RGC suffered a blow in their hopes of securing the Principality Premiership crown as they fell to a 25-20 defeat at Pontypridd.

The title chasers and Mark Jones’ men will look to get back to winning ways in front of the Stadiwm Zip World crowd when they entertain Bedwas on Saturday (2.30pm).

The home side made a bright start and they went ahead on four minutes through a well struck penalty from Diggy Bird, but the Gogs’ responded extremely well and notched the first try of the contest after 13 when a superb run from Tiaan Loots fed Rhys Williams for a touch down.

Things got even better for the visitors on 24 minutes when they extended their advantage courtesy of a superb score from Dion Jones following good work from Harri Evans. Jacob Botica hit the post with his conversion attempt.

This provoked a strong response from the hosts, who got themselves back into the clash on 29 minutes after Dale Stuckey went over in the corner, and they received a further boost soon after when Danny Cross was shown a yellow card which resulted in a spell on the sidelines.

Ponty wasted no time in making their most of the number superiority, with Huw Bowden crashing over on 37 minutes to put them ahead, with Bird adding the extras.

After the break saw the home side increase their advantage immediately following the restart on 41 minutes as Rhys Shellard rounded off a sweeping team move to dive over in the corner. Bird fired over a brilliant conversion.

New Zealand fly-half Botica reduced the arrears shortly after with a penalty on 47 minutes, but despite dominating a scrappy period of play midway through the half Jones’ side were unable to penetrate the home rearguard which proved to be crucial.

Bird continued his fine form with the boot to despatch another penalty on 59 minutes after missing an opportunity a short period before, and the Gogs’ task was made even more difficult as Iolo Evans was sent to the sin bin soon after.

Tim Grey ensured a nervy end to proceedings with stoppage time score from close range that Botica converted, but it was not enough to prevent them from falling to defeat.