Morgan has been out of action since wrecking his knee against Scotland in March, after missing six months last year with a similar injury. Wales coach Steve Hansen rates Morgan so highly, he’s included the Celtic Warriors fullback in his 30-strong World Cup squad, despite Morgan not having played since being stretchered off against the Scots.
Morgan got too few opportunities to make an impact in Pontypridd’s 21-23 Welsh Premiership loss to the Steelmen, but both he and Hansen will be pleased he made it to the end of the match without breaking down. His reappearance in Welsh rugby was overshadowed by injuries to both Pontypridd hookers, resulting in uncontested scrums for much of the game.
Elsewhere, 3,000 fans arrived at Rodney Parade to watch the Gwent derby between Newport and Pontypool, with the boot ruling the first half as both sides fumbled their way through 40 minutes of sloppy rugby.
Black and Ambers fly-half Daniel Griffiths slotted four penalty goals – including one from over 55 metres – before wingers Craig Richards and Will Kershaw-Naylor and prop Rhys Thomas dotted down to give their side a comfortable 32-16 victory.
Young Cardiff fly-half Gareth McCarthy showed why club officials hold him in such high regard with a sparkling kick-and-chase try to open the scoring against Llanelli at the Arms Park. The former Wales Schoolboys captain also kicked 16 points in his side’s 36-13 victory. Llanelli had the final say when replacement backrower Gavin Quinnell – younger brother of Craig and Scott – scored a late try.
Last season’s Premiership winners, Bridgend, fell 18-21 at home to Swansea, with visiting fly-half Luke Richards scoring 16 points.
Cross Keys fly-half Scott Mitchell kicked 13 points in his side’s 23-12 win at Caerphilly, despite the visiting side at one stage having three players – captain Tyron Morris, Lee Humphreys and Ben Watkins – in the sin-bin.
Bedwas sneaked home to a 15-14 at Newbridge, with Rob Phillips – older brother of Wales international Mike Phillips – scoring a crucial try, while Aberavon crushed Carmarthen Quins 41-18 and Neath enjoyed a 41-12 win at Llandovery.
Welsh Premiership results: Aberavon 41 Carmarthen Quins 18, Bridgend 18 Swansea 21, Caerphilly 12 Cross Keys 23, Cardiff 36 Llanelli 13, Ebbw Vale 23 Pontypridd
21, Llandovery 12 Neath 41, Newbridge 14 Bedwas 15, Newport 32 Pontypool 16.
