Bridgend too strong for Cardiff
The Blue Bulls consolidated their position at the top of the Welsh Conference with this 30-20 win, but not before they withstood a spirited Cardiff fightback in the second half writes Simon Davies.

The first half belonged to Kevin Ellis, as first he capitalised on Grant Epton's breakaway to run 20 yards for the opening try. By the break he had brought up a hatrick twice drawing on his professional experience to sell outrageous dummies before touching down under the posts.

The Demons, restricted to a penalty in the first half and trailing 20-2, began their comeback on 45 minutes when Sion Williams fed stand-off Gareth Jones to score on the right side. But Man of the match Dai Owen ran through the middle on 60 minutes for the Blue Bulls to reestablish an 18 point lead. Cardiff then found their form and scored two quick tries through Gareth Jones and Gwion

Bowen to reach 26-20 with twelve minutes to play. Finally however it was Bridgend Hooker Craig Fox who went in from short distance to seal the victory for the reigning champions and keep alive their 100% record since their foundation last year. Cardiff were left with the consolation that they had run Ellis's men closer than any other Welsh team in the last two seasons.

Details:
BRIDGEND BLUE BULLS 30
Tries: Kevin Ellis (3), Dai Owen, Criag Fox. Goals: John Williams (5)

CARDIFF DEMONS 20:
Tries: Gareth Jones (2), Gwion Bowen.
Goals: Gareth Jones (4)

Attendance: 200
PR-Man of Match: Bridgend: Dai Owen, Cardiff: Ross Olney

Article by Simon Davies
11 May 2004