RGC were unable to build on positive recent momentum as they fell to a narrow 20-17 loss at Ebbw Vale.

The Gogs’ hopes of a top-four Indigo Group Premiership were dealt a blow despite a spirited display on their travels, and they now travel to Cardiff on Friday night before welcoming Bridgend Ravens to Stadiwm Zip World in Colwyn Bay on Saturday, March 21.

A series of infringements early on gave the home side two opportunities to open the scoring, but Rhys Jones was unable to despatch the penalty chances which flew past the upright.

RGC fly-half Billy McBryde, who was making his 50th appearance for the club, made no mistake with the opportunity that came his way soon after the break the deadlock.

The away side had to withstand some heavy pressure during the remainder of the first period, but a number of superb tackles kept their narrow three-point cushion intact at the half time whistle.

After the break saw Jones finally put a penalty over at the third time of asking to level matters, but the Gogs’ responded in style when a smart line-out move resulted in Jordan Scott crossing the white wash. McBryde added the extras.

Vale picked themselves up swiftly and notched their first try of the contest when Lewis Young dotted over, and Jones fired over the conversion to tie things up once again.

Jones’ drop goal went over off the post to give the hosts the lead for the first time, but RGC came back brilliantly and regained the advantage when talented back Danny Cross produced a fine run before touching down, which he also converted.

The home side were under significant pressure in the closing stages, and they finally relented on 78 minutes when Daniel Hill made the most of some good possession to go over. Jones notched the extras to round off the scoring and condemn the Gogs’ to a late loss.