As the WRU National Leagues’ conclusions draw ever closer, there were promotions, relegations, and great escapes from several Caerphilly County Borough sides across the weekend.
On Saturday April 22, Newbridge secured the bonus-point victory they needed to remain in the National Championship, with a spectacular 29-43 win at Narbeth lifting the Pigs from the bottom two – where they have been since November – to sixth and safety.
The scores were finely balanced at 17-17 at half-time, and Newbridge knew they needed a fourth try to avoid relegation to Division 1 East.
Outside-half Veal scored the vital try to ignite hope within the Newbridge ranks, and three further tries before the final whistle lit the celebration touch paper.
The Pigs’ late escape saw them leap to sixth, and leave Glamorgan Wanderers relegated alongside Duvant.
In Division 1 East A, Rhydyfelin’s unassailable 11-point lead at the top of the table put paid to Nelson and Penallta’s promotion hopes, while Senghenydd finished bottom with just a single win in 22 matches this season, and will be relegated to Division 2 East.
In Division 2 East, Abertysswg were already relegated, while Ynyssdu’s hopes of finishing in the second promotion spot behind Croesyceiliog rest on beating Abercarn and hoping that Pontypool United lose to Pill Harriers.
In Division 3 East A, Oakdale defeated rivals Blackwood Stars to remain in the promotion mix, but New Tredegar’s relegation was confirmed.
Machen won the Division 3 East B title with ease and a 100% record with a 47-3 win over Beaufort, while Aberbargoed’s loss to Rhymney put their own promotion celebrations on ice. Hafodyrynys could also be promoted, beating Rogerstone 13-29.
In Division 3 East B, Deri and Markham secured promotion with victories over Trinant and Whiteheads respectively.