Pontypool RFC took on two mini-games across the border in Bristol as part of their pre-season preparations.

For their first challenge, they faced Dings Crusaders at Shaftesbury Park, with Pooler proving victorious in a 14-10 victory.

The matches were devised as 40-minute games, providing an exceptional afternoon of entertainment for spectators.

The day began with Pontypool versus the formidable Dings, followed by a second 40-minute game between Dings and Old Redcliffians, with the final 40-minute segment pitching Old Reds against Pooler.

In the opener, the excitement surged as Pooler's No 8 Morgan Allen made a break, offloading to the supporting Adam Stratton, with the flanker going over after six minutes. Kieran Meek's conversion was successful.

This was swiftly followed by five points for Dings from a driving maul.

Pooler held their nerve and in the 27th minute were rewarded with a penalty near the Dings' 22.

Scrum half Owain Leonard took a quick tap, setting the stage for Adam Stratton’s second try, conditions which were ripe for outside half Meek to score a smooth conversion.

Dings struggled to regain territory with the final move.

After battling their way to a penalty close to Pontypool’s post, they managed to go left, scoring a try, which left the final score at Dings Crusaders 10 Pontypool 14.

The day's action continued when Pontypool kicked off against Old Redcliffians, with the first try coming just after 11 seconds in favour of Pooler as Amosa Nove crossed the whitewash and a successful conversion from Meek.

The spirited Old Reds made a comeback with a try to level the scores, but their joy was short-lived as a close-ranged try from last season’s captain, No 8 Scott Matthews, helped the Pooler regain the lead.

Silencing the Old Red's with a triumphant try around half an hour mark, Meek managed to score, widening the lead to 21-7.

In a tense final minute, a pushover try saw Matthews score again, and converted by Meek, taking the final score to a comfortable Old Redcliffians 7 Pontypool 28.

Overall, it was a useful exercise for Pontypool, who enjoyed the challenge from two different clubs.

The games also provided an opportunity for the team's new members to integrate and adapt to the squad.

Pontypool RFC's pre-season continues next Saturday, August 17 as they are set to meet with Birmingham Moseley at Billesley Common, with kick off set for 3pm.