Category Archives: Ebbw Vale Rugby
A tale of two halves 24-31
By Alex Kinsealla-Evans
The Steelmen went to St Helens fifth in the table, looking to continue their good run after victories against Llanelli and Bridgend, on a day that was perfect for rugby.
However, the team were slow out of the blocks in a first half they are likely to want to forget.
With the home side forwards on top, the first opportunity fell to the All Whites centre Osian Knott, who entered the Ebbw Vale twenty-two. However, the play came to nothing when the referee awarded a penalty to the away side.
The home side scored the first try of the game when through some good backs play, centre Knott with space in front of him showed pace down the wing and put in a kick which eventually found the supporting scrum half Gareth Rees, who went over for the try. Fly half James Davies successfully added the extras.
From a lineout in the Swansea twenty-two, the Steelmen forwards drove to the line, with captain Rhys Francis diving over to score his sides first try of the game. Outside half Evan Lloyd was unable to add the two points.
On the halfway line, with Ebbw winning a line out, scrum half Matthew Flanagan threw a long pass which was read and caught by the home side’s outside centre Tom Florence, who raced away unopposed to score the All Whites second try of the game. Davies again added the conversation.
With Swansea’s outside half James Davies marshalling his backline well, an excellent 50:22 by the number ten gave the home side a lineout in the away side’s twenty-two. From the lineout the referee awarded the home side a penalty, which Davies successfully kicked to put his side 17 – 5 ahead.
Swansea were awarded a scrum after the ball become stuck from a lineout inside the Steelmen’s twenty-two. From the scrum, the All Whites number eight Scott Jenkins picked up the ball and ran down the blindside to score in the corner. Fly half Davies successfully kicked the conversation.
Despite efforts by both sides, no further points were added to the scoreline before half time with Swansea deservedly going into the break ahead.
Half Time: Swansea 24-5 Ebbw Vale
The Ebbw Vale side came out for the second half clearly fired up. From a penalty, fly half Lloyd kicked into the Swansea twenty-two. Good home defence initially held up the attack before the referee awarded a penalty to the away side. Another kick to touch led to the away side nearly scoring a try. However, the Swansea defence held firm.
Ebbw coach Jason Strange replaced props Luke Garrett with Charley Kearns, Dave Whiting with Adam Court and flanker Joe Thomas with Lewis Young after fifty-seven minutes gone.
A further penalty awarded by the referee to the Steelmen saw outside half Lloyd kick to within the five-metre line. With the forwards building up a head of steam scrum half Matthew Flanagan cleverly picked up the ball and dived over to score his team’s second try. Lloyd missing the conversation.
With the Ebbw replacements starting to make an impact, a surging break from Lewis Young was only stopped by an illegal offence by the All Whites second row Tristan Davies. Referee Newman showed the player a yellow card.
Within a few minutes the home side were down to thirteen men, when flanker Callum Bowden was shown a yellow card for a foul. Lloyd kicked to the corner. However, the home sides thirteen men held the Ebbw attack up over the line.
Influential centre Dom Franchi was replaced after sixty-eight minutes by last week’s hero Kieran Meek.
The away side took advantage of the extra men when outside centre Ethan Phillips continued his recent good form by running at speed through a gap in the Swansea defence to touch down in the corner. Lloyd expertly added the extras to bring the Steelmen within seven points of their opponents.
Coach Strange cleared the replacement bench over the remaining minutes with captain Rhys Francis being replaced by Alex Watkins, Joe Bartlett replacing his brother Dylan Bartlett to mark his first game back, Dylan Davies making his debut for Ethan Phillips and Liam Lloyd coming on for Morgan Richards.
Referee Newman gave Swansea their third yellow card of the game when prop Ben Warren was penalised for a professional foul. However, the away side were unable to take advantage from the set play.
From a scrum on the halfway line, the Ebbw pack won the ball against the head. Quick ball out to the backs saw the ball at speedster Carrick McDonough’s hands, who showed a clean pair of heels to go over in the corner. Lloyd kicking the conversation from out wide to make the score 24 all.
From the immediate kick off, the ball was won by Ebbw’s second row Joe Bartlett, who went down with an unfortunate injury. The game was stopped for a period whilst the medical staff attended to Joe. Credit goes to all who attended so quickly and expertly.
The home side won a penalty from the resulting scrum. However, outside half Davies was unsuccessful with the kick.
With the play going into the last moments, the ball was caught by the Swansea’s number ten, who ran towards the half way line and threw a pass, which was expertly intercepted by replacement Lewis Young. The replacement flanker backed his own pace, put his head down and ran in unopposed to score the final try and win the game for the Steelmen. A brilliant kick by Lloyd from out wide added the extra two points.
FT: Swansea 24-31 Ebbw Vale
Whilst coach Strange will be happy with the five points from the game, he will no doubt be hoping his team put in an eighty-minute performance against Merthyr on Friday evening.
After the game we spoke to second row Dylan Bartlett. Dylan believed the team did not start from the off. They went 24-5 behind and made it difficult for themselves. However, he praised the squads work rate and was happy to grind out the win with a bonus point.
We then spoke to Ebbw Vale back’s coach Steve Lang. Steve acknowledged going in halftime the team needed a massive second half. The squad had spoken all week about making sure they stayed in the game and it is exactly what they did. He finished by praising the difference the replacements made and was pleased for the squad with the end result.
