Cardiff Overpower Valliant Vale In Wind Assisted Second Half

CARDIFF 26, EBBW VALE 16
Cardiff overcame a 16 point interval deficit to keep themselves in the race for the Welsh/Scottish League title.
Iestyn Harris, playing at outside half, was the chief inspiration in the second half fight back as he kicked 11 points and conjured up a try out of nothing for Rhys Williams.
The Steelmen, with first use of the strong wind, rattled the home side with their directness and wing Aaron Takarangi grabbed a try to add to the inevitable three penalties and a conversion from Gareth Cull.
But the big question at the break was would it be enough of a lead? The answer, as Harris began chipping away with his boot, soon became obvious.
In a turn around something similar to that at Eugene Cross Park earlier in the season, when Ebbw turned a 17-3 deficit into a 22-20 victory over the blue and blacks with the wind at their backs, it was Cardiff who came up trumps.
Two Harris penalties cut the gap to 10 points and then the outside half launched a counter attack out of his 22 with the help of Craig Hudson.
The long striding wing broke up the touchline and then found Rhys Williams in support to sprint clear for a great try. Harris converted and suddenly there were only three points in it.
Harris’ third penalty levelled matters before tries by Martyn Williams and Anthony Sullivan put Cardiff in the clear.
The only bad note for the home side was an injury to Hudson during the build up to Rhys Williams’ try. He left the ground with his knee in a brace and will need a scan this week to see if he requires surgery.
Scorers: Cardiff: Tries: R Williams, M Williams, A Sullivan; Con: I Harris; Pens: I Harris 3. Ebbw Vale: Try: A Takarangi; Con: G Cull; Pens: G Cull 3.