Nelson edge closer to place at the Principality Stadium

NELSON are now just one step away from the Principality Stadium after knocking out former champions Ystrad Rhondda to reach the semifinals of the WRU National Plate.

Dan Davies scored for Nelson, with that try converted by Danny Ellis, who also booted five penalties in a 22-10 win at Ystrad Mynach.

Ryan Howells scored for Ystrad with Rhys Truelove kicking their other points but it was not enough and this defeat ended hopes of backing up their 2015 triumph and becoming only the second side after Penallta to win the competition twice.

It is the end of the road too for Maesteg Quins who are out after going down to an agonising 23-22 defeat at former finalists Nant Conwy in their quarter-final.

Carwyn ap Myrddin and Carwyn Roberts scored for Nant, who were runners-up for the silverware to Penallta in 2012.

Both tries were both converted by Arthur Lennon, who also added three penalties.

Lewis Tutt, Rhodri Davies and a penalty try were on the scoresheet for the Quins, who actually outscored their hosts three tries to two but it would ultimately end in heartbreak.

Davies also added five points from the tee.

Glamorgan Wanderers’ run is also over after they lost 35-19 at home against Brynmawr, while the other last-eight tie between Crymych and last season’s runners-up Ystalyfera was postponed.

Meanwhile, in the National Bowl, Porthcawl are edging nearer to a first-ever final appearance after recording an 18-13 victory at Penygraig to reach the last four.

Josh White and Ben Asprea scored the Seaweeds’ tries with White also adding a conversion and two penalties.

Joining them in the semis are Pembroke after they battled back from behind to record a 24-7 home victory over Deri.

However the other two Bowl quarter-finals will have to be rescheduled with the weather forcing Cardiff University against Nantgaredig and Abercwmboi’s trip to Monmouth to be postponed.