It was a professional performance from Tom Smith’s side against a Neath side which caused Bridgend plenty of problems, crossing for three tries of their own on the day.

Bridgend started the better and after some patient phase play, captain Zac O’Driscoll bundled over for a try converted by Supporters’ Man of the Match, Jamin Hodgkins.

The try spurred Neath in to life though and after some untidy midfield play, Neath’s backs worked the ball across field for former Bridgend wide man Ryan Griffiths to score.

The visitors kept up the pressure and following the award of an offside penalty, Kristian Jones put them ahead with a simple penalty.

It was all Neath at this stage and five minutes later, powerful centre Ryan Evans was on hand to dot down after an offload from tighthead Tim Ryan. Jones converted.

The home side had to go again, and scored quickly after. A goal line drop out was fielded by Jordan Collier, who made good yards before Hodgkins sent a stunning pass to flyer Cam Ellis out wide. He was able to get within metres of the line before offloading to Chris Williams for a try. Hodgkins converted.

The half looked set to end with Neath ahead, but Hodgkins popped over a penalty to give his side the advantage at half time.

HT Bridgend 17-15 Neath

The second half was much improved from Bridgend and they effectively settled the game early in the second half. Gareth Harvey’s midfield surge set the tone for a sweet try from Edd Howley. The full back scored after Hodgkins soft hands fed Dylan Burrows, who in turn handed the score to Howley on a plate. Jamin again converted.

Kristian Jones kicked three points for Neath shortly after to edge them closer, but it was that man Howley scoring again for Bridgend soon after to give his side a bonus point.

Hodgkins appeared to make the game safe with a penalty ten minutes from time, but Neath did not give up. Morgan Kneath got Neath’s third score of the afternoon with the clock well in the red and his side were then in the hunt for at least a losing bonus point. It wasn’t to be though, as Bridgend’s defence held firm to secure a welcome victory at the Dunraven Brewery Field.

Bridgend are next in action when they face RGC at Stadiwm CSM in a fortnight in a 3pm kick off.