Category Archives: Ebbw Vale Rugby
Ebbw claim five points on the road
The Steelmen came away from St Helens with a bonus point victory after an entertaining game was played in weather conditions that changed during the afternoon.
The visitors surged into an early lead, after good play by the forwards in the hosts twenty-two, saw scrum half Jon Evans send the ball out wide for winger Ewan Bowden to go over out wide for the games first try. Full back for the day Evan Lloyd was unsuccessful with the conversion.
The away side soon doubled their try tally. From first phase ball off the top of the lineout just outside the All Whites twenty-two, the Ebbw Vale forwards took the game to the home side. With each forward surge making inroads inside the hosts twenty-two, second row Dylan Barlett collected a pass and barged over the try line to score. Full back Lloyd added the extras.
With the Swansea backs starting to get some ball, an excellent break by full back Harri Houston from inside his own half, saw the number fifteen glide through the Ebbw defence. With one man to beat, the fullback drew his man and passed to supporting winger Llien Morgan to go over unopposed for a well taken try. Outside half Luke Scully successfully kicked the conversion.
However, the Steelmen were to respond immediately. With an improved lineout going well, the ball made its way out to outside centre Ethan Phillips. With a lot still to do, the centre showed his gas to go over the try line untouched from around the halfway line to score an excellent individual try. On this occasion Lloyd was unable to add the two points.
The final score of the half was to come from the boot of the All Whites fly half Luke Scully to bring his side within seven points of the away side. With the hosts looking likely to score a try in the visitors twenty-two, referee Ben Connor awarded the hosts a penalty and showed Ebbw Vale scrum half Jon Evans a yellow card for ill-discipline.
Half Time: Swansea RFC 10 Ebbw Vale RFC 17
The second half started with both sides taking it to each other. Referee Connor awarding penalties to both sides. However, neither side were able to take advantage and add to the scoreline.
The Steelmen’s coach Jason Strange decided to replace Co-captain Rhys Francis and prop Morgan Davies with fellow co-captain Joe Franchi and Luke Garrett.
With Swansea seeing more and more of the ball and territory, Ebbw coach Strange made further changes with prop Owen Hatherill replacing Adam Court and flankers Ewan McIntyre and Lewis Young coming on for Ben Main and Cameron Regan.
The All Whites soon brought the game level. Patient play by the home side saw centre Tom Florence score the first try of the afternoon. Fly half Scully levelled the score.
The Ebbw Vale replacements were starting to make their mark, especially in the scrum. After a good team move in the hosts twenty-two, referee Connor awarded Swansea centre Florence a yellow card for stopping what looked like a certain try illegally.
With the visitors getting the upper hand in the scrum and the referee awarding the away side penalty after penalty, the Steelmen were to score the decisive try. With a dominant pack pushing the scrum, quick ball out to the backs by scrum half Evans saw outside half Kieran Meek put in a lovely chip kick into space out wide for returning winger Ryan Gardner to catch the ball and score Ebbw’s bonus point try. Lloyd successfully kicked the conversion from a difficult angle.
With Swansea camping themselves in the Ebbw Vale twenty-two and pushing to try and bring the game level, the away side’s coach Strange made his side’s final change of the afternoon by replacing scrum half Jon Evans with Rory Harries.
Despite late sustained pressure by the All whites, the home side were unable to take advantage and referee Connor brought the game to a close.
Full Time: Swansea RFC 17 Ebbw Vale RFC 24
After the match we spoke with Ebbw Vale winger and try scorer Ryan Gardner. Ryan acknowledged it was a tough contest. He thought the team started well and built up a lead, but credit to Swansea as they managed to claw themselves back into the game. However, the winger was happy the team were able to hold Swansea out at the end.
Finally, Ryan was happy to have scored a try. He stated it had been a long road to recovery over the past 15 months after injury. However, he said it was good to be back with the boys and get over the line in the game.
Tries: Ewan Bowden (1), Dylan Bartlett (1), Ethan Phillips (1), Ryan Gardner (1)
Conversions: Evan Lloyd (2)
Ebbw Vale`s next game is at home against Aberavon RFC at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium in the Indigo Premiership on Saturday April 6th 2024 with kick off at 14:30pm.
Written by Alex Kinsella-Evans
Newport Win Gwent derby
The Steelmen came agonizingly close to doing the double over their Gwent rivals on what was a fresh Saturday afternoon.
The home side came out with the bit between their teeth and were awarded a penalty within the first few minutes. Top points scorer Evan Lloyd successfully kicked the first points of the afternoon. However, moments later the young outside half missed an attempt to put the hosts six points ahead.
The first try of the afternoon was scored by the Black and Ambers. From a lineout just inside the away side’s half, a break through the centre by winger Lloyd Lewis, saw the speedster draw the last man and pass to scrum half Che Hope to dart over the line from just inside Ebbw’s twenty-two. Number ten Matt O’Brien added the extra two points.
Ebbw Vale scored their first try when from good forward play, a quick flat pass inside the Newport twenty-two by Evan Lloyd put winger Jordan Thomas in at the corner. Lloyd successfully kicked the conversion.
The away side were soon level when fly half O’Brien kicked a penalty from around the hosts twenty-two, after the referee awarded a penalty for ill-discipline.
The Steelmen were reduced to fourteen men, when the referee adjudged second row Dylan Bartlett to have taken an opposing player out on the floor. However, worse was to follow, with the Black and Ambers trying everything to get over the try line, Ebbw Vale scrum half Jon Evans was shown a yellow card for playing the ball on the floor to reduce the Steelmen to thirteen men.
With a two man advantage and in the hosts twenty-two, quick thinking by fly half O’Brien, saw the number ten kick the ball out to winger Elliott Frewen, who stepped inside his man to score the try. O’Brien added the two points to put his team ahead by seven.
However, Ebbw were to score the last points of the first half, when the referee awarded the home side a penalty at the scrum inside the Newport half. Flyhalf Lloyd successfully kicked the penalty to make it a four point game going into the interval.
Half Time: Ebbw Vale RFC 13 Newport RFC 17
The visitors came out for the second half and within minutes had scored a third try. From a penalty, outside half O’Brien kicked to the corner. Winning the lineout, the away side’s forwards got up a head of steam and ended with hooker Henry Palmer crossing the line. O’Brien again sent the kick through the middle of the posts.
Ebbw Vale coach Jason Strange decided to make changes to the front row. Prop Morgan Davies and co-captain Joe Franchi replaced Luke Garrett and hooker Ieuan Morris. Moments later, further substitutions by Strange saw flanker’s Kobi Rees be replaced by Ben Main and Ewan McIntyre come on for Cameron Reagan.
The substitutes were to make an instant impact. From a penalty in the away side’s half, outside half Lloyd kicked to the corner. Winning the lineout, the home side forwards flexed their muscle and ended with hooker Joe Franchi barge over the try line out wide. From the touchline Lloyd was unable to add the extra’s.
The Steelmen’s coach Strange brought on Owen Hatherill for Adam Court and moments later centre Dom Franchi replaced Morgan Richards.
Ebbw Vale were to go into the lead when hooker Franchi scored his second and the team’s third try of the afternoon after good play by the forwards. Lloyd successfully added the conversion to put the Steelmen one point ahead going late into the game.
Another change for the hosts saw Ryan Gardner come on for try scorer Jordan Thomas.
