Aberavon 10 Pontypridd 33
Gareth McCarthy was the star of the show as Pontypridd booked their place in next month’s Konica Cup final with a victory over Aberavon.
Fly half McCarthy scored 13 points, including a crucial second half try for the 2006 winners, who will face Neath at the Millennium Stadium on May 17th.
Gavin Dacey put Ponty on their way before McCarthy added two penalties and a conversion to hand them a comfortable 13-3 half time lead. Aberavon were hoping to reach their first cup final since 1975 and were back in the match following a penalty try on 51 minutes.
But McCarthy’s match-winning try clinched the tie on 67 minutes before late tries by wings Chris Clayton and Chris Baker sparked wild celebrations at the Arms Park.
Scorers
Aberavon:
Tries: Penalty Try
Pens: R Thomas
Cons: R Thomas
Pontypridd:
Tries: Dacey, McCarthy, Clayton, Baker
Pens: McCarthy (2)
Cons: McCarthy, Clayton