GWENT roller derby side Riot City Ravens have finished third in their South-West tier at the 2015 British Championships in what they have described as "a fantastic result" for the team who entered as rank outsiders.

The final bout of the season saw the Ravens, who play out of Cwmbran Stadium, face Devon-based team Grin 'n' Barum on 22nd August, with pre-match statistics suggesting that the Ravens only had a 26% chance of winning.

However, right from the start it was clear that the bout would be closer than expected, with several lead changes during the first half. Riot City Ravens started the second half 16 points behind Grin 'n' Barum with everything to gain and nothing to lose.

Just minutes from the end of the game Riot City Ravens had gained the lead, but were down two players through penalties.

In a nail-biting finish that had the crowds on their feet, Ravens jammer Lil'A managed to breach the opposition's defence against the odds to secure the win.

Ravens player Laura Face-Palmer said: "We know in ourselves we're a second half team. We never give up, never stop pushing until the final whistle".

The all-female outfit was only established a year ago, but has gone from strength to strength over the course of the season.

Their British Championships journey began in February with a hard-fought loss against fellow South Wales team Bridgend.

A further loss followed in March against group winners Bath, but the Ravens were quickly making a name for themselves as a tough team to beat.

The growing local support for the team was clearly evidenced at Cwmbran Stadium in May, as large crowds turned out to cheer on the Ravens at their first home open bout.

The crowds were rewarded with a thrilling match that ended with Riot City Ravens beating Wiltshire 280 - 155.