Finally, we caught up with Swansea backs coach James Hook. James was disappointed with the end result, especially after such a great first half for the home side. He was pleased with the tries his team scored, however, he felt the home side let Ebbw back into the game. He finished by praising the Ebbw Vale pack, who he felt were good but was frustrated to lose it at the end.
The Ebbw Vale side to take on Swansea in the Indigo Welsh premiership this Saturday at St Helens, 2:30pm kick off is as follows.
Making their first appearance this season for Ebbw Vale are Joe Bartlett and Dylan Davies who are named amongst the replacements
If you can’t make the game then you can follow updates on our social media channels Twitter @evrfc and Facebookwww.facebook.com/SteelmanRugby for updates #Steelmen
Team
1 Luke Garrett
2 Rhys Francis (c)
3 Dave Whiting
4 Dylan Bartlett
5 Curtis Gregory
6 Gethin Williams
7 Joe Thomas
8 Chad Thomas
9 Mathew Flanagan
10 Evan Lloyd
11 Ryan Davies
12 Dom Franchi
13 Ethan Phillips
14 Carrick McDonough
15 Morgan Richards
Replacements
16 Alex Watkins
17 Charley Kearns
18 Adam Court
19 Joe Bartlett
20 Ryan Jenkins
21 Dylan Davies
22 Keieran Meek
23 Liam Lloyd
Swansea vs Ebbw Vale preview
This week Alex Kinsella-Evans caught up with co-captain Joe Franchi who gave his thoughts on the up and going fixture against Swansea on Saturday.
Reflecting on areas to improve, Joe believes the areas that require attention were getting the basic processes nailed in the lineout and more clarity on the players roles in attack in different areas of the field. By doing this, hopefully this will show an efficient set piece and lots of good quality attacking phases.
Joe was pleased with the scrum. He thought it was very dominant against Bridgend and the backs was brilliant at times.
Looking forward to the Swansea and remaining games, Joe would like to see the attack continue to evolve as the weather and pitches get better.
The Ebbw Addicts play a massive part in shouting us on, so we are calling on them to make the trip to the seaside and shout on the Steelmen!
Ebbw gain a last gasp win
By Alex Kinsella-Evans
On a day when the weather could not decide what to do, a Kieran Meek drop goal with the final kick of the game wins the game for the Steelmen and moved them back up to fourth in the table.
From the kick-off the home side knocked the ball on. With the away side having a scrum in the Ebbw Vale half, the ball made its way to full back Ed Howley, who went over for the first try of the game in the opening minutes. Outside half Paul Short added the two points.
The Steelmen got back into the game after being awarded a penalty. Prolific outside half Evan Lloyd kicking the three points.
Bridgend’s second try of the game came when the forwards made inroads into the Ebbw twenty-two. After some quick passes within the backs, the ball made its way to full back Howley, who drew the home side’s winger in and put former Steelman Mike Powell in for the try within the first fifteen minutes. Fly half Short again added the extras.
The home side quickly hit back, where from a lineout in the Bridgend twenty-two, the ball made its way to Ebbw Vale flanker Joe Thomas, who scored his sides first try of the game. Fly half Lloyd successfully kicked the conversation.
Within 10 minutes the Steelmen scored their second try of the game. The Ebbw Vale forwards secured the lineout and a pass out by scrum half Jon Evans eventually made its way to centre Dom Franchi, who cleverly drew the defence and passed to prop Luke Garrett, who showed a turn of pace to score the try from just inside the Bridgend twenty-two. Lloyd again added the two points.
Ebbw nearly scored a further try when some quick and clever ball through the hands of the backs led to winger Morgan Richards going over in the corner. However, the assistant referee had raised his flag for a foot in touch.
With the referee penalising Ebbw Vale, the away side number ten Short added a further six points to the scoreboard going into the final minutes of the first half.
On the stroke of half time, the referee awarded the home side a penalty inside the Bridgend half. Flyhalf Lloyd successfully kicked the conversation to make it all square at half time.
Half Time: Ebbw Vale 20-20 Bridgend
The away side came out for the second half, much like the first half and took the play to Ebbw Vale. On the fifty first minute, Ebbw coach Jason Strange made a change and brought on prop Harry Drane, who replaced Adam Court.
With the away side on top inside the Ebbw twenty-two, a pass out to the wing was intercepted by speedster Morgan Richards, who ran the length of the field to score the Steelmen’s third try of the game. Lloyd added the two points.
The home side made a host of changes over the following 15 minutes when Lewis Young replaced the impressive Joe Thomas, Matthew Flanagan came onto the wing for try scorer Morgan Richards, Andrew Mann replaced the hard working Curtis Gregory, Morgan Thomas replaced the tough tackling Chad Thomas and Charley Kearns came on for try scorer Luke Garrett.
Bridgend scored their third try of the game when from continuous penalties and pressure inside the Steelmen’s twenty-two, the ball was passed out wide to winger Caine Woolerton to touch down in the corner. Replacement outside half Luke Price kicked the tricky conversation.
Ebbw made their last change of the game when hooker Alex Watkins replaced captain Rhys Francis inside the last ten minutes.
After a game of kick tennis, replacement winger Matthew Flanagan received the ball in his side’s twenty-two, only to be tackled high by the away side’s Reuben Tucker. Referee Jones, went straight to his pocket to show the Bridgend player a yellow card.
