Category Archives: Ebbw Vale Rugby
Welcome Andrew Mann
We are delighted to announce that 6ft 3 second row forward Andrew Mann is returning to Ebbw Vale for the 22/23 season. Andrew has a wealth of experience in the Welsh Premiership and is looking forward to playing in front of the Ebbw Addicts
Andrew had this to say on joining Ebbw Vale;
After spending the last 5 seasons away with Newport RFC, I have looked to play closer to home as I have work/family commitments to fulfil with a newborn on the way, really excited to see what the future holds with Ebbw as they’re a very close bunch and play with a lot of heart, looking forward to pulling on the jersey at Eugene and play in front of a very loud crowd 🙂
Height:6ft 3”(190.5cm)
Weight: 16st 101kg
Pos: Second Row
Honours: Winning the premiership cup with Newport RFC, Coaches Player of the year for Newport 19/20 season.
Clubs: Brynmawr, Blaenavon, Ebbw vale RFC, Newport RFC.
Ebbw Vale RFC is currently looking for a physiotherapist/sports therapist/sports rehab practitioner / osteopath / chiropractor for the upcoming season. The role will start at the beginning of July and you will be available for training & games during the season. Rugby / sport experience desirable
A pitch side trauma qualification is a must and the renumeration for the position will be based on your experience and discussed with the club at your interview.
Roles:
– Assisting with up keep of the WRU minimum standards criteria
– Managing player injuries, including creating a clinical impression and rehabilitation programmes
– Joint working with club physio, coaches and additional back room staff
– Pitch side cover at games
If you feel you have the correct experience and qualifications then please send your CV ASAP to Saran Wyburn on swyburn09@gmail.com
McDonough signs for the steelmen
Addicts favourite Carrick McDonough has signed for the steelmen for the 22/23 season from the Dragons. The former sprinter and Wales u20s wing is looking forward to getting stuck into pre-season with the boys and learning of Jason and the other coaches to develop his game. Carrick will also continue to work with Wales 7’s in the coming season
Carrick said.
I’m very excited to sign for Ebbw Vale this coming season, the club is rebuilding, and I know the 22/23 season is going to be a promising one, the new coaching staff are adding new things to the club and the new boys coming in will make a difference.
Height : 181cm
Weight : 88kg
Honours : Wales 18s, Wales 20s and Wales 7s
Clubs represented: Ebbw Vale, Cross Keys and Bridgend
Jordan Pritchard signs for the Steelmen
We are delighted to announce the signing of experienced tight head prop Jordan Pritchard for the 2022/23 season.
Hailing from Ferndale, Jordan first started his rugby with Rhondda Schools under 15’s, advancing on to the Blues Under 16s, and Ospreys Under 18’s. Jordan has also represented Swansea RFC, Pontypridd and Treorchy RFC as well as Ospreys A.
Speaking to Jordan on signing for Ebbw Vale he said, I am looking forward to new challenges at Ebbw and progressing as a player and can’t wait to start with the squad for pre season.
Height 6ft
Weight 123kg
Position Tight Head Prop
Honours
Rhondda U15s
Cardiff Blues U16s
Boys Club of Wales U16s
Ospreys U18s
Ospreys A
Bridgend College, Treorchy RFC, Pontypridd RFC, Swansea RFC
We are delighted to announce the signing of exciting young full back Morgan Richards. Morgan has represented Wales at U20’s level as well as the Dragons and most recently Pontypridd RFC in the Welsh Premiership.
On signing for Ebbw Vale, Morgan had the following to say;
The project at Ebbw Vale for next season is something that has really excited me. It is something I want to be apart of, there will be a lot of new faces in the squad so let’s hope we can hit the ground running. I can’t wait to get started.
Morgan Richards
Height – 6ft
Weight – 91kg
Position – Full Back, Wing
Honours – Wales 16’s, Wales 18’s, Wales 20’s, Dragons.
Clubs Represented – Caldicot RFC (home club), Dragons 16’s, Dragons 18’s, Dragons Celtic Cup, Pontypridd.
Morgan’s Video Highlights https://youtu.be/CLLnsoCwg10
Dan Haymond Appointed Team Manager
After announcing his recent retirement Dan Haymond has accepted the vacant position of Team Manager at the Steelman and will be supported by the long serving Team Administrator Doug Taylor.
