyr yn stadiwm orau’r byd. Rydym yn ddiolchgar iawn am gefnogaeth y Brifysgol ac ein noddwyr trwy gydol y tymor eleni, ac roeddem yn gobeithio sicrhau buddugoliaeth a diwrnod llwyddiannus i ddangos ein gwerthfawrogiad am y cymorth a’r gefnogaeth ddi-dor. Cyn y brif gêm rygbi yn y noson, roedd y gêm ‘freshers’ yn cael ei chwarae ym Mharc yr Arfau am 12 o’r gloch, ac mi oedd hynny’n gêm cystadleuol tu hwnt. Roeddem felly yn hynod o awyddus i sicrhau ein bod ni’n chwarae i orau ein gallu er mwyn diddannu ein cyd-fyfyrwyr a sicrhau buddugoliaeth anghofiadwy.

Rygbi: Chwaraewyr Caerdydd yn herio amddiffyn Abertawe yn Varsity.

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efais i’r teimlad yna, pan oeddwn yn fachgen bach 3 mlwydd oed. Yr atgofion gorau sydd gennyf? Ar y cwrs golff. Heb os, dyma un o gemau gorau’r byd. Hyd yn oed, ar ôl i mi chwarae’n wael o amgylch y cwrs, mae yna deimlad hudol sy’n fy nenu nôl yn wythnosol i dderbyn y profiad eto. Rwyf wedi gosod fy nhraed ar wyrddni’r cwrs miloedd o weithiau, ond nid wyf yn gallu cael digon o flas awyr iach cyrsiau’r wlad.

Gêm sy’n herio’r dychymyg yw golff ond er yn gamp sy’n gallu bod yn rhwystredig i’r dychymyg mae’r cwrs yn fy nenu nôl bob dydd. Mae’r teimlad o sefyll ar y tee cyntaf yn barod i daro’r bêl yn un anddisgrifiadwy. Rwyf wedi derbyn nifer o brofiadau gwych y flwyddyn yma wrth gymdeithasu â chlwb golff y brifysgol. O wthio ymlaen i geisio ennill dyrchafiad ym mhencampwriaeth BUCS i ennill Varsity Cymru am yr ail waith yn 27 mlynedd. Dyma’r rheswm imi chwarae’r gêm arbennig yma. Yn ogystal â hyn, rwyf wedi cwrdd â ffrindiau oes wrth chwarae golff yn y brifysgol. Mae’r profiadau a’r teithiau rydym wedi cael fel clwb wedi bod yn anhygoel ac mae’r cyffro yn dechrau yn barod i’r flwyddyn nesaf. Credaf hefyd bod y cyfle i chwarae golff ymysg holl waith a disgwyliadau’r brifysgol yn wych ac rwy’n annog unrhyw berson, sy’n newydd i’r gêm neu arall i ymuno a chlwb golff y brifysgol. Dyma un o ddewisiadau gorau fe wnes i ar ddechrau’r flwyddyn yma!

Golff: Iestyn Harries yn barod i daro’r bêl golff. (Tarddiad: Iestyn Harries).

14 WELSH VARSITY 2019

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Canoe Polo draw with Swansea

by Chelsie Walters Cardiff.....................................................1 Swansea..................................................1

T Splashing around: Photo Credit: Toby Hall

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by Luke Wakeling Cardiff.....................................................3 Swansea..................................................1

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ardiff won back the Welsh boat race from Swansea after a 3-1 win on Saturday. The race, which is the second biggest boat race after the notorious Oxford vs Cambridge contest, covered a 2 km stretch along the Taff in a regatta style clash.

Cardiff University Rowing Club (CURC) subsequently gained 1.5 varsity points out of an available 2 to give Cardiff a 1-point advantage overall going into Wednesday’s fixtures.

The day began with the Novice Women’s race, which Swansea have only won once since 2009. Both crews started strongly but Cardiff quickly gained a quarter of a length lead, which opened up to a length due to Cardiff’s more powerful strokes and a superb line by cox Phoebe Lewis around Clarence bridge.

