photo by Mark Harris

Cardiff Demons and Blackwood Bulldogs fought out an honourable 10-10 draw to put both sides into the play-offs. Demons take the East Wales title on points difference and now face Aberavon at home next week while Blackwood travel to Bridgend.

Defences ruled the day during this intense encounter with very few chances.  Demons scored with tries from Jamie Isles and Adam King and Trevor James for the Bulldogs. Gareth Jones for the Demons and Jeremy Lloyd for the Bulldogs converted the goals.

Despite a spirited comeback from an under strength Torfaen Tigers in the other game in the East , Newport Titans

stormed to a 36-20 victory. However, Cardiff and Blackwood’s draw means that they narrowly miss out on the play-offs for the third year in succession.

In the Western Conference Bridgend, who had already clinched the Western title edged out Aberavon with a try in injury time. Both sides automatically qualify for the play-offs after West Wales’ defeat of Swansea.

After the game Bulls captain Jon Purnell said, “we have a great team spirit in the squad and a hunger to win and this showed as we again came back from the dead to snatch victory".

West Wales Sharks gained their second win in four days after beating Swansea Valley Miners 20-6 which will end their first season on a high.

Next weekend in the Conference play offs Bridgend Blue Bulls will entertain Blackwood Bulldogs whilst Aberavon Fighting Irish will visit the the Cardiff Demons. Both games will kick off at 2:30pm.
Full reports here