Dan had 210 caps for the Steelmen that included 4 title winning seasons, 2 cup semi finals, A fierce competitor and player who always gave 100% every time he pulled on the Steelmen jersey
This completes the off field set up and Chairman Jon Jones had this to say about the appointment of Dan,
When Dan discussed his retirement with Jason and myself, both of us agreed that we wanted to keep Dan involved at the club and the vacant Team Manager’s role was an ideal opportunity. Dan epitomises what has been good about the club over the last 10 years, pride in the badge, skill, heart and honesty. Good people create good environments and we are confident that Dan will continue to play a major part in driving a culture of hard work leading to success
Dan commented;
Obviously when I new it was time to hang my boots up it wasn’t a decision I wanted to make, so when Jason told me he still wanted me involved with the club and offered me the team manager’s role it was a no brainer for me.
It will be a strange feeling and it is going to take a bit of time for me to get used to the role but I will give it 100% and do my best for the boys and club. I am hoping having played under Jason for so long and played along side the boys that I can be a good link between the both and can’t wait to get stuck in.
Coaching Team Announcement
Chairman Jon Jones is delighted to announce that the coaching Team appointed in December 2021 will lead the Steelmen into the 2022/23 season having steadied the ship and gained 3 wins in what was a tough and disappointing 2021/22 season
Head Coach Jason Strange will once again be backed up by Forwards Coach Geraint Lewis, Backs Coach Steve Lang, S&C Coach Nicky Strange and Aaron Coundley will continue as scrum coach.
All retained players have left with training plans for the summer prior to recommencement of pre season training at the beginning of July
Jason said;
“Last season gave the coaches an opportunity to look at the squad and the clubs position both on and off the field. It became obvious that it was a big rebuilding job with changes needed. There’s a lot to turnaround which isn’t going to happen overnight but next season’s squad will be increased, improved and stronger.
Its now important we look towards the future by recruiting the right type of characters, working hard in pre season and getting everyone going in the same direction towards a clear goal.
Ebbw Vale RFC YouthAssistant CoachFollowing the appointment of club stalwart Mathew Williams as Head Coach for the youth team at Ebbw Vale, the club are now recruiting an Assistant Coach to work with Mathew and the youth team and aid the clubs Pathway to Premiership programme.As Assistant Coach you will also work with the senior squad coaches for preparation of the club’s Development XV fixturesDuties will include:– Responsibility for backline play– Assist the Head Coach in team tactics and playing strategy– Enhance player’s core skills– Attend and deliver on youth team and development XV sessions– Attend youth and development XV matchesThis role will suit an enthusiastic and ambitious coach who wishes to be part of a Premiership club coaching environment, ideally WRU (or other recognised union) Level 2 qualified, or at least be willing to work towards that qualificationFor more details or to express an interest please contact:Alun HarriesHead of Player & Coach DevelopmentM: 07932 024408E: harries.1@btinternet.com
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that the following backs will remain with the Steelmen for the season 2022/23.Scrum Half – Jon Evans, Matthew FlannaganCentres – Dom Franchi, Ethan Phillips, Paul KingWing – Jordan ThomasNew signings to follow early next week
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that the following Forwards have been retained for the 2022/23 season. With the coaching group maintaining an experienced core of players plus young forwards who joined during the season who quickly became Addicts favouritesLoose Head Prop’s – Luke Garrett, Joel Harries, Lewis KinsellaHookers – Joe Franchi, Harry Bee, Mickhal BlakeTight Head – Dave WhitingSecond Row – Lance Randall Back Row – Lewis Young, Alex Howes, Joe Thomas, Dawid Rubasniak
Following the well publicised retirements of Steelmen stalwarts Rob Severnoakes and Dan Haymond the club can confirm that the following players are leaving the Ciner Class Community Stadium and all Officials, Coaches and Squad members would like to thank them for the their contribution to the club and wish them the best of luck for the future rugby and work careers,Thank you all and Once a Steelman always a SteelmanCorey TalbotAlex GreyOwen YoungRhys JonesMike PowellRyan EvansHarry HardingDan Hill
The season ended last Saturday with the annual awards night at the CiNER GLASS Community Stadium.
Despite a lack of honours for the club this season there were plenty of players looking for individual reward.
The evening kicked off by awarding Evan Lloyd with the top points scorer for Ebbw this season, finishing on 47 points. Karl Offers presenting Evan before announcing that Daf Howells would be the top try scorer for the Steelmen this season, with Daf unable to make the night.
Try of the season came from the ugliest result, away to Newport in the Greg Woods era. Ewan Rosser’s try in the corner nearest the Addicts taking the prize.