Inside the last five minutes of the game, a nasty looking injury to Bridgend’s Hemi Barnes led to a lengthy pause in play. Credit to both medical teams and Dr Thomas who were on the scene immediately.
With the game drawing to a close, the Steelmen forwards took the play to the opposition and made in roads into the away sides twenty-two. With the forwards going through the phases, the ball was passed to full back Kieran Meek in front of the posts, who kicked the drop goal to win the game in dramatic fashion for the home side.
Full Time: Ebbw Vale 30-27 Bridgend
Spirit of Wales distillery MOTM: Gethin Williams
After the game we spoke to team manager Dan Haymond. Reflecting on the game Dan thought it was a scrappy affair but believed Ebbw scored some nice tries in the first half. However, he believed the team were sloppy, gave a lot of ball away with individual errors and discipline cost the side. Dan was happy with the improvement made in the second half. He finished with wishing Hemi Barnes a speedy recovery after an unfortunate injury which slowed the game down due to the length of break. He praised the team for winning the game at the end with a drop goal.
We also spoke with scrum half Jon Evans. Jon was happy to have another win at home, especially as it was won in the last minute, which is something the team will never turn down. He acknowledged Ebbw still have room for improvement and the squad were aware it was not the best performance, however, it had been a similar picture all season. He continued by saying the team were not playing well but at home we`re edging out the victory`s which is moving Ebbw up the table. Jon ended saying there were some aspects of the game to work on but overall was happy with the way the game had gone.
David “Dai” Harris
The club were deeply saddened to hear of the sad death of former open side Dai Harris at the age of 57
Dai joined the club in 1990 from Dowlais RFC and quickly became a firm favourite with the Ebbw Addicts on and off the field, He was a typical all action open side, not the biggest in stature but a player who played well above his weight. He was the true open side tradition, a proper nuisance but aded skill and game understanding made him a formidable opponent for much bigger forwards and every outside half that ever faced him. Highly combative, tremendously fit, Dai had the heart of a lion and did everything he could to get a win for the team, always with a cheeky grin on his face
As with many uncompromising rugby players, off the field he was an affable fun man, a true gentleman, Dai had time for anyone and loved to mix with supporters and fellow players after the game
He was a key part of the team under Captain Andrew Oliver who got the club promoted to the Premiership, ensuring Ebbw Vale were perfectly positioned to take advantage of the professional era.
Dai returned to his beloved Dowlais, played into his late 30’s and also coached the club. One of this proudest moment was to play first team rugby with his son, with his dad, David Snr, Chairman of Dowlais, allegedly sneaking on for the final few minutes
All our thoughts are with Dai’s family and friends at this sad
Rest in Peace Dai
The Ebbw Vale side to take on Bridgend in the Indigo Welsh premiership this Saturday at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium, 2:30pm kick off is as follows.
Let’s have a big home crowd to shout on the Steelmen and bring along your Ebbw flag’s to wave on the Bank!
If you can’t make the game then you can follow updates on our social media channels Twitter @evrfc and Facebook www.facebook.com/SteelmanRugby for updates #Steelmen
1 Luke Garrett
2 Rhys Francis (c)
3 Adam Court
4 Dylan Bartlett
5 Curtis Gregory
6 Gethin Williams
7 Joe Thomas
8 Chad Thomas
9 Jonathan Evans
10 Evan Lloyd
11 Morgan Richards
12 Dom Franchi
13 Ethan Phillips
14 Carrick McDonough
15 Kieran Meek
Replacements
16 Alex Watkins
17 Charley Kearns
18 Harry Drane
19 Morgan Thomas
20 Andrew Mann
21 Haydn Simons
22 Matthew Flanagan
23 Lewis Young
Ebbw Vale vs Bridgend preview
By Alex Kinsella-Evans
Before training we caught up with scrum coach Aaron Coundley.
Aaron advised training over the past two weeks had been intense. After the Llandovery loss, there were no hiding places come Tuesday and Thursday for the players and all of the squad stepped up.
Every week Ebbw go out aiming for a win and that will be no different this week. No matter who the opposition is, the goal is always the same.
Finally, Aaron added Bridgend are on a good run at present and as a result expect them to be organised. Therefore, it is up to the squad to do something about it.
Pic Credit @Chris Pitt
Ebbw Vale RFC is delighted to announce the signing of former Wales U18’s scrum half Dylan Davies who joins us from Bridgend Ravens
On joining Ebbw Vale Dylan said; I am excited to be joining the steelmen and can’t wait to be part of this prestigious club and look forward to improving my game with such a great coaching team at the club. 
Previous Clubs: Dragons Academy, Wales U18’s, Cardiff Met, Newbridge and Bridgend Ravens
International Honours: Wales U18’s
Height: 6ft
Weight: 78kg
Position: Scrum Half
Twitter @dylandavies321
Highlights https://youtu.be/mN1guvrPChc
Steelmen earn bonus point victory
By Alex Kinsella-Evans
Fifth place Ebbw Vale played bottom of the table Llanelli on a damp night at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium. A bonus point win took the steelmen to third in the table.
A youthful Llanelli side took the lead from a penalty within the first three minutes through outside half Gareth George.
