Aberaeron RFC defied the adverse weather conditions to just about take the derby honours with a 12-10 win in their keenly-anticipated showdown with Division Three West A leaders Lampeter at Parc Drefach last weekend.

Heavy overnight rain proved an issue, but a band of dedicated locals ensured the pitch was perfect for the occasion.

A capacity crowd was therefore able to witness table-topping Lampeter aiming to repeat recent successes and attempt to increase their advantage in the league.

Meanwhile Aberaeron, with the distraction of their Welsh Bowl semi-final tie in a fortnight’s time - could also claim local bragging rights from the drawn encounter at North Road earlier in the season.

The early skirmishes were even, but Lampeter’s first foray into home territory produced the opening score of the game. A series of rolling mauls took the game to the home line, and a final push saw Ryan Holmes cross the whitewash.

Despite having the wind advantage, however, they failed to further capitalise and make real impact for territory - and they were made to pay before the break.

Aberaeron mustered a forward onslaught that took the forward eight close to the line, and a quick release saw flanker Aaron Lewis bring the scores level.

The hosts were just as guilty of not taking advantage of the elements, but within the opening minutes of the second half they managed to go over for the all-important score from a counter attack.

A defensive clearance by Lampeter found Rhodri Thomas on half way, and an excellent run by the full back took the visitors’ defence by surprise, ending just short of the line. Quick release found Lewis again on the charge to double his try count for the afternoon, leaving Rhodri Jenkins to add a winning conversion.

With their winning streak at risk, Lampeter made considerable efforts to reduce the deficit and a rare lapse in the defence allowed Ewan Bowden an opening to claim a score, which was not converted.

The remaining minutes were contained in the middle of the park, with both sides unable to make real progress - and the final whistle signalled considerable joy in the home ranks, bragging rights intact.

The success proves a perfect fillip for Aberaeron’s upcoming Bowl semi-final against Fairwater, while Lampeter look to bounce back to reinforce their promotion credentials, with tough games ahead.