For the first time in a long time, Saturday was once again a rugby day, as Ruthin travelled to Llandudno for their first competitive fixture since a victory over Dolgellau on January 25th 2020.
Official club weatherman, Sam Higgit's prediction that the deluge would clear ahead of kick off proved correct, and it was Ruthin who were first on the ledger, with Nathan Jones knocking over a penalty goal from in front.
Playing into a strong wind, the hosts opted for a keep ball strategy and were rewarded with a try for Full Back, Ryan Pike following a trademark set play. Delwyn Jones added the two.
Ruthin capitalised on field position resulting from a hefty punt from Nathan Jones. Chris 'Disco' Davies proving too powerful from close range after numerous strong carries from his fellow forwards had created a Goliath versus David mismatch. No upsets this time.
Both teams lost a man to the bin for their contribution to an in goal melee, an overflow of aggression that was otherwise channeled to the collision in a physical encounter.
When order resumed, Jones chipped over the extras to put the visitors back in front.
Ruthin were unable to capitalise any further on the advantage afforded to them by the seaside breeze. A combination of inaccuracy, and the home team's prowess at the breakdown a frustration in what was otherwise a promising first 40.
Llandudno opened the second half scoring with a Delwyn Jones penalty. The outside half then gave his side the lead with a further three pointer, as Llandudno continued to pilfer possession at ruck time.
As with Ruthin in the first half, Llandudno used the boot to establish a territorial advantage but were met by a defence that was determined not to relinquish their foot hold.
However, the hosts pressure eventually told as they took maximum points when a Ruthin box kick got held in the wind, before falling kindly for the goats to cross the whitewash.
A late comeback attempt by the Blues was rewarded subsequent to some relentless forward play, prior to a Iestyn Davies cross kick that Josh Wilson snatched from his opposite man to open his account.
A missed conversion left Ruthin needing a try, but as they attacked from deep in their own territory they were punished for a ruck infringement.
Jones knocking over another three to seal victory.
For Ruthin, there will be some detail to work on in training, but the coaches will be pleased with the fundamentals after such a long time between drinks.
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