February 02, 2026 - 190 views
RGC 34 Cardiff 5
SRC Cup
Saturday 31 January 2026 – Stadiwm Eirias
RGC returned to winning ways with an assured bonus-point victory over Cardiff in the SRC Cup at Stadiwm Eirias.
Cardiff looked to test RGC early on, competing well in the air and putting the home side’s handling under pressure with a series of kicks. RGC had the opportunity to take early points, but Dion Jones was unable to convert a penalty.
The opening exchanges were physical, with both sides competing fiercely at the contact area. When RGC opted to kick to touch from another penalty, the kick proved too long and Cardiff were handed possession. Moments later, the visitors capitalised, moving the ball upfield before Dewi Cross crossed in the corner for what would be Cardiff’s only score of the afternoon.
RGC responded strongly, with the pack driving over the line and scrum-half Connor Dever finishing the move. Dion Jones added the conversion to put the Gogs back in front.
The home side began to dominate the collisions and gain momentum at the breakdown, although Cardiff remained dangerous when they moved the ball wide. The visitors twice kicked to touch from penalties, backing their attacking lineout, but RGC’s defence held firm, forcing them to hold the ball up over the line.
Strong defensive work continued, with Delwyn Jones winning a key penalty at the breakdown to relieve pressure after Cardiff enjoyed a spell of territory. RGC then increased the tempo, carrying hard towards the try line but initially failing to turn pressure into points.
Both sides exchanged attacking phases, with Cardiff using the width and RGC opting for direct runners. Space began to open up, and Caio Parry caused problems down the right wing with a series of strong carries. As the half drew to a close, Dion Jones slotted a penalty to give RGC a 10–5 lead at the break.
Cardiff started the second half positively, moving straight into RGC territory, but once again were unable to capitalise. When RGC entered the Cardiff 22, they showed patience, going through multiple phases before Delwyn Jones powered over for the try. Dion Jones added the extras.
Cardiff’s lineout continued to struggle, and repeated turnovers frustrated their attacking efforts. Even when they retained possession, RGC’s defensive edge work—particularly from Sam Jones—kept the visitors at bay.
RGC began to find more space as the game stretched. Louis Williams and Caio Parry both threatened down the wings, and further pressure was rewarded when Dion Jones converted another penalty.
Despite earning a number of penalties, Cardiff were unable to turn pressure into points, with RGC’s defence repeatedly repelling attacks close to the line. Errors crept into Cardiff’s game as they chased the score, leading to a scrappy period that lacked fluency but favoured the home side on the scoreboard.
RGC secured the next try when Sam Jones powered down the wing, carrying defenders with him to touch down. Caio Parry added the conversion.
Delwyn Jones left the field to an ovation from the crowd of 1,144 after an outstanding performance at the breakdown. His replacement, Afon Bagshaw, made an immediate impact by winning a turnover penalty.
With the game almost won, Sam Williams finished strongly, collecting the ball at pace and running in for RGC’s bonus-point try. Caio Parry converted to complete a convincing 34–5 victory and kick-start the Gogs’ cup campaign.
Post-match reaction – Osain Burt:
“It was a good day out. We stuck to our game plan, which we didn’t do last week. There are still areas we need to improve, including our discipline, but we wanted to apply pressure and make sure they had to work hard.”
