Bridgend suffered a heartbreaking final play defeat to Bedwas last time out. Despite leading 16-6 at the interval, Bedwas made a remarkable comeback to steal the spoils 16-23. The defeat was Bridgend’s fifth of the season, leaving them in tenth place.
Conversely, Ebbw Vale have made a stunning start to the season. Following promotion from the Championship, the Steelmen have continued their formidable winning form to storm to third place in the Premiership. Their progress was halted by Pontypridd on Friday evening at Eugene Cross Park, but the Championship winners have proved they are a match for anyone in their short spell back in the Premiership.
The sides haven’t met since 2011, but it was Bridgend who completed a comprehensive 27-6 win over Ebbw last time they played in competitive action. Bridgend have won three out of the previous five meetings, with one draw. Although a lot has changed since the teams last look the field against one another.
There are a number of Ravens on Ospreys duty this weekend, these include Tom Grabham, Matt Dwyer, Marc Thomas, Rory Thornton, Ifereimi Boladau & Tom Habberfield who are all in the squad to face Ulster on Friday evening.
Paul Young and Mike Hook stick with a similar side which faced Aberavon and Bedwas. Rhodri Hughes returns to Bridgend colours to take his place in the second row as Scott Hicks comes in for the injured Zac O’Driscoll.
Bridgend: Ryan Evans, Tom O’Flaherty, Steve Winn, Adam Williams, Mike Powell, James Dixon, Chris Williams; Gary Carpenter, Ashleigh James, Cai Lewis, Rhodri Hughes, Ben Jones, Scott Hicks, Adam O’Driscoll, Andrew Waite.
Replacements: Greg George, Mitchell Auger, Jon Thomas, Kyle Evans, Ashton Evans, Derrick Tredray, Mike Kennedy & Alex Fenton.