With the game going deep into injury time, a lost Ebbw Vale lineout saw the Black and Ambers score the match winning try. With the forwards going through phase after phase inside the Ebbw twenty-two, a quick pass out to winger Elliott Ferriman, saw the replacement forward touch down in the corner. O’Brien successfully added the conversion.
The hosts coach Strange emptied the bench in the final moments when scrum half Rory Harries replaced Jon Evans.
With the game drawing to a close, the referee awarded a penalty from the scrum to the Steelmen and saw Lloyd put in an excellent kick to give the home side a lineout on the Newport twenty-two. However, Ebbw were unable to find their target at the lineout and the referee brought the game to a close.
FT: Ebbw Vale RFC 25 Newport RFC 31
Tries: Jordan Thomas (1), Joe Franchi (2)
Conversions: Evan Lloyd (2)
Penalties: Evan Lloyd (2)
After the game we spoke with Ebbw Vale Hooker Ieaun Morris. Ieuan thought the home side played well, However, Newport played in the right areas and lived off the Steelmen’s mistakes. Ieaun finished by acknowledging the team expected to have played better.
The Steelmen’s next game is away to Swansea RFC at St Helen’s in the Indigo Premiership on Saturday 30th March 2024, with kick off at 14:30.
Written by Alex Kinsella-Evans
Llandovery make it to the final
An uncharacteristic performance by the Steelmen saw the Drovers win the game and reach the Premiership Cup Final at the Millenium Stadium in April.
From the off Llandovery got on the front foot and never let up. Their first points came from the boot of number ten Ioan Hughes, who successfully sent a penalty through the uprights.
Within two minutes of the restart, the Drovers scored their first try. A great bit of play by Jac Davies, saw the full back score a fine solo try. On this occasion Hughes was unable to add the points.
Llandovery’s second try was to follow five minutes later. After good play, outside half Hughes rounded off a good team try. Hughes converted his own try.
The Drovers were to score their third try of the game ten minutes later. A cross field kick by scrum half Lee Rees, saw the ball end up in the hands of Adam Warren, who went over in the corner. Hughes extended the lead to twenty-two points.
With the Llandovery forwards enjoying the occasion, more forward domination ended with prop Jamie Hughes cross the line to score Llandovery’s fourth try of the afternoon. Hughes successfully kicked the conversion to extend the lead further.
Within the last few moments of the first half, Ebbw flanker Lewis Young was shown a yellow card.
Half Time: Ebbw Vale RFC 0 Llandovery RFC 29
Ebbw came out for the second half with pride at stake. Not long into the half coach Jason Strange replaced Luke Garrett with Morgan Davies, Alex Howes came off for Ryan Jenkins and full back Morgan Richards was replaced by Reece Dunne.
The first try of the second half came twelve minutes after the restart. A kick from his twenty-two by Jac Davies, saw the full back collect the ball and race over to score his second try of the afternoon. Hughes sent the conversion through the posts.
In the aftermath, Ebbw Vale centre Ethan Phillips was shown the yellow card, to spend ten minutes in the sin bin.
Ebbw coach Strange made further changes, with centre Dom Franchi replaced by Kieran Meek. Moments later, prop Harry Drane came on for Adam Court, scrum half Rory Harries replaced Jon Evans, Co-captain Rhys Francis came on for fellow captain Joe Franchi and flanker Cameron Reagan was replaced by Ewan McIntyre.
Ebbw’s only try of the afternoon came on seventy-six minutes, when replacement Reece Dunne intercepted a pass and raced over from the half-way line to score his first try for the club. Kieran Meek successfully added the two points.
The final try of the game came with two minutes left, when Llandovery number eight Joe Powell crossed the line. Replacement Jack Maynard scored the final points of the afternoon.
Full Time: Ebbw Vale RFC 7 Llandovery RFC 43
Try: Reece Dunne
Conversion Kieran Meek
Ebbw Vale’s next game see’s the Steelmen return to league action, in a Gwent derby against second placed Newport RFC on Saturday 23rd March 2024 at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium, with kick off at 2:30pm.
Written by Alex Kinsella-Evans
Ebbw Vale RFC vs Llandovery RFC cup semi-final preview
Ebbw travel to the Talbot Athletic Ground, Aberavon on Saturday 2nd of March 2024 to play their hotly anticipated Welsh cup semi-final against Llandovery RFC.
Having beaten Cardiff RFC in the quarterfinals at the start of December 2023 and winning away to Bridgend Ravens RFC last time out, Ebbw will be looking to reach the final in the Millennium stadium in April.
With honours even in the league this season, the Steelmen`s coach Jason Strange will be hoping for a strong performance from the team on Saturday which will lead to a win and their first appearance in a Welsh cup final since 1998, when they travelled across the Seven Bridge to Ashton Gate, Bristol to play Llanelli RFC.
One change to the starting lineup from the Bridgend game sees the experienced centre Dom Franchi replace Kieran Meek. Hard working hooker Joe Franchi captains the side with fellow co-captain Rhys Francis on the bench.
The Ebbw Vale team is as follows:
15 Morgan Richards 14 Ewan Bowden 13 Ethan Phillips 12 Dom Franchi 11 Jordan Thomas 10 Evan Lloyd 9 Jon Evans
1 Luke Garrett 2 Joe Franchi (CAPT) 3 Adam Court 4 Dylan Bartlett 5 Curtis Gregory 6 Cameron Regan 7 Lewis Young 8 Alex Howes
Replacements from
Morgan Davies, Rhys Francis, Harry Drane, Ewan McIntyre, Ben Main, Ryan Jenkins, Rory Harries, Kieran Meek and Reece Dunn
The winners of the game will play the winners of the Merthyr RFC vs Swansea RFC semi-final at the Millennium Stadium in April 2024.
The Steelmen look forward to hearing the vociferous support of the Addicts on Saturday at the Talbot Athletic Ground. The Welfare will be open from 9am for breakfast. The Addicts buses will be leaving the Welfare at 12.30pm.
For those travelling to TAG by car the postcode is: SA13 1AB
The full address is: 39 Manor St, Port Talbot SA13 1AB
Ebbw claim another away victory
The steelmen came away from the Dunraven Brewery Field with a bonus point victory, in a hard-fought game that was played in terrible weather conditions.
The away side came out and immediately took the game to their hosts. A huge push by the pack in the scrum saw the referee award an early penalty to Ebbw Vale. Outside half Evan Lloyd was successful with the penalty to put his side three points to the good.
The home side soon got into their stride. With the forwards going through phase after phase, flanker Iestyn Merriman drove over the try line to score the first try of the game. Fly half Jamin Hodgkins successfully added the two points.
Five minutes later, Bridgend number ten Hodgkins extended the lead further after successfully slotting over a penalty to put his team seven points ahead.
With the Ravens forwards having the grit between their teeth, the referee awarded a penalty to Bridgend inside the Ebbw Vale twenty-two. The Steelmen’s number eight Alex Howes was shown a yellow card for going off his feet at the ruck. Hodgkins again kicked the penalty to put the home side ten points ahead.
However, the momentum was about to swing in favour of the visitors when with minutes left of the first half, Ebbw’s experienced scrum half Jon Evans saw a gap in the defence. With the ball at the bottom of the ruck, inside the Raven’s twenty-two, Evans picked up the ball, ran at the try line and successfully beat off defenders to score the try. Lloyd was successful with the conversion to make it a three-point game going into the break.