The Gareth Howls Captain’s award went to Joe Franchi, but as President Mark Powell said, “What do the Davis Cup, Ryder Cup and Ebbw Vale RFC all have in common? They have non-playing captains,” signifying the unfortunate time Joe has had to take off with injury.
The Addicts’ Most Promising Player was also taken by Evan Lloyd who has been one of the shining lights this season at Eugene Cross.
For the first time in the club’s history the Ivor Evans Clubman award was a tie, going to both Rob Sevenoaks and Dan Haymond, unarguable considering their efforts on and off the pitch. Oaksy also picked up the Dr Gordon Thomas award.
The Denzil Williams Players’ Player of the Year, presented by captain Franchi went to Ethan Phillips whilst the Addicts Player of the Season was Ethan ‘Oggy’ Doyle.
The Clive Burgess Man of Streel award, given to the player who has played the most games in a season for Ebbw went to Dan Hill, who spent most of the evening taking some stick for his sole appearance for those in Black and Amber down the valley.
In fitting fashion to their services for the club, the evening was rounded off with a couple of special presentations, both awarded by the Franchi brothers. Firstly, the boys handed over a collection from the players and their thanks for the kit men, which was proudly accepted by Ron, Doug, Dilwyn and Ash on the night.
Lastly. Oaksy and Dan Haymond were given a special portrait caricature of their time at Ebbw as they both bid farewell to playing duties at the club, but as was announced by Jon Jones, Dan will return as Team manager next season.
List Of Awards
Top Points Scorer – Evan Lloyd
Top Try Scorer – Dafydd Howells
Try Of The Season – Ewan Rosser v Newport
Gareth Howls Captain’s Award – Joe Franchi
Ebbw Addicts Most Promising Player – Evan Lloyd
Ivor Evans Clubman Award – Rob Sevenoaks & Dan Haymond
Dr Gordon Thomas Award – Rob Sevenoaks
Denzil Williams Played Player Of The Year Award – Ethan Phillips
Ebbw Addicts Player Of The Year – Ethan Doyle
Clive Burgess Man Of Steel Award – Dan Hill
New Youth Team Head Coach for The Steelmen
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that former player Mathew Williams will take over as Head Coach for the youth team.
Mathew, known in the rugby community as Chunky, played nearly 300 games for Ebbw Vale and was an integral part of the squad’s success in winning leagues and becoming Premiership champions in 2016.
On his appointment Mathew stated, ‘It’s great to be back at the club that was a huge part of my rugby career and to be working with a talented squad of young players, who I hope all go onto having the same success I enjoyed with the club’.
Mathew started his coaching career at his local club Oakdale and Steelmen Head Coach , Jason Strange, is looking forward to supporting him further in his coaching career, ‘Chunky is a very good young coach and it’s great to have in back in the fold. He will also be working with seniors, so that we have that clear route and continuity for young players coming through as part of our Premiership Pathway programme’ .
Any 16-18 year olds wishing to be part of the youth and development programme at Ebbw Vale , please contact Head of Coach & Player Development, Alun Harries on 07932 024408
Are you a 16-18 year old rugby player aiming to play in the highest domestic league in Wales?
Ebbw Vale RFC is offering a bespoke ‘Pathway to Premiership’ programme for aspiring young players.
Joining Ebbw Vale RFC Youth team as the first step you will receive high quality and experienced coaching and support providing access to and sessions with the successful and highly qualified First XV coaches.
The pathway support goes beyond your time in youth rugby as Ebbw Vale RFC will be running a Development XV, coached by the senior coaches and the opportunity for you to wear the Ebbw Vale jersey and push for a semi-pro contract, plus potentially play in New Zealand or Australia for a season as part of your development.
For more details and to start your journey to the Welsh Premiership contact;
Alun Harries, Head of Player & Coach Development
Mob: 07932 024408
Email: harries.1@btinternet.com
The Ebbw Vale RFC annual club dinner and presentation evening will take place on Saturday 14th May commencing at 6:00pm.
The evening will consist of a Hog Roast which will be served with wedges and salad, along with a vegetarian option. If you have any food allergies please let Andrew or Angharad know when booking.
Cost per person will be £20
To book your place at the club dinner contact Andrew Phillips on ebbw48@gmail.com or 07766490358, or Angharad on 07816153355
The evening is open to over 18s only.
Ebbw ended their season in disappointing form to Bridgend with a 11-7 defeat at home. It was never to be the Steelmen’s day, or should that be night, when a 50:22 attempt from the Ravens was fielded back in play by Jordan Thomas which set up an easy opener for the Ravens.
