Walsh the hero as Ponty edge scrappy contest

A LATE try by Geraint Walsh clinched victory for Pontypridd after plucky Cardiff fought them all the way in a disappointing error-strewn match.

After a lacklustre opening, the game sprang into life with Tom Daley snapping up an unconverted try for the visitors midway through the first half.

Full-back Lloyd Rowlands replied for the Valley Commandos three minutes later, with his try also going unconverted, as the sides went in level 5-5 at the break.

Jordan Rees and Gareth Thompson then swapped penalties either side of the hour mark.

Cardiff had no-one to match the dynamism of that earlier try by No.8 Daley.

Their best effort came when left wing Jack Phillips stormed down field following an interception but, despite having the try line at his mercy, was then recalled to his own 22 area due to an infringement.

Mistakes continued to mar the later stages but it was the hosts, led superbly by skipper Rhys Shellard, who finally made the breakthrough seven minutes from time.

Home scrum-half Joel Raikes kicked high downfield after the visitors blundered in attack and Walsh snapped up the bouncing ball to cross for the crucial score.

Fly-half Jordan Rees converted as general relief swept over Sardis Road and he also booted a second penalty in the final minute to seal victory.