The first try of the game came in the eighth minute from the Steelmen’s number nine Jon Evans. With the home side forwards starting to get on top, from a driving maul the scrum half superbly darted over the line from five metres out to touch down. Ebbw outside half Kieran Meek added the two points.
With both sides showing plenty of endeavour, the weather conditions were making it difficult to keep hold of the ball until on the twenty fifth minute the home sides number eight Chad Thomas made a good run and throwed a dummy pass to score in the corner for his sides second try of the game. Meek superbly slotted the conversation.
The away side were hampered further when impressive flanker and captain Iwan Shenton unfortunately had to leave the field during the half due to an injury.
The away side came back into the game and put some good phases together. However, the Steelmen’s defence held firm and no further points were added to the scoreboard in the first half.
Half Time Ebbw Vale 14 – Llanelli 3
The Ebbw forwards came out for the second half clearly fired up. After some excellent forward play, the ball made its way to in form outside centre Ethan Phillips, who ran a great line to score under the posts. Meek again successful with the conversation.
Inside the first fifteen minutes of the second half, the home scored their fourth try. Some quick precise passing from the backs led to the ball making it ways to winger Liam Lloyd, who on his debut went over in the corner to collect his teams bonus point. Meek added the two points.
With the home side pulling further away, coach Jason Strange started to ring the changes by bringing on Lewis Kinsella and Dave Whiting in the front row, Andrew Mann in the back row and Evan Lloyd and Matthew Flanagan at half backs. The impressive Kieran Meek being replaced on the fifty ninth minute.
Within two minutes of coming off the bench, replacement flyhalf and the leagues top point scorer Evan Lloyd run a lovely line to go over the try line unopposed to score his side’s fifth try of the game. Lloyd converting his own try.
After the home side cleared their bench by bringing on Alex Watkins at hooker, Morgan Thomas in the second row and Haydn Simons at full back, Llanelli second row Chris Long received a yellow card due to continuous offenses. However, the Steelmen were not able to add any further points onto the scoreboard.
Credit must go to Llanelli, who with a youthful squad were committed, never gave up and kept the scoreline from increasing further.
Full Time: Ebbw Vale 35-3 Llanelli
Spirit of Wales man of the match: Kieran Meek
We spoke to Llanelli captain Iwen Shenton. Iwen was disappointed with the result and was expecting a tough challenge from Ebbw Vale, which he felt they got. He could not fault his teams’ effort and felt they left everything out on the pitch but was not good enough on the night. They experienced a tough battle up front with a young pack and thought it was a good test for his team. One which fell short.
We caught up with Dom Franchi. Dom was happy to win the game after two defeats. He felt it was Important not to slip up and do their best to score as many points as possible to put the team in a good position to get into the top four. Talking about making one hundred appearances for the club, Dom was happy having been at the club for seven to eight years. He felt it had been a long time coming having had some injury`s but was happy to have represented the club so many times.
Finally, we spoke with head coach Jason Strange. Jason was really pleased with the five points and some individual performances, especially Ethan Phillips and Curtis Gregory who played his best performance for the club. Jason was pleased with the positive performance and collecting the bonus point win.
The Ebbw Vale side to take on Llanelli RFC in the Indigo Welsh premiership tomorrow evening at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium, 7:30pm kick off is as follows. Liam Lloyd comes onto the wing on loan from Treorchy RFC.
Let’s have a big home crowd to shout on the Steelmen and bring along your Ebbw flag’s to wave on the Bank!
If you can’t make the game then you can follow updates on our social media channels Twitter @evrfc and Facebook www.facebook.com/SteelmanRugby for updates #Steelmen
1 Luke Garrett
2 Rhys Francis (c)
3 Harry Drane
4 Dylan Bartlett
5 Curtis Gregory
6 Gethin Williams
7 Joe Thomas
8 Chad Thomas
9 Jonathan Evans
10 Kieran Meek
11 Liam Lloyd
12 Dom Franchi
13 Ethan Phillips
14 Amir Jiwa Walji
15 Morgan Richards
Replacements
16 Alex Watkins
17 Lewis Kinsella
18 Dave Whiting
19 Andrew Mann
20 Ryan Jenkins
21 Matthew Flanagan
22 Evan Lloyd
23 Haydn Simons
Ebbw Vale vs Llanelli preview
By Alex Kinsella-Evans
We spoke to Ebbw’s assistant backs coach Steve Lang before Friday night`s game.
Steve is expecting a reaction after last weekend’s game against Llandovery. Everybody associated with the club were disappointed in how the game played out as Ebbw were not a true reflection of themselves as a team. He is looking for a performance against Llanelli, taking one game at a time as history has shown this season that any team can beat anyone. The squad will take Llanelli at their merit and aim to be the best version of Ebbw Vale they can be, come Friday night.
During the first half of the game at the start of the year at Parc Y Scarlets, Steve believes Llanelli caused Ebbw problems. They have a lot of young talent in the squad, which may result in some of the players stepping up to the Scarlets regional team, as well as the Wales U20s team. Steve paid tribute to them and the pathway they provide but stated Ebbw have done their due diligence on Llanelli as a team. After two losses the squad are going to concentrate on themselves and hope to give the fans something to cheer about.
Looking at the threats Llanelli pose, Steve believes they are a young squad that like to pass the ball around, have players that put in good individual performances last time the teamsmet, especially Eddie James who caused some problems and captain Iwen Shenton. However, Llanelli have threats all over the field that will have to be managed going into the game.
