Brython Thunder beat Welsh rivals Gwalia Lightning 7-0 in a game for the purists at Parc Y Scarlets, qualifying for the Celtic Challenge semi-finals in the process.

The Thunder went winless in the first five games of the season, suffering heavy defeats to Wolfhounds and Gwalia – two teams they have now beaten in dogged defensive displays.

Wales back row and player of the match Branwen Metcalfe got them off to a perfect start, but unlike the west Wales drizzle, the tries soon dried up.

Despite dominating possession and territory in the first half, Thunder could only muster a single try in the 13th minute.

Lighting almost snatched a draw at the death when an ill-disciplined Thunder were reduced to 13 players, but the ball was knocked on over the try-line.

It means Lightning, who have now lost five games in a row, will face second-place Clovers, with both semi-finals taking place in Galway on 21 March.

Brython Thunder’s reward for qualifying for the play-offs is a trip to reigning champions Wolfhounds in Galway. The Irish side won nine of ten games in the league phase, losing just once – to the Thunder.

The grand final will be hosted by Edinburgh’s Hive Stadium a week later.

If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.

Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.

You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.