Principality Premiership weekend predictions

All Wales Sport’s CARL FIELD previews this weekend’s Principality Premiership fixtures.

Llanelli v Neath (Friday)

Llanelli will fancy their chances after pushing Carmarthen Quins all the way last weekend, while Neath need to make massive improvements in their scrum play if they are to get their first points on the board.

Prediction: Llanelli by 7 points

Aberavon v Pontypridd

Jason Hyatt’s side will be buoyed by picking up their first win of the season at Bedwas but I can’t see past yet another bonus point win for the champions – who will be determined not to produce a repeat of their lacklustre first half display against Bridgend last Saturday.

Prediction: Pontypridd by 15 points

Bedwas v Carmarthen Quins

Bedwas’ win at Cross Keys a fortnight ago proves they can mix with the best of them on their day, but I don’t expect a shock here against an in-form Carmarthen side, who have started with three wins from three.

Prediction: Carmarthen Quins by 10 points

Bridgend v Newport

The Ravens have struggled so far, although can take encouragement from their performance at Pontypridd, where they were unfortunate not to earn at least a losing bonus point. Conversely Newport kicked started their campaign with victory at Ebbw Vale last time out and I predict they’ll leave Brewery Field with the spoils tomorrow.

Prediction: Newport by 5 points

Cross Keys v Ebbw Vale

Cross Keys, who have recorded two wins on the road, will be keen to avoid a repeat of their shock home defeat against Bedwas a fortnight ago against the Premiership new boys – who tasted defeat for the first time since returning to the top flight against Newport last weekend.

Prediction: Cross Keys by 7 points

Llandovery v Cardiff

Early pace setters Cardiff suffered a setback against Cross Keys last Saturday and are on the road for the first time at the Drovers, who I’m backing to record their third straight win.

Prediction: Llandovery by 5 points

Read More

Quins are geared up for success - Tonkin

Carmarthen Quins head coach Louie Tonkin feels his side are well equipped to back up last season’s second place finish in the Principality Premiership, WRITES CARL FIELD.

Quins finished second last season to secure a home play-off but were defeated 31-20 by eventual losing finalists Cross Keys.

And, having successfully negotiated their British & Irish Cup qualifier against Llandovery, they started the new Premiership season with a 44-10 bonus-point home win over Newport at the weekend.

“We’re very confident that we can do better than we did last year,” said Tonkin.

“Our objective last year was to finish in the top three and we achieved that with a very young group.

“But we’re much stronger and mature this year just being a year older and wiser – particularly the academy boys.

“We want to achieve some success – whether that’s in the form of a cup or a play-off final – and we believe we’re strong enough to do that.

“The key for us was to strengthen in some key areas and add some depth to the squad, which maybe wasn’t there at times last year.

“We’ve managed to do that and I think we’ll be that much more efficient this year.”

Read More

New boys Ebbw Vale 'ready for the challenge'

Jason Strange says Principality Premiership new boys Ebbw Vale have nothing to fear as they prepare to make their top flight return after a five-year absence.

The Championship champions begin life back in the Premiership with a home clash against Llandovery on Saturday.

And, despite the fact they will start as firm underdogs, head coach Strange is determined to make sure his side won’t just be making up the numbers.

He said: “We understand the standard is going to be higher in the Premiership, but we’re ready for that challenge.

“It’s great to have a home game to kick things off. We lost to Llandovery narrowly in the cup last year – so that will be in the back of our mind – and I’m sure the supporters will be looking forward to it.

“We are pleased with the way players have come back after the break and their fitness testing was the best in the five years I’ve been here.

“Our approach this season is to concentrate on being the best we can and improving within ourselves.”

Read More

Champions Pontypridd host Neath as Premiership returns

A mouth-watering clash between reigning champions Pontypridd and former heavy hitters Neath at Sardis Road is the pick of the games as the Principality Premiership returns on Saturday.

Ponty are gunning for their fourth straight title success while the Welsh All Blacks – who narrowly avoided the drop last season – have been boosted by the return of Rowland Phillips to the club as director of rugby.

Having swept all comers aside in recent seasons – winning the Premiership and SWALEC Cup double back-to-back – Pontypridd are odds on favourites to clean up domestically once again.

But head coach Paul John says they won’t be taking anything for granted.

