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The weekend’s rugby news may have been dominated by the disappointment of a controversial defeat in Paris, but one Carmarthenshire village made headlines of their own on the international stage.

Nantgaredig RFC, celebrating their 50th season, took on Sweden at Ystrad Fields on Saturday and came away with a convincing 46-5 win.

Hundreds of people braved the wind and the rain as both teams emerged from the changing rooms to rapturous applause.

The Swedish team were first to line-up and sing their national anthem, before the Nant boys belted out Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.

Any fears the locals may have had of the home side showing signs of international nerves were soon put to bed as Nant ran in three early tries, racking up a score of 19-0 after barely ten minutes.

The home side continued to dominate in difficult conditions and led the game 46-0 going into the final minute, before Sweden were finally able to cross the line for their first score of the game.

(Image: Mike Walters)

Any disappointment from the locals at squandering a clean-sheet was outweighed by joy as the touring side got the reward that their spirited display deserved.

A fantastic day

Club committee John George Philipps said the match was the perfect way for the club to commemorate its 50th season.

“It was a fantastic day and a fantastic result for us,” said John.

(Image: Mike Walters)

“The scoreline was one-sided, but to say that Sweden weren’t used to the conditions is an understatement.

"They were trying to put new combinations together on the pitch, while the Nant boys have played together dozens of time, which showed on the day.

“But the fact that Sweden scored a try in the last minute is a testament to their fitness and to their will.

(Image: Mike Walters)

The spirit, the passion, the hwyl

“Having spoken to their coaching staff after the game, it was clear that they had a great time here and they were completely awestruck by their experience of Welsh rugby - the spirit, the passion, the hwyl - and they loved the fact that, regardless of the result, they were accepted into the Welsh rugby brotherhood.”