Half Time: Bridgend Ravens RFC 13 Ebbw Vale RFC 10
Ebbw Vale coach Jason Strange made a half time change. Ewan McIntyre replaced flanker Cameron Regan.
With the Steelmen still down to fourteen men, a lovely bit of play by the away side’s Lloyd, saw the number ten set up a second try for the visitors. Seeing the hosts defence up flat, fly half Lloyd put in a grubber kick, which he managed to collect himself unopposed. Seeing winger Ewan Bowden in space, Lloyd put in a lovely, weighted chip for Bowden to collect the ball and dive over the line to score out wide. Marksman Lloyd slotted the conversion from out wide to extend Ebbw Vale’s lead to four points.
Ten minutes later, Ebbw were on the scoresheet once again. From a scrum inside the home side’s twenty-two, number eight Alex Howes picked up the ball and ran at the home side’s defence. Being brought down close to the line, the forwards inched closer and closer. Scrum half Evans saw the space and dived over the line to score his second try of the afternoon. Lloyd sent the ball through the posts to add two points.
Ebbw Vale coach Strange decided to ring the changes, replacing the front row of Luke Garrett, Joe Franchi and Adam Court with Morgan Davies, Rhys Francis and Harry Drane and number eight Alex Howes came off for Ryan Jenkins. This was closely followed by Cameron Davies and Rory Harries replacing Kieran Meek and Jon Evans. Also, Reece Dunn came on to make his debut for Jordan Thomas.
With the game entering injury time, the Steelmen scored their fourth try of the game. From a lineout in the hosts half, the forwards gained metres and went through phase after phase. Replacement Harry Drane was the last to collect the ball and drove over the line to secure the Steelmen a try bonus point. Lloyd again hit the target with the conversion.
With time running out Bridgend were reduced to fourteen men after flanker Iestyn Merriman was sent to the sin bin for the remainder of the game, after giving away a penalty inside the Ravens twenty-two. Outside half Lloyd kicked the penalty to the corner. From the lineout, the forwards set up a driving maul, which ended with hooker Rhys Francis crashing over the line with the final play of the game. Fly half Lloyd was unable to add the two points with the final kick of the game.
Full Time: Bridgend Ravens RFC 13 Ebbw Vale RFC 36
Tries: Jon Evans (2), Ewan Bowden (1), Harry Drane (1), Rhys Francis (1)
Conversions: Evan Lloyd (4)
Penalty: Evan Lloyd (1)
The Steelmen’s next game is against Llandovery RFC at The Talbot Athletic Ground, Aberavon in the semi final of the Indigo Premiership cup, with kick off at 14:30.
Written by Alex Kinsella-Evans
We are delighted to have been informed our application to join the newly formed EDC has been successful. Thank you to everyone involved in the process over the past 6 months, particularly Head Coach Jason Strange and Club Commercial Director Andrea Smart.
As a club, we now look forward to preparing for the start of the new season, while at the same time focusing on the business end of the current league season. Over the coming months, we will continue to share our plans for club and ground development with our supporters at every opportunity.
We are committed to ensuring we continue to act in the best interests of the club and our community by playing rugby at the highest possible level. We are a club with a rich history, and we have to protect this and want to build on it for many years to come.
Steelmen Selected for Wales U20s Squad
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted that both Harry Rees-Weldon and Owen Conquer have been selected to play for Wales U20s against Scotland U20s on Friday.
Owen, a product of Llantwit Fadre, joined the Steelmen as part of the Elite Player Pathway link up with Christ College, Brecon this season. Owen, who doesn’t have a regional academy contract, , has taken his own pathway to international honours developing under the coaching setup at Ebbw Vale RFC this season.
Harry, a member of the Ebbw Vale Youth team last season, has broken into the senior squad this year. He has taken the transition from youth to senior rugby with ease having signed an academy contract with the Dragons at the start of this season and previously representing Coleg Gwent.
Jason Strange commented, “All players and coaches are so proud of the achievements of Owen and Harry this season. These two young players epitomise the culture and values of the club both on and off the field and they have both played an important role in the success on it. It is great that our own club player pathway has seen Harry transition from the Youth team to the Senior squad and onto the Wales U20s and that Owen’s performances for the Steelmen this season, having been identified through the elite player pathway link up with Christ College, has led to his call-up to the national U20s squad.”
Good luck to both players on Friday evening!
The club would also like to congratulate Cameron Davies and Kobi Rees who have also been part of the Wales U20s training camps this season.
Ebbw Score Try Bonanza
The Steelmen ran in eleven tries in a one-sided contest in a game where Cameron Regan captained Ebbw on his 200th appearance.
The hosts came out on the front foot and scored their first try within the opening four minutes. An excellent chip through, saw full back Morgan Richards collect the ball and score out wide. Outside half Evan Lloyd was unsuccessful in adding the two points.
Ebbw soon scored their second try of the afternoon. Good work by the forwards, saw second row Dylan Barlett pick up the ball and drive over the line. Fly half Lloyd successfully kicked the conversion.
With the home side having total dominance, Ieuan Morris got his name on the scoresheet after a catch and drive from a lineout within the Neath twenty-two in the twenty third minute. Lloyd again added the two points to make the score 19-0 to the Steelmen.
The Steelmen collected a try scoring bonus point moments later. After good play by the forwards, a chip over the defence by outside half Lloyd saw centre Ethan Phillips collect the ball and hand off three players before powering over the line to score. Lloyd successfully kicked the conversion.
With Neath unable to get out of their own twenty-two, the hosts scored their fifth try of the afternoon a minute before the break. From a scrum on the away side five metre line, scrum half Rory Harries picked up the ball from the back of the scrum, ran at the defence and stretched his arm out over the line to score his first try of the afternoon. Lloyd was unable to add the extras from out wide.
Half Time: Ebbw Vale RFC 31 Neath RFC 0
Within five minutes of the restart, Ebbw Vale’s Rory Harries added to his try tally. After being awarded a penalty on the halfway line, quick thinking by the scrum half, saw Harries take a quick tap and run in under the posts unattended. Number ten Lloyd added the two points.
Minutes later the hosts were reduced to fourteen when outside half Evan Lloyd was sent to the sin bin by English referee Jack Moorhouse for ten minutes after a no arms tackle.
The Steelmen’s coach Jason Strange made his first changes of the afternoon after fifty-two minutes. Joint club captain Joe Franchi replaced hooker Ieuan Morris, flanker Ben Main came off for Lewis Young and number eight Ryan Jenkins came on for Alex Howes.
The visitors took advantage of their numerical supremacy by scoring a well taken try. Inside the hosts twenty-two quick passes out wide to Louis Rees, saw the winger speed over in the corner. However, the conversion was unsuccessful by no.10 Steff Williams.
Substitute Joe Franchi made an instant impact. Within a minute of coming on, the hooker added his name to the scoresheet. From a lineout in the Neath half, a catch and drive ended with Franchi diving on the line to score his sides seventh try of the afternoon. With Lloyd off, Kieran Meek was successful with his first kick of the afternoon.
Ebbw Vale scrum half Harries scored his hat trick of tries in the fifty-six minute. A break by hooker Franchi, saw the co-captain pass to the scrum half, who used his strength to go over. Meek again added two extra points.