Despite going in 8-0 down at the break, Ebbw weren’t out of the game and needed some luck. Unfortunately, Evan Lloyd’s cracking kick bounced a foot inside the touchline and remained in play, whereas if it had bounced out, Ebbw would have retained possession about 50 metres up field.
Adding to that bad luck, Ebbw seemed destined to score when Ed Howley’s deliberate knocked on should have seen a penalty try as well as the yellow card that was brandished to the Bridgend winger.
Despite this Ebbw found themselves on the scoresheet when Joe Thomas powered over following some Ebbw pressure, unfortunately it was too little too late and the host couldn’t get another score.
“I was expecting better than that to end the season, but it’s pretty much summed up the past few weeks. Performance was nowhere near good enough, but our problems are obvious, and we can work on those over the summer,” said Jason after the game.
“The messages have been to be consistent, and we made too many errors and no disrespect to Bridgend, but they didn’t have to do a lot to beat us, they did the basics, and it was good enough.
“Now isn’t the time to talk about rugby, but we all understand big changes are needed and a major rebuild is required at the club as we’re not good enough.”
With plenty of faces moving on to other clubs or through retirement the club wishes them all the best, Chippy adding, “The effort has never been in doubt, they’re a great group of boys to work with and it’s never nice to see players leave, but we’re doing it for the betterment of the club.”
Ebbw Vale RFC Youth
Following comments on social media there is a misinterpretation of boys reaching the age where under current rules they will be moving to senior rugby. There are no financial issues at the club at all and the club is about to announce a new coaching structure for the youth team to expand its development even further.
Ebbw Vale Side v Bridgend Ravens
Your Steelmen side for the final time this season to take on Bridgend Ravens tomorrow evening in the Indigo Group Welsh Premiership at CiNER Glass Community Stadium, 7:30pm kick off.
Team:
1. Luke Garrett
2. Michel Blake
3. Rob Sevenoaks
4. Lance Randall
5. Ethan Doyle
6. Dan Hill
7. Joe Thomas
8. Alex Howes
9. Jonathan Evans (c)
10. Rhys Jones
11. Carrick McDonough
12. Evan Lloyd
13. Dafydd Howells
14. Jordan Thomas
15. Daniel Haymond
Replacements
16. Liam lewis
17. Joel Harris
18. Aaron Coundley
19. Gethin Williams
20. Corey Talbot
21. Dawid Rubasniak
22. Matthew Flanagan
23. Lewis Bates
Steelmen Prop Star Rob Sevenoaks Announces Retirement
After 280 caps and 12 seasons with Ebbw Vale RFC the Tight Head Prop has announced his retirement from the game.
Rob joined the club from Abergavenny RFC as part of a new squad assembled by Neil Edwards and Jason Strange with Jason having first coached Rob in his time at Abergavenny.
The position of tight head prop is widely acknowledged as the toughest position in rugby and Rob, universally known as Oaksy became the cornerstone of the pack that won 5 league titles along with Ross Jones, Damian Hudd, Ashley Sweet and existing hooker Matthew “Chunky” Williams. Over many seasons the Steelmen pack became the most feared in the semi pro game in Wales with a scrum and driving game that was hard for teams to compete with. The recent words of British Lion and Wales loosehead Wyn Jones are worth noting when he described playing a cup game at Ebbw Vale “as the toughest and most physical game he has been involved in, the man against him was Oaksy and the front 5 that had started that first game for the Steelmen in Division 1 East.
Oaksy was also a key component in the driving line that became known as “Katch and Kynes” with his good friend Ronny capitalising in become top try scorer in the Premiership in our title winning year
Oaksy has carried severe knee issues for several seasons, a lesser man would have retired but his enjoyment of the game and the love for the club his teammates meant he was determined to carry on if the club needed him
Oaksy has always been a character on and off the pitch, never a quiet moment as he likes a chat, a referee once remarked post game how much he had enjoyed reffing the game apart from one moment in the second half, he thought he may have gone deaf until he realised that the silence was due to Oaksy being substituted! He was always central in any team social and enjoyed spending time with the Ebbw Addicts in the bar wherever the Steelmen played. On a more serious note, Oaksy believed in high standards in training and on a matchday, hard work being his mantra through his entire time at the club
He will be greatly missed on and off the field although he has stated he will not be a stranger at the club and will be watching as many games as he can.
As well as Rob, his family will be greatly missed as they have never missed games and contributed to the club in so many ways and all players, coaches, officials and supporters will want to see the Severnoakes family as often as possible
Commenting on his retirement, Rob said;
What can I say it’s hard knowing when your time is up but I’m not getting any younger that’s for sure!
