CWMBRAN entertained Rhydyfelin for the first time at the Kings Head Field and eventually won a hard game 24-17.

Rhydyfelin elected to play down the slope first half and put Cwmbran under pressure with some good football but Cwmbran's defence held out but they did concede the tries with some strong running by the Rhydyfelin backs which were both converted. They continued to attack and were awarded a penalty but fortunately for Cwmbran it went wide.

Cwmbran were glad to hear the whistle go for half time with Rhydyfelin leading 14-0. The second half was a complete turn around with Cwmbran attacking with their pacey backs they were causing problems in the Rhydyfelin defence with Ian Bradfield, Gareth Groves and full back Marc Skinner running well - and on one occasion beat several defenders, kicked the ball ahead and easily won the race for the touchdown. But Stuart Rosser was unable to convert it.

Cwmbran's forwards were now causing problems for the Rhydyfelin eight with Marc Watkins and Julian Card to the fore and number eight Danny Evans is now playing well after a long lay off and with a maul near the line Evans went over for a good try.

Cwmbran were now on top and the next try was a cracker with quick Ian Bradfield going over in the corner.

Cwmbran's pack were now on top and on two occasions after a great drive were about six inches short of the line, but on one such drive flanker Andrew Wallis picked up and dived over with not a hand being laid on him, which Rosser converted.

Cwmbran played with great character and the older gentleman of the team, namely Gary Coombes and Stuart Black must have plenty of rugby left in them yet.