Considering the improvements that could be made, Steve advised the squad are looking to improve all facets of theirgame, always be the best version of Ebbw Vale and be a true reflection of what the club is about, the club history and the community.
The squad are continuing to work hard, especially on their physicality and will aim to bring their key deliverables to the game Friday night to ensure the Steelmen get a performance and result.
Finally, Steve said when considering the transition over the summer, especially the number of players that left and amount of new faces that came in, the bond amongst the squad is strong and excellent. A significant number of players havebeen used so far, some not being recognisable on first glance at Premiership level, having signed for the club from lower leagues and local clubs. However, Steve was pleased with their contribution to date and believes there is a bright future at the club.
Pre-Match Hospitality, Bridgend Ravens
Join us on Saturday, February 18th for our fixture against Bridgend as we host a pre match lunch for sponsors and supporters. Join us pre-match and listen to guest speakers in former Ebbw Vale winger Alun Harries and Simon Clarke from the speakeasy club.
The cost to attend is just £15 per person or £10 with a season ticket and to book your place contact Gareth Howells on marketing@evrfc.co.uk or mobile 07974873683
Llandovery take the four points
Match report by Alex Kinsella-Evans
Ebbw come away from Church Bank with a losing bonus point after an uncharacteristic performance from Jason Strange`s side.
Straight from the kick-off the home side were on the front foot after the Steelmen’s number eight Ryan Jenkins knocked the ball on to give the home side a scrum on Ebbw’s twenty-two. However, the passage of play came to nothing.
With numerous penalties being awarded to both sides, the Drovers took the lead through the boot of full back Jack Maynard, after they were awarded a penalty from the scrum with fifteen minutes gone.
The Steelmen hit back from a scrum in the home sides half, when the ball made its way to outside centre Ethan Phillips, who sliced through the home defence at pace to score a very well taken try. However, Lloyd missed the conversion.
With Llandovery having most of the ball, a neat chip over the top led to the home sides winger Aaron Warren beating the defence and diving on the ball to score the Drover’s first try of the game. Full back Maynard was unable to add the extra’s.
Ebbw were awarded a penalty midway through the half after a home side’s player knocked the ball on. Lloyd uncharacteristically sent the ball wide.
With the Drovers having the majority of the ball, no further points were added to the score during the remainder of the first half.
HT: Llandovery 8-5 Ebbw Vale
After the Steelmen made some early second half changes to the front row, Llandovery had a line out in the away side’s half. The forwards set up a maul, however, the Ebbw pack did well to hold the ball up and stop a try from being scored.
A second try of the game came for Llandovery, when the home side’s number four Griff Evans charged down a clearance kick from Ebbw scrum half Jon Evans inside the Steelmen’s twenty-two and dived on the ball over the line to score. Full back Maynard was unable to add the two points.
Within a few minutes the home side scored their third try of the game. A knock on by the away side led to the Drover’s chipping the ball out to their winger, who drew the full back and sent scrum half and captain Lee Rees in under the posts. Maynard added the extra’s.
After both sides made numerous changes, no further points were added to the scoreline until the last two minutes, where the Ebbw backs broke from their twenty-two and fed the ball to winger Morgan Richards, who showed a turn of pace and sprinted the length of the field to score under the posts. Replacement outside half Meek added the conversation.
In the last play of the game, the away side were on the Llandovery twenty-two when the referee awarded a penalty. Ebbw replacement Meek kept a cool head to slot the penalty with the last kick of the game.
FT: Llandovery 20-15 Ebbw Vale
After the game we spoke with try scorer Ethan Phillips who made his fiftieth appearance for the club. Ethan acknowledged Llandovery is a hard place to play rugby, the performance was not the best and too many mistakes were made. Ebbw could not keep hold of the ball until the last two minutes of the game where we started to put together some phase. The work rate was there, we are a hard-working team, however, the skill level let us down.
We also spoke to Geraint Lewis. Geraint was disappointed with the result and the performance. He knew that Llandovery is a hard place to come to, we did not give the best reflection of our selves and did not get our game going. He felt that we were fortunate to come away with a bonus point.
Steve Phillips has resigned from his position as CEO of the Welsh Rugby Union.
Nigel Walker will take over as Acting CEO with immediate effect.
Current Performance Director Walker has been appointed by WRU chair Ieuan Evans and his Board on an interim basis whilst the recruitment process for a new CEO is established.
The WRU’s chair Evans made an announcement concerning the next steps in the formation of a new external Taskforce which will investigate culture and behaviours on Friday (27/01/23).
Phillips attended the meeting about the new Taskforce, but has since reached the conclusion that he is no longer the person to lead Welsh rugby.
“It is with a huge amount of regret that I have decided to hand in my resignation,” said Phillips.
“I have always had the best interests of Welsh rugby at the heart of my every action and thought, but have come to the conclusion that it is now time for someone else to lead the way.
“This is a sport I love and is so admired around the world and I wish everyone involved in the game every success and my heartfelt best wishes.
“I am absolutely aligned with Ieuan’s commitment to re-examine and further improve the cultures and behaviours at the WRU and fully support the formation of a new independent Taskforce. I am pleased I have been able to start this process for the WRU
“On a personal note, I wish Nigel Walker well and thank all of the dedicated staff at the WRU who can be extremely proud of the efforts and hard work they put in on a daily basis to the betterment of our game.