Jason brought me in from Abergavenny in 2009 and I can honestly say I’ve had the best years up here with some of the best rugby moments but also some lows to. A big thank you to all the players I’ve played with and against, to the friends I’ve made over the years it’s been incredible. A big thank you also to my wife and kids for putting up with me and my moods when we have lost.
A massive thank you to the Ebbw supporters and I look forward to watching with you next season from the bank, you’ve been loyal and brilliant to us over the years even though the bad times.
I’d like to thank all the staff, coaches, physio’s, the Doc Rhys Thomas and kit men especially Ron and the boys for always picking up after me and to death who without him fixing me I wouldn’t still be playing and retired years ago
So a big Thank you to everyone for all the great memories and I wish the club every success in the future and can’t wait to watch next season.
My final words go to my Uncle Phil, my late father David and my mother Ginnie who have supported me through my time in rugby but particularly at Ebbw Vale and didn’t miss a game, thank you so much!
Oaksy
The Last Dance
We round off the season when host Bridgend at the CiNER GLASS Community Stadium on Wednesday night (7.30KO).
The Steelmen enter of a short break following a disappointing loss away to Pontypridd. Ebbw currently sit tenth in the Premiership, just three points above the Ravens. A win is vital if Ebbw wish to keep two sides below them and could overtake Swansea should a bonus point victory take place.
Looking ahead to the game Jason said, “It’s always good to finish with a home game and hopefully take away the win and the performance. Unfortunately, the effort was there against Ponty, but accuracy and consistency were missing.
“I think a win is important for the supporters, but also the players. There’ll be a lot leaving on Wednesday and it’ll be nice for them to finish with a win.”
Despite a ‘different’ season due to Covid, let’s make sure we pack the bank and get behind the boys before we all head off to relax for the summer break.
You can get tickets in advance here; https://www.evrfc.co.uk/product/indigo-welsh-premiership-saturday-26th-march-bridgend/ or you can buy them on the gate on the day.
Let’s get behind the boys one last time this season and make Bridgend #FEELTHESTEEL!!!
Ebbw ended their away trips for the season with a frustrating 14-3 loss to Pontypridd. Both teams struggled to get the game flowing with many handling errors and turnovers creating an open game from the off.
Despite a scrum that crumbled and a lineout that, for both sides, went either way at times, Ebbw got on the scoreboard first through the boot of Evan Lloyd.
It was to be the only score of the first half that saw an electric crowd in fine voice.
The second half started to turn as Ponty applied the pressure up front. Four yellow cards for the Steelmen made it difficult to make any progress and two penalty tries as a result of a reversing scrum inside our own 22 was the major difference maker.
The result pushed Ponty up to fourth whilst Ebbw languish down in tenth with one game to play on Wednesday night against Bridgend.
Despite the result the visiting crowd made sure to show their colours and make their voices heard.
“I thought it was a poor standard, both teams were very loose and it felt like a pre-season game. Neither side were accurate and ultimately out of two poor teams their set piece won them the game,” said Jason after the game.
“You can’t do a lot about the scrums, it’s out of your control really. There’s lots of things I can control but pushing in scrums isn’t my forte. As a general pack we’ve been going well recently, but Ponty did the job on us and we need to rebuild over the summer along with other things. Without a set piece you don’t win games.
“I thought we had the three best players on the field in Alex Howe, Dan Hill and Daf Howells, but if you’re going backwards and living off scraps it doesn’t make much of a difference. We need players to be more consistent in doing their main job.”
