Category Archives: Ebbw Vale Rugby
Ebbw Vale vs RGC match preview
Ebbw return to league action this weekend against RGC at The Ciner Glass Community Stadium after progressing to the quarter final of the Premiership Cup last weekend.
The Steelmen will look to continue with their excellent form at the start of the season against an RGC squad coached by former Ebbw Vale coach Ceri Jones.
There are several changes to the team following the cup win at the Gnoll with Academy player Cameron Davies making his first start for the Steelmen.
During the week we caught up with team manager Dan Haymond. Dan informed the management intend on keeping the feel-good factor going by training hard with all squad players keeping the pressure on the members of the team that have been lucky enough to play during the opening games of the season.
Looking at the squad depth, Dan commented that the squad the club has assembled during the summer has left the management team with many selection headaches from the start of the season, which is a great place to be in. Some of the squad members that played against Neath last week put in a good performance and will mount more pressure on the other squad members. However, the management team have confidence that whoever plays in each position will perform.
Reviewing areas of improvement, Dan stated that the squad and management continue to try and improve all areas of their game. One area the squad will continue to focus on will be the lineout, because it can be used as a real weapon, as seen against Cardiff.
Dan believes the set piece is always important when playing RGC. The management team know RGC coach Ceri Jones very well and Ceri always puts together a good pack with a solid set piece and will always has a trick up his sleeve.
Finally, Dan stated the likes of Jordan Thomas and Ryan Gardner are returning from long term injuries and co-captain Joe Franchi is also recovering well from his injury sustained at Merthyr. Apart from that, the squad is looking really healthy.
Alex Kinsella-Evans
The Ebbw Vale Team to face RGC is:
15. Carrick McDonough 14. Harry Rees-Weldon 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Cameron Davies 11. Amir Jiwa-Walji 10. Evan Lloyd 9 Jon Evans
1.Morgan Davies 2. Rhys Francis 3. Harry Drane 4. Dylan Bartlett 5. Jakub Malecki 6. Cameron Regan 7. Lewis Young 8. Ryan Jenkins
Replacements
16. Ieuan Morris. 17. Luke Garrett. 18. Owen Hatherill 19. Curtis Gregory 20. Owen Conquer 21. Rory Harries 22. Kieran Meek 23. Dom Franchi
Ticket Information
Tickets can be bought online at the following link: https://www.evrfc.co.uk/product/30th-september-ebbw-vale-v-rgc/
We look forward to seeing you all at the Ciner Glass Stadium on Saturday.
Kickoff is at 2.30pm.
Ebbw Vale RFC return to league action on Saturday as they entertain RGC at the CINER Glass Community Stadium with a 2.30pm kick off.
Head Coach Jason Strange makes a number of changes from the squad that beat Neath in the Premiership Cup.
Carrick McDonough moves to full back with both Harry Rees-Weldon and Amir Jiwa-Walji coming back into the team on the wings. Evan Lloyd and Jon Evans return at half-backs with academy player Cameron Davies making his first start for the Steelmen at centre.
Up front, Harry Drane returns at tight head with Dylan Bartlett returning in the second row where he will be partnered by Jakub Malecki. Cameron Regan and Ryan Jenkins return in the back row.
Ebbw Vale Team:
- Carrick McDonough 14. Harry Rees-Weldon 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Cameron Davies 11. Amir Jiwa-Walji 10. Evan Lloyd 9 Jon Evans
1. Morgan Davies 2. Rhys Francis 3. Harry Drane 4. Dylan Bartlett 5. Jakub Malecki 6. Cameron Regan 7. Lewis Young 8. Ryan Jenkins
Replacements
- Ieuan Morris. 17. Luke Garrett. 18. Owen Hatherill 19. Curtis Gregory 20. Owen Conquer 21. Rory Harries 22. Kieran Meek 23. Dom Franchi
Full Match Review online tomorrow.
Ebbw Advance to the Next Round
The Steelmen progressed to the last eight of the Premiership Cup after overcoming a spirited Neath side to win 40 -19 at the Gnoll.
The Ebbw Vale forwards started the game, just like they finished the game against Cardiff. After a penalty was awarded to the away side just inside Neath’s half, a kick by fly half Keiran Meek, saw Ebbw have a line out inside The Welsh All Blacks twenty-two. From the resulting lineout, the forwards set up a maul, which the referee adjudged to have been stopped illegally on the try line and awarded the Steelmen a penalty try.
The visitors soon added to their try tally when from a lineout in the home side’s twenty-two, a rolling maul ended with number eight Chad Thomas scoring a try. Outside half Keiran Meek successfully added the extra two points.
From a penalty at the scrum in The Welsh All Blacks twenty-two, some quick thinking by Ebbw’s scrum half Rory Harries, saw the former Pontypridd player take a quick tap and dive over the line for his side’s third try of the game. Meek again was successful with the conversion to extend Ebbw Vale’s lead to twenty one points.
The home side were soon back into the game, when from a lineout in the away sides twenty-two, Neath forwards applied some pressure on the visitor’s line. The ball made its way to the home side’s captain and centre Ryan Evans who crossed the line to score his sides first try. The Welsh All Blacks fly half Kristian Jones added the extras.