Home side coach Strange replaced props Luke Garrett and Adam Court with Morgan Davies and Owen Hatherill, Ewan McIntyre replaced captain Cameron Regan and moments later Dom Franchi came on for winger Jordan Thomas.
Five minutes later, a precise kick through saw home centre Phillips collect the ball, draw the covering defender and send Harries over the line who popped the ball to Evan Lloyd to score. Fly half Lloyd added the two points.
With Neath throwing the ball out to the wing on the halfway line, centre Keiran Meek intercepted the ball and showed a clean pair of heels to go under the posts un to score the hosts tenth try of the afternoon.
Scrum half Jon Evans replaced Rory Harries for the Steelmen’s last change of the game.
With four minutes left on the clock, the experienced scrum half saw a gap down the blind side. With winger Ewan Bowden on his shoulder, the scrum half passed to the winger. With two defenders in front of him, Bowden put in a well weighted kick to out pace his opposite number, get to the ball before the covering full back and chip ahead to dive on the ball over the line. Outside half Lloyd scored the last two points of the game.
Full Time: Ebbw Vale RFC 73 Neath RFC 5
Tries: Rory Harries (3), Joe Franchi (1), Ieaun Morris (1), Morgan Richards (1), Ewan Bowden (1), Ethan Phillips (1), Dylan Bartlett (1), Kieran Meek (1) Evan Lloyd (1)
Conversions: Evan Lloyd (7) Kieran Meek (2)
Man of the match: Rory Harries
After the game we spoke to Ebbw Vale winger and try scorer Ewan Bowden. Ewan was pleased with the team’s performance, especially considering Neath’s current league position. He thought it would have been easy to become complacent, however, the team kept to their basics and DNA really well and was happy to come away with the victory.
Finally, Ewan paid tribute to Cameron Regan after the flanker made his 200th appearance for the club. Ewan congratulated Cameron and said he put his heart and soul into his performance on the pitch and led the team to a very good victory.
Ebbw Vale’s next league game is away to Bridgend RFC at the Dunraven Brewery Field on Saturday 17th February 2024 at 2:30pm.
Written by Alex Kinsella-Evans
Everyone involved with Ebbw Vale RFC wish to congratulations Cameron Regan on making his 200th appearance for the Steelmen on Saturday when he captained the team for the first time in the 73-5 victory over Neath. Cam, in his 10th season at the club, epitomises the Steelmen ethics and values of hard work and commitment whenever he takes the field and is a real leader both on and off it.
Cameron first joined the Steelmen for the 2011/12 season and played for 9 seasons before joining Pontypool RFC in 2021. He was an integral member of the Division 1 and Championship winning squads as well as the Welsh Premiership winning team in 2015/16. Cam has always been popular with both players and supporters and won many accolades for his performances on the field during his first spell at the club, winning the Addicts Most Promising Player in 2013/14, the Addicts Player of the Year twice in 2014/15 and 2017/18 and also being voted the Denzil Williams Players Player of the Year in 2013/14.
Cameron returned to the Steelmen at the start of this season and has once again become a firm favourite with the Addicts and players within the squad.
On making his 200th appearance for the Steelmen, Cam commented,
“It is a privilege to play rugby for Ebbw Vale and a massive honour to get to 200 games. Never did I think I would get to 200 when I first came to the club, but it’s been a hell of a ride and without the support of my family and friends this wouldn’t have been possible. 200 not out!”
Congratulations Cam! A True Steelman!
#200NotOut
Jason Strange has made a number of changes to the starting lineup for the visit of Neath RFC to the CINER GLASS Community Stadium on Saturday with Luke Garrett and Ieuan Morris starting in the front row, Rory Harries partnering Evan Lloyd at half back and Kieran Meek replacing Dom Franchi at centre.
The team will be captained by Cameron Regan who will be making his 200th appearance for the Steelmen against Neath.
This will be the 3rd meeting between the sides this season with the Steelmen having already beaten Neath twice this campaign at the Lextan Gnoll; 40-19 in the Premiership Cup and 35-17 in the Indigo Premiership.
The Ebbw Vale Team:
15. Morgan Richards 14. Ewan Bowden 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Kieran Meek 11. Jordan Thomas 10. Evan Lloyd 9 Rory Harries
1. Luke Garrett 2. Ieuan Morris 3. Adam Court 4. Dylan Bartlett 5. Curtis Gregory 6. Cameron Regan (CAPT) 7. Ben Main 8. Alex Howes
Replacements will be confirmed on Saturday before kickoff.
On making his 200th appearance for the Steelmen, Cam commented,
“It is a privilege to play rugby for Ebbw Vale and a massive honour to get to 200 games. Never did I think I would get to 200 when I first came to the club, but it’s been a hell of a ride and without the support of my family and friends this wouldn’t have been possible. 200 not out!”
Get along to the Ciner Glass Community Stadium on Saturday at 2.30pm to celebrate Cam’s 200th game and cheer on the boys against the Welsh All Blacks.
Ebbw Vale RFC v Neath RFC
Saturday 27th January
Ciner Glass Community Stadium
Kick Off: 2.30pm
Tickets can be purchased at the following link: https://www.evrfc.co.uk/product/27th-january-ebbw-vale-v-neath-rfc/
Steelmen Selected for Wales U20s Squad
The Steelmen wish to congratulate Harry Rees-Weldon and Owen Conquer for their selection in the Wales Under 20s squad for the 6 Nations tournament this year.
Harry, who was a member of the Steelmen Youth team last season, has broken into the Ebbw Vale Senior Squad this season making 10 appearances on the wing, scoring 3 tries in the process.
Owen joined the Steelmen this season after our link up with Christ College, Brecon in the summer and has made a huge impact in the back row making 10 appearances and scoring 2 tries.
Both players have become an integral part of the Steelmen team this year and everyone at the club is proud of their selection for the Welsh U20s squad.
Good luck, boys! Enjoy the experience.
Drovers Take the Spoils in Top of the Table Clash
The Steelmen narrowly lost to the Drovers in a physical hard-fought top of the table clash at Church Bank on Saturday by 17 -15.
Playing against the elements in the first half, the Steelmen dominated territory and possession but were unable to turn their dominance into points on the scoreboard, leading by only 3-0 from an Evan Lloyd penalty after 25 minutes.
The Drovers then scored two tries through a close-range effort by Hooker Craig Thomas and a penalty try following an illegal tackle by full back Morgan Richards on winger Adam Warren as the first half came to its conclusion to give Llandovery a 14 points to 3 lead at half time.
Half Time Score
Llandovery RFC 14 Ebbw Vale RFC 3
Despite the half time score, the Steelmen, playing with the elements, were confident of overturning the half time deficit. However the first points of the 2nd half were to come from Llandovery kicker Jack Maynard to extend the Drover’s lead to 14 points (17-3)
The Steelmen started to get a foothold in the game again putting pressure on the Drovers team upfront through scrum and driving maul. After 51 minutes, Jason Strange made his first change with Harry Drane replacing Adam Court in the front row. The Steelmen were soon awarded a penalty try of their own after Llandovery collapsed a driving maul before Dylan Bartlett also crashed over the line to make the score 17 -15. Evan Lloyd was unable to add the conversion to make the scores level.
