Nerves are likely to jangle in the run-in to the end of the Welsh Rugby Union Championship season with half a dozen clubs vying to stave off relegation which for the first time will see four take the dreaded drop.

Newcastle Emlyn moved off the foot of the table after a spirited performance in springing an 18-13 win over fifth-placed Bedlinog in south-east Wales.

The Red and Whites won the corresponding game in the Teifi Valley 23-17 in October and completing a double gave them a fighting chance of staying up with eight games remaining.

The south Walians had cause to believe they could themselves do a double act after leading 10-6 after the opening 40 minutes, but despite outscoring the visitors by two tries to nil, could not prevent Alex Williams and Co from achieving their fourth win of the campaign.

During the first half Bedlinog crossed for two tries through winger George Thomas and flanker Tom Davies, both going unconverted.

Emlyn fullback Sean Leonard, who kicked superbly throughout, landed two penalties to keep his side in contention.

During the second period Leonard was again the hero with four spot on kicks while his opposite number Rhys Walker failed with numerous efforts, which proved costly for his side.

Emlyn are without a fixture this coming weekend and the following Saturday host eighth in the table Tata Steel at Ddol Wyber.