RGC made history with a hard-fought 18–10 victory away at Ebbw Vale RFC, securing their first-ever league win at the ground and putting themselves firmly in control of a top-six finish heading into the play-offs.

Played on a heavy pitch and in challenging conditions on Saturday, April 4, the contest was far from a classic in the opening half. Three penalties were the only scores, with RGC edging ahead thanks to two kicks from Billy McBryde, while Tom Price responded with one for the hosts.

RGC worked hard to gain territory but were frustrated by a misfiring lineout, which repeatedly handed possession back to the home side. Despite that, their defensive line speed proved crucial, shutting down Ebbw Vale’s attempts to build pressure and keeping them at arm’s length.

As the half wore on, RGC began to find some rhythm, moving the ball more confidently through the hands and increasing the tempo around the breakdown. However, the wind and set-piece struggles meant clear-cut opportunities were limited.

Turning around to play into the wind in the second half, RGC knew a huge effort would be required—and they delivered. Every player stepped up, with strong defensive work from Charlie Probert and relentless pressure at the breakdown from Gareth Parry helping to swing momentum.

When Parry was sent to the sin bin, Ebbw Vale took advantage, powering over through hooker Ieuan Morris, with Price adding the conversion to give the Steelmen the lead.

But RGC responded in style. In a moment of real quality, Caio Parry picked up the ball deep in his own half and produced a stunning solo run, beating defenders and sprinting clear to score in the corner. McBryde added the conversion to restore RGC’s advantage in a game where attacking rugby had been hard to come by.

With the match finely balanced, the next score was always going to be decisive. When Ebbw Vale were reduced to 14 men following a sin bin, RGC seized control. Scrum-half Connor Dever spotted a gap and burst through the defence to score a crucial try, effectively sealing the win and taking the wind out of the home side.

It was a performance built on resilience, effort and determination, particularly in the face of difficult conditions, and one that was fully appreciated by the travelling North Wales supporters.

The victory not only marks a significant milestone for RGC but also leaves their play-off destiny firmly in their own hands. They now return to Stadiwm Eirias for their final regular league fixture against Bridgend, with momentum firmly on their side.

Speaking after the match, winger Sam Jones said it was a “massive” result, adding that the focus now is on maintaining that momentum and securing a place in the top six.