CROSS KEYS slipped to defeat by Bridgend in a closely-fought battle at a rain-soaked Pandy Park, writes Paul Hopkins.

Keys began brightly and Leon Andrews made a break up to halfway, but was penalised for holding on after the tackle.

Jamie Murphy kicked to touch and Aaron Grabham raced down the wing, but he failed to find the supporting Mike Powell and the move broke down.

The Keys forwards had an opportunity to drive towards the line with a close range set piece, but crucially lost possession at the maul.

The home pack soon had another chance as they camped on the Bridgend line and this time they remained patient with captain Scott Matthews crashing over for a try. Josh Prosser converted.

Murphy replied with a well taken drop goal after a period of Ravens pressure, but it was Cross Keys who should have added to their try count, only for Prosser to spill an interception.

Disaster struck for the home side when a calamitous forward pass by David Richards was picked up by Chris John who strolled over for an easy try for the visitors. Murphy converted.

Nathan Edwards raced up to the twenty-two and a Murphy chip to the corner was collected by Lloyd Lewis, who accidentally stepped into touch. The pack spared his blushes though by securing a turnover.

A powerful break over half way by Matthews sent Keys marching forward and Mathew Powell made a jinking run through the Ravens’ defence, but Prosser’s kick to the corner was comfortably marked by Lewis.

A neat move by the Ravens’ backline caught out the home side, but Grabham was held up over the line. Keys gave away another penalty and this time Murphy kicked the three pointer.

The home side picked up a loose ball with Powell racing up to the twenty-two, but his side crucially lost possession forward.

Cross Keys – Try: S Matthews; Con: J Prosser

Bridgend – Try: C John; Con: J Murphy; Pen: J Murphy; DG: J Murphy