A crowd of 2,500 turned out to see this top of the table clash and were handsomely rewarded with a thrilling game that saw Neath leading 6-7 at half time. Raven’s lock and captain Mike Powell crossed for a try and full back Gareth David kicked eleven points but ultimately the Ravens wings were clipped by the reigning champions.
At Sardis Road Pontpridd eased past visiting Cardiff 28-16 with centre Tom Riley grabbing a brace. Winger Matthew Nuthall and centre Dafydd Lockyear grabbed a try a-piece and outside half Richard Langmead completed the scoring with a conversion and two penalties.
Winger Nicky Jones bagged a hat-trick to ensure Swansea finished the year on a high with a 46-29 win over Carmarthen Quins at St Helen’s. All White’s outside half Stuart Jones also caught the eye with a try, four conversions and a penalty goal.
Elsewhere, Welsh Cup holders Llanelli edged out Llandovery 15-17 thanks to a try from winger Richard Davies and four penalties from outside half Ceiron Thomas. Outside half Tomas Marks kicked five penalties for the Drovers who also saw five drop goal attempts missed.
31 December – Welsh Rugby Results
Bridgend      16       Neath    25
Llandovery   15        Llanelli    17
Pontypridd    28      Cardiff    16
Swansea       46       Carmarthen Qns    29
ASDA Welsh Leagues
Division One
Blackwood    30       Fleur de Lys   21
Llanharan     0       Beddau     34
Ystrad Rhondda 10 Merthyr 26
Hirwaun    3    Ynysybwl    18
