RGC’s U16 squad ended their Regional Age Grade campaign in style with a 17-12 home win over Scarlets West.

The young Gogs’ dug deep to claim their second consecutive victory against high-profile opposition, which can give them plenty of encouragement as the enter the RGC Academy set-up and work their way up to U18 level next term.

In the immediate future is the Easter Series tournament, with RGC taking on sides from Scotland in what should be another great learning curve for the talented group.

Coach Gav Hodgkinson, said: “This year’s 16s squad have been a really special bunch of young men to work with and the fact that they have won two of their final three games is fair reward for the huge effort they have put in.

“I thought that every player from one to 23 contributed to this win against what was an excellent Scarlets West side.

“The players and their families now have a few well-deserved weeks off before we come back together at the end of the month to prepare for our two matches over Easter against the Scotland Under 16s sides.”

Despite the eventual result it was the south Walians who came out of the traps flying, with second-row Caleb Salmon and skipper Iestyn Thomas both crossing the white wash within the opening 25 minutes of play.

Gradually the hosts began to impose themselves on proceedings and they were rewarded just before the break when outside centre Siencyn Metcalfe scooped up a loose pass to burst over. Ewan Denton added the extras.

The second period saw RGC level matters on 40 minutes thanks to a well worked try from Huw Davies, and they crucially went ahead for the first time in the game when winger Reece Thomas Thompson demonstrated his trademark pace before touching down to secure another outstanding triumph.