Category Archives: Ebbw Vale Rugby
Club Statement 📃
Ebbw Vale RFC will be supporting the WRU’s proposal for change of governance at the EGM on the 26th March.
#EbbwVale 🇭🇺
Coaching Change at Ebbw Vale RFC
Ebbw Vale are disappointed to announce that due to Work and Family commitments along with a commute from his Llantwit Fadre base Forwards Coach Geraint Lewis will be stepping down with immediate affect
All at the club fully understand the reasons and are supportive of Geraint taking this step in the his and his families best interests
This brings to an end Geraint second stint at the club after 15 months after stepping in with last seasons Coaching changes and we are grateful for the hard work that helped to stabilise the club last season and improve the performances so significantly this season
We wish Geraint all the best for the future and he will assured of a warm welcome at the club in the future
Scrum Coach Aaron Coundley will take over as Forwards Coach until the end of the season when the club will review its coaching requirements
Unfortunately tonight’s fixture against Aberavon RFC has been postponed after a pitch inspection by both teams this morning.
The Ebbw Vale side to take on Aberavon in the Indigo Welsh premiership this Thursday evening at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium, 7:30pm kick off is as follows.
There will also be a live performance from the Beaufort Male Choir in the clubhouse after the game. There will also be a bucket collection at this Thursday’s game to help Ukrainian athletes attend the Olympics.
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
Or with LIVE on S4C https://www.facebook.com/s4cchwaraeon or https://www.youtube.com/@S4CChwaraeon/streams
Team
1 Luke Garrett
2 Rhys Francis (c)
3 Dave Whiting
4 Dylan Bartlett
5 Curtis Gregory
6 Andrew Mann
7 Lewis Young
8 Chad Thomas
9 Jonathan Evans
10 Evan Lloyd
11 Ryan Davies
12 Kieron Meek
13 Dom Franchi
14 Carrick McDonough
15 Morgan Richards
Replacements
16 Joe Franchi
17 Charley Kearns
18 Harry Drane
19 Morgan Thomas
20 Joe Thomas
21 Matthew Flanagan
22 Amir Jiwa Walji
23 Liam Lloyd
Ebbw Vale community show support for earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria
Ciner Glass send their thanks to Ebbw Vale Rugby Club and members of the local community for their kindness and generosity in raising funds for earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria.
The club recently organised a fundraising event at the Ciner Glass community stadium in Ebbw Vale for the team’s latest game against Bridgend, bringing together players, sponsors and local fans to support victims in the two countries. A sponsors charity raffle took place and generous donations were made, including one of the players donating his match fee, with over £800 raised for the Turkey-Syria Earthquake Appeal.
Mrs Didem Ciner, President of CiNER Glass Ltd, commented:
“On behalf of everyone at Ciner Glass, I would like to thank the club for their fundraising efforts and kind words of support following the devastating recent events in Turkey and Syria.
We are grateful for the thought and generosity that has been shown by the club and community, who came together so quickly to hold a fundraiser, and we send our heartfelt thanks to each and every person who made a contribution.”
Chairman of Ebbw Vale Rugby Club Jonathan Jones commented:
“We are deeply saddened by the devastation that has been caused by the recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to send our thoughts to all those affected. We were glad to be able to contribute in a small way to the wider efforts taking place right across the UK to support the Turkey-Syria Earthquake Appeal.
Iron beat Steel
By Alex Kinsella-Evans
Third placed the Ironmen made a short trip across the Heads of the Valley to play fifth placed the Steelmen on a horrendous night where seeing players on the field was difficult.
Straight from the kick off Merthyr were on the front foot when the ball was knocked on by an Ebbw Vale forward. However, the play came to nothing.
With the weather conditions deteriorating, the referee awarded Merthyr a penalty. With the wind behind them, the Ironmen kicked to touch. From the lineout the referee awarded another penalty to the away side. Former Steelman flyhalf Josh Lewis, playing at inside centre for the evening successfully added the three points.