With the home side growing in confidence and putting Ebbw on the back foot, the forwards applied sustained pressure on the Steelmen’s try line, resulting in the pack grabbing a second try. Outside half Jones was unsuccessful with the conversion.
Some excellent play by Neath during a purple patch, saw the Welsh All Blacks narrow the deficit further. A clean break through the midfield inside their own half, saw the ball passed to former Steelmen Dafydd Howells who raced over the try line to score a very well taken try. Jones added the two points to make it a two-point game, going into the interval.
Half Time: Neath 19 Ebbw Vale 21
With the game on a knife edge at the start of the second half, both teams came out and took the game to each other.
Ebbw’s coach Jason Strange decided to replace the excellent Rory Harries and dependable Keiran Meek with Jonathan Evans and Evan Lloyd early on in the second half and the visitor’s fitness started to tell when after a good team move, flanker Gethin Williams barged over the line to score Ebbw Vale’s fourth try of the game. Marksman Lloyd successfully added the two points to put his team nine points ahead.
Further changes to the away side saw prop Owen Hatherill replace the outstanding Adam Court and Owen Conquer replace the hard-working Chad Thomas for his Steelmen debut.
Some pressure by the home side saw Neath attempt to go over the try line. However, the Steelmen’s defence held firm.
Ebbw’s prop Charley Kearns replaced the wonderful Morgan Davies and hooker Ieaun Morris came on for the ever-dependable Rhys Francis.
After Ebbw Vale were awarded a penalty in the Welsh All Black’s twenty-two, fly half Lloyd kicked to the corner. From the resulting lineout, replacement hooker Ieaun Morris kept up his good start to the season by scoring a try from a maul. However, outside half Lloyd was unable to add the extras on this occasion.
An excellent 50-22 by the away side’s Ethan Phillips kept the visitors on the front foot. With his team fourteen points ahead. Coach Strange brought on Ewan McIntyre for the thriving Curtis Gregory and Cameron Davies replaced the inspirational Dom Franchi, both making their debuts for the Steelmen.
With time running out, Neath tried playing out from inside their own half. With the ball being passed out wide, the Steelmen’s winger Carrick McDonough intercepted the ball and showed his speed to run half the pitch unopposed to score with the last play of the game. Fly half Lloyd brought the game to an end by successfully adding the two points.
Full Time: Neath 19 Ebbw Vale 40
Scorers:
Tries: Penalty try, Chad Thomas, Rory Harries, Gethin Williams, Ieuan Morris and Carrick McDonough.
Cons: Keiran Meek (2), Evan Lloyd (2)
The Steelmen return to league action at home against RGC next Saturday 30 September 2023 with a 2:30pm kick off.
Written by: Alex Kinsella-Evans
Neath RFC v Ebbw Vale RFC
On Saturday 23rd September, the Steelmen travel to Neath RFC for the opening round of the Premiership Cup at the Gnoll with a 2.30pm kick off. The Steelmen are looking to take their good league form into the match and will be looking to make it a 3rd win in a row.
During the week, we spoke with assistant coach Steve Lang.
Steve said the mood in camp was positive. He thought winning the last two games by a bonus point was testament to the players and everyone at the club for the hard work they had put in over the summer. This was backed up by the performance against a good Cardiff team, who have been the bench markers over the last few years in the Premiership.
Steve praised forwards coach Aaron Coundley and the pack. He believed they reaped the rewards for the work that they put in over the summer, against what statistically was one of the best packs in the league. Steve believes that Aaron and the forward pack will be looking for a repeat performance against Neath on Saturday.
Looking at the squad and its depth, Steve commented that the squad is very competitive and there are thirty or more players competing to wear the jerseys on a Saturday, with a strong bench coming on each week, as witnessed at Cardiff last Saturday. As a result, Steve thinks there may be changes made to freshen up the team, with players getting their just rewards for the way they have trained and conducted themselves during pre-season and the previous weeks. However, the squad and management will be aiming to keep the momentum going from the past few weeks.
Reviewing areas of improvement, Steve acknowledged both the squad and management are looking to improve week on week, build on each performance, be the best version of Ebbw Vale they possibly can and provide the fans that attend the Neath game with a performance to be proud of.
In terms of the cup, Steve stated that the squad are taking one game at a time. He praised Neath for the way they fought their way back into the Premiership, believes they can put in a good performance and knows they will be given the respect they deserve.
Finally, Steve believes a day out in the Principality Stadium would be good for the players and the club, with the aim to be to lift the cup at the end of the season and ultimately thinks it is about time Ebbw Vale had their name etched on the trophy.
Report be Alex Kinsella-Evans
The Ebbw Vale team to face Neath RFC:
- Morgan Richards 14. Carrick McDonough 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Dom Franchi 11. Ryan Davies 10. Kieran Meek 9 Rory Harries
- Morgan Davies 2. Rhys Francis 3. Adam Court 4. Jakub Malecki 5. Curtis Gregory 6. Gethin Williams 7. Lewis Young 8. Chad Thomas
Replacements
- Ieuan Morris. 17. Charley Kearns. 18. Owen Hatherill 19. Dylan Bartlett 20. Owen Conquer 21. Jon Evans 22. Evan Lloyd 23. Cameron Davies
Ebbw Addicts Information
The Addicts will be providing transport to the match against Neath RFC on Saturday and will be leaving the Welfare at 12.00pm. Contact Adders or Tracy to book your seats on the bus. (See Addicts page for contact details)
After the match, the Addicts will stay at Neath Rugby Club to enjoy a few drinks before returning to the Welfare at 5.30pm
For Ebbw supporters making their own way to the match, the address for Neath RFC is: Neath RFC, The Lextan Gnoll, Gnoll Park Road, NEATH, SA11 3BU
Head coach Jason Strange makes a number of changes to the squad for the WRU Premiership Cup match against Neath on Saturday.