“The Principality Premiership is now a very good standard and it’s getting harder to win every year – we can’t rest on our laurels,” said John.

“With the success we’ve had over the last couple of seasons, teams will again raise their game every week to try to beat us, but that’s a great challenge.

“It doesn’t get much better than Neath at home to kick off the league season. 

"They have recruited well – both on and off the field – and will want to put last year’s uncharacteristic blip behind them.”

Hoping to help turn five-time champions Neath around after a poor season is Phillips – the man who won four of those titles during his previous six-year stint as head coach before leaving in 2009.

And the former Wales international is confident he can bring the good times back to the club.

He said: “When I was approached to come back to Neath and was outlined the vision for the club over the forthcoming seasons, I jumped at the opportunity to become part of what will no doubt be an exciting time. 

“As everybody in Neath knows – the club, the town, the history, the supporters and the people of Neath have been a huge part of my life and are very close to my heart. 

 “There’s no doubt there’s a lot of rebuilding to be done, but I’m confident that I can work with the coaches and players to bring success back.

“I'm delighted to be part of what I know is going to be another successful chapter in Neath’s great history.”

Read More

Welsh rugby friendly round up

Rugby clubs across the country continue to gear up for the new campaign and there was no shortage of friendly action over the weekend, WRITES CARL FIELD.

There were impressive wins in particular for Principality Premiership sides Llandovery, Averavon, Bridgend and Cardiff.

Llandovery recorded a fine 34-15 win at Church Bank over Pontypridd – Premiership and Swalec Cup double winners for the past two seasons.

Tries from Shaun Mills, Rhys Williams, Sam Saul – plus a second half brace from Richard Williams – secured the win for Llandovery, who themselves narrowly missed out on the Premiership play-offs at the end of last season.

Meanwhile, there was a memorable Aberavon debut for teenage outside half Josh Williams, who scored 20 points – two tries and five conversions - in his side’s 45-5 defeat of Tata Steel at the Talbot Athletic Ground.

Bridgend were 25-5 winners at English National League One outfit Cinderford, where Adam Williams bagged a brace, while Cardiff ran home four tries as they beat another NL1 side Coventry 30-25 at Cardiff Arms Park.

James Loxton, Joe Griffin, Shaun Powell and Matt Marley all went over the whitewash.

Meanwhile it wasn’t such a good day for Swansea – relegated from the Premiership last year – as they were on the wrong end of a 76-5 hammering at English Championship side Doncaster.

Elsewhere, Neath went down to a 34-7 defeat against Plymouth Albion in the late game at the Knoll, while Llangennech scored six tries in their 36-10 friendly win at Bonymaen.

Chris Moore (2), Dan Roberts, Josh Sheldon, Rhys Davies and Tom Barnes were their try scorers.

Follow Carl Field on Twitter: @mrcarlfield

Read More

WAUNARLWYDD 7 ABERAVON 59

After 22 hard minutes in which Waunarlwydd were on top and lead 7-0, Aberavon raced away to score nine tries at Roseland Road.

 

Full backs Howard Thomas (first half) and Jon Phillips (second half) both scored a brace of tries with Aberavon introducing many new young players.

 

Centre Dan Fox scored a goodd try that Lee Evans (though now an Aberavon player) converted but the Wizards led 21-7 at the break.

 

Powerful centre Darren Ryan had a fine game and in the pack, flanker Nathan Brown had a splendid afternoon, while young wing Aaron Grabham made a good impression and Steve Cullen was sharp at centre.

 

Waunarlwydd - Try: D Fox. Con: L Evans.

 

Aberavon - Tries: H Thomas 2, J Phillips 2, D Ryan, J Bija, J Crealock, C Corbisiero, S Cullen.

Cons: N Damjanovic 4, C Thomas 3.

Read More

Neath 15-15 Doncaster Knights

Welsh Premiership outfit Neath held on to clinch a dramatic draw against the English Championship’s newest addition Doncaster Knights in a thrilling encounter at a wet and wild Gnoll.

 But this pre season friendly turned ugly towards the end with Neath's Lee Evans dismissed for fighting late on, after several brawls erupted in the final ten minutes.

Doncaster outscored their Welsh hosts two tries to nil but Neath played the conditions better than their English rivals and deserved to get something out of the contest.