As the ball became difficult to keep hold of, due to the driving rain, Merthyr knocked the ball on, on their twenty-two. From the resulting scrum, the referee awarded a penalty to the home side. Ebbw’s prolific points scorer, Evan Lloyd, kicked his first penalty of the evening.
With Merthyr gaining the ascendancy and dealing with the weather conditions better, the away side were awarded consecutive penalties. However, the play came to nothing when the Steelmen turned the ball over and the referee awarded a penalty to Ebbw.
From the penalty, the home side’s outside half, Evan Lloyd, kicked into the Merthyr half. From the lineout, the home side went through the phases before the referee gave Ebbw a penalty within kicking range. Merthyr number five, Callum Bradbury, was sent to the sin bin for ten minutes. Fly half Lloyd put the home side in front after kicking the penalty.
Down to fourteen men, the Ironmen kept the ball within the forwards and from a lineout in the Steelmen’s half, the ball made its way to Merthyr winger Terri Gee, who burst through three missed tackles to go over for the first try of the game. Josh Lewis successfully converted the try, adding two points for the away team.
With both teams struggling to keep hold of the ball, no further points were added to the scoreline in the first half.
Half Time: Ebbw Vale 6-13 Merthyr
The second half continued in much the same vein as the first half, with both teams being awarded penalties and not being able to keep hold of the ball.
With the Ebbw pack starting to gain some ball, the referee awarded a penalty which outside half Lloyd successfully kicked to bring the home side within four points of the visitors.
As the home side line out started to go astray and Merthyr gaining more of the territory, the referee gave two further penalties to Merthyr, both inside the Steelmen’s half, which Lewis successfully converted, to make the scoreline nineteen points to nine to the away side.
Inside the last twenty minutes, the Ebbw forwards went through some good phases of play. The ball made its way out to Morgan Richards, who sliced through the Merthyr defence, only to be stopped by an illegal offence. The referee awarded a penalty to the home side within the Ironmen’s twenty-two. However, Lloyd hit the upright with the penalty attempt.
Both sides entered into a kicking dual to try and force a mistake. When inside the Ebbw twenty-two a kick by speedster Ryan Davies unfortunately hit a fellow Steelman and fell into the hands of an away side player who turned and went over for the away side’s second try of the game. Lewis was unable to add the two points.
As the weather deteriorated, no further points were added to the scoreline and the Ironmen deservedly won the game.
FT: Ebbw Vale 9-24 Merthyr
Spirit of Wales Distillery MOTM: Evan Lloyd
After the game we spoke with former Steelmen, Dragons and Ospreys back Josh Lewis. Josh commented on it being a game he did not want to be involved in. He acknowledged it was a game where a result had to be dug out. He finished by saying it was nice to get a victory, especially as he knew it was tough to go to the Ciner Glass Community Stadium and come away as victors.
We also caught up with Ebbw Vale winger Carrick McDonough. Carrick was disappointed with the performance. He thought there were errors in the set piece, individual errors from himself and others and overall the team made too many mistakes to be able to come away with a victory.
Harry Rees Weldon Ebbw Vale Youth Player Selected for Wales U18’s
Harry Rees Weldon a current member of the Ebbw Vale Youth Squad has been selected to play for Wales U18’s in Sundays match v England to be played at St Helens Swansea this coming Sunday
Harry a centre / winger will make his debut on the wing and all at the club are delighted at his selection. Harry has also represented Coleg Gwent and the Dragons Age Group U18’s this season impressing the Welsh Selectors earning selection for a squad that played in Scotland last weekend. He has also earned a Dragons Academy Contract for next season that will see him attached to the Ebbw Vale Senior Squad in season 23/24
Head Coach Jason Strange has had Harry training with the Senior Squad since the beginning of November and has been impressed with Harry’s commitment and improvement during this period
All at the club look forward to seeing Harry representing the Senior Squad in the near future and enjoying his time with Wales U18’s
Harry has made the following comments
Ebbw Vale has given me where I could play rugby, progress my skills and enjoy myself with good mates and support from all involved at the club. Being at Ebbw Vale has allowed me to be seen by the Dragons resulting in Regional Age Grade selection. With this opportunity I was able to play in front of Welsh Selectors earning an invite to squad and trial matches. Throughout this process the coaches at Ebbw Vale Youth and Team Manager Damian Jenkins have been extremely supportive. I would also like to thank my youth team mates for the support over this period and in my time in the team. I would also like to thank Jason Strange, all senior coaches and players in the squad who welcomed me to train with them helping my development as a rugby player, being around an excellent semi-professional environment has really accelerated my development as a rugby player
Another young player with Ebbw Vale connections will hopefully win a cap from the bench on Sunday, outside half Jack Woods, son of former Head Coach Greg Woods has also earned selection for Sunday’s game. As a club we are delighted for Jack as well as Greg and Claire who will be extremely proud parents on Sunday.