The Cardiff Novi Women ended up with an impressive 4 length win, the biggest winning margin of the day.

Coach Emma Fitzpatrick was particularly pleased with the crew’s “pro-

by Liv Raciniewska Cardiff.....................................................4 Swansea..................................................1

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quash, a sport which not many people may know much about is actually rather exhilarating.

The players engaged in the game eager not to disappoint their fans, the anxiety and excitement written on their faces, the sweat already building up on their faces.

The atmosphere is captivating, everyone involved in supporting their teams, air heavy with the anticipation of the game and the possibility of any given outcome.

Players in the courts are immersed in the game, the rackets are swinging, and the balls are bouncing off the walls at a rapid pace.

Supporters on the edges of their seats following the balls and the rackets with their eyes, avoiding blinking in case they miss a crucial part of the game. All friendly to each other despite knowing that they’re in clear opposition to each

he Canoe Polo was the event that kicked off Varsity 2019, playing a week earlier than varsity on April 3 at Wales National Pool, Swansea.

The ladies team got off to a flying start in the first half with some great ball handling and defensive play.

Cardiff maintained position for a large percentage of the half, resulting in a half time score of 5-1 to Cardiff.

Great goalkeeping and defensive

skills were demonstrated in the second half meaning no Swansea goals were conceded.

The ladies maintained their lead into the second half and ensured their win with an additional two goals scored by Hannah.

The final results for the ladies was a well-deserved 7-1 win. The team consisted of Alice Dullehan, Izzy Bushrod, Jemma Powell, Rosie Lloyd, Hannah Darlington, Anna Sellens and Issy Nevett.

The men’s game was a competitive match, with Cardiff struggling to get shots on target.

Rowing double for Cardiff

fessionalism” in their first match race, whilst keen to note how “the success of the crew stems from the strength of the whole squad”, with 25-30 athletes consistently training for the past seven months making the group extremely competitive.

The second race of the day was the Novice Men’s race, which Cardiff had lost in the past two years. Cardiff went into the race as favourites, as the strong squad coached by Harry Perry and Holly Thomas had outperformed Swansea in previous races earlier in the season.

However, Swansea surprised Cardiff by staying within a canvas of their rivals until the final stretch of the race, where a combination of Cardiff’s superior technical ability and cox Hannah Brant’s clever steering ended in a tight ¾ length win.

Coach Perry added that it was a “close fought battle” and that for many it will be a “highlight of the year as their first varsity” and hopes that the boys continue their form into BUCS regatta.

With 2 wins already secured, Cardiff could seal the overall victory with a win in the Senior Women’s race, where Cardiff are unbeaten in the fixture’s 14-year

history.

Swansea started by gaining a quarter length lead, which Cardiff quickly reduced at the 500m mark.

The Cardiff crew, including AU president Georgie Haynes at 7 and stroked

by Livi Howe, looked the cleaner of the crews and used their power to edge in front by a length.

Swansea, now rowing with more energy and poise, managed to reduce that lead to a canvas going into the last bend, resulting in an exciting finish where Cardiff cox Mathew Adam’s tight line gave Cardiff a win of one and a quarter lengths.

Despite Cardiff already claiming back the Welsh boat race title after the Senior Women’s victory, the last race of the day- the Senior Men’s race, still had a lot depending on it.

Firstly, there was still half a varsity point to win. Secondly, the Cardiff Senior Men have not won since 2013, and as coach Gareth Storey said: “it was time to stop the rot”.

Due to coaching and squad issues, the Cardiff crew only had a few months of training together, making them massive underdogs against a Swansea side who

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had rowed together for years.

There was an optimism however that this squad could upset the odds and provide a win so desperately needed.

