Another large crowd witnessed the Bridgend Blue Bulls retain their unbeaten record at a sun drenched Darwin Road against a spirited Aberavon Fighting Irish outfit.

Boosted by the inclusion of Welsh RL Internationals John Devereaux, Allan Bateman and Lenny Woodard the Blue Bulls led at the interval by 24-30 but had been shaken up by some ferocious tackling from the Fighting Irish who were well served by Richard Hibbard, Laurence Griffiths and Scott O'Kelly.

Indeed, after 30 minutes the Fighting Irish led 24-12 and a shock looked likely. Credit must go the Blue Bulls who retained their composure to take the lead just before the interval and never surrender it again for the remainder of the match.

Well marshaled by the diminutive Craig Fox, who grabbed two tries and goals, the Bridgend backs ran with purpose and continually looked to offload in the tackle. Forwards Nathan Strong and Daniel Shore were always a threat and laid a strong platform from which to launch the backs. O’Kelly and Danny Hawkins both crossed twice for the hosts, David Dyer and dean Scully also grabbing four pointers.

Devereaux and Woodward with two were among the Bulls’ try scorers, John Williams with a brace to add to his five goals, Nathan Strong and Daniel Shore also crossing.

Aussie referee Steve Davies was instrumental in keeping the game flowing and the spectacular rugby league that followed will surely have impressed even the most die hard RL skeptics.