Neath kept the Welsh Premiership title race alive by ending Bridgend's unbeaten league record in a keenly contested top-of-the-table clash at The Gnoll.

Wales international wing Shane Williams scored two second-half tries and fly-half Shaun Connor kicked 22 points as Neath reduced the deficit at the top to five points.

The sides still have to play each other again at the Brewery Field later this month, a game which will go a long way in deciding the destination of the championship.

Playing with a strong wind at their backs, Bridgend, boasting a record of 11 wins out of 11 before the game, made an impressive start, but were unable to turn their early possession into points.

Instead it was Neath who were first on the scoreboard through two penalties by Connor.

But with the game losing its momentum, Neath number eight Hywel Jenkins was yellow carded for preventing Bridgend from taking a quick penalty and full-back Gareth Cull reduced the arrears with a simple penalty.

Opposing props Duncan Jones and Chris Horsman quickly followed into the sin bin as referee Nigel Owens lost his patience with the game heading towards half-time.

With both sides restored to full strength at the turnaround, it was the Ravens who were quickest out of the blocks with Horsman ploughing over from close range following a charge by outstanding number eight Shawn van Rensberg.

But back came Neath as Williams danced and twisted his way over for a superb solo try.

Connor's boot extended the advantage to 19-10 as Neath continued to turn the screw before Williams claimed his second from long range after an interception by replacement scrum-half Patrick Horgan.

Bridgend did stage a late rally with tries by replacement Ryan Jones and flanker Cory Harris, but two injury-time Connor penalties ensured the points went to Neath.