The start was promising from both crews, with Cardiff edging to a quarter length lead after going out at a higher rate. Stroked by heavyweight Harry Neame, with Thomas Haddon making the highly contested 3 seat after returning from Florida two months earlier, Cardiff maintained this lead for the first half of the race in an effort to break clear water.

With the crew also including former west midlands development squad member Joshua Crump and ex GB rower Theo Owen, there was a belief that

this crew would be the first to win in 5 years. However, Swansea’s experience and greater technical ability prevailed going into the last bend, where they eventually accelerated away from the Cardiff crew to a win of two lengths.

Coach Storey commended his crew’s effort in the first half of the race but admitted “Swansea were slightly the more powerful of the two crews and took full advantage of the second bend in their favour” to win the Senior men’s race for the sixth time in a row.

The Senior Men’s losing streak continues, but overall it was a very successful day for CURC to win back the prestigious trophy.

Win for Cardiff: Photo Credit: Al Craigie

Cardiff squash Swansea

other.

They are silently keeping score in their heads everyone involved filled with excitement. All supporters new to the game are taken in under the caring wings of the experienced fans, all together: teaching, learning, and most importantly supporting out Cardiff teams.

It’s reaching the end of the game, Cardiff are ahead. Will it stay that way? The supporters of both teams are even more anxious! Swansea fans hoping for a miracle. Cardiff fans already planning their well-deserved victory celebrations.

In what feels like a blink of an eye, the game is over. Cardiff fans roaring, Swansea fans groaning. Cheers are heard all around as there are no better fans than Cardiff fans.

Our Varsity Squash team did a fantastic job at beating Swansea in a breath-taking double victory.

The women’s team wiped the floor with Swansea winning 4-0 and the Men’s team sealed the deal with a victory of 4-1. Although they tried, Swansea never even had a shot at us.What a fantastic game it was.

Cardiff faced a controversial penalty call early on in the game, then faced fast attacks from a strong Swansea team and got caught slacking on the counter attack.

It was a credible performance from a men’s team not at full strength, credit to Harry Batchelor for a good match on his A team debut.

The final results for the men was a 0-6 loss. The team consisted of Harry Shearer, George Bowen, YiJia Sim, James Bowen, James Chapman and Harry Batchelor.

Cardiff ended our day with a 1-1 tie overall with Swansea.

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VARSITY CYMRU 2019

Women’s Fencing

Best of the rest

15

Archery

135 - 47

2-9

Women’s Ultimate Frisbee

Swimming

7-4

98 - 125

Men’s Ultimate Frisbee

Men’s Fencing

12 - 5

105 -111

Equestrian 172 - 204

Women’s Water Polo

12 - 14

Emphatic Cardiff victory Kickboxing sees women’s Basketball contest edged by Swansea claim Varisty glory +1

by Emily Hatter

Cardiff................................................3 Swansea.............................................4

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ardiff University made it back-to-back Varsity victories against Swansea in the ladies basketball with an incredible final score of 97-31.

Cardiff dominated not only the game but also the crowds, and started the scoring off with a 2-pointer. After just the first quarter the score for the women was 32-12.

After the commencement of the second quarter Amelia Bullen sprinted down the court to score a quick two points.

The second quarter score was an astonishing 51-19.

The Cardiff ladies continued pushing and whilst beginning with at-

tacking, their coach Tony Ogunsulire turned the tactics to defence after a team huddle. The third quarter score reflected their determination, with it being a 70-27 advantage to the home team.

In the final quarter the women didn’t disappoint and continued to add points, going from 72 points to 82 before Swansea could intervene.

The last-minute push saw captain Lydia Goodwin score two points followed by Caitlin Arnold scoring the final two points in the last five seconds of the game.

When speaking to their captain after the match she told me: “It was really good, everyone put 100% out on the court to get a great score.”

“We were expecting a win but not a win by so much.”

“It’s crazy and we’re just so happy.”

“I think we worked really well together, no one was dominating as much, it was more a team effort and a lot of different people scoring.”