 It was the hosts that started the brighter in the opening ten minutes and the boot of James Thomas gave them an early advantage.

 But the professional side slowly moved up the gears and they were soon in the lead. After several phases, fly half Jamie Lennard spotted space behind the Neath defence and his cute dink outfoxed the hosts' cover into Knights winger Tyson Lewis' safe arms. Dougie Flockhart added the extras.

 Whereas Doncaster's first try was full of skill and guile, their second shortly after was one for the forwards. From a driving line out Neath were powerless to stop the visitors marching over, with flanker Will Foden emerging with the ball.

 If the first half belonged to the visitors, the second definitely belonged to their Welsh hosts.

The Knights' discipline began to falter and with the Welsh weather producing its worst, it was Neath that began to dominate proceedings. 

 Three well struck penalties from the boot of Thomas drew the hosts level.

 Flockhart and Thomas then traded kicks as the game went into the final ten locked at 15-15.

 With Neath down to 14 players Clive Griffiths' side looked like they had stolen it at the death with winger Flockhart crossing, but he was adjudged to have put his foot in touch on the way to touching down. 

Ultimately there were positives for both teams as they kicked off their 2014/15 pre-season campaign –Neath’s Director of Rugby Rowland Phillips would have been impressed by his side's work ethic and scramble defence, while new signing Rhodri Cole at scrum half looked lively and posed a constant threat around the fringes.

For Clive Griffiths’ Knights, meanwhile, their sizeable backline caused a number of problems in the first half while their scrum was well on top throughout, and perhaps Doncaster would have felt they had done enough to claim the win. But it wasn’t all good news for the professional outfit as scrum half Brad Field, making his first start since last November, looked distraught as he limped from the pitch just before the interval.

On Saturday, Neath play host to another English Championship side, with Plymouth Albion the visitors at the Gnoll, while Doncaster have more Welsh opposition when Swansea visit Castle Park.

Read More

Premiership Report: Llanelli 29-5 Pontypridd

Craig Hawkins ran out at Parc y Scarlets in a Llanelli jersey for the final time last night, as the hooker brought the curtain down on his glittering career with victory over Pontypridd in the Principality Premiership.

With little riding on the match for either side - Llanelli unable to finish any higher than fifth and Ponty already assured of top spot - and with a Swalec Cup final on Sunday to think about, Paul John made a raft of changes to the one that agonisingly lost out in the British and Irish Cup semi at the weekend.

Llanelli’s Director of Rugby Anthony Buchanan talked before the match of giving Hawkins a fitting send off and the hosts took heed as they dominated the opening half.

Both sides were intent on running the ball but it was Llanelli’s supremacy up front that provided the first points. A line-out from eight metres out saw the hosts drive over, with man of the moment Hawkins emerging with the ball and a smile as referee Neil Hennessy awarded the try. Fly-half Josh Lewis added the tricky extras.

The hosts continued to have all the territory and possession with flanker Daniel Thomas, who is also moving on at the end of this season, thriving in the loose. Llanelli were guilty of butchering several chances with Justin James and Lewis Rawlins the culprits.

However, a penalty from Lewis just before the interval extended Llanelli’s lead to 10-0 at half time.

Going into the match Llanelli had only won one of their last six encounters, a run of form that has seen them miss out on the Premiership play-offs, but they continued to dictate after the break.

And they extended their lead ten minutes into the second-half, a line-out in the Ponty 22 saw the ball move swiftly off the top to Dafydd Lewis off his wing, and the speedster cut the visitors' defence to go beneath the sticks. Lewis slotted the simplest of conversions.

The score seemed to wake the reigning Premiership champions from their slumber when they made their first real foray into Llanelli territory that saw them come away with a try. A series of successive penalties pushed Ponty deep into the Llanelli 22 and they produced a carbon copy of Llanelli’s first score to drive over out-wide, with No. 8 Owen Sheppeard claiming the touchdown.

Any sign of a revival was quickly quashed by Buchanan’s troops-replacement James Ball outpaced the Ponty cover defence to reach a hack on before showing great footballing skills and gather the ball for a sublime score.

With six minutes remaining, Hawkins left to a fitting ovation and the hosts wrapped up victory with their fourth try. Great vision from Lewis in mid-field saw the fly-half produce a perfectly judged cross-field kick that landed in the arms of replacement winger Dion Jones who finished well.

