TORFAEN Tigers tasted defeat for the first time this season after being stung by a late brace by Welsh Premier League champions Valley Cougars, writes Ian Golden.

Two tries by Dean Higgs secured a 12-6 success for the hosts in the top of the table clash at Treharris RFC.

Despite the low scoring, it was an outstanding encounter with Torfaen leading at half-time thanks to a 36th minute try from Eauan Morries that Ieuan-Rhys Beal converted well, curling the ball between the sticks.

The try was only scored when both sides were down to 12 men after Cougars' Danyl Davies and Tigers' Darrel Moyle were sinbinned for their part in a scuffle.

Handling errors did play a part in the low score, but that's not to take it away from the outstanding defensive performance from both sides throughout.

Shane Lee kicked well for the Cougars and was unlucky not to set up more than one try, whilst Torfaen's Morries could have had a hat-trick of tries. Louie Pengelly and Josh Symonds were also close to scoring for the Tigers in the first half.

It was end-to-end action in the second half. Anthony Noonan and Ethan Coombes were both close for the Cougars whilst Davies was short of the line in another opportunity.

Tigers' best chance for a second half try came 15 minutes before the end. Dai Brunnock kicked forward three times soccer style but his final boot took the ball over the deadball line.

When Cougars' Rhys Davies was sent off for retaliation moments later, it looked like that it would be Torfaen's game.

But the Cougars fought back with spirit and Higgs' tries in the 70th and 74th minute were scored when his side were down to 12 men. Ben Jones converted both to seal a very hard-fought victory.

Elsewhere Bridgend Blue Bulls beat Rhondda Outlaws 30-26 while Cardiff Blue Dragons won 22-0 against Cardiff Athletic.