“I am on record already saying how much I hugely regret the feelings and emotions expressed recently by former members of staff.”
Evans has described the meeting held with the Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport and Chief Whip, Dawn Bowden to discuss a new independent Taskforce charged with investigating culture and behaviours within the WRU, as constructive.
He has confirmed Sport Wales will now advise on the process to appoint a Chair to oversee the investigation, set its scope and parameters and recruit key personnel to its panel.
“I thank Steve for his dedication and support for Welsh rugby,” said Evans.
“Steve has spent a large part of his professional career at the WRU, first as Finance Director and more recently as our CEO. He has made a significant contribution to our progress on the world stage in that time and most recently was instrumental in securing the return of Warren Gatland to the helm of the senior men’s side.
“He also brought in Nigel Walker as our Head of Performance, as one of his first acts as CEO, which has led to the introduction of professional contracts for the Wales Women’s squad and significant progression in the provision for the professional and amateur Women’s and Girls’ game.
“He successfully guided Welsh rugby through the coronavirus pandemic and has secured a new six-year verbal agreement with the PRB (Professional Rugby Board) and a signed ‘heads of terms’ designed to ensure a sustainable future for our professional game.
“We are delighted to be able to call on an individual, a businessman, and former elite sportsman, of Nigel’s calibre to come in as Acting CEO.
“Nigel will work closely with the new Taskforce and help lead us through the next urgent steps, as we seek to learn from the current serious and significant issues we face.”
No allegations were made against Steve Phillips in the recent BBC programme and he was not accused of any wrong doing.
Nigel Walker, OBE, was appointed Performance Director of the Welsh Rugby Union in July 2021.
The former Olympic athlete, Welsh rugby international and Cardiff RFC wing joined from the position of National Director at the English Institute of Sport (EIS) and has also held a string of high-profile posts in Welsh sport since retiring from the game in the late 90s.
“There is no doubt that Welsh rugby is facing an existential crisis,” said Walker, who has also worked for the Welsh Institute of Sport and was Head of Sport at BBC Wales for five years and Head of Change for a further four.
“This has been a wake-up call. Perhaps it is a call that has been overdue. The first step to any recovery is admitting the problem.
“We must now listen intently to what people from outside our organisation are telling us. We care and are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and we work hard in this space with dedicated resource and investment. But we need to do better. We need to do much better and we will.
“We will take the necessary corrective steps and stick closely to what the new Taskforce advises.
“I would like to add my gratitude to Steve Phillips who is someone I have always found to be open-minded, caring and dedicated to Welsh rugby.
“I will work tirelessly and relentlessly with our chair Ieuan Evans, with our Board and with the newly appointed Taskforce to ensure the WRU progresses to a better place.
“Welsh rugby is an integral part of Welsh society and we need to ensure that we are not only perceived as a welcoming institution with a place for all, but that our every action reflects this in all quarters of our business.”
Walker has also served as a UK Sport Board member from 2006-10, was Chair of the Major Events Panel and a member of the Audit Committee and a Commonwealth Games England Board member between 2014 and 2022.
A former international athlete and rugby union player, he represented Great Britain as a high hurdler before switching to rugby, earning 17 international caps for Wales and was awarded an OBE in 2019.
Your Ebbw Vale side to take on Llandovery RFC in the Indigo Welsh premiership this Saturday at Church Bank, 2:30pm is as follows. We hope to see lot’s of Ebbw supporters at the game shouting on the boy’s!
Follow the match on our social media channels Twitter @evrfc and Facebook www.facebook.com/SteelmanRugby for updates #Steelmen
Side
1 Charley Kearns
2 Rhys Francis (c)
3 Adam Court
4 Dylan Bartlett
5 Andrew Mann
6 Lewis Young
7 Gethin Williams
8 Ryan Jenkins
9 Jonathan Evans
10 Evan Lloyd
11 Morgan Richards
12 Dom Franchi
13 Ethan Phillips
14 Amir Jiwa Walji
15 Haydn Simons
Replacement’s
16 Joe Franchi
17 Luke Garrett
18 Harry Drane
19 Curtis Gregory
20 Chad Thomas
21 Joe Thomas
22 Matthew Flanagan
23 Kieran Meek
Statement:
The Premier Division Clubs that participate in the Indigo Group Premiership of the WRU are astonished and appalled by the allegations of sexism, racism and misogyny levelled at the Welsh Rugby Union by a BBC Wales Investigation broadcast on the 23rd January 2023.
The Premier Division Clubs concur with the stated aims of the WRU which include, ”to increase participation opportunities by working with partners to deliver a diverse and inclusive rugby menu across all communities in Wales” and ”to create, implement and develop a sustainable alternative rugby programme with inclusivity at its heart-a jersey for all”.
Consequently, the Premier Division Clubs expect swift and decisive action to be taken, in addressing these extremely serious and damaging allegations, that will eradicate this appalling alleged behaviour and provide a future that is accessible and comfortable, for all within Welsh Rugby.
Looking ahead to this week`s away game to Llandovery, we spoke to team manager Dan Haymond.
Dan said the loss to Llandovery earlier in the season was a tough pill for Ebbw to swallow. He felt the team had done enough to win but it was not to be on the day. The coaches are hoping to see improvements in the set piece from that point in the season. Hopefully the boys can get over the line this time and are working hard to make that happen.