The result sees Llanelli end their campaign on a high, despite a season of mixed fortunes, while Pontypridd won’t care too much about the result with the chance of a consecutive League and Cup double well within their grasp.

Llanelli:Tries:Craig Hawkins 10, Dafydd Lewis 49, James Ball 64, Dion Jones 78; Cons: Josh Lewis 10, 49, 64,  Pens: J Lewis 37.

Pontypridd: Try:  Owen  Sheppeard 63:

Read More

Ponty away to Aberavon in first leg of league double header

With the race to a top place finish in the Principality Premiership now turning into its home straight, current leaders Pontypridd will seek to maintain form and momentum with an away trip to Aberavon on Saturday 29th March, the match kicking off at 2:30pm.

The two clubs will meet each other twice within the short space of four days as the re-arranged return league tie will be played the following Tuesday evening 1st of April. Yet another encounter is in the offing in the SWALEC Cup semi final round on Saturday 12th April.

Under a new coaching team of Jason Hyatt and Barry Maddocks Aberavon have enjoyed a recent resurgence to pull clear of the relegation zone, currently placed tenth in the Premiership table.

Pontypridd come into the game on a high following a 55pts to 15 demolition of Llanelli in the cup quarter final the previous weekend. Four changes are made to the starting line up from that game, with Owen Williams in on the wing, Chris Phillips at prop, Tom Hetherington at hooker and Owen Sheppeard at blind side flanker. Hooker Liam Belcher returns from Wales under 18 duty to take a place on the bench.

Away with Wales Sevens in Hong Kong are winger Alex Webber and scrum half Tom Williams, whilst winger Lewis Williams has been given leave of absence to get married and has taken prop James Howe with him.

Read More

Principality Premiership and Swalec Cup Weekend Preview

Carmarthen Quins will be hoping to extend their advantage at the summit of the Principality Premiership tomorrow when they host Bedwas at Carmarthen Park.

With title rivals Pontypridd having to play their re-arranged Cup match against Newport, Quins’ Team Manager Steff Thomas sees this as an important opportunity to stretch their lead.

“If we can get the win, it will be nice to steal a march on Ponty and get the points on the board.”

However, Thomas admits that Bedwas will pose more of a test to the team the Quins comfortably beat at the start of the season.

“We are expecting a very tough game, they had bit of a slow start to the season but they’re going well now and looking to make a push themselves for a play-off spot. It will definitely be a test of the strength of our squad with a few players missing.”

Despite the fact that Quins are leading the way in the Premiership and are safely through to the quarter-finals of the Swalec Cup, Thomas is adamant that no one at Carmarthen Park are thinking about claiming a historic League and Cup double.

“There is a long way to go till the end of the season but we are obviously delighted by where we are at present, though we definitely aren’t getting ahead of ourselves and just concentrating on one match at a time,” added Thomas.

In what looks like the clash of the day, third takes on fourth at the top of the table as Llandovery welcome Cross Keys to Church Bank.

When the sides met back in September the Keys were comfortable winners, but on their home patch the Drovers will pose a more stringent test. With both sides chasing a top three play-off position, the outcome of this clash could prove crucial come the end of the season.

Meanwhile, former Aberavon and Pontypridd coach Simon King has been chosen as the man to take Cardiff forward, after a big shake-up of the coaching staff at the capital side this week that saw Director of Rugby Martyn Fowler resign and backs coach Mark Ring dismissed.

Speaking about his new position, King said:

"It’s a fantastic opportunity and I’m absolutely delighted to be given this role.

"I have experience at this level and now look forward to working at a club with such a rich heritage and proud history."

King’s reign begins at the Arms Park tomorrow when the Blue and Blacks entertain visitors Neath, who have only claimed two wins so far this season and have not played a competitive fixture since January 18.

"We have a good opportunity at home against Neath on Saturday, and then seven more games in the Principality Premiership season and a home quarter-final in the Swalec Cup to look forward to.

"There is a lot of rugby for us to get stuck into this season and I look forward to what we can achieve,” added King.

Elsewhere, Ben Rose’s Bridgend will be aiming to build on their good win over Cardiff last time out when they host Llanelli at the Brewery Field.

