Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Bedwas have stormed into the WRU Challenge Cup semi-finals after 36-17 victory over Brecon.

After an evenly-fought first-half at the Bridgefield on Saturday January 20, Bedwas’ resolute defence kept the visitors scoreless in the second-half.

Brecon opened the scoring in the first-half with a try after seven minutes, with Dion McIntosh converting.

The hosts responded soon after following a driving maul, with Lewis Crane claiming the try.

James Dixon scored the conversion to draw the teams level.

However, Brecon retook the lead eight minutes later when back-rower Osian Davies exploited a hole in Bedwas’ defence to cross for a try. McIntosh made no mistake with the conversion.

But the Powys side were pegged back once again when Bedwas’ Rhys Hutcherson was driven over for a try, which Dixon converted.

However, Brecon retook the lead one more time on the 33rd minute, when McIntosh fired over a penalty. 17-14 to the visitors.

There was still more to come in the first-half for Bedwas, who went ahead for the first time in the game when Crane scored his second try of the afternoon.

Dixon converted to put Bedwas 21-17 ahead at the break.

Within a minute of the restart, Bedwas had increased their lead through an Adam Williams try. However, Dixon’s conversion kick crashed into the upright and bounced to safety. 26-17.

Brecon’s attempts to get back into the game were thwarted by Bedwas’ defence, and the lead was extended half-way through the half thanks to a Dixon penalty.

Brecon continued to knock at the door, but knock-ons and a strong defensive effort frustrated their efforts.

Bedwas’ fifth try – and Williams’ second – came with roughly 12 minutes left to play. Dixon’s conversion extended the hosts’ advantage to 19 points.

Brecon continued to battle on, but Bedwas held firm and shut out their opponents to seal a 36-17 win.

Bedwas are joined in the semi-finals by Ystrad Rhondda and Narberth.

Bargoed’s semi-final clash with Llangennech was due to be played Saturday but was postponed – with the winner of the re-arranged fixture completing the semi-final lineup.

Report courtesy of Ian Lovell of Bedwas RFC