Carrick McDonough returns to the squad for the first time this season following an injury. There are also changes at half back with Kieran Meek and Rory Harries starting for the first time together. Up front, Jakub Malecki replaces Dylan Bartlett in the 2nd row while Chad Thomas and Gethin Williams return to the starting lineup in the back row.
Owen Conquer and Cameron Davies will be looking to make their debuts for the Steelmen from the bench, while Owen Hatherill comes into the squad for the first time this season.
Ebbw Vale Team:
15. Morgan Richards 14. Carrick McDonough 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Dom Franchi 11. Ryan Davies 10. Kieran Meek 9 Rory Harries
1. Morgan Davies 2. Rhys Francis 3. Adam Court 4. Jakub Malecki 5. Curtis Gregory 6. Gethin Williams 7. Lewis Young 8. Chad Thomas
Replacements
16. Ieuan Morris. 17. Charley Kearns. 18. Owen Hatherill 19. Dylan Bartlett 20. Owen Conquer 21. Jon Evans 22. Evan Lloyd 23. Cameron Davies
Full match preview to follow tomorrow
North Gwent and Powys Coaches Forum
The 2nd North Gwent and Powys Coaches Forum was held this week at Ebbw Vale RFC providing over 20 senior male and female club coaches with the opportunity to learn from highly respected Ebbw Vale Head Coach Jason Strange and former WRU Elite Performance Manager Mostyn Richards.
Magnificent Ebbw Bring Home the Bonus Point Win
Report by Alex Kinsella-Evans
A superb display by the Steelmen forwards laid the foundations for a bonus point victory.
With the away side taking the game to the hosts straight from the kick off, a penalty was awarded after a late tackle on scrum half Jon Evans. The resulting penalty was kicked into the home side twenty-two. From the lineout, the Ebbw forwards set up a maul which ended in hooker Ieuan Morris diving over the line to score the games first try. Outside Half Evan Lloyd successfully added the two points.
Shortly afterwards, the referee awarded a penalty to the Rags, just inside the Ebbw Vale half. Young fly half Harrison James stepped up and sent the ball through the uprights to get his team’s first points of the game.
After the referee penalised Cardiff again, another kick into the home sides twenty-two by Ebbw fly half Lloyd, once again saw the forwards charge towards the line. However, this time the referee awarded a penalty try to the Steelmen after only an infringement stopped the forwards from crossing the line. As a result, the referee showed the Rags flanker Nathan Hudd a yellow card.
From a scrum just inside the away side’s half, the referee penalised the Ebbw Vale pack. From a similar position to their first penalty, number ten James was on this occasion unsuccessful with his kick.
Ebbw scored their third try of the game after a superb 50:22 kick by the Steelmen’s centre Ethan Phillips, saw number two Morris score his second try of the game after the forwards set up another maul from the lineout. Fly half Lloyd was successful with the conversion to put his team eighteen points in front of the hosts.
Cardiff got their first try of the game, when from a lineout inside the away side’s twenty-two, hooker Alun Rees dived over the line. Outside half James added the extras.
A further penalty by James, saw the home side reduce the deficit to eight points before both sides were reduced to fourteen men. The home side’s Harrison James and Steelmen’s Jon Evans spent ten minutes in the sin bin for an altercation off the ball.
Some excellent kicking from Ebbw’s Evan Lloyd kept the away side in the Cardiff half. With only minutes left in the first half, from a lineout inside the Rags twenty-two, a driving maul by the away side’s forwards provided number eight Ryan Jenkins with the platform to score his teams fourth try of the game. Lloyd brought the half to a close by successfully kicking the conversion.
Half Time: Cardiff 13-28 Ebbw Vale
Shortly after the game resumed, the home side scored their second try of the game. A clever back move resulted in winger Kodie Stone scoring a well taken try after finishing off a length of the field attack. James kicked the conversion.
The Steelmen’s marksman Lloyd put his team eleven points ahead from a penalty, after the referee penalised Cardiff for ill-discipline.
Straight after, Ebbw coach Jason Strange replaced the impressive Ieuan Morris with co-captain Rhys Francis and the hard-working Cameron Regan with Gethin Williams.
Lloyd uncharacteristically missed the uprights for the away side after the referee once again penalised the Rags.
With Ebbw Vale applying the pressure, a wonderful break of the line by fly half Lloyd, saw the outside half throw an audacious out of the back of the hand pass to supporting winger Harry Rees-Weldon, who went over the line to score his first try for the team. Lloyd unluckily missed the extras.
Further replacements from Ebbw, saw the exceptional Luke Garrett and excellent Harry Drane be replaced by Morgan Davies and Adam Court, Jakub Malecki replaced the industrious Curtis Gregory, Chad Thomas came on for the superb Ryan Jenkins, Rory Harries replaced the brilliant Jon Evans and Kieran Meek came on for the wonderful Evan Lloyd.
