That’s Howe to do it as Ravens edge win
BRIDGEND Ravens claimed a vital victory over fellow basement side Ebbw Vale at Eugene Cross Park – Owen Howe landing 18 points from the tee to edge out the Steelmen by the narrowest of margins.
Howe’s contribution inspired basement side Bridgend to only their second victory of the season and re-ignited their hopes of Indigo Premiership survival.
On a dismal day weather wise, it was the travelling supporters that left happiest as they edged the battle against Greg Woods’ men.
It was Bridgend’s first win at Eugene Cross Park since 2006.
The result could not have been more timely as it pulls the Ravens to within three league points of their hosts with over half the season remaining, and plenty of league points to play for.
It was Vale who raced out of the blocks, getting a first try of the match with just six minutes played. A powerful maul caused the Ravens trouble and Dawid Rubasniak touched down.
Dan Haymond added the extras.
Owen Howe sent his first effort at goal wide after 20 minutes, but the full-back put that behind him as the match went on and it was his boot that proved to be the difference.
As the half hour mark approached, Howe landed the first of his six penalties.
The Steelmen struck back through the boot of Haymond before Howe then landed a second just as half-time arrived.
Howe was again on target at the start of the second half to narrow the gap to just a point.
Bridgend then lost Dafi Davies to the bin as the team infringements built up.
Bridgend were able to keep Ebbw Vale pinned back thanks to the enormous boot of Howe.
As the hour mark approached, the Ravens took the lead for the first time.
Howe notched three more from the tee while Bridgend were down to 14.
The hosts struck back with a second through
Chris Coleman.
Ebbw Vale then saw a yellow card arrive just as Bridgend returned to a full complement.
Howe immediately punished the hosts, levelling the scores. It then took just five minutes for Howe to add his sixth.
An intense final ten minutes played out with Vale trying to gain ground upfield while Bridgend pinned the Steelmen back.
A final surge from the hosts saw Bridgend defend valiantly and win a penalty, Howe cleared into the stand to secure a vital four points, seeing The Ravens close in on Ebbw Vale in the league standings.
Bridgend continue a busy festive period when they host Swansea at the Morganstone Brewery Field on Saturday in an all Ospreylian derby. Kick off is at 2:30pm.