CROSS Keys remain on course for a second Swalec Cup Final appearance in three years after putting out holders Bridgend to reach the quarter-finals, writes Carl Field.

Scrum-half James Leadbeater and lock Scott Andrews scored for Keys in their rearranged second round tie at the Brewery Field to set up a last eight home clash against either Neath or Cardiff Met at Pandy Park.

Keys included ex-Raven Owen Howe in their starting XV while another former Bridgend man – prop Gary Carpenter – was among the replacements.

And, after a scrappy opening that included yellow cards for home back-row Zac O’Driscoll and Keys hooker Darren Hughes, it was centre Howe who got the scoreboard ticking with a penalty.

But the holders went ahead six minutes later when a lineout and resulting driving maul saw No8 Ashton Evans pile over, although fly-half Joseph Scrivens was wayward with his conversion attempt.

A second Howe penalty edged Keys back in front before a Scrivens effort from the tee made it 8-6 to Bridgend.

However, Keys regained the lead four minutes before the break when Leadbeater drove over for their first try, converted by Howe, to give them a 13-8 lead at the break.

They extended their advantage after the break when Andrews darted over after a good team move, with Howe converting to make it 20-8.

Back came Bridgend with replacement Matthew John scoring their second try just before the hour, although Scrivens’ conversion kick crashed back off the posts.

The Ravens pressed while Scrivens then had a penalty fall just short on 64 minutes.

With time ticking away, wing Mike Powell looked to be in down the left for Bridgend, but he was held up.

Bridgend – Tries: A Evans, M John; Pen: J Scrivens.

Cross Keys – Tries: J Leadbeater, S Andrews; Cons: O Howe (2); Pens: O Howe (2).