The historic return of rugby at St Helen's was marred by a serious injury to a home team player in the second half that saw the match halted for 15 minutes. The famous ground reopened its doors and hosted its first match since the first phase of a multi-million pound redevelopment, as Swansea RFC took on Ebbw Vale in the sunshine.
Players debut on new 4G pitch
The players were the first to experience the new 4G pitch at the iconic venue, which is known throughout the world. The match saw Swansea slip to a late 27-26 defeat, but the main feeling was one of concern for Whites wing Iwan Glynn, who suffered a horror leg injury as he attempted to score in the corner.
Medics from both teams rushed to help the stricken player in the aftermath as the concerned crowd fell silent. Glynn was taken to hospital, with the club later confirming he was "up and alert" after what it described as a "major injury".
Match details and comeback
Swansea had been 21-5 and 26-10 up either side of the break, but The Steelmen bounced back from their heavy home defeat by Cardiff last weekend to make it four wins from five.
Stadium redevelopment phases
The first phase of the multi-million pound project, which is being funded by Swansea Council and the Ospreys, has seen the installation of a state-of-the-art 4G pitch, while there will also be new stands and a refurbishment of the clubhouse. Work on the stadium will continue for some time yet, with different parts opening at different stages.
Key features of the plans include a new South Stand, and a redeveloped West Stand and terrace. A designated fan zone, alongside a wide range of hospitality, is also due to be built.
Future fixtures and history
The Ospreys had initially planned to play there during the 2025/26 campaign, but that ultimately didn't materialise, with the region instead spending a season in Bridgend. The region's first game at the redeveloped St Helen's is scheduled to be the United Rugby Championship (URC) Welsh derby against Dragons on Saturday, 24 October.
St Helen's has hosted rugby and cricket internationals over the years and is where Swansea rugby club claimed the scalps of visiting Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. The newly-created Ospreys played there for a couple of seasons before moving to the Liberty Stadium, Landore, in 2005.
