Peter Lloyd spoke of his pride at reaching a half-century of appearances for Pontypool.
The front row, who can play at tighthead or hooker, lined up against Merthyr in our final home game of the season to reach 50 appearances.
Unfortunately, the result didn’t go Pooler’s way as a disappointing first half left too much to claw back after the break.
A double from Adam Hoskins and tries from Callum Bradbury and Gareth Thompson, who added two conversions, gave Merthyr a commanding lead at half time.
“We had a bit of a talking to, which is the nicest way to put it, and we clawed our way back,” said Lloyd.
The half-time talk seemed to have an effect as Pat Lewis went over for his 40th Pooler try before Hoskins was penalised for a push on Walker Price off the ball, which led to a penalty try.
Morgan Meaclem edged the Ironmen further ahead before Mike Herbert and Ben Moa added scores, both converted by the departing Matthew Jarvis, to help claim two points – a try bonus point and a losing bonus point.
“I think our fitness came into it,” explained Lloyd.
“They gave their all and got a bit tired.
“Unfortunately we got caught out, out wide. I think that was due to yellow cards and being men down.
“I’ve played against Merthyr and it’s always been scrappy.
“They’ve got big boys and they like a scrap.
“We had poor discipline, gave away too many penalties.”
Focus quickly changes to the final game of the season at RGC on the weekend but Lloyd is also looking further down the road with his eyes set on a Pooler century.
“I’ve had a few injuries,” said Lloyd.
“I’ve always managed to come back and it’s a pleasure to get my 50th cap for Pooler.
“I’m back next year, which is great.
“Hopefully, I can get to 100. Hitting 50 and walking out with my kids was great.
“I’ve played at the Principality Stadium and won cups but walking out with my kids is the biggest and proudest moment of my rugby career.”