Further changes for the Steelmen were Luke Garrett replacing Morgan Davies and Cameron Regan coming onto the field of Ewan McIntyre after 58 minutes and Ryan Jenkins and Ieuan Morris replacing Alex Howes and Joe Franchi for the final 10 minutes.
The Steelmen continued to pile on the pressure in the Drover’s half and were awarded successive penalties which unfortunately kicker Evan Lloyd was unable to send through the uprights to give the Steelmen the lead.
The Drovers were able to hold on for victory with the Steelmen picking up a bonus point for their efforts.
Full Time Score
Llandovery RFC 17 Ebbw Vale RFC 15
Scorers:
Tries: Dylan Bartlett, Penalty Try
Pens Evan Lloyd
Both league games between the Drovers and the Steelmen have been close, physical encounters this season with each side winning one game. The sides will meet again at the start of March at Aberavon in the Premiership Cup Semi-Finals
The Steelmen will be back in action on Saturday 27th January when we entertain Neath RFC at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium with a 2.30pm kick off.
Jason Strange has made two changes to the starting lineup for the game against Llandovery RFC at Church Bank on Saturday with Ewan Bowden coming into the team to replace Carrick Mcdonough and Adam Court starting at Tight Head in place of Harry Drane.
The Steelmen will be looking to complete the league double over Llandovery after beating them 25-17 earlier in the season at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium.
Joe Franchi continues to captain the side at hooker while youngsters Ewan McIntyre and Ben Main keep their starting places in the back row after excellent performances in the victory of RGC the previous week.
Ebbw Vale Team
- Morgan Richards 14. Ewan Bowden 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Dom Franchi 11. Jordan Thomas 10. Evan Lloyd 9 Jon Evans
1.Morgan Davies 2. Joe Franchi 3. Adam Court 4. Dylan Bartlett 5. Curtis Gregory 6. Ewan McIntyre 7. Ben Main 8. Alex Howes
Replacements to be confirmed before kick off on Saturday.
EA TRAVEL
The Welfare will be open on Saturday morning for bacon rolls.
The Addicts will be leaving for Llandovery at 12pm from the Welfare and will return at 5.30pm.
For those making their own way to Church Bank, the postcode for your SAT NAV is: SA20 0BA
Llandovery RFC
Church Bank Playing Fields
Llandovery
Carmarthenshire
SA20 0BA
The Steelmen look to return to winning ways when they make the trip to North Wales to face Ceri Jones’ RGC team in what is sure to be a tough, physical battle. The Steelmen came out on top earlier in the season when they beat RGC 26 – 10 at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium.
Jason Strange has made a number of changes to the team for the game with Jordan Thomas returning on the wing following injury and exciting young prospects Ewan McIntyre and Ben Main starting in the back row alongside Alex Howes. Joe Franchi continues to captain the side. Replacements will be confirmed before kick off
The Ebbw Vale starting XV is as follows:
- Morgan Richards 14. Carrick Mcdonough 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Dom Franchi 11. Jordan Thomas 10. Evan Lloyd 9 Jon Evans
1. Morgan Davies 2. Joe Franchi 3. Harry Drane 4. Dylan Bartlett 5. Curtis Gregory 6. Ewan McIntyre 7. Ben Main 8. Alex Howes
Replacements are from: Rhys Francis, Ieuan Morris, Luke Garrett, Adam Court, Owen Hatherill, Lewis Young, Jakub Malecki, Kobi Rees, Rory Harries, Kieran Meek, Ewan Bowden and Amir Jiwa-Walji
Ebbw Addicts
The Addicts are leaving the Welfare at 8.45am. The Welfare will be open from 8.00am for breakfast before leaving for RGC.
For those making their own way to North Wales, the address is: Parc Eirias, Abergele Road, Colwyn Bay, Conwy LL29 7SP
Ebbw’s unbeaten home run comes to an end
Cardiff brought the Steelmen’s unbeaten home run this season to an end on a cold winter’s day.
The home side took the lead early on through an Evan Lloyd penalty. However, the visitors soon brought the game level through outside half Harrison James.
The Rags were reduced to fourteen men just before the half hour mark, after flanker Nathan Hudd was sent to the sin bin for ten minutes.
With the home side trying to get a foothold in the game, scrum half Jon Evans saw a gap in the away sides defence. With a two man overlap outside him, the experienced scrum half decided to go alone. However, the play came to nothing.
With no further scores being added to the scoreboard, the referee Ben Breakspear blew his whistle to make it all square at half time.
Half Time: Ebbw Vale RFC 3 Cardiff RFC 3
The hosts were soon back in front shortly after the restart, after marksman Lloyd was successful with a penalty.
The away side soon drew level again with a penalty. However, Lloyd was again on hand to kick his third penalty of the afternoon to put Ebbw back in front.
Ebbw Vale coach Jason Strange started to make the changes and replaced props Harry Drane and Morgan Davies with Adam Court and Luke Garrett.
The first try of the game was scored by the away side. A breakthrough the defence by the Rags centre and offload led to the ball being passed to replacement scrumhalf Jamie Hill, who went over out wide. The visitors were unable to add the extra two points.
The hosts coach Strange made further changes. Winger Amir Jiwa Walji was replaced by Ewan Bowden, forwards Ewan McIntyre and Kobi Rees replaced Cameron Regan and Owen Conquer, Rory Harries came on for Jon Evans, hooker Ieuan Morris replaced Joe Franchi and Kieran Meek replaced centre Dom Franchi.
With Cardiff having the momentum and a scrum in the Steelmen’s twenty-two, quick possession from the scrum saw the home defence hold tight. Quick recycling of the ball, saw it land at the hands of Ethan Phillips, who powered through the defence and over the try line to extend the visitors lead. Jacob Lloyd successful kicked the conversion.
Deep into injury time the away side scored their third try of the game. From a driving maul in the Ebbw twenty-two, the ball went through the hands and out wide to winger Dewi Cross who crossed for the final points of the game.
Full Time: Ebbw Vale RFC 9 Cardiff RFC 23
Ebbw Addicts Man Of The Match: Dom Franchi
Scorers :Penalties: Evan Lloyd (3)
Ebbw Vale’s next game is away to RGC on Saturday 13th January 2024 at Park Eirias, with kick off at 14:30.
Written By Alex Kinsella-Evans
Ebbw Vale RFC play Cardiff RFC for the 3rd time this season when they entertain them at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium. The Steelmen will be looking to make it 3 wins in a row against Cardiff having beaten them in the league 36-20 at the Arms Park in September and 27-15 in the Premiership Cup in December at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium.
Jason Strange makes several changes to the Steelmen squad with Amir Jiwa-Walji and Jon Evans returning to the starting XV in the backs, while Morgan Davies and Cameron Regan start in the pack. Ewan Bowden, Kieran Meek, and Adam Court return to the squad on the bench.
The full Steelmen squad is:
15 Morgan Richards 14 Carrick Mcdonough 13 Ethan Phillips 12 Dom Franchi 11 Amir Jiwa-Walji 10 Evan Lloyd 9 Jon Evans
1 Morgan Davies 2 Joe Franchi (CAPT) 3 Harry Drane 4 Dylan Bartlett 5 Curtis Gregory 6 Owen Conquer 7 Cameron Regan 8 Alex Howes
Replacements
16 Ieuan Morris 17 Luke Garrett 18 Adam Court 19 Ewan McIntyre 20 Kobi Rees 21 Rory Harries 22 Kieran Meek 23 Ewan Bowden
The match sees both Evan Lloyd and Jon Evans pass 50 games for the Steelmen.