No further points were added to the scoreline, despite the best efforts of both sides. However, the home side was reduced to fourteen men for the last few moments of the match when flanker Nathan Hudd was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.
Full Time: Cardiff 20-36 Ebbw Vale
Scorers: Tries: Ieuan Morris (2), Ryan Jenkins, Harry Rees-Weldon, Penalty try
Pen: Evan Lloyd Cons: Evan Lloyd (3)
Ebbw Vale’s next game is away to Neath on Saturday 23 September 2023 in the cup, where coach Strange will no doubt be hoping the squad can continue their good form.
Cardiff vs Ebbw Vale preview
By Alex Kinsella-Evans
The Steelmen travel to the capital for Saturday`s game looking to make amends for last seasons two narrow defeats.
After a Bonus Point against Pontypridd RFC last weekend, Head Coach Jason Strange makes two changes to the Steelmen squad with Rhys Francis returning on the bench and Carrick McDonough being listed in the squad for the first time this season. Dom Franchi will continue as captain of the team.
The Ebbw Vale team is as follows:
Backs
15. Morgan Richards 14. Harry Rees-Weldon 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Dominic Franchi 11. Ryan Davies 10. Evan Lloyd 9. Jon Evans
Forwards
1. Luke Garrett 2. Ieuan Morris 3. Harry Drane 4. Dylan Bartlett 5. Curtis Gregory 6. Cameron Regan 7. Lewis Young 8. Ryan Jenkins
Replacements (TBC)
From: Rhys Francis, Morgan Davies, Adam Court, Jakub Malecki, Chad Thomas, Rory Harries, Kieran Meek, Gethin Williams, Carrick McDonough
During the build up to the game we spoke with team manager Dan Haymond.
Dan believes the team can take a lot of confidence from the Pontypridd game, going into this week`s game at Cardiff. He thought after Pontypridd scored their two tries inside the first ten minutes, there was only one side in the game.
Dan acknowledged the slow starts in the two games to date are something the team will be working hard to put right, not only this week but also going forward. Especially as Cardiff are not a team you can gift points to early on and expect to come away with a win.
He stated the squad are looking at themselves and what they are good at and aim to put that into practice come game day. The squad know if they can put into practice what they do in training and have done all summer then they can beat anyone.
Finally, Dan thought the best part of the Pontypridd performance was the squad’s conditioning. By half time he believed the Steelmen would come away with the win due to the squad’s superior fitness and conditioning, which they were able to do.
The game at the Arms Park kicks off at 2.30pm.
The Addicts bus is FULL for the trip to Cardiff tomorrow.
For supporters travelling to the capital for the game, the address for The Arms Park is: Westgate St, Cardiff CF10 1JA
Here is the Ebbw Vale team for the Indigo Premiership game against Cardiff RFC on Saturday 16th September at the Arms Park. (Kick Off 2.30pm)
Following the win against Pontypridd RFC last weekend, Head Coach Jason Strange makes just one change to the squad with Rhys Francis returning on the bench.
Ieuan Morris, who made a big impression in his debut for the Steelmen against Pontypridd, retains his starting place at hooker. Dom Franchi will captain the team.
The Ebbw Vale team is as follows:
Ebbw Vale Team
Backs
- Morgan Richards 14. Harry Rees-Weldon 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Dominic Franchi 11. Ryan Davies 10. Evan Lloyd 9. Jon Evans
Forwards
- Luke Garrett 2. Ieuan Morris 3. Harry Drane 4. Dylan Bartlett 5. Curtis Gregory 6. Cameron Regan 7. Lewis Young 8. Ryan Jenkins
Replacements (TBC)
From: Rhys Francis, Morgan Davies, Adam Court, Jakub Malecki, Chad Thomas, Rory Harries, Kieran Meek, Gethin Williams, Carrick McDonough
The Steelmen’s next match is against Cardiff RFC @ The Arm Park on Saturday 16th September with a kick off of 2.30pm.
EA Travel
The Addicts bus is full for the trip to the capital, leaving the Welfare at 12.pm.
For those travelling to the match, the address for the Arms Park is… Westgate St, Cardiff CF10 1JA
Feed The Steel
The Welfare will be open for breakfast before travelling to the game. You will need to order your breakfast with the Welfare by the end of tomorrow (Thursday 14th September).
Ebbw Claim a Bonus Point Victory
The Steelmen welcomed Pontypridd to the Ciner Glass Community Stadium on a rare cloudless, warm, sunny day in Ebbw Vale.
Before the game a minute silence was impeccably held for young Lewi Sullivan who tragically lost his life recently.
The home side were once again slow out of the blocks, with Ponty taking advantage when experienced winger Dale Stuckey finished off a great run by centre Ryan Wilkins to score the first try of the game. Outside half Josh Phillips was unable to add the two points.
The away side stretched further ahead when centre Wilkins scored a very good team try moments later. Fly half Phillips was successful with the conversion to put his team twelve points ahead.
Within fifteen minutes of the kick off, Ebbw number three Harry Drane got on the wrong side of the referee, was shown a yellow card, and spent ten minutes in the sin bin.
Shortly after, Pontypridd took full advantage of the extra man, when after successive penalties, marksman Phillips added the three points.
