by Rhys Owain Jones
Newport’s fine run of form continues after an entertaining 31-24 win at the home of the Welsh All Blacks.
The Black & Ambers were put to the test by an emotional Neath side in a closely fought battle throughout the 80 minutes at the Gnoll, but head home with maximum points and an incredible 13th consecutive win.
Before the match, a moment’s silence was observed for Martin Jones, the former Neath prop who had sadly passed away days prior and only a week after a special game was held at the same ground to raise money to support with his illness. We, of course, send our best wishes and condolences to Martin’s friends, family and to everyone at the club.
After Chris Morris opened the score for Neath from a catch-and-drive move, the B&As responded with two tries of their own: Lloyd Lewis on ten minutes after capitalising on David Richards’ tackle break, before captain, Ben Roach, dived over from short distance a phase after a darting 50-metre run by winger Iwan Pyrs Jones.
Neath responded with a Steff Williams penalty and a Jon Bayliss try, before Lewis dodged three helpless defenders soon after to bag his second and Newport’s third try of the afternoon and bring the scores level at half-time.
HANNER AMSER: Neath 17-17 B&As
Newport’s bonus point try came at the tail-end of the third quarter when they replicated the Welsh All Blacks’ first-half catch-and-drive move and scrum-half, Luke Crane, eventually grounded the ball at the bottom of the pile for his first score of the season.
And five minutes later, two former Wales Sevens players teamed up for the B&As’ fifth of the afternoon. A poor defensive kick from Neath’s end-zone eventually made its way to Roach on the left wing who bypassed his opponent with ease before an inside pass to Jones secured the latter’s second try for the club.
Ryan Griffiths’ try for the hosts made it a nervy final ten minutes of the game, but Newport held on to earn another win on the road and push to finish the season at the summit of the Indigo Premiership.
SGÔR TERFYNOL: Neath 24-31 B&As
SEREN Y GÊM: Josh Skinner
The Black & Ambers return to Newport Stadium on Saturday (13 April, 2.30 KO) to welcome Bridgend for what will be our final match of the regular season.
Following that, there’s an anxious three-week break until our home play-off semi-final against a team to be decided. This is currently scheduled to take place on the weekend of 4/5 May however please keep an eye on our official channels for confirmation.
There has never been a better time to get behind…
Your CITY,
Your COLOURS,
Your CLUB.
#COTP #YmlaenCasnewydd