RGC were unable to make it back-to-back victories as they fell to a narrow 27-26 reverse at in-form Principality Premiership rivals Ebbw Vale.

The Gogs produced a spirited display in front of the BBC Scrum V cameras but were unable to gain a critical advantage late on, and Mark Jones’ men will be hoping for better fortune during another televised contest this Friday against Pontypridd at Stadiwm Zip World.

The visitors began the contest in a positive fashion and went ahead when Danny Cross continued his fine recent form with another try after a sustained spell of phases. Billy McBryde added the extras.

This was met by a swift response from the Steelmen, who notched their first score soon after when Don Haymond penetrated the Gogs’ rearguard to cross the white wash, and a superb conversion from Rhys Jones brought the scores level.

Jones was on hand to despatch a penalty from distance following a series of infringements to put the hosts’ ahead for the first time, and things got even better for Vale when former Wales Sevens star Toby Fricker teed up Lloyd Evans for an easy score. Jones added the extras.

After the break saw the away side get themselves back into the contest immediately following the restart when McBryde demonstrated some fancy footwork to go over for a try which he also converted, but Vale increased their cushion through another penalty from the impressive Jones to halt their momentum on 50 minutes.

Once again, the Gogs showed tremendous resolve and scored another try when Harri Evans finished off a sweeping attack midway through the half, and their comeback was complete when full-back Dion Jones collected a long kick from Tom Hughes for a touch down. McBryde hit both conversion attempts.

There was still time for further drama late on as the home side got their noses in front at the perfect time when a surging drive from their pack resulted in Cam Regan scoring, and Jones held his nerve to fire over the conversion and condemn Jones’ men to defeat.