Steelman Defensive Rock Dan Haymond Announces Retirement
Following 210 caps for the Steelmen that included 4 title winning seasons, 2 cup semi finals Dan has announced he will retire at the end of the season with his last game being at home v Bridgend RFC on Wednesday 27th April
Dan a product of Abergavenny joined the Steelmen at the start of the 2011 season having been part of a title winning team at Tredegar RFC when he scored over 200 points from the 10 position. Dan spent 2 seasons aa a 10, competing firstly with Dorian Jones and then Josh Lewis for the pivot positioning was an example to all as he worked hard to push those players as hard as he could. Towards the end of his second season Dan made the switch to 15 and has made the position his own ever since and held off many challengers for the 15 shirt
Every season Dan has been in many opinions the best defensive 15 in the Premiership division for many seasons, being secure in the air and with the bravery and tackle technique to bring down anyone breeching the teams first line of defence. Dan has also been no slouch in attack creating many tries for outside backs. The Addicts all remember Dan’s break from just inside the Ebbw half resulting in him sending in wing Jarred Rosser for a try in a tight contest in the play off semi final against Llandovery ands 80mtr scamper down the touchline to score the final try in the Premiership Play off Final. The dive and having the presence of mind too look straight at camera smiling remains a memorable moment for one of the unsung heroes of Ebbw ’s recent history
A fierce competitor and player who always gave 100% every time he pulled on the Steelmen jersey he also stepped up to be in the main goal kicker in the Covid affected season, something he had not done for many seasons is a mark of his commitment and courage in what was a tough season
Chairman Jon Jones commented that Dan’s ability on the field has been witnessed by many and he has been highly respected by all who played, coached and competed against him but what may will not have seen is the positive influence he has been at the club over his time there, a man of few words but all listened when he spoke and one of the easiest players to deal with off the field, a man with great values, honesty and genuine love for the club he joined.
Dan said;
Well, when everyone says to you rugby is a short career you always brush it off and think you have ages left. Unfortunately it has crept up on me pretty quick and its time to hang up the boots.
Ebbw vale has been a massive part of my life over the last 12 years or so. To say I have been here that long is unreal I didn’t think i’d last a preseason let alone all those years.
We have had some unbelievable highs and some real lows but the club is on its way back up and i cant wait to see us back at the top.
Just want to say a massive thank you to all the boys i’ve played with and against had some serious players come through Ebbw since I been here and it has been a pleasure to play with all of you past and present I have made lifelong friends through this club.
The coaches that have been here during my time also i would like to say a massive thank you to Jason especially as he was the coach that bought me in and its quite fitting that he is back now to see me out.
Also my wife and kids, they have had to put up with me being out of the house all the time. Away on the weekends to go to places like RGC, and for putting up with me having my head up my arse when we lost or when I wasn’t happy with how I played.
The biggest thank you has to go to the addicts. Ebbw Vale has to have one of the best group of supporters in Wales. They out number most teams home and away and I will miss the bank full of addicts supporting the boys win or lose and I promise you a lot more winning is on its way after a tough couple years. The boys are working so hard to get back there for you guys.
So thank you all for everything and good luck to the boys that are lucky enough to put the jersey on next season. I hope you enjoy it and treasure it half as much as I have.
The club is talking to Dan about remaining at the club in another capacity.
Ebbw Vale Side v Pontypridd RFC
Your Steelmen side to take on Pontypridd this Saturday in the Indigo Group Welsh Premiership at Sardis Road is as follows.
Team:
15 Dan Haymond
14 Jordan Thomas
13 Dafydd Howells
12 Joe Westwood
11 Carrick McDonough
10 Evan Lloyd
9 Jonathan Evans ©
8 Alex Howes
7 Joe Thomas
6 Dan Hill
5 Ethan Doyle
4 Lance Randall
3 Lewis Kinsella
2 Mikhail Blake
1 Aaron Coundley
Replacements
16 Connor Chapman
17 Joel Harries
18 Rob Sevenoaks
19 Dawid Rubasniak
20 Cory Talbot
21 Matthew Flanagan
22 Lewis Bates
23 Oliver Andrews
Ebbw travel to old rivals Pontypridd on April 23, as the Steelmen look to get back to winning ways after a frustrating defeat at home to Carmarthen a fortnight ago. Ponty will also be looking to do similar after falling foul of a 40-10 rout up at RGC.
Ponty currently sit seventh, 13 points above Ebbw in ninth, but the scores are tied at one a piece this season, both sides winning at home, Ebbw’s result coming back in September in the Indigo Group Cup match.
Since that day Ebbw have been up and down with results, Ponty’s 31-3 victory at Sardis Road a display of how a score can not always reflect the performance.
Despite this being the final away trip of the season for Ebbw, there has been plenty of movement off the field and supporters will be pleased to hear Jason has accumulated a squad that he is now happy with and is working through the final few areas to ensure maximum success next season.
“That’s a brilliant place to play rugby, there’s always a nice atmosphere there. There’s lots of history and those two remaining games can build on our performances, but I’d like us to sustain a high performance over a longer period,” explained Jason.
“Because our starting point was so low, it was always going to take time and we were realistic and knew it wouldn’t be turned around in three months, the club was in too much of a mess to do that. What I keep telling the players, if we think of where we were three months ago getting 50 points against Newport, it was almost unopposed. We’re now competing with the likes of Aberavon, Llandovery, Carmarthen today,” he added.
