THE Clarets dug in deep to keep their promotion dreams alive against a stubborn Oakdale on Saturday.

Aber’s starting line-up was slightly revamped for this encounter. Jack Williams, Jay Adams and Matt Charles formed the front row Will Evans returned to partner Josh Van Mael in the second row and the normal suspects of Dan Beavan Josh Davies and Rudi Lewis made up the back row.

Rhob Conick and Rhodri Webster slotted into the half-back positions, Dan Smith and Will Williams teamed up at centre and the back three consisted of Sam Vaughan, Jacob Buttler, and Lloyd Holder.

Before the first whistle blew Oakdale put a spoke in Aber’s wheel by opting to go passive and deny the visitors their strong scrummaging game.

Aber refused to be bowed, went straight on the offensive and opened the scoring with a try by full back Jacob Buttler, converted by Webster.

A penalty apiece made it 10-3 to Aber, who pushed further ahead when a 75 metre breakaway try by winger Sam Vaughan gave them a 17-3 lead .

From the restart a lack of concentration gifted Oakdale a penalty which they slotted into the corner. The forwards drove over for a try right on the stroke of half-time leaving the score finely balanced at 17-10.

Not long after the restart. Aber were yellow carded and reduced to 14 men. From the resulting penalty Oakdale opted for a passive scrum. Their number eight crossed for a converted try and the game was all square, 17-17.

The introduction of replacements Nathan Thomas and Gareth Beavan added impetus. Cleaner ball allowed them to move the ball wide for full back Buttler to score his second try, converted by Webster.

As the game drew to a close Aber introduced Ryan Joyce, Dan Dunmore and Jamie Knight off the bench and pushed for that all important bonus point try.

After keeping the ball for a long period and producing some excellent handling, Gareth Beavan and Jacob Buttler produced enough momentum to put second row Will Evans in for the try, the bonus point, and the victory.

Abergavenny now have a three week break before they play Monmouth on May 19. A game which could determine Aber’s promotion hopes. The Abergavenny Quins cup final which was postponed last Friday has yet to be rearranged. Please keep checking the club’s website and facebook for updates.