The Warriors returned to Old Deer Park for this prestigious fixture against a London Welsh Select on the morning of the international match and at the end of the Welsh Week in London.

Despite the recent heavy rain, the famous pitch was in fine condition and great for the fast running rugby the hosts are so famous for.

Perhaps enjoying the distractions of tour a little too much, the Warriors started slowly and took a while to find their rhythm. London Welsh however, where straight out of the blocks. After some early sparring by both sides, the cut clear with a flowing move that swept all the way to the posts. The Warriors were in debuted to Tom Edwards at full back who not only proved effective in defense but against the run of play, skipped through for a solo effort to get them off the mark.
London Welsh, with prop Marcus Wuest to the fore and Dan Hawkins looking sharp at 9, eventually finished off another of their threatening moves to retake the lead. Just when it all looked a bit like touch rugby, the Warriors forwards took the ball on and 2nd row Darren Pollitt drove through at close quarters. A successful conversion each saw a half time score of 12 all.

The 2nd half was of even better quality. Neither side took a negative step and there was barely a defensive kick throughout the game. Francesco Minto was showing the class that earned him 39 Italian caps whilst strong running center Gareth Hawkins had a fine match. For the Warriors the most impressive players were rewarded with scores; fly half Jamie Evans finishing off after scrumhalf Lewis had gone close and busy center Nathan Murphy scored with a neat tap and chase. London Welsh edged in front as time ticked away but the introduction of Jason Keighty gave the Warriors a late boost. There was some desperate defense to counter the continuous attack as both sides went for a decisive blow. Adam Fussell impressed for the Warriors with some strong carries while Gilmour was effective for the London team.

With just 3 minutes on the clock, Edwards got a second score for the Warriors and Captain James Anthony's conversion was the difference between the teams. Welsh pushed hard towards the end but the Warriors held firm. Debutant Paul Richards pinched crucial lineout ball and the hard working back row ran down the clock.

A fine game, the Warriors were thrilled to sneak the result but even better was to be part of the occasion that is the England v Wales game at London Welsh. They were hugely grateful to London Welsh club for the fixture and their hospitality around it.

Llanelli Warriors: Thomas Edwards (Lee Rowlands), James Anthony (Cpt), Johnathon Kearney, Nathan Murphy, Simon Day (Tony Whittaker), Jamie Evans, Gwilym Lewis, Huw Jenkins (Colin Tacon), Dan Grinter (Richard Evans, Jason Jenkins), Dylan Crolla, John Horwood (Lloyd Crawley), Darren Pollitt (Paul Richards), Luke Pearse (Jordan Jones), Adam Fussell, Nathan Lawson

1. Jaws 2. Rocky 3. Marcus Wuest 4. Francesco Minto (39) 5. Coops 6. P Bessant 7. Aussie boy 8. A Smith 9. Dan Hawkins 10. Gilmour 11. Ty Sterry 12. Gareth Ddraeg Hawkins 13. DeHavilland 14. Yo_Soy 15. Shanks/Damian McC

Referee: Neil Wharton
Match Announcer/Commentary: Michael Watkins and Craig James
Warriors 1st Aid: Dave Usher

The match itself was another cracker to rival last times. Good support from the Reunion Reunion Reunion Stag boys and Darren Pollitt's family including Steve Shingler. Meanwhile 39 cap Francesco Minto had support from 44 (and counting) compatriot Michele Campagnaro. Thanks to Cai Griffiths, Gareth Ddraeg, Neil Wharton, The Bowls club and just about everyone else at London Welsh.

Glossing over the international, the London Welsh RFC Choir and the band were both fantastic and racked up the atmosphere. Shout out to the Kidwelly crowd who were organising skipping, stretching, yoga and boat races.

Elsewhere the hostel was great despite giving us a 'stern word' on the 1st morning. All 7th circle of Hell room survivors all deserve a medal and without giving away too much (what goes on tour...) Thrown out over £1, deep heat toothpaste, Rocky v Speccy, knighted virgins, sweets of justice

There are loads of photos from across the weekend on the site