Bridgend's Wales and British Lions three-quarter Dafydd James is a major doubt
for Wales' autumn Test matches after damaging his shoulder in this match.
James will miss clashes with Tonga, Argentina and world champions Australia
next month, with the 25-year-old taken off midway through the second period
after taking a heavy blow to his left shoulder and was immediately taken to the
Princess of Wales Hospital for X-rays.
His injury was yet another blow for a Bridgend side still reeling from the
midweek news that their main financial backer Leighton Samuel may be pulling out
at the end of this season.
Once again Bridgend dominated in terms of territory and possession but failed
to have anything to show for their efforts.
Neath, who have only lost three times to Bridgend in 22 league meetings, took
a second-minute lead when Wales winger Shane Williams cut through for a try
converted by Lee Jarvis.
Bridgend responded with a penalty from fullback Adrian Durston and then added
a try on the half hour from wing Gareth Jones.
However Jarvis slotted a second penalty to give the Welsh All Blacks a 13-8
interval lead.
Jarvis and Durston then traded penalties midway through the second period
before the home side drew level with a superb individual try from winger Danny
Jones.
But straight from the restart, Neath restored their lead as Jarvis went over
unopposed to make it 21-16.
Neath hooker Barry Williams and Bridgend prop Chris Loader were sin-binned
following an exchange of punches six minutes from time and although Durston
hauled Bridgend to within two points with a last-minute penalty they were unable
to find a winning score.
Teams:
Bridgend: Durston, G. Jones, James, G.
Thomas, D. Jones,
Hewlett, Harries, Loader, G. Williams, Noon, Clapham, Stephens,
Bryan, Ringer, Budgett.
Not Used: Devereux, Funnell, P. Williams, Ferris, Thiel,
Stewart, van Rensburg.
Tries: G. Jones, D. Jones.
Pens: Durston 3.
Neath: Connor, Tiueti, Bateman, Storey, S. Williams, Jarvis,
A. Moore, D. Jones, B. Williams, Millward, Slade, Llewellyn,
Mocelutu, Sinkinson, Bonner-Evans.
Not Used: Morris, K. James, S. Jones, Francis, Phillips,
P. Jones, Howells.
Tries: S. Williams, Jarvis.
Cons: Jarvis.
Pens: Jarvis 3.
Att: 4,000
Ref: D Davies (WRU).
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