The Ebbw Vale side to take on Merthyr in the Indigo Welsh premiership this Wednesday evening at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium, 7:30pm kick off is as follows.
Let’s pack the bank and shout on the Steelmen
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 Joe Franchi (c)
3 Dave Whiting
4 Dylan Bartlett
5 Curtis Gregory
6 Gethin Williams
7 Lewis Young
8 Chad Thomas
9 Jonathan Evans
10 Evan Lloyd
11 Ryan Davies
12 Kieran Meek
13 Dom Franchi
14 Carrick McDonough
15 Morgan Richards
Replacements
16 Rhys Francis
17 Charley Kearns
18 Harry Drane
19 Andrew Mann
20 Ryan Jenkins
21 Mathew Flanagan
22 Amir Jiwa Walji
23 Liam Lloyd
T&J Parcels Sponsor Ebbw Vale Rugby Club
Ebbw Vale RFC is delighted to announce a new two and a half year commercial partnership with local company, T&J Parcels.
T&J Parcels will now be sponsoring the main stand and also proudly have the company logo on the Ebbw Vale match shirts. We thank John and Tracey for their commitment to the Steelmen for the next two and a half years and cannot wait to work with you on a number of exciting activities.
Company Director John Pitt said;
At T&J Parcels we are very community lead and pride ourselves on helping our community were ever possible. We currently sponsor a number of teams and individuals in the local and surrounding areas and when we had the chance to get involved with the steelmen we thought it was too good an opportunity to turn down. With myself being a Ebbw Vale boy and Tracey being a Brynmawr girl and with both of our passion with rugby it was something we couldn’t turn down. We are committed to the Steelmen and we hope our partnership thrives and continues for the foreseeable future.
About
T&J Parcels make sending a UK parcel easy and quick. Whether you’re shipping domestically, or importing into the UK. With competitive rates and fully trained fleet, T&J Parcels are your team to get the job done. We are proud to have been operating for 6 years and with an estimated 20,000 successful deliveries every year!
European, National, Local and Same Day services are offered
For further information check out https://www.facebook.com/Pittsparcels or https://tjparcels.com/
McDonough re-signs for the Steelmen
Addicts favourite Carrick McDonough has re-signed for the steelmen for the 23/24 season.
Carrick said on re-siging.
I’m delighted to have re-signed for Ebbw Vale the 23/24 season, a team that is striving to get better week in week out. The fans are amazing and we have a very close group of players.
Here what Carrick had to say below
Carrick is sponsored by Keith Price Volvo Abergavenny https://www.keithpricegarages.com/usedcars/volvo
Update
Ebbw Vale RFC and Joe Bartlett would like to thank everyone for their concerns and well wishes. Joe is sore but feeling a touch better after his awful injury on Saturday.
Joe suffered a dislocated ankle and fractured his tibia and fibula at the fixture against Swansea.
We would like to thank both clubs medical teams (Saran and Sam) for their professionalism in dealing with Joe’s injury on and off the pitch and our club Dr Rhys Thomas who we are fortunate and grateful to have as our club doctor who is one of the UK top orthopaedic surgeons for the past 30 years and before him is father Dr Gordon Thomas.
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.