LLANIDLOES claimed the bragging rights with a battling 20-17 derby victory at home to Newtown in North Wales League Two.

In a dress rehearsal for this weekend’s National Bowl clash it was Llanidloes who began the brighter with Adam Price’s penalty followed by a try from No8 Paul Jehu.

Llanidloes further extended their lead with wing Richard Pryce racing onto a kick to cross for a try.

Newtown rallied and reduced the arrears with their first venture into the home 22 with a try from Dylan Leach, converted by Will Holloway.

Town made further inroads after the break with Holloway adding a penalty to his points haul.

Llanidloes were sparked into life with centre Rob Jones scurrying over for a try, converted by Price to restore their 10 point advantage.

The match became dominated by Newtown penalties and yielded a breakthrough when Leach stormed over for his second try of the afternoon with the extras added by Holloway.

Home discipline wobbled with Llanidloes reduced to 13 men as Newtown built up the pressure during 14 minutes of extra-time but the hosts held firm for a hard-fought derby victory