The reverse saw plenty of try scoring action, with 13 tries in all, as the Parc y Scarlets outfit ran out 46-36 winners with both sides going all out in attack.

But Rose admits the only thing that matters to the Ravens, who are still in a fight for survival at the bottom, is recording a victory.

“The game we played earlier in the season shows what both sides are capable of in attack. This should be an entertaining game for the neutral but only a win matters for the Bridgend players, supporters and club.”

After the wet weather put title holders Pontypridd Swalec Cup defence on ice, the Sardis Road side will be looking to book their spot in the last eight when they host Newport.

In the other rearranged second round match, Championship outfits Ebbw Vale and RGC 1404 will be vying for a home quarter-final draw against Llandovery.

The Steelmen have already completed the league double over the North Walian region and will be odds-on to make the quarter-final stage for the second year running.

PREDICTIONS

Premiership

Bridgend v Llanelli- Llanelli by 7 points

Cardiff v Neath- Cardiff by 10 points

Carmarthen Quins v Bedwas- Quins by 7 points

Llandovery v Cross Keys- Llandovery by 3 points

Cup

Ebbw Vale v Rgc 1404- Ebbw by 20 points

Pontypridd v Newport- Pontypridd by 12 points 

Read More

Principality Premiership Weekend Predictions and Festive Musings

As Noddy Holder put it, ’IT’S CHRISTMASSSSS!’, and after the break for British and Irish Cup action, we return to a full program of the Principality Premiership with all 12 teams in action.

As we reach the half-way point of the season, I thought I would take a look back at some of the events and stories that have led us to this point so far, and unfortunately that also means paying our respects to Pontypridd prop Stuart Williams, who suddenly passed away in October this year.

If last season was a one horse race with the Valley Commandos running away with things, this term has been a much more balanced affair, although divisions have formed in the league with teams fractured into title contenders and those sides who are very much in the fight for survival. Unlike last year, no team remains unbeaten heading into Christmas while Neath have the very unflattering label of being the only side without a win to their name.

It has definitely been a season of chopping and changing in the Premiership and, with the very real danger of relegation, clubs have been a little less lenient on the men at the helm with several falling foul of management.

Neath are the most recent team to implement a change with Patrick Horgan being drafted back in to sort out the Welsh All Blacks on-field problems, while Llŷr Lane and Robin Sowden-Taylor were informed their services were no longer required at the Gnoll. Newport’s backs coach Jon Bryant took the fall for the Gwent side's impotent form behind the scrum, while remaining coaches Sven Cronk and Dai Gray got the dreaded vote of confidence from the Newport Chairman Will Godfrey.

Earlier in the season, Pontypridd received the news that was always going to happen to such a talented coach - Dale McIntosh moved on to the Blues Regional set-up, with Geraint Lewis moving from Championship highfliers Ebbw Vale to the Valley Commandos.

Elsewhere, Simon King’s tenure at the Talbot Athletic Ground came to an end and ex-Wizard Jason Hyatt was the man chosen to get the Port Talbot side moving in the right direction again.

Finally, up until now I have failed to comment on the battle royale currently taking place between the WRU and the Welsh Regions as, to be honest, between all the politicking it is rather hard to distinguish fact from fiction. However, I do feel quite strongly about the fact that, for a number of seasons, the WRU has held the utmost disregard and contempt for the regions as commercial commodities and really only care about the success of the national side.

As Graham Henry so aptly put it, ‘Wales is the biggest club side in the world.’ I for one, however, will be taking up a New Year’s resolution of getting out and supporting regional and club rugby, and I hope that when all is said and done the winner will be the future of our national sport in Wales! #uniteandfight

Bedwas v Newport

This Dragons regional showdown is the second between the sides in a matter of weeks. The Wass won the initial encounter and giving Newport’s performance against Cardiff last week I feel there will be little festive cheer for the Black and Amber supporters on Saturday.

Verdict- Bedwas by 10 points

Carmarthen Quins v Cardiff

Undoubtedly the clash of the day! The Quins will be hopeful of completing the double over Martyn Fowler’s troops after dispatching the Blue and Blacks 22-7 at the Arms Park, and I think the West Walians will once again come out on top.

