THE last occasion that Aberaeron tasted defeat on home soil was 1 September 2018 - and that remarkable unbeaten home record continued with a 15-13 win against Haverfordwest last weekend.

Such has been the fortress that is Parc Drefach that several much-fancied teams have come and failed to register a rare success, and that was the case again against the south Pembrokeshire outfit.

Despite their superb progress in the National Bowl competition, the Seagulls have spluttered in the league since the turn of the year, and it took until the last minute for Haverfordwest to succumb.

Aberaeron had got off to the worst possible start, allowing the visitors to take the lead with an early penalty by Mikey Jones - but it was very much an evenly contested match for the much of the half. The highlight was a kick and chase by Morgan Llewelyn, which fell just short of the line and was cleared by the visitors.

Resultant pressure however brought a penalty which struck the upright and the loose ball eventually found flanker Aaron Lewis, who crashed over for a third try in two games to make it 5-3 at the break.

The advantage swayed within minutes of the restart as Haverfordwest raised their game with a try from lock Jack Clancy, and despite an opportunist effort from young wing Steffan Jones which finished just short, the visitors extended the lead when lock Ashley George finished off a concerted drive for an 8 point lead.

A crucial penalty by Rhodri Jenkins brought the hosts back into contention, and with the clock ticking down Aberaeron had a purple period, resulting in the forwards creating an opening for Lewis Tomlins to claim the crucial try.

With the wind against him, the conversion kick was always difficult, but the attempt by Jenkins sailed through the uprights for a late, late success, to ensure that unbeaten home run remained intact.

It was a well-earned win, albeit last minute, but all eyes will now turn to their National Bowl semi-final tie on 21 March - where the Seagulls will aim to conquer Fairwater and secure a place in the final at the Principality Stadium. No pressure.

Meanwhile Aberaeron are up to fourth position in Division Three West A, and they will be keen to the maintain pressure on Lampeter, St Clears and Laugharne.