After the last game the lads have been working hard on our transitions in attack and converting time spent in the opponents 22 into points, as that was a disappointing stat after the loss to RGC last time out.
The mood in camp is still very positive. Obviously some results have not gone our way but the players and coaches have created a great culture and are tight as a squad and striving to improve every week.
Llandovery is a tough place to go and have always been a strong team in the league. They are a team that like to play, have some quality players and just from looking at their league position this year, that is evident. We are confident if we go there and put into practice what we have been working on, then we can come out on the right side of the result this time.
Club Statement
Ebbw Vale RFC is committed to ensuring equality, diversity and inclusivity is at the forefront of our culture within the club for players, staff, volunteers, sponsors and supporters. We are disappointed and dismayed to hear some of the allegations revealed in this week’s BBC programme regarding the WRU. We stand with every other club in calling for transformation of the WRU structure and governance standards without delay. Welsh Rugby holds a special place in the future of Wales and therefore it is the duty of the governing body to ensure that its actions are in keeping with a modern and inclusive country
Sport provides the perfect platform within our communities to ensure everyone has equal opportunities and to this end, EVRFC will continue to implement our culture of inclusivity throughout the club and our activities.
Our home fixture against Merthyr has now been re-arranged for Friday 10th of March, the game will kick off at 7:30pm. This is the night before Italy v Wales in the 6 Nations.
Due to the current cold weather and no movement in a frozen solid pitch, tomorrow’s fixture against Cardiff has been postponed.
The Ebbw Vale side to take on Cardiff RFC in the Indigo Welsh premiership this Saturday at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium, 2:30pm is as follows.
Let’s have a big home crowd shouting on the Steelmen and pack the bank!
Tickets can be pre purchase here in advance ps://www.evrfc.co.uk/product/21st-january-cardiff/
Follow the match on our social media channels Twitter @evrfc and Facebook www.facebook.com/SteelmanRugby for updates #Steelmen
1 Charley Kearns
2 Rhys Francis (c)
3 Adam Court
4 Dylan Bartlett
5 Andrew Mann
6 Lewis Young
7 Gethin Williams
8 Ryan Jenkins
9 Jonathan Evans
10 Evan Lloyd
11 Morgan Richards
12 Dom Franchi
13 Ethan Phillips
14 Amir Jiwa Walji
15 Haydn Simons
Replacements
16 Joe Franchi
17 Luke Garrett
18 Harry Drane
19 Curtis Gregory
20 Chad Thomas
21 Joe Thomas
22 Matthew Flanagan
23 Kieran Meek
The Ebbw Vale side to take on RGC in the Indigo Welsh premiership this Saturday at Stadium CSM, Colwyn Bay, 2:30pm is as follows.
Follow the match on our social media channels Twitter @evrfc and Facebook www.facebook.com/SteelmanRugby for updates #Steelmen
TEAM
15 Morgan Richards
14 Carrick McDonough
13 Ethan Phillips
12 Dom Franchi
11 Ryan Davies
10 Evan Lloyd
9 Jonathan Evans
1 Luke Garrett
2 Joe Franchi (c)
3 Harry Drane
4 Dylan Bartlett
5 Andrew Mann
6 Lewis Young
7 Joe Thomas
8 Ryan Jenkins
Replacements
16 Rhys Francis
17 Charley Kearns
18 Adam Court
19 Jakub Malecki
20 Gethin Williams
21 Matthew Flanagan
22 Kieron Meek
23 Amir Jiwa Walji
RGC vs Ebbw Vale preview
By Alex Kineall-Evans
Follow the game on our social media channels Twitter @evrfc and facebook https://www.facebook.com/SteelmanRugby
With Ebbw on the road again this weekend against RGC, we spoke with scrum coach Aaron Coundley. Looking forward to the game Aaron said, RGC will be a very organised team and a well drilled side, who will be a challenge to the break down, regardless of whether we play them home or away.
Even though we came away from Llanelli with a bonus point, the squad felt we were no where near our best. It`s a credit to the squad to gain a try scoring bonus point victory away from home and still be dissatisfied. That shows their expectation, and we will look to be more clinical against RGC.
The positives we will take from the Llanelli game is the job we set out to do was completed and that is credit to this squad of players and coaches.
Whilst It is nice to get a run of six league wins together, we don`t get carried away with the league table, especially as we have a big month ahead. We take each game at a time and the excitement is the same every week and that`s set by the environment and culture of our team.
Ebbw Vale come away with the five points
Report by Alex Kinsella-Evans
The Steelmen came away from Llanelli with a bonus point victory in a game that was played in poor weather conditions.
Straight from the kick-off, former Llanelli player Ryan Jenkins knocked the ball on and an offside player gave a penalty away. However, the following play came to nothing.
With the home side on top and the game being played inside the Ebbw Vale half, Llanelli won a lineout. The home side forwards kept the ball before the ball made its way to centre Eddie James to score the home sides first try of the game. Josh Phillips successfully kicked the conversion.
From a scrum within the away sides half, the Steelmen’s outside half Kieran Meek put in a wonderful 50:22 kick against the wind, to put the away side inside the Llanelli twenty two. From the line out, Ebbw were awarded a scrum, which came to nothing.