A great take by winger Harry Rees Weldon from the restart put the Steelmen on the front foot. After applying some pressure inside the twenty-two, the home side were unable to get their first points of the afternoon.
An impressive kick by Ebbw’s number ten Evan Lloyd, from inside his twenty-two reached the Ponty twenty-two. From the resulting play, the referee awarded Ebbw Vale a penalty and marksman Lloyd got his sides first points of the game. Shortly after, Lloyd was again successful with a penalty to shorten the deficit.
With the home side forwards starting to impose themselves on the game, a kick to the corner from a penalty saw the Steelmen forwards set up a driving maul which ended with flanker Lewis Young crossing the line with five minutes left of the first half. Lloyd successfully added the extras.
On the stroke of half time, the referee awarded Ponty a penalty inside their own half. Number ten Phillips superbly converted the kick to take his team into the break ahead.
Half Time: Ebbw Vale 13-18 Pontypridd
The Steelmen came out for the second half with a point to prove. Some strong forward play saw the ball make its way to influential scrum half Jon Evans, who put a clever grubber kick through for speedster Ryan Davies to be first to the ball to touch down in the corner. Fly half Lloyd kicked a superb conversion to put his team into the lead for the first time during the game.
With the away side missing a penalty, marksman Lloyd put Ebbw a further three points in front after the referee awarded the home side a penalty from a scrum.
On the fifty-fifth minute, Ebbw Vale coach Jason Strange replaced the experienced Cameron Regan with Gethin Williams and influential flanker Lewis Young with Chad Thomas.
Fly half Lloyd further extended the Steelmen’s lead when after good inroads into the Pontypridd defence by the home side’s forwards, saw the ball passed back to Lloyd to kick a successful drop goal.
Changes to the front row, by the home sides coach Strange saw Adam Court replace the hard working Harry Drane and Morgan Davies come onto the field for the impressive Luke Garrett.
Ill discipline by the Steelmen gave Ponty another opportunity from the boot. Outside half Phillips again successfully added the three points.
Ebbw coach Strange made his sides final change of the game on the sixty fourth minute when second row Jakub Malecki replaced the industrious Curtis Gregory.
From a neat chip through deep into the away sides twenty-two, pressure applied by the home side’s winger Ryan Davies, saw the youngster tackle Pontypridd winger Stuckey into touch. Pontypridd won the lineout, however, the Steelmen forwards turned the ball over and number eight Ryan Jenkins used his strength to power over the line to score his sides third try of the game with twenty minutes left on the clock. Lloyd was unable to add the extras.
With the game coming to a close, the referee showed Ponty number eighteen Morgan Bosanko a yellow card after an indiscretion at the scrum.
Ebbw scored their fourth try of the game when fly half Lloyd powered over the try line from short range. Lloyd, after an impressive performance, brought the game to a close by adding the two points to cap off a man of the match winning performance.
Full Time: Ebbw Vale 38-21 Pontypridd
Scorers:
Tries: Lewis Young, Ryan Davies, Ryan Jenkins, Evan Lloyd
Pens: Evan Lloyd (3) Cons: Evan Lloyd (3) Drop Goal: Evan Lloyd
The Ebbw Vale team was:
15. Morgan Richards 14. Harry Rees-Weldon 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Dominic Franchi (CAPT) 11. Ryan Davies 10. Evan Lloyd 9. Jon Evans
1. Luke Garrett 2. Ieuan Morris 3. Harry Drane 4. Dylan Bartlett 5. Curtis Gregory 6. Cameron Regan 7. Lewis Young 8. Ryan Jenkins
16. Charley Kearns 17. Morgan Davies 18. Adam Court 19. Jakub Malecki 20. Chad Thomas 21. Rory Harries 22. Kieran Meek 23. Gethin Williams
Man of the match: Evan Lloyd
After the game we spoke with Ebbw Vale winger and try scorer Ryan Davies. Ryan acknowledged the team made a slow start within the first fifteen minutes. Ryan was pleased with the comeback. He thought the team worked hard, stayed together, and connected, which disrupted the Pontypridd set piece and slowed them down. Ryan stated towards the end of the game, the team kept a cushion and came away with a victory. Finally, Ryan said he was over the moon by scoring a try and it is the best feeling ever scoring a try for Ebbw Vale.
Written by: Alex Kinsella-Evans
The Steelmen welcome Pontypridd to the Ciner Glass Community Stadium on Saturday 9th September 2023 for their first home game of the season, after coming away from Merthyr with a bonus point in their opening game.
Last season the Steelmen did the league ‘double’ over Pontypridd winning 23-22 at Sardis Road and 32-10 at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium.
Prior to the game, we spoke with forwards coach Aaron Coundley. Aaron commented that the squad were disappointed with how the Merthyr game went. However, they were straight back to work on the training pitch and are looking to make amends in Saturday’s match.
During training this week, the squad have been concentrating on putting things rights, such as the set piece and reducing the number of errors made.
Discussing Pontypridd, Aaron acknowledged they are a team that can play a wide and expansive game as well as keep it tight within the forwards.
Finally, Aaron advised the team are looking to be very good at the basics, reduce the amount of errors to a minimum and impose themselves in the best way possible. He believes the only way to do this is by winning the game.
There will be a minutes silence before the game, to honour local boy Lewi Sullivan, who lost his life recently in a tragic accident. We welcome his family and friends to the game.
