CHEPSTOW RFC were knocked off the top of the table when they lost 22-17 to title rivals Llanhilleth at the weekend, writes Bob Cypher.

Chepstow started well with Sam Thomas going over for a try after 20 minutes and Elliot Cracknell added the conversion.

But the home side hit back with a try of their own just before half-time to leave the score 7-5 to Chepstow at the break.

The second half saw both teams trying to get the upper hand, but Chepstow increased their lead when Cracknell intercepted a loose pass before running in from 50 metres for a try which he converted.

The home side replied with a converted try from short range. Penalties were then exchanged - Cracknell taking his personal match tally to 12 points - to leave the score 17-15 in Chepstow’s favour with time running out.

But in the final play of the game, Chepstow’s hopes of a famous victory were dashed when a cross-field kick landed in Llanhilleth’s left wing’s hands and he scored unopposed.

Manager Dean Thomas said the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow for his players in a game they could have won.

Next up are New Panteg at home on March 2nd.