EBBW Vale will attempt to return to winning ways when they head to Bridgend in the Principality Premiership this evening, writes Chris Kirwan.

It would be wrong to say that the third-placed Steelmen are aiming to get back on the horse after their super start to the season as they have taken on the Premiership's top two teams and were unlucky to emerge with a solitary losing bonus point.

Had Vale been awarded a penalty try that they felt they deserved then they would have toppled Carmarthen Quins on their own turf rather than suffering a 26-24 loss while champions Pontypridd were quick to admit that Ebbw deserved something for their toil after a 27-19 defeat at Eugene Cross Park last Friday.

But there can be no sob stories against the Ravens if Ebbw are to head into a month-long break from Premiership action in a strong position in the race for the playoffs.

"We knew how tough the last two weeks would be but I felt that we deserved a bit more that we got," said head coach Jason Strange.

"It was always going to be about the small margins but we have taken a lot of confidence from the two games and now need to finish this block of fixtures with a good performance and a good result.

"We have to make sure our mental preparation is strong and we have to go to Bridgend with a good attitude and respect because they are a good side, especially at the Brewery Field.

"The key word for us is consistency because in the last fortnight we haven't come out on top because of costly periods of 10 to 15 minutes."

Bridgend sit third from bottom and were beaten by Bedwas at the Brewery Field last Sunday.

Ebbw Vale don't play in the league until December 20 so have arranged a friendly against Blackwood at Eugene Cross Park on Thursday (kick-off 7.30pm) and Strange is attempting to line up more encounters next month.