CROSS Keys got their Admiral Premiership campaign off to a winning start after edging out Bonymaen in a thriller at Pandy Park.
The visitors led 27-23 in the closing stages but Morgan Stoddart’s side got off to a winning start thanks to a try by Kieran Vodden.
Former Dragons and Wales Under-20s scrum-half Dan Babos had earlier crossed twice with Adam Tetley kicking 15 points for the Keys.
It was a case of many happy returns for Newbridge as they won their first game back in the Premiership after a gap of 19 seasons.
After weathering an early storm from visiting Brecon, the home side led 10-7 at the break before going on to win 26-19.
Simon Veal picked up a chip and chase try, and the outside half also landed a drop goal. Replacement Luke Morgan scored the other Newbridge try and full back Robbie Turley kicked 13 points.
Brecon at least left with a losing bonus point after tries from Geraint Clarke, Sam Jones and Logan Mcintosh. Jake Newman added two conversions.
Merthyr hammered out an early warning to their rivals that they mean business this season as they ran in seven tries in a comprehensive 45-19 against Neath at the Gnoll.
Former Dragons hooker Ellis Shipp ploughed over for two tries and Adam Hoskins and Finn Barrett ensured the bonus-point was in the bag by the break.
But having led 28-0 at half-time the Ironmen found themselves having to quell a home revival at the start of the second half.
Matt Davies got the scoreboard moving for the home side with a try and then new scrum half Rhodri Cole scampered over for a second that was converted by Steff Williams.
The cut the gap to 16 points before Merthyr once again accelerated away. Daff Land and Jacob Lloyd crossed to make it 40-12 before a final flourish saw both sides add an extra score.
There was a thriller at Gelligaled Park where Ystrad Rhondda pipped newly promoted Narberth 38-37.
Player coach Alex Webber and centre Cole Morgan both scored twice for the home team and outside half Rhys Trulove weighed in with seven points from the boot to ensure Ystrad kept their nose in front.
Cavan Davies and Josh Williams got the other home tries, while the Otters at least left with two well-deserved points.
Newcastle Emlyn enjoyed a 24-14 win over Cardiff Met on their Premiership debut.
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