photo by Andrew Smith

Blackwood came out on top in this battle of un-beaten sides in this Welsh RL Conference game at Nelson.  The game was effectively over as a contest, at half time, after a stellar Bulldog performance which put them top of the table.

In fact, they were 12 points ahead without the Cougars even handling the ball, as Dale Taylor and Gethin Price both returned kick offs for tries. The blitz continued but with a score of 6-40 at the break the game was effectively over as the Bulldogs ran out 24-50 winners.

Torfaen Tigers and Cardiff Demons, finalists in 2005 and 2006 respectively served up a classic at Pontypool’s Memorial ground with and outstanding

Demons comeback overturned by a last minute breakaway try.

Torfaen had dominated the first half but the Demons fought back to lead by two before a last minute interception saw the Tigers win 26-24.

The Bridgend Blue Bulls got back to winning ways at Porthcawl RFC with a 46-22 victory with MOTM Lloyd O’Connor grabbing 22 points with a hat trick and five goals.

The Blue Bulls built up and early 16-0 lead before the Steelers hit back with a fine pair of tries taking the score to 20-12 at the break.

The second half continued in a similar vein with the Blue Bulls eventually winning 46-22.

The West Wales Sharks may still be winless in 2008 but it took an enormous effort from a big physical Newport Titans team to secure the points for the away team in a thriller at Furnace RFC.

The Sharks lead at the half by 24-18 but the Titans superior strength saw them win 40-49.