Neath team manager Martyn Morris was full of praise for his young charges after Saturday’s breathtaking 59-14 victory over Cross Keys but he is insistent that the team will not get carried away – especially with battling Bargoed lurking on Easter Saturday.
“Saturday’s victory was hugely encouraging,” he said, “and a big step in developing the confidence in this young side which had an average age in the back division of around 20.
“A lot has been made of the return of Keiran Williams and Reuben Morgan-Williams from Wales Under-20’s duty – and rightly so because they were superb and always turn up for us with smiles on their faces and perform.
“But don’t under-estimate the displays of the other lads too. Luke Price had easily the best of his all too few outings in a Neath jersey this season, Max Llewellyn – the youngest of the lot – played well ahead of his years, both wings scored and Geraint Llewellyn in particular showed the determination and commitment to the cause expected of a Neath player.
“On top of that we had Ed Howley’s 24-point haul with his immaculate goal-kicking and Chris Morgans showing all his nous off the bench.
“And don’t forget the forwards either. They were up against one of the more formidable packs in the Division but the whole eight deserve praise – and the Chris Morgans try after a steal against the head was ample reward for their efforts throughout the afternoon.
“The ovation the team got as they passed through the packed Clubhouse afterwards reminded me of my days. Some of the younger lads were quite taken aback but it shows the old Neath desire is still there.
“Cross Keys is done for now – and we move on to the next challenge against Bargoed. It would be nice to put on a repeat show for our supporters but Bargoed will be smarting after losing at Llanelli on Sunday.
“We know they are a far, far better side than that and it will take another ‘A’ game performance from us to succeed and get to the top of the section.”