RGC STORM INTO LAST FOUR OF CUP

produced a stunning five-try performance to secure a semi-final spot in the WRU Premiership Cup.

It was the North Walians’ fifth victory in a row and they can now look forward to a further three home games later this month.

“It was a good performance, but it wasn’t a perfect performance,” said RGC head coach Ceri Jones.

“I was pleased with how we controlled the momentum and got back on track when we did make errors.

“When you look at our play and how we score tries, they can come from all over – attacking mauls, maul pressure, scrum attacks or pressure and then we explode to life, which is the RGC way.

“Psychologically we are getting stronger and when we do make mistakes, we keep to the plan and have trust in the processes.

“December was always going to be a big month, and now the focus is back on the league.”

The game got off to an edgy start, with both teams fully aware of the stakes, and both defences were on top in the opening stages.

It was the home side who opened the scoring following a period of pressure.

RGC’s maul set-up was impressive, and Dan Owen emerged with the try. Dion Jones’ conversion attempt sailed wide.

Ebbw Vale looked to hit straight back, earning themselves a penalty. But Evan Lloyd’s attempt sailed wide of the posts. But the league’s leading points scorer soon made amends, taking his next opportunity to reduce the deficit.

The home side were growing in confidence, their set-piece starting to gain the upper hand, and following a solid scrum the North Walians found space to the right which allowed Afon Bagshaw to score a comfortable try.

Two more penalties from Lloyd helped Ebbw reduce the lead before half-time.

RGC started the second period well, controlling possession and territory. Following a slick attacking move Danny Cross found his way over, giving the hosts a 17-9 lead.

The Steelmen continued to stay in the fight and flyhalf Lloyd added another penalty.

After a period of pressure from the home side, scrumhalf Efan Jones spun through the defence to score a delightful try.

Dion Jones added a penalty from halfway and a cool drop-goal to edge his side closer to a comfortable win.

Walker Price added a late consolation try for the visitors.