Saturday, September 13, 2014

Ebbw Vale 30 Llandovery 29, Welsh Premiership, 13/09/14

In a pulsating encounter at Eugene Cross Park, Ebbw Vale gained a bonus point win on their return to the top division of Welsh club rugby.

It was a nip and tuck battle as early Ebbw errors allowed the Drovers to take an 18-10 interval lead, but as the game progressed, Ebbw's forward power started to tell. The set piece was excellent and the pack started to turnover possession, which was just as well as the visitors' backs looked sharp.

Tries for Wes Cunliffe, Ronnie Kynes, Ashley Sweet and a decisive penalty try gave the home side the additional bonus point as Ebbw scrum power took hold.

Even then, a last gasp try for the West Walians left the game hanging on the outcome of a conversion attempt which, to the relief of the terrace, drifted fractionally wide.

There were many positives for Ebbw, but also plenty to work on as the games will be this tough every week. To my eyes, the pack were great but we needed more control at half back. If we can get this, then the centres Jones and Preece looked sharp and powerful.

Neath away next week!

Pics..
..first half







..and into the 2nd half..







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