#RugbyFamily #Community
Report by Alex Kinsella-Evans
Match Day Squad
15. Morgan Richards 14. Harry Rees-Weldon 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Dominic Franchi 11. Ryan Davies 10. Evan Lloyd 9. Jon Evans
1. Luke Garrett 2. Rhys Francis (CAPT) 3. Harry Drane 4. Dylan Bartlett 5. Curtis Gregory 6. Cameron Regan 7. Lewis Young 8. Ryan Jenkins
Replacements
16. Ieuan Morris 17. Morgan Davies 18. Adam Court 19. Jakub Malecki 20. Chad Thomas 21. Rory Harries 22. Kieran Meek 23. Gethin Williams
Ticket prices for the match are as follows:
Adult Ticket £12
Concession £8
Under 16s FREE (accompanied by an adult)
You can purchase tickets online before the game at the following link: 9th September – Ebbw Vale v Pontypridd | EVRFC
Season Tickets
Purchased season tickets can also be collected from the main gate on Saturday before the match.
Here is the Ebbw Vale team news for the first home game of the season against Pontypridd RFC on Saturday 9th September at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium. (Kick Off 2.30pm)
Head coach Jason Strange makes a number of changes to the squad from last weekend’s visit to Merthyr RFC.
Morgan Richards returns to the starting lineup at full back with Ryan Davies making his first appearance of the season on the wing.
Up front, the Steelmen add experience to the back row with Lewis Young starting his first game of the season alongside Cameron Regan and Ryan Jenkins.
On the bench, The Steelmen go for a 6:2 split with Ieuan Morris coming onto the bench for the first time for the Steelmen.
Ebbw Vale Team
Backs
15. Morgan Richards 14. Harry Rees-Weldon 13. Ethan Phillips 12. Dominic Franchi 11. Ryan Davies 10. Evan Lloyd 9. Jon Evans
Forwards
1. Luke Garrett 2. Rhys Francis (CAPT) 3. Harry Drane 4. Dylan Bartlett 5. Curtis Gregory 6. Cameron Regan 7. Lewis Young 8. Ryan Jenkins
Replacements
16. Ieuan Morris 17. Morgan Davies 18. Adam Court 19. Jakub Malecki 20. Chad Thomas 21. Rory Harries 22. Kieran Meek 23. Gethin Williams
Ebbw Vale RFC will play their first home game of the season when they entertain Pontypridd RFC at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium on Saturday 9th September. Kick off 2.30pm.
Ticket prices for the match are as follows:
Adult Ticket £12
Concession £8
Under 16s FREE (accompanied by an adult)
You can purchase tickets online before the game at the following link: 9th September – Ebbw Vale v Pontypridd | EVRFC
Season Tickets
Season Tickets can be collected from the Welfare on Thursday 7th September between 6.30pm and 8.00pm
Purchased season tickets can also be collected from the main gate on Saturday before the match.
Club Address
Ebbw Vale RFC
Ciner Glass Community Stadium
Eugene Cross Park, Ebbw Vale NP23 5AZ
Ebbw Vale Rugby Football Club were saddened to learn of the death of David “Dai” Watkins, Dai, as he was known, was suffering with ill health for a number of years.
Dai grew up in Blaina and from a very early age it was recognised by many keen-eyed rugby fanatics from Blaina that he had an exceptional talent.
Dai only played once for Ebbw Vale as a young man, before making the move down the Ebbw Valley and joining Newport RFC. Newport RFC were the beneficiaries of Dai’s wonderful skills .his silky smooth running and ability to beat a man. From Newport Dai gained 21 Welsh International caps from 1963 to 1967 Dai went on the British Lions tour of Australia and New Zealand in 1966 where he played in all six test matches and captained the Lions in two of those games.
In 1967 Dai left rugby union to join rugby league side Salford where Dai made a huge impact on rugby league. He played for Wales and Great Britain to become a dual code international star.
Dai was a tremendous rugby player and a real gentleman off the field. He had time to talk to people. He would often visit Ebbw Vale RFC clubhouse with his father in law, Wally Talbot, who was a former EVRFC chairman.
It goes without saying Dai Watkins was a local boy who set the rugby world on fire in both codes.
The whole of Ebbw Vale RFC would like to send our condolences to Dai s wife and family, to all at Newport RFC and to the Salford Red Devils Rugby League Club. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Rest in peace Dai. Rugby has lost a legend.
Ebbw Gain a Bonus Point
The Steelmen travelled across the Heads of the Valleys on a glorious sunny day for rugby.
Jason Strange’s team were slow out of the blocks. Straight from the kick off, Merthyr were awarded a lineout in the Ebbw Vale 22 when an Ebbw player’s foot touched the line from the opening kick-off. Winning clean ball from the lineout, the ball made its way to the home sides winger Adam Hoskins, who went over the line to score within the opening two minutes of the match. Fly half Gareth Thompson successfully added the extra’s.
With the Ironmen having most of the ball, the away side were reduced to fourteen men, when Ebbw Vale flanker Chad Thomas was shown a yellow card. Merthyr made their numerical advantage count, when from a scrum inside the Steelmen’s twenty-two, the ball made its way to centre Morgan Sieniawski, who crossed the line unopposed. Outside half Thompson again added the two points.