With the away side forwards coming more into the game, the referee awarded a penalty due to the Llanelli forwards illegally attempting to stop the rolling maul. From which, the Steelmen’s number ten Meek kicked the ball into the home sides twenty two. Ebbw won the line out and from the resulting play, the referee awarded the home side’s inside centre Jack Price a yellow card for repeated infringements. However, the away side were unable to take advantage from the penalty.
With the play just inside the Llanelli half, the ball made its way to Ebbw Vale’s outside half Meek, who had great vision to put in a cross-field kick to speedster Ryan Davies in space. With plenty still to do, the young winger caught the ball on the bounce, put in a sidestep and sped past the covering defence to go over for a well taken try. Meek added the extra two points.
Mid way through the first half, Llanelli were awarded a penalty inside the away side’s twenty-two due to a player not rolling away from the ball. Josh Phillips added the three points.
The away side nearly added their second try of the game when winger Davies was fed the ball and ran down the wing, only to be denied by a hand in touch when being tackled going over the line. The resulting line out in the home twenty-two to the home side was not straight.
From the scrum the Steelmen’s forwards turned on the power and pushed the home side forwards back and former Llanelli number eight Ryan Jenkins dived on the ball over the line to score his side’s second try of the game. Meek added the extra’s.
With the home side gaining some ball, the referee awarded a penalty just outside the Ebbw Vale twenty-two. Llanelli full back Phillips again added the extra’s.
On the stroke of half time, from a line out, the ball made its way to Ebbw Vale’s Number eight Ryan Jenkins, who at pace burst through three tackles before being stopped illegally just outside the Llanelli twenty-two for a penalty to the Steelmen. Meek slotted the three points.
Half Time: Llanelli 13-17 Ebbw Vale
Inside the first five minutes of the second half, the home side gave away three consecutive penalties. The third from just outside the home twenty-two for a no arms tackle. Ebbw’s Meek added three points to the scoreboard.
The home side came straight back at the Steelmen and the referee awarded another penalty to Llanelli for ill-discipline. The home side’s Phillips added the three points.
From the restart, the Llanelli winger knocked the ball on. The away side won a free kick from the scrum and from a snipping run by scrum half Matthew Flanagan, the forwards were stopped just short of the try line. However, the referee awarded Ebbw a penalty in front of the posts, which the away side elected to take a scrum. From the base of the scrum, the ball was fed to outside centre Ethan Phillips, who darted between two defenders to go over the line to score a well taken try. Meek was unsuccessful with the conversation.
With the Llanelli forwards coming back into the game, a penalty was awarded to the home side and the Steelmen’s inside centre Dom Franchi received a yellow card for being offside. Phillips added the three points for the home side.
The Ebbw forwards won a scrum on the halfway line and the ball was fed to replacement outside half Evan Lloyd, who put in a wonderful cross-field 50:22 kick to gain the away side a line out in the Llanelli twenty-two. The away side won the line out and were awarded a penalty in front of the posts, with the Llanelli number eight Nathan Hart being yellow carded for being offside, to put both sides down to fourteen men. Replacement outside half Evan Lloyd slotted the penalty.
Some quick ball to the backs outside the Llanelli twenty-two resulted in full back Morgan Richards putting in a grubber kick which the covering defender took over the touch line. Quick thinking from the line out by Ebbw replacement scrum half Jon Evans, led to Harry Drane charging over for a bonus point try. Lloyd unfortunate to miss the conversation from the touch line.
Entering the last ten minutes of play, Ebbw Vale replacement prop Lewis Kinsella received a yellow card for throwing the ball away. With the home side camped inside the Ebbw twenty-two, the referee awarded a penalty. Llanelli chose to take the scrum and from open play the home side’s flanker Iwan Shenton dived over for the try. Phillips slotted the extra’s.
In the last moments of the game, Llanelli were caught offside just inside their twenty-two. Lloyd added the three points.
The Llanelli side battered at the home sides try line with the last play of the game. However, the Steelmen were resolute and kept them out to win the game.
Full Time: Llanelli 26-36 Ebbw Vale
Man Of The Match: Lewis Young
After the game we spoke to Ebbw Vale scrum coach Arron Coundley. Arron said the conditions played its part in making the game not much of a spectacle, especially in the second half. However, he was happy to come away by winning the game ugly than not at all. Aaron acknowledged the performance was not what was wanted but the team came away with the five points and was pleased with the progress the team has made since last season.
We also caught up with man of the match Lewis Young. Commenting on the game Lewis thought Llanelli made it tough for the Steelmen. He added the coaches highlighted the areas that required improvement during half time. He was aware there were areas of the game that need to be improved before playing against RGC next week but as a team they know what went wrong and what they have to put right.
Report by Alex Kinsella-Evans
Supporters bus for RGC on Saturday January 14th
Leaving Wetherspoons Ebbw Vale at 9am on the Saturday and returning 10am on Sunday 15th Jan. This is an overnight stay bus
There is a 2hr stop off in Hereford on the Sunday, aiming to be back at 6:30pm in Ebbw Vale, Sunday.
You will need to book your own hotel room/s at the Premier Inn, Glan Conwy Llandudno junction.
Let’s have lots of Ebbw support to shout on the Steelmen in RGC👍🏻🇭🇺
To book your BUS seat please contact Adders on 07816153355
