NEWPORT 24 PONTYPRIDD 15

NEWPORT’S mini-revival continued at Rodney Parade last night with a terrific 24-15 win against title-chasing Pontypridd.

The Black and Ambers repeated the magnificent defensive display that had earned victory against Neath five days earlier. Newport were good value for their 17-3 lead at the break. Penalties were traded before number eight Hywel Stoddart scored a well-crafted try after a great turnover by lock Adam Frampton, a lovely run by centre Scott Williams and a nice offload by scrum-half James Leadbeater.

And Newport were in command thanks to a pair of interception tries either side of the break – lock Adam Frampton from 25 metres and wing Alan Awcock from 90.

With flanker Carl Townsend and Leadbeater in inspired form the Black and Ambers held on for their fifth win in six league games despite late scores by Ryan Harford and Chris Clayton and 10 minutes of injury time.