“Everyone got a chance to touch the ball.”

Goodwin’s sister also plays on the opposition’s team but that didn’t intervene with her performance.

The first team consists of eight leavers/final years/single year Erasmus, two second years and two freshers.

The women currently compete in the Western 1A BUCS league where they came 4th.

Without a doubt, Cardiff will have some great momentum for their 2019/20 campaign after this impressive outing.

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by Rhianna Hurren-Myers

Cardiff................................................3 Swansea.............................................4

L

ike elsewhere across Cardiff, red and green peppered the crowds of the Sports Wales Dojo on Wednesday as both Cardiff and Swansea University battled it out to be crowned Varsity champions 2019.

The Cardiff fighters burst onto the floor to fiery cries of, “are you not entertained?”, and the classic varsity chants which had been echoing across the city.

After the explosive events of 2018, Swansea were defending their Kickboxing title, and the seven matches did not disappoint.

In one of the more notable fights, Rhi Ryder effectively defended Car-

diff University for the girls, defeating her opponent in an explosive victory.

With two matches drawn and two matches won on either side, it all came down to the final match, with Simon Dietrerich from Cardiff up against a mystery Swansea alias, known only as the “White Vulcan”.

The three rounds were evenly matched and valiantly fought – ending in a draw.

An agreement was called for a final round, and the crowd went wild.

Despite a solid effort from Dietrerich, the White Vulcan prevailed, leading to a victory for Swansea.

On what was an entertaining day for the kickboxing crowd, those in green were the happier of the two fanbases, having seen Swansea take a marginal victory.

Cardiff defeat Swansea in heated badminton duel +1

by Ashley Boyle Cardiff................................................5 Swansea.............................................3

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hilst the Swansea team’s late arrival delayed the event’s start time by half an hour, they were certainly prepared to challenge Cardiff.

Armed with a team of spirited supporters, Swansea definitely made themselves known, using Talybont’s echoing sports hall to their advantage by piling the pressure onto Cardiff ’s players.

Cardiff ’s Aidan Gibbons versus Swansea’s Man Yin Leung were the first to take to the court for the opening Singles match.

Gibbons started strong, keeping his opponent on his toes, with Leung later taking a tumble

after reaching for a shot. Both players used the space well, opting to smash the shuttle at every opportunity. Leung’s strengths lie in his defence however, winning many of his points from short net shots.

After three games, Cardiff took the win two games to one, with the final game setting Gibbons 12 points ahead of Leung at 21-9.

On to Doubles, where Cardiff ’s Ben Richards and Nathan Smith took on Swansea’s Charlie and Jason.

Initially, Cardiff played as individuals rather than a team, showing poor spatial awareness of one another, exposing a lot of the court space and boosting the opposition’s advantage.

However, after losing the first

game, Cardiff were more in sync with each other’s movements, closing the gap between Swansea’s lead, equalising, and then succeeding their team with two straight wins.

One of the most heated moments of the day came from the last Doubles match where Krum Djermanov and Zhaoqi Li played the same Swansea team.

After a false call from Swansea was settled with a second serve, Swansea’s team called for a dispute over a Cardiff false call, which was not dealt with very smoothly.

Tensions grew and the added pressure from the green supporters seemed to affect the play of Djermanov and Li. Yet, Cardiff did manage to secure two straight wins which ended with

a heated confrontation with the crowd.

Gair Rhydd managed to speak to Ben Richards, Doubles competitor and president of the Badminton society after all of the games had finished. Visibly exhausted, Ben tells us how he felt the day had gone.

“Well we had some very tense, exciting and dramatic games and we managed to win 5-3, with [the competition] coming down to the last two games. It’s usually a lot easier for Cardiff but it was quite a close one this year.”

Without prompt, the Welsh player was also keen to express his future aspirations for next year’s Welsh Varsity. “Hopefully we can keep on next year and win for a fourth year in a row.”

VARSITY 2019