Ebbw Vale RFC would also like to wish Harry Rees-Weldon the best of luck with the Wales U20s squad this weekend.
Match Details
Ebbw Vale RFC v Cardiff RFC
Saturday 6th January
Ciner Glass Community Stadium
Kick Off 2.30pm
Match Day Tickets
You can purchase tickets for the game at the following link: https://www.evrfc.co.uk/product/6th-january-ebbw-vale-v-cardiff-rfc/
Ebbw do the Double Over Ponty
Jason Strange’s team put in a terrific last twenty minutes to make the unlikeliest comeback possible against a fully committed Pontypridd team.
The away side made a fast start. From a strong rolling maul, co club captain Joe Franchi touched down inside the first ten minutes to score the games first try. The league’s top points scorer Evan Lloyd was unable to add the extra’s.
Ponty hit back straight away. A miss-pass by the hosts number ten Ben Burnell inside the Steelmen’s twenty-two saw winger McCauley Rowley go over the line to score the home side’s first try of the afternoon. Full Back Josh Phillips added the two points to put his side into the lead.
Pontypridd extended their lead further when from a grubber kick in the centre of the field, an awkward bounce of the ball, saw the covering defence beaten. Home winger and ex Ebbw player Liam Lloyd collected the ball to touch down unopposed. Phillips successfully kicked the conversion.
The hosts full back Phillips extended his team’s lead to fifteen points by kicking two penalties within minutes of each other.
Against the run of play, the visitors started to apply pressure. Despite running good angles and lines, the away side were unable to score any further points in the first half due to a solid Pontypridd defence holding firm.
Half Time: Pontypridd RFC 20 Ebbw Vale RFC 5
The second half started like the first half ended, with the away side spending time in Ponty’s twenty-two. Again, good defence and turnovers of the ball resulted in the home side ensuring no further points were initially scored.
Ebbw Vale coach Strange, started to ring the changes. Scrum half Rory Harries was replaced by Jon Evans, Prop Morgan Davies came on for Luke Garrett and Kobi Rees replaced Lewis Young.
The home side extended their lead to twenty points within minutes. A kick through from the halfway line saw the ball evade the Steelmen’s defence. Pontypridd winger McCauley collected the ball, drew the last man and sent centre Ryan Wilkins over to score the hosts third try of the game. However, on this occasion Phillips missed the conversion.
With the away side having nothing to lose, the forwards started to take the game to their opponents. Despite being inside the home side’s twenty-two, experienced scrum half Jon Evans saw the space out wide and threw a pass to winger Carrick McDonough. With plenty still to do the winger side stepped his opponent and sped over the line to score Ebbw’s second try of the game. Fly half Lloyd successfully added the two points.
Further changes to the Ebbw Vale side saw hooker Joe Franchi replaced by Ieuan Morris, Prop Harry Drane came off for Owen Hatherill, Ewan McIntyre came on for Owen Conquer and the final substitution saw centre Dom Franchi be replaced by Amir Jiwa-Walji.
With ten minutes left in the game, the visitors turned the game on its head. With an improvement in the lineout, the forwards set up an unstoppable rolling maul, ending with replacement Ieuan Morris touching down. Number ten Lloyd kicked the conversion to bring the game to within a score.
Within five minutes the decisive try was scored. With the grit between their teeth, the Ebbw forwards kept applying pressure and nearly scored themselves. Just short of the tryline and at the ruck, experienced scrum half Jon Evans saw a gap and dived over to score a well taken try and the away side’s forth try of the game. Lloyd added the two points to put the Steelmen one point ahead.
However, the drama had not finished there. From a penalty at the scrum inside the visitor’s half, Pontypridd full back Phillips stepped up with only minutes left. On this occasion the kick went wide and Ebbw saw out the game to come away with what looked like the unlikeliest of wins after sixty minutes.
Credit to both teams, who never gave up and served an excellent final game of the year for both sides.
Full Time: Pontypridd RFC 25 Ebbw Vale RFC 26
Tries: Joe Franchi (1), Carrick McDonough (1), Ieuan Morris (1), Jon Evans (1)
Conversions: Evan Lloyd (3)
After the game we spoke with prop Morgan Davies. Morgan informed the team made a slow start, taking forty minutes to get into the game. Morgan believed the replacements who came off the bench made an impact, and the team picked it up a gear and were delighted to come away with the win.
Ebbw Vale’s next game is Saturday 6th January 2024 at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium against Cardiff, with the kick off at 2:30pm.
Written by Alex Kinsella-Evans
The Steelmen play their final match of 2023, when they visit Sardis Road on Saturday to play Pontypridd RFC with a 2.30pm kick off.
The Steelmen will be looking to complete the double over Pontypridd RFC, after victory over Ponty earlier on in the season at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium, where an explosive start to the match saw Pontypridd take a 15 – 0 lead, before the Steelmen took control of the match to come out victors, 38-21. On the last visit to Sardis Road, a late penalty by Kieran Meek gave the Steelmen a 23-22 victory over Pontypridd.
There are just 2 changes to the Steelmen starting lineup with Rory Harries coming into the team at scrum half and Harry Drane starting in the front row. Joe Franchi continues to captain the team at hooker. Morgan Davies and Kobi Rees come into the match day squad, while Owen Hatherill and Ewan McIntyre will continue to look to make an impact from the bench.
The Ebbw Vale team is
15 Morgan Richards, 14 Carrick Mcdonough 13 Ethan Phillips 12 Dom Franchi 11 Harry Rees-Weldon 10 Evan Lloyd 9 Rory Harries
1 Luke Garrett 2 Joe Franchi (CAPT) 3 Harry Drane 4 Dylan Bartlett 5 Curtis Gregory 6 Owen Conquer 7 Lewis Young 8 Alex Howes
Replacements
16 Ieuan Morris 17 Morgan Davies 18 Owen Hatherill 19 Jakub Malecki 20 Kobi Rees 21 Jon Evans 22 Amir Jiwa-Walji 23 Ewan McIntyre
EA Travel
The Addicts will be providing transport to the match, leaving the Welfare at 12.30 pm and returning from Sardis Road at 5.30pm.
For those travelling by car, the postcode for Sardis Road is CF37 1HA
Pontypridd Rugby Football Club
The Clubhouse
Sardis Road
Pontypridd
Rhondda Cynon Taf
CF37 1HA
Ebbw Score Seven
The Steelmen served up a Christmas cracker five-star performance to score fifty points for the second Saturday running.
An error by the hosts straight from the kick off saw the visitors take full advantage. With Ebbw unable to keep hold of the ball, some quick play saw the Ironmen score out wide. Merthyr was unsuccessful with the conversion.
Ebbw Vale soon got into their stride. Captain Joe Franchi opted for a scrum after being awarded consecutive penalties inside the away side’s twenty-two. From the second scrum, quick ball out to the backs saw full back Morgan Richards score his first try of the game. Fly half Evan Lloyd added the extra two points.
