MATTHEW John’s late try earned Bedwas a bonus-point win as another solid performance from the entire squad saw them move into top spot of Tier One of the Principality Premiership, writes Ian Lovell.

Steve Law’s side backed up their win at Ebbw Vale with a comprehensive 24-7 success at Carmarthen Quins thanks to a brace by John and tries by forwards Geraint Edmunds and Robson Blake.

Carmarthen had first chance to put points on the board after Bedwas were penalised for not rolling away at a ruck. Craig Evans, however, pulled his effort wide.

The Bedwas response was quick. A Carmarthen clearance kick was charged down by Richard Powell and John was fastest to the loose ball and touched down in the left hand corner. Powell’s tricky conversion from out wide went wide.

Shortly afterwards Powell had a penalty chance from just in his own half but his effort struck the left hand upright and bounced out of play.

Carmarthen were determined to get back into the game and did so after 18 minutes. Quick hands across the line exposed a narrow Bedwas defence and left wing Morgan Griffiths exploited the space to cross; Evans adding the conversion to put his side ahead.

Both sides looked to increase their lead but it was Bedwas who struck next. James Thomas made a fine break only to be hauled down 15 metres from the home line but the supporting Edmunds picked up the ball and ran through a posse of tacklers to restore Bedwas’ lead. Powell’s conversion extended the lead.

Both sides defended well and half time came with no further addition to the scores.

Bedwas dominated possession and territory for the opening 20 minutes of the second half but were unable to turn this dominance into points.

However, keeping the pressure on eventually gained its reward with Blake being driven over for a try, Powell’s conversion put his side 12 points ahead with 12 minutes left to play.

Bedwas were in no mood to surrender their hard earned lead and continued to dominate possession.

Again patience was key as a great break in midfield by Jack Dixon put Matthew John clear for his sides’ fourth and bonus point try. Powell was wide with his conversion but there was insufficient time for the Quins to spoil the party.

On Bedwas take a break from league rugby with a home WRU National Cup, round two game against Merthyr.