CHEPSTOW RFC kept their promotion hopes alive with a narrow victory over Aberbargoed at the weekend. Early indications were that the home team would ease through the game, as they scored two quick tries by Tom Bradley and James Francis, followed by a penalty from Nick Williams.

Although Aber replied with a penalty, Chepstow extended their lead to 20-3 with a Will Barnston try and Nick Williams’ conversion.

Just before half-time, Aberbargoed scored a converted try to reduce the arrears.

After the break Chepstow scored two quick tries through Sam L Thomas and Nick Williams to make it 30 - 10 and seemed to be well in charge.

But things didn’t pan out that way as the opposition found a new lease of life, scoring a penalty and three tries, two of which were converted, to take the lead 30 - 32, with minutes remaining.

But Chepstow dug deep and a Tom Bradley try regained the lead which they maintained to the final whistle.

Next week Chepstow travel to St Julian’s (Newport) for another important match in their quest for promotion.

Bob Cypher