Further pressure in the scrum inside the away side half saw the hosts win yet another penalty. Outside half Lloyd sent the kick through the uprights to extend his teams lead to five points.
The home side were reduced to fourteen men when winger Carrick McDonough was sent to the sin bin for ten minutes by referee Adam Jones after a chip over the defence saw the Merthyr outside half collect the ball and kick it back downfield. Totally out of character the Ebbw Vale player took out the visiting player late to receive a yellow card.
The Ironmen made their numerical advantage count by exploiting the lack of cover on the wing. Fly half Thompson`s grubber kicked through to touch down unopposed under the posts. The number ten followed up his try with the conversion to put Merthyr two points in front.
With the home side back to fifteen men, the forwards started to apply the pressure. After going through the phases, number eight Alex Howes kept up his good recent run to power over the line to score. Lloyd successfully added the extras.
A well weighted chip over the Ironmen’s defence by the hosts outside half Lloyd, saw winger Harry Rhys-Weldon collect the ball. With a covering defender still to beat, the young winger did well to draw the defender, stay in play and offload to the supporting Ethan Phillips to score out wide. Top points scorer Lloyd superbly sent the conversion through the posts.
Ebbw increased their lead further when from a lineout, quick, crisp passing between the backs saw full back Richards enter the line. With a lot still to do, the full back powered through four separate tackles to touch down for his second try of the game.
Half Time: Ebbw Vale RFC 31 Merthyr RFC 12
The home side came out for the second half determined not to take their foot off the pedal. After being awarded a penalty in the Merthyr twenty-two, captain Franchi opted for another scrum. From the scrum, further quick ball out to the backs saw centre Phillips add to his tally by touching down out wide. Number ten Lloyd was unsuccessful with the conversion.
With the Steelmen dominant, referee Jones showed Merthyr lock Tom Davies a yellow card for ill-discipline. Ebbw took advantage of having an additional man. From the scrum the forwards took the ball forward. After phase after phase and just metres short, scrum half Jonathan Evans threw the ball out wide to centre Phillips. With a man outside him, Phillips darted through the gap to score a hat trick of tries. Sharpshooter Lloyd added the two points.
Ebbw Vale coach Jason Strange started to ring the changes. Prop Adam Court was replaced by Harry Drane and captain Joe Franchi came off for Ieuan Morris.
The home side kept up the pressure. From a scrum after a knock on by the visitors, full back Richards scored his third and Ebbw’s seventh try of the game out wide. An excellent conversion from the touchline by Lloyd brought up the fifty points for the hosts.
Steelmen coach Strange replaced scrum half Jonathan Evans with Rory Harries, fly half Evan Lloyd came off for Keiran Meek, Carrick McDonough was replaced by Amir Jiwa-Walji, Ewan McIntyre replaced Lewis Young and Dylan Barlett came off for Jakub Malecki.
Merthyr did not give up, despite the scoreline. Pressure by the away side nearly resulted in the ball reaching the wing, however Harry Rhys-Weldon got to the ball first and the ball went into touch. Discussing with his officials, referee Jones showed the young winger a yellow card for deliberately knocking the ball into touch and awarded the away side a penalty try.
A nasty looking tackle on home replacement prop Harry Drane brought the game to a standstill. However, with the officials believing the tackle was fair, the away side were awarded a scrum. With the ball in their twenty-two and the hosts down to thirteen men due to an injury to inside centre Dom Franchi, the Ironmen put width on the ball. With a two man advantage, Merthyr took full advantage and scored a well taken length of the pitch try through Ex Ebbw player Josh Lewis. Lewis followed up his try by adding the extra’s.
Ebbw Vale final replacement Owen Hatherall came on for the injured Franchi and a rejig to the backline saw forward McIntyre spend some tine out on the wing.
The final play of the game saw Merthyr score their fifth try out wide after taking a quick penalty. However, they were unable to kick the conversion and referee Jones blew his whistle to bring the game to an end.
Ebbw Vale RFC 50 Merthyr RFC 31
Man of the match: Jonathan Evans
Tries: Morgan Richards (3), Ethan Phillips (3), Alex Howes (1)
Conversions: Evan Lloyd (6)
Penalty: Evan Lloyd (1)
After the game we spoke with Ebbw Vale number eight Alex Howes. Alex thought the team dug in deep against a very strong Merthyr side. Alex and the squad knew it was going to be a hard game but did not let their foot off the throttle from the start. Alex was disappointed the team conceded second half tries, however, he acknowledged this was not helped by a reduction in numbers during the game. Alex finished by advising it was a great win for the club, a lovely celebration for Christmas for everyone involved, and Alex and the squad would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.
Ebbw Vale’s final game of the year is away against Pontypridd at Sardis Road on Saturday 30 December 2023 with kick off at 2:30pm.
Written by Alex Kinsella-Evans
Ebbw Vale RFC vs Merthyr RFC preview
Ebbw Vale RFC face Merthyr RFC in their final home game of the year at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium on Saturday with a 2.30pm kick off.
Ebbw Vale will be looking for an improved performance against the Ironmen following the loss to Merthyr on the opening game of the season in September where a poor first half by the Steelmen led to Merthyr winning the match by 24-17.
Jason Strange has picked a strong squad for the game with Dom Franchi, Jon Evans and Joe Franchi returning to the starting XV. Harry Rees-Weldon and Owen Conquer also return to the starting lineup after representing Wales U20s against Scotland last weekend. On the bench, Owen Hatherill and Ewan McIntyre retain their places following good performances against Carmarthen Quins.
The full Steelmen line-up is:
15 Morgan Richards 14 Carrick Mcdonough 13 Ethan Phillips 12 Dom Franchi 11 Harry Rees-Weldon 10 Evan Lloyd 9 Jon Evans
1 Luke Garrett 2 Joe Franchi (CAPT) 3 Adam Court 4 Dylan Bartlett 5 Curtis Gregory 6 Owen Conquer 7 Lewis Young 8 Alex Howes
REPLACEMENTS
16 Ieuan Morris 17 Owen Hatherill 18 Harry Drane 19 Jakub Malecki 20 Ewan McIntyre 21 Rory Harries 22 Kieran Meek 23 Amir Jiwa-Walji
During the week we caught up with co-captain Rhys Francis.
Reviewing the season’s opening game, Rhys commented the team started slowly and gave Merthyr a big advantage going into the second half, which unfortunately the team were unable to claw back.
Looking ahead to Saturday’s game, Rhys said the squad are looking forward to it, especially after the close hard fought opening game of the season against them. He acknowledged the squad has come a long way since then and are looking forward to putting things right in front of the Addicts at the Ciner Glass Community stadium this Saturday. The squad are aware the set piece will be crucial, they will have to start fast, the forwards will need to dominate up front, especially as Merthyr have got a heavy pack and ensure the set piece is functioning correctly, if they want to come away from the game with anything.
Discussing this week’s training, Rhys advised the two areas the squad focused on was the maul and edge defence after conceding four tries in the second half last time out against Carmarthen.
As the match is the last home game before Christmas, it will be the annual Christmas Jumper Day at the Welfare.
Finally, Rhys, squad and management would like to wish a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all the supporters, families and friends.
Ebbw Hit The Fifty-Point Mark
The hosts put in a dominant performance to secure a bonus point victory by scoring 8 tries.
