Llandovery Match Report

Ebbw claimed back-to-back victories for the first time since September as they coasted to a 27-15 victory over Cup semi-finalists Llandovery.

The Steelmen lived up to their name, putting the Drovers’ scrum to the sword immediately, with Matthew Flanagan darting over for a try, converted by Evan Lloyd.

Lloyd soon added three further points from the tee as the hosts pressure started to mount. The scrum being utilised as a platform for attack, a brilliant training park move came off when Evan Lloyd broke through midfield to set Joe Westwood up for a try on his return to the green, red and white strip.

The first half came to an end when both Ebbw’s Mike Powell and Llandovery’s Ricky Guest were shown red cards for an altercation.

17-0 at half time.

The second half started slower, both sides taking time to adjust to the extra space. Despite the pressure it was Rhodri Wall who scored next, getting the visitors on the scoresheet. Lloyd once again converted a penalty to keep them at bay, the bank sounding better than it has for some time.

Wall soon got his brace before Lewis Kinsella scored his first try for the Steelmen, Lloyd’s conversion seeing the game out. 

Discussing the win Jason Strange said, “I’m really pleased with the result, the players worked hard for each other and lots of strong individual performances. We’d have taken that score pre-game, but disappointed not to take the bonus point in the end as I felt we deserved it. 

“We’re focusing on the performance and we’re going in the right direction. The players who came in made a real impact. Aaron Coundley was physical, Joe Westwood also had a great first half. 

“I’d give our first half 8 or 9 out of 10, second half the game lost its shape due to the red cards. The fight and the spirit were brilliant.

“Whenever you lose a wing, you’ve got two options. You either drop a forward off or replace the wing with another back, but due to the set piece dominance, we decided to keep the pack full which compromised other areas. 

“Hopefully we can fit the Welsh U20s back into the team, and they’ll come into a settled team and add to the depth which is important.”

MOTM: Dave Whiting

By Rob Rees