Pontypridd came out on top in an entertaining festive derby at Sardis Road on Saturday, sealing a 20-18 win over Cardiff in the Principality Premiership.
The visitors got off to the perfect start, as Will Rees Hole broke the line and released Llywarch ap Myrddin out wide, and the full-back showed plenty of pace to cross the whitewash.
Steve Law’s side almost crossed for a second try moments later, but Ponty’s defensive cover forced Pat Lewis to knock on as he attempted the touchdown.
Outside half, Diggy Bird, put the home side on the board from the boot and added a further two first half penalties to give Ponty a 9-5 lead.
Wing Alex Webber proved to be a constant threat to the Cardiff defence, and was awarded for his efforts as he squeezed over for a try in the corner, before Jim Botham, on his return from injury, struck on the verge of half time to bring the visitors right back into the contest.
Ponty led 14-12 at the interval, and Cardiff introduced Gareth Thompson into the mix for the second half. The replacement put his side back into the lead within four minutes.
Despite both teams looking to play attractive, open and positive rugby throughout the second half, it came down to a battle of the kickers, as Ceri Sweeney responded to Thompson’s two penalties with two of his own to clinch a momentous victory.
Merthyr were also in action, as they hosted Bargoed at The Wern.
The visitors raced to a 0-10 lead, but Merthyr kept in touch with their opponents thanks to a Kyle Evans try.
Bargoed added a further penalty to extend their lead to six points, but a Rhys Downes try, converted by Matthew Jarvis, put the home side ahead for the first time.
Despite Craig Locke crossing for Merthyr’s third of the afternoon, Bargoed went in at the break with a 19-23 lead.
However, the Ironmen would bounce back in the second half, with Rhys Downes’ second try sealing a bonus point, and Josh Martin scoring to cap off an impressive 33-23 victory.