BEDWAS got their Premiership campaign off to a winning start at Bridge Field after pipping Carmarthen Quins at the death thanks to the golden touch of a replacement.

It looked like the Quins were going to head home with the spoils when they led 16-15 heading into injury time.

However, flanker Robert Carter powered over for a score that secured the four points and also ended a seven-game Premiership losing streak.

The West Walians led 9-3 at the break courtesy of three penalties from former Newport fly-half James Dixon to one by prolific Bedwas number 10 Richard Powell.

With the wind at their backs the hosts began to inch their way closer after the break with Powell levelling the scores with a brace of penalties.

The former Newbridge man’s fourth success put Bedwas in front for the first time on the hour but the Quins came firing back, centre Rheon James going under the sticks and Dixon adding the extras.

Powell made it a one-point deficit with a fifth penalty but it looked like Bedwas would have to settle for a losing bonus point.

But then Carter, fresh off the bench, scored after being put clear by captain Phil Sargent to give Steve Law’s side the perfect start to the season.