RHAYADER ran out 43-15 winners at Llandrindod Wells in front of a bumper derby gate of more than 300 to claim a place in the semi-finals of the Cambrian Training Mid Wales Cup.

The eagerly anticipated quarter final tie included social media messages from Welsh star Dan Lydiate, raised in Abbeycwmhir, along with former fellow British Lion Andy Powell and England international Guy Thomas.

The hosts opened the scoring with full back Ashley Hammond converting an early penalty.

Rhayader ill discipline saw centre Lewis Pryne sin binned for a high tackle but despite their disadvantage the Rams led when outside half Dillon O’Leary collected a chip to race over for a try which he also converted.

The Rams increased their lead soon after with Gareth Dodd and O’Leary combining to release full back Jordan Phillips who danced around four home defenders to cross for his side’s second try of the day.

Rhayader ended the half with 13 men with Jordan Smith banished to the bin but managed to deny Llandrindod a response despite a strong end to the half.

Rhayader increased their lead after the break with strong running from Steve Boore and Andre Potgieter gaining territory before Aaron Martin released player coach Danny Davies to score against his former club.

Davies also played a part in Rhayader’s fourth try by releasing fellow former Budgie Dan Oakley to crash over for a try against his former club with O’Leary converting.

However Llandrindod were sprung into life and were rewarded for the endeavour of their pack when Dan Oakley crossed for a try

Both teams rang the changes during the final stages but it was Rhayader who ended the the tie on top with O’Leary crossing for his second after Paul Griffiths crossed for a try before their tally was completed by Bowen Hamer.

Llandrindod rallied and had the final say with Joe Hughes powering over for a consolation try late on, converted by Hammond.

Triumphant coach Danny Davies said: “It was the first time Rhayader Rugby Club had got to this stage of the cup and first time in 10 years they had beaten local rivals Llandod which is a credit to how the club has turned around this season.

“We now head into the next round and know COBRA will be our biggest test yet.”