RUGBY ROUND-UP

Retaining their unbeaten record Newcastle Emlyn produced a first-rate team effort for a 21-7 League 1 West win over Ceredigion rivals Aberystwyth at Plascrug to stride into the new year two points ahead of the pack with a game in hand.

In doing the business in north Ceredigion the Teifisiders completed the double over their opponents – they came out on top 20-10 at Dol Wyber back in September.

Aber more than held their own in most phases and applied pressure for lengthy periods, but the Red and Whites defended superbly and gave a clear indication that they could be in contention for a return to the WRU Championship at the first time of asking.

Opening at a frenetic pace the visitors went ahead from a flowing move which culminated in outside half Llyr Davies going over for a try converted by winger Daniel Davies.

Also within the opening quarter the Davieses repeated their act and gave their side a 14-point advantage.

Responding positively Aber halved the deficit when centre Sion Cowdy outstripped the defence for a try near the posts making the conversion a formality for outside half Llyr Thomas.

Midway through the second period Llyr Freeman intercepted a home pass and sprinted away for a converted try.

In the same division Crymych eased their relegation worries by springing a 20-10 win over visitors Hendy at Parc Lloyd Thomas to avenge a 24-3 defeat on the second weekend of the season.

The north Pembrokeshire villagers were on fire from the word go when inspirational outside half Ifan Phillips kicked ahead before winning the race for the touchdown and promptly converting his score.

Phillips also landed three first half penalties with his opposite number Rhydian Morris successful with one attempt.

Continuing on top during the second period the homesters increased their advantage when hooker Carwyn Rees set up a try for flanker Richard Sharpe-Williams and Phillips converted.

To their credit Hendy refused to throw in the towel and their efforts were rewarded when Gareth Thomas went in for a try converted by Morris.

As Cardigan completed a double over League 3 West whipping boys St Davids, replacement Luke Rogers was the star of the show.

The 24-year-old university student, who has also had spells with Narberth and Crymych, was home on holiday and took his place on the bench before being drafted on for the second half when showing his undoubted class.

With the visitors leading by five points going into the final quarter Rogers took over and led his side to a comfortable 31-5 win.

Liam Williams and Cerith Griffiths also got on the try count for the visitors with Llyr Jones landing three conversions while George Raymond got a first half try for Saints.