The away side were soon back down to fourteen men, when second row Dylan Bartlett was penalised for an offence inside Ebbw’s twenty-two. From the resulting scrum, the referee decided prop Luke Garrett had caused an offence and provided a further yellow card. Again, Merthyr decided to opt for the scrum and from the resulting play, the referee went straight under the posts, to award the Ironmen a penalty try.
As the game entered the last few moments of the first half, the Steelmen made an enforced change when co-captain Joe Franchi was replaced by fellow co-captain Rhys Francis due to an injury.
Half Time: Merthyr 21-0 Ebbw Vale
A clearly fired up away side came out for the second half with a point to prove. After applying a sustained amount of pressure inside the Merthyr twenty-two, a charge down by Curtis Gregory, saw the second row chase the ball over the line to touch down to score the away side’s first points of the game. Full back for the day Evan Lloyd added the two points.
After the referee awarded the Steelmen a further penalty inside the Ironmen’s half, the home side were given a reprieve when Ebbw marksman Lloyd uncharacteristically missed the uprights.
With the visitors growing in confidence, outside centre Ethan Phillips continued his good run from last season, when inside the home side’s twenty-two, Phillips sliced through the defence to score a well taken try. Lloyd was unsuccessful with the conversion.
Within minutes of each other, Ebbw Vale coach Strange made a host of changes. Returning to the club Morgan Davies was replaced by Harry Drane and Cameron Regan for Chad Thomas, new signing Rory Harries came on for Jon Evans, Charley Kearns replaced the ever-present Luke Garrett and the ever-dependable full back Morgan Richards came on for Kieran Meek.
From a lineout, Merthyr were reduced to fourteen men when a replacement prop was this time of the wrong side of the referee. However, with reduced numbers, the Ironmen pulled further ahead, when on the sixty third minute, fly half Thompson successfully added three points to the home side’s tally, after the referee awarded the home side a penalty in front of the posts.
The away side emptied their bench on the seventy first minute when Amir Jiwa-Walji replaced the steady Ewan Bowden.
With the game entering the final five minutes, Ebbw’s Lloyd kicked a penalty to the corner. From the lineout, the forwards put in a driving maul which resulted in replacement Rhys Francis diving over the line to bring his side back to within a score. Marksmen Lloyd was unable to add the extra two points.
Merthyr kept the ball within the dying minutes to see out the game and win the opening match of the Indigo Premiership season.
Full Time: Merthyr 24-17 Ebbw Vale
After the game we spoke with Ebbw’s number eight Ryan Jenkins. Ryan was disappointed with the start to the game. He thought the squad prepared well and had a great warm-up, but everything went out of the window. He thought the side showed what they could do in the second half but believed it was a wakeup call.
The Steelmen return to action on Saturday 9th September when they entertain Pontypridd RFC at the Ciner Glass Community Stadium with a 2.30pm kick off.
Report by Alex Kinsella-Evans
As the Steelmen look ahead to the new season, we caught up with Jason Strange to find out about how the pre-season has gone.
Jason said, “We have come a long way in a short amount of time as a team and club. It’s about progression and being patient. The club’s business model and team go hand in hand, both need to be successful.”
On the playing front Jason and the coaching staff are really pleased with the squad that has been assembled.
Jason added, “Really excited about the potential of this season’s squad, there are lots of similarities with past teams which have been very successful here. We have a clear vision of what type of club we want to be, one part is for the team to be consistently competing for trophies and another is to have a connection to our community and supporters.”
Looking ahead, Jason commented,
“Like any successful project there will be challenges along the way and takes time. I am confident and excited because we have a clear plan with everyone on and off the field going in the same direction.”
The Steelmen return to action in the Indigo Premiership on Sunday 3rd September against Merthyr RFC at the Wern.
Coaching Set-Up 2023/24
Ebbw Vale RFC are pleased to announce the coaching setup for the new season.
Jason Strange, who has made such an impact at the club on and off the field since his return 18 months ago, will continue as head coach in 2023/24.
He will continue to work alongside Steve Lang (Assistant Coach), Aaron Coundley (Forwards Coach) and Nicky Strange (Strength and Conditioning Coach) who all played an important part in the team’s improved performance on the field last season.
Joining the set-up in an advisory capacity will be Mostyn Richards. The former WRU Elite Performance Manager will be working as a learning coordinator at the club with a focus on coach development and support.
Former player Dan Haymond will continue to be team manager and will be assisted by Doug Taylor in all team matters.
Joining the medical team will be new head physio Geraint Evans, who will work alongside the returning Alan Hancock. Rhys Thomas will remain as the club doctor.
Supporting the squad will be the backroom team of Ron Taylor (Kit Manager), Dilwyn Snelgrove and Ashley Margetson. Joining the team will be Andrew Phillips who will be focusing on press and social media content.
Matthew ‘Chunky’ Williams will continue as Head Coach of the Ebbw Vale Youth team working closely with senior coaches to provide a clear route and continuity for young players coming through as part of the Steelmen’s Premiership Pathway programme. He will be assisted by Richard Brown in the coaching of the youth team.
Young club reporter, Alex Kinsella-Evans recently caught up with Ebbw Vale co-captain Joe Franchi, to discuss how the pre-season has gone and the ambitions for the upcoming season.
