photo by Ian Lovell

The Neath Port Talbot Steelers pulled off the first surprise of the 2007 Co-operative Welsh Conference Premier play-offs turning over the Torfaen Tigers 24-20 at the Memorial Ground in Pontypool.

The Steelers made their intentions clear from the start as Dean Scully hit the ball at speed five minutes into the game sliding  in for the first try. Daniel Bleddyn added the extras and shortly afterwards added a further two converting a penalty after a Tigers infringement.

The Tigers hit back with a typical jinking run from Wales A international Jason Hill who darted over in the corner.  Chris Coombs added a drop goal for the Steelers before Craig Sulway scored for

the home side.  The conversion from Matt Entwhistle gave the home side the lead for the first time in the game.

Another opportunistic drop goal from Chris Coombs just before the half time whistle levelled the score at 10-10.

The second half began in the same way as the first with the the Steelers restoring their eight point lead.  Daniel Bleddyn punished the Tigers ill discipline by knocking over his second penalty of the game.  This was quickly followed by classy try from player/manager James Davies with Bleddyn once again adding the extras.

The Tigers hit back with their player of the game, Jason Hill, picking up his second only for the Steelers to respond with an outstanding individual effort from Chris Cornelius.  The conversion from Bleddyn opened up a ten point gap with five minutes to go.

Scott Bendon got a consolation try for the home side which was easily converted by Entwhistle as the final whistle blew leaving the final score at 20-24. 

article by Mark Harris
21 July 2007