Verdict- Quins by 7 points

 Cross Keys v Aberavon

Neither of these sides managed to pick up wins in the British and Irish Cup over the past couple of weekends; though the Keys will have a lot of positives to take out of their clashes with Leinster A, the Wizards on the other hand will have to do a lot of soul searching after they were walloped and conceded 150 unanswered points. Hopefully, from Aberavon’s point of view, they can put the hidings behind them but Pandy Park is just behind Sardis Road as difficult places to go in the Premiership and I really can’t see the visitors picking up any points from this clash.

Verdict- Cross Keys by 20 points

 Llanelli v Llandovery

This Scarlets regional clash should be a tasty encounter; the last time the sides met, it was the Drovers that put their counterparts to the sword with a 41-3 thrashing. I have a hard time believing that there will be such a margin of victory tomorrow. However, I think this is a difficult one to predict: weather conditions aren’t meant to be great on Saturday so it may come down to who can play the territory and possession game, and I think Llandovery will just sneak it.

Verdict- Llandovery 3 points

Neath v Bridgend

Will Neath get their maiden win of the season at their tenth attempt? The return of Patrick Horgan will be a boost to the players while Bridgend may be slightly rusty from a four week break from competitive rugby. This match has some huge consequences at the bottom: if Neath win, it draws everyone at the basement a lot closer; if the Ravens get the victory, it gives them a bit more room to work with.

Verdict- Neath by 3 points

 Pontypridd v Swansea

Although Ponty are in the midst of an injury crisis, I really cannot visualise Swansea (who have won just once this season) getting anything out of their trip to Sardis Road.

Verdict- Pontypridd by 12 points

Read More

Ellis Jenkins October Player of Month

Ellis Jenkins has picked up the Principality Premiership Player of the Month award for October. The Cardiff backrow put in a string of impressive performances at the start of this season to earn the accolade – and also bagged a first Pro12 starting berth for the Blues against Treviso on the weekend.

Cardiff were in the top three going into last weekend's round of fixtures with wins in October over Neath, Newport and Swansea. During the month, Ellis also turned out for Pontypridd in their win over London Welsh in the British & Irish Cup.

He said, "The season's going pretty well so far. We're in a decent position in the league. It was good to get a string of wins, especially on the road and if we can remain in the hunt for a place in the play-offs at the end of the season that would be a huge achievement. It was nice to get a game for Ponty in the British & Irish Cup, especially in Dale McIntosh's last game before joining the Blues as Dale has had such a big influence in my development as a player so far. To win that game with that performance was special and gave Chief the send-off he deserved.”

Ellis, who captained Wales Under 20 to the final of the Junior World Championship in June, says he is simply trying to knuckle down in his first season out of age grade rugby. "I've just been trying to play as well as I can and improve my game week by week. It was great to get a first start for the Blues on the weekend and hopefully I can show what I can do at regional level too. I will try to take any opportunities that come my way in terms of breaking into the Blues first team.”

Cardiff Director of Rugby Martyn Fowler is full of praise for the young flanker. "Ellis is developing into a talented, all-round professional rugby player. He is technically and tactically astute, extremely mature and one of the best readers of the game I've come across. It was great for him to get a start for the Blues last weekend, I'm sure he will go on to prove himself at regional level in the not too distant future."

Read More

Principality Premiership Weekend Predictions

With all the off the field antics and political manoeuvrings going on in the International and European rugby sphere dominating the national headlines, the distraction of a full program of Welsh Premiership rugby is a welcome return for the grassroots scene in Wales.

The clash of the day sees defending champions and current second placed Pontypridd entertaining Llanelli, while the Swansea v Bedwas clash at St Helens may have long term ramifications for either one of these sides if they do not start notching up wins.

Cardiff v Aberavon (1.30 ko)

The Blue and Blacks have really had an excellent start to the season and currently sit fourth, having won five of their seven matches so far. Martyn Fowler’s troops ran out easy winners when the sides met at the Talbot Athletic Ground earlier in the season and will start as clear favourites tomorrow.

The Wizards have had a change at the helm with Jason Hyatt taking over the reins, and the Port Talbot side will be aiming to build on their win over Ospreylian rivals Bridgend last week.

I can’t really see anything other than a home win here but I think Aberavon may just come away with a bonus point for their efforts.

Verdict-Cardiff by 7 points

Bridgend v Llandovery

Alarm bells must surