YSTRADGYNLAIS have been crowned champions after winning the top of the table clash against Birchgrove last week 18-12. The Blues secured the title with a hard fought victory at their title rivals last Wednesday night (May 7). Hooker Daniel Morgan crossed for an early try, converted by Bowdy Davies, who extended the lead with penalties. Jordan Williams hit back for the hosts with a try before the break but then the game became a card fest with first Birchgrove's Kyle Davies yellow carded, then teammate James Evans sin-binned - and Ystrad capitalised as winger Ian Evans crossed over in the corner to make it 18-5. Birchgrove pulled themselves back into the game when Ricky Rosser's converted try made it 18-12 to set up a nervy conclusion with 10 minutes remaining, in the midst of two visiting players seeing yellow. Substitute scrum half Liam Harris cleared the ball to touch on the final play though, whcih signalled the final whistle and Ystrad's first league title since 1995. For more on Ystrad's day in the sun, pick up this week's Brecon & Radnor Express, out now.