The Steelmen came out of the blocks strongly and soon scored their first points of the game. After being awarded consecutive penalties, captain Rhys Francis opted for a scrum inside the Quins twenty-two. Number eight Alex Howes picked up the ball and went over the try lined unopposed to score his sides first try of the game. Prolific points scorer Evan Lloyd successfully kicked the conversion.
The home side quickly backed the try up with another. From a much-improved lineout the ball made its way to winger Amir Jiwa-Walji. A clean break by the winger saw Jiwa-Walji draw the defender and pass to supporting runner Rory Harries, who charged over the line to touch down. Fly half Lloyd again successfully added the two points.
With the home side on top a scrum to Carmarthen on the halfway line, saw a loose pass go into space. Ebbw Vale speedster Carrick McDonough, back playing on the wing, picked up the ball and showed a clean pair of heels to touch down under the posts. Lloyd again added the extra two points.
The Ebbw Vale scrum was dominant. With the away side putting into the scrum inside their half, the referee awarded the Steelmen a penalty. A kick to the corner by Lloyd saw the hosts have a lineout. From which, the forwards set up a maul which resulted in captain Francis dotting down over the line to score his teams bonus point try. On this occasion fly half Lloyd was unable to add the extra two points.
Half Time: Ebbw Vale RFC 26 Carmarthen Quins 0
The away side came out and started the second half strongly. After some decent defending, home coach Jason Strange replaced hooker Rhys Francis with Ieuan Morris.
Carmarthen scored their first try of the afternoon after good play from a lineout. The two points were added successfully to reduce the deficit.
With the home forwards wrestling the ascendancy back, a further penalty from a scrum inside the visitors twenty-two saw the home side elect for another scrum. A huge push by the pack resulted in scrum half Harries scoring his second try of the game and Ebbw Vale’s fifth of the afternoon. Outside half Lloyd successfully kicked the conversion.
Further changes by the Steelmen’s coach Strange, saw second row Jakub Malecki replace Dylan Baartlett and prop Owen Hatherill come on for Adam Court.
The Quins were soon reduced to fourteen men when the referee awarded replacement Garan Williams a yellow card for ill-discipline. This appeared to spur the away side on and they scored their second try of the game. However, flyhalf Wilson was unable to add the extras.
Jason Strange continued to make changes to the hosts. Prop Harry Drane came on for Luke Garrett, Ewan McIntyre came on for flanker Ben Main, who was making his first start for Ebbw and winger Amir Jiwa-Walji was replaced by Ewan Bowden.
The Steelmen scored their sixth try when number eight Alex Howes went on a trademark barn storming run from around the visitors twenty-two line to touch down out wide. Top points scorer Lloyd successfully kicked the conversion.
Ebbw Vale continued their dominance with Curtis Gregory stretching over the line to score the home side’s seventh try of the afternoon. Lloyd again kicked the conversion.
That was to be the outside half’s last action in the game as Lloyd was replaced by centre Dominic Franchi. Inside centre for the day Keiran Meek switched back to his more familiar role of fly half to accommodate the centre.
With replacements being made, the Steelmen pack kept their strong form going, when from a lineout inside the twenty-two, prop Harry Drane did well to score the hosts eight try of the afternoon and take their tally to over fifty points for the game. Meek successfully added the two points.
Credit to the away side, who never gave up and scored their third and fourth tries late in the game to take home a try scoring bonus point from the afternoon.
Full Time: Ebbw Vale RFC 54 Carmarthen Quins 24
Man of the match: Curtis Gregory
Tries: Alex Howes (2), Rory Harries (2), Rhys Francis (1), Curtis Gregory (1), Harry Drane (1), Carrick McDonough (1)
Conversions: Evan Lloyd (6) Keiran Meek (1)
After the game we spoke with double try scorer and scrumhalf Rory Harries. Rory was pleased with the performance the team put in, the amount of tries scored and to come away with the result. Whilst being happy with his own performance, Rory was quick to acknowledge it was a team collective, and praised the team for putting him in the positions they did, particularly from a dominant scrum.
The Steelmen are next in action on Saturday 23rd December when Merthyr RFC visit the Ciner Glass Community Stadium.
The match will also be Christmas Jumper Day at the Welfare.
The Steelmen return to league action tomorrow when they entertain Carmarthen Quins at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium.
The game is the first since the passing of Gareth Howls this week and the club will be holding a minute’s silence before the game to pay respect to the Steelmen legend.
On the field, Jason Strange has made several changes to the starting lineup which sees Morgan Richards return at full back and Ben Main making his first senior start for the Steelmen in the back row. Rory Harris comes into the starting XV at scrum half while Kieran Meek starts at inside centre. Rhys Francis continues as captain of the team.
The bench sees the return of Ewan McIntyre, Owen Hatherill and Ewan Bowden to the match day squad.
Ebbw Vale Team
15 Morgan Richards 14 Carrick Mcdonough 13 Ethan Phillips 12 Kieran Meek 11 Amir Jiwa-Walji 10 Evan Lloyd 9 Rory Harries
1Luke Garrett 2 Rhys Francis (CAPT) 3 Adam Court 4 Dylan Bartlett 5 Curtis Greogory 6 Ben Main 7 Lewis Young 8 Alex Howes
16 Rhys Francis 17 Morgan Davies 18 Owen Hatherill 19 Jakub Malecki 20 Ewan McIntyre 21 Jon Evans 22 Dom Franchi 23 Ewan Bowden
The club would also like to wish Owen Conquer, Harry Rees-Weldon and Kobi Rees the best of luck as they represent Wales U20s against Scotland this weekend.
Match Details
Ebbw Vale RFC v Carmarthen Quins
Saturday 16th December
2.30pm
Ciner Glass Community Stadium
#SupportTheSteelmen #FeelTheSteel
Gareth Howls
The Club has lost one of its greatest players.
Gareth Howls has left us after a long illness but he will be remembered with admiration, affection by those who played with him and generations of Ebbw Valians who were privileged to watch him. He played as prop or lock for Ebbw Vale, the Barbarians, the Gwent and British Police, Crawshay’s Welsh and the County teams against the All-Blacks and Springboks.
He was Ebbw Vale Player of the Year in 1975, captain of the club four seasons in the Seventies, played four times for Wales A, was a Wales Reserve and worthy of a full cap. He made his debut for his one and only club in September 1965 and retired in 1981 after 608 appearances, a club record.
A Detective Sergeant, Gareth was an outstanding forward and a rugby character and a great tourist whether in Cornwall on the annual end of season tour, in Italy playing as a guest for Zebre or California. His memory will never be dimmed, he really was and remains, one of our greatest. His years of dedicated service to Ebbw Vale was an example to those who follow him in the team today.
Message from Chairman Jon Jones,
Ebbw Vale has lost one of its most iconic players and one of my childhood heroes. Since becoming Chair of the club, I was fortunate enough to spend time with Gareth at a few home games, all he wanted was to see the club doing well and playing quality rugby offering administrators, coaches and players encouragement, whilst at the same time ensuring that we all understood what the Ebbw Vale badge stood for.
The Annual award for Club Captain was changed to the Gareth Howls Captains Award, a tribute to his great presence as a Captain, Leader, and Player and his 608 games for the club will remain for eternity marking his enormous contribution to Ebbw Vale RFC.
All at the club are thinking of Gareth’s wife, Stella and family at this sad time.