Joe believes pre-season training has been productive, as most of the squad have been retained from last season. As a result, the squad have been a few weeks ahead of where they would normally have been as they already understand the structure in attack and defence. Skills and Conditioning coach Nicky Strange has been working all the boys really hard too, so the squad`s fitness is looking really good across the park.
Discussing the new additions, Joe stated they had fitted in well. The squad held a social gathering after the Clifton game, which was a good way for the new boys to come out of their shell.
Joe added Jason expects the team to play on a Saturday in the same way that they have practiced through the week. He demands high standards of all the boys on and off the pitch, which is a necessity at this level if we want to be successful.
Reviewing the two pre-season friendlies played, Joe believed they were two good hit outs. The Newbridge game was tough with having to adjust to the new tackle height law and playing in terrible weather conditions. Clifton was a good test, and it was pleasing to see the set piece was dominant in both games which gives them a lot of confidence going into the new season.
When looking at areas of improvement, Joe added the team always look to improve all facets of their game. They do not want to become complacent in anything. A big emphasis has been put into the driving maul this year, which they intend to use as a real weapon this season.
Finally, Joe informed everyone at the club is ambitious and wants to be competing for silverware every year and this year is no different, the squad want to win trophies.
Written by: Alexandria Kinsella-Evans
Ebbw Vale RFC return to action against Merthyr RFC on Sunday at the Wern when they start their campaign in the Indigo Premiership.
The squad shows a good mix of youth and experience with captain Joe Franchi making his 168th appearance for the club while 18 year old former Steeler Youth product Harry Rees-Weldon makes his debut on the wing.
Summer signings Ewan Bowden and Rory Harries are selected in the match day squad while Morgan Davies and Cameron Regan return for the Steelmen having rejoined the club in the summer.
The full team is:
15. Evan Lloyd 14 Harry Rees-Weldon 13 Ethan Phillips 12 Dom Franchi 11 Ewan Bowden 10 Kieran Meek 9 Jon Evans
1 Luke Garrett 2 Joe Franchi (CAPT) 3 Morgan Davies 4 Dylan Bartlett 5 Curtis Gregory 6 Chad Thomas 7 Gethin Williams 8 Ryan Jenkins
Replacements
16 Rhys Francis 17 Charley Kearns 18 Harry Drane 19 Jakub Malecki 20 Cameron Regan 21 Rory Harries 22 Amir Jiwa-Walji 23 Morgan Richards
Ebbw Vale RFC, in conjunction with official kit supplier SCIMITAR, are delighted to launch their home and away kit for the 2023/24 season.
More details on how and where you can purchase the shirts will follow shortly.
#FeelTheSteel #BreakBoundaries
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce that four Dragon Academy players will be part of the Steelmen squad during the 2023/24 season. The four players are winger Harry Rees-Weldon, centre Cameron Davies, prop Morgan Williams and back rower Kobi Rees.
Harry is well-known to the Addicts, having been part of the Steelers Youth team last season who also went onto represent Wales U18s against Scotland and England.
Morgan, Cameron and Kobi were all part of the Dragons U18s squad which won the Regional Age Grade Championship in 2022 with Morgan and Cameron also representing Wales U18s at the Six Nations Festival in 2022.
All four players are local and from North Gwent which fits in with the club’s vision to develop young local players with Morgan coming through a strong Newbridge pathway, Kobi Rees being developed really well by Blackwood Youth and Cameron being from Tredegar and playing his rugby for a successful Cross Keys College team.
Jason Strange commented, “All of the players have really bought into the values and team culture here at Ebbw Vale and have fitted in really well with the squad. We have been delighted with their commitment, they have not missed one training session during pre-season even when they have been injured.
We have had regular communication with the Dragons Academy staff on the best development for the players and hopefully this collaborative joined up approach between the club and region will enable the players to fulfil their future playing aspirations.”
Merthyr RFC v Ebbw Vale RFC
On Sunday 3rd September, the Steelmen travel to Merthyr RFC for the opening round of the Indigo Premiership at the Wern, with a 2.30pm kick off.
The Steelmen are looking to take their good pre-season form into the match in what should be a highly entertaining encounter.
Ebbw Addicts Information
The Addicts will be providing transport to the match against Merthyr RFC on Sunday and will be leaving the Welfare at 1.30pm. Contact Adders or Tracy to book your seats on the bus. (See Addicts page for contact details)
After the match, the Addicts will stay at Merthyr Rugby Club to enjoy a few drinks before returning to the Welfare at 5.30pm
For Ebbw supporters making their own way to the match, the address for Merthyr RFC is: Merthyr Rugby Club, Wern Sports Park, CF48 1AG
Ebbw Vale RFC are delighted to announce the return of prop Morgan Davies for his second spell with the Steelmen. Morgan, a local product, has signed from Brynmawr RFC, and has previously played for Beaufort RFC.
On returning to the Steelmen, Morgan stated, “I am delighted and privileged to be back in the Ebbw colours. It’s always an honour to pull on that jersey and hopefully will have some good outings this season. Looking forward to getting back amongst it and seeing the fans on the bank.”
Merthyr RFC v Ebbw Vale RFC
The above fixture will now take place on Sunday 3rd September at the Wern with a 2.30pm kick off due to issue with ground availability on the original date.
#SupportThe Steelmen #FeelTheSteel