Ebbw took five points from a game that was decided by half time, after four tries through Toby Fricker, Joe Franchi, Owen Young and Dai Jones. Rhys Jones, whose great break set up the supporting Owen Young for his score, added a penalty and three conversions. Young created the bonus point try, taking Kristian Parker’s pass on half way to race towards the whitewash. Although the Keys defence managed to stop him short, he found Dai Jones in excellent support. Support running was a feature of Ebbw’s play throughout as was the carrying and defensive work, with human wrecking ball Joe Franchi particularly prominent. It was 29-0 to the Steelmen at half time.

The second half was less one-sided as Keys secured some possession at last, though not before a great drive off a lineout put Kristian Parker over. Keys responded well and patient phase play saw Josh Guy touch down, with Iwan Burgwin goaling, then Rory Budina picked off a stray Ebbw pass to run in from 60m. Any Keys hopes of a comeback were dashed soon enough: the immaculate Rhys Clarke scored, followed by a slick handlin move finished by Paul King. Rhys Jones was on target with both conversions and Ebbw were 48-12 ahead. Keys managed another try through full back Calwyn Penny and were hunting a fourth, which would have earned a deserved and vital bonus, but Ebbw’s defence was solid and it ended 48-17 to Ebbw.

1.Ross Jones 2.Joe Franchi 3.Rob Sevenoaks 4.Kristian Parker 5.Ashley Sweet (C) 6.Rhys Clarke7.Owen Young 8.Lewis Young 9.Dai Jones10.Rhys Jones 11.Toby Fricker 12.Dai Langdon 13.Dom Franchi 14.DafyddHowells (Dragons) 15.Dan Haymond

16.Rhys Francis17.Luke Garrett 18.Morgan Davies (permit from Beaufort RFC) 19.Cameron Regan 20.Lloyd Evans 21.Matthew Flanagan 22.Paul King 23.Steffan Thomas

Many thanks to Beaufort RFC and Dragons for agreeing permits.