RGC assistant coach Phil John urged his side to take their Principality Premiership form into their WRU National Cup tie at Ebbw Vale on Saturday.

The Gogs geared up for the defence of their crown with a polished performance, with a flurry of late tries providing them with a valuable bonus point in the early stages of the second phase of the season.

Legendary prop John outlined the strength-in-depth within the squad as a catalyst behind their success, but warned his side they have a “target on their back” heading into the cup fixture.

He said: “We targeted the win, but to pick up the bonus point is even more pleasing. The players have worked hard on their fitness and credit to them as it made the difference in that last 20 minutes.

“We are now in the second phase of the season, and the positive is that we have a group of players all competing for places. We have used 36 players so far, including some from the clubs around the region and they all know that they chance to play is there if they perform in training and on matchday.

“We now move on the next week and the cup game at Ebbw Vale, we are holders so clearly the target is on our back, and the focus for us is hitting another good performance.”