RGC head coach Mark Jones praised his side’s defensive resolve as they emerged from their trip to Aberavon with a 16-12 win.

The Gogs were made to work hard to keep their Principality Premiership title chances intact, and they now sit in second spot ahead of their away tie at Bargoed on Saturday (2.30pm).

Jones, said: “Delighted to come away with a win, but it also shows how far we have come when feel slightly disappointed in our performance and we could have made the game more comfortable really.”

“Aberavon are a good side, and we respect them and the rugby they play so to keep the try count down to two and with one of them coming at the end is pleasing.

“We made far too many errors at the breakdown which gave them the turnover ball, which then gave them more of the ball in the second half. Teams do challenge us at the breakdown, and we don’t always commit with numbers but sometimes we do need some help from the referee in regards to the legality around the ball.

“The good thing is that we were tested, and that sets us up for more of the same next week when we play Bargoed.”

The home side got off to a strong start and went ahead on six minutes when Shaun Pearce ran through the RGC rearguard to score, with Josh Garland adding the extras.

Jacob Botica reduced the arrears following a frustrating period with a well-struck penalty soon after, and things got even better with their first try of the contest which arrived courtesy of Andrew Williams.

Botica despatched the conversion, and the New Zealand fly-half was on hand to extend their lead further with two crucial penalties during key moments of the second period.

This proved to be the difference between the two sides, and despite Pearce going over for his second score late on, the visitors held on for what could be a vital victory when the final placings are decided.