Premiership round-up

The first weekend of the new Premiership season saw potential title contenders Cardiff, Neath, Newport and Swansea forge ahead with bonus point wins.

The capital club set the pace with an emphatic eight try home romp over Carmarthen Quins by 61pts to 18. Neath were also big score winners, and also notching up eight tries in a 3pts to 52 away win at Glamorgan Wanderers.

Not to be outdone Swansea clinched their bonus point courtesy of a five try, 16pts to 37 away win at Llandovery. Five tries were also run in by Newport as they secured a home win over Llanelli, although a closer fought encounter, by 40pts to 36.

Pontypridd relied on the trusty boot of Dean Gunter, kicking six penalties to establish a 23pts to 15 advantage over Cross Keys at Sardis Road. Pontypool were also home winners, getting the better of Gwent rivals Bedwas by 27pts to 16.

The closest fought battle of the day saw Premiership newcomers Tonmawr secure a first point – a losing bonus point in going down at home 18pts to 19 against Aberavon. Two of Tonmawr’s penalties were kicked by former Ponty outside half Dai Flanagan.