The first game of 2026 saw the Warriors travel to a freezing cold Porthcawl. The pitch looked great but was rock hard, so kick-off was delayed to let the winter sun soften the ground a little — then off we went.

And literally off we went. Kick-off went straight to Leo, who set off on a brilliant solo run and crossed inside the first couple of minutes. Jay added the conversion and the Warriors were 7–0 up almost before Porthcawl had touched the ball. Leo wasn't done — he grabbed his second try shortly after, and with Jay and Tolis also crossing before the break, Whitchurch went into half time in total command, 22–5 up and looking dominant.

The second half told a completely different story. Both teams came out changed — Porthcawl with renewed energy and belief, Whitchurch with neither. Tackles were missed, the ball wasn't moved, and Porthcawl grew in confidence with every passing minute. They earned every single point they scored — nothing was gifted — and they deserved huge credit for the way they kept believing and kept playing rugby when it would have been easy to fold.

With four minutes left it was 22–22 and the Warriors finally woke up. After defending for what felt like an age, Whitchurch turned the ball over and moved quickly up the field. Theo made a great dash for the try line and the referee awarded the score — only to go back on the decision and rule it held up. Not for the first time in the afternoon, the call didn't go our way.

22–22 the final score. A point is better than nothing after a second half like that — but equally, a good start to the new year and plenty to build on. Looking forward to getting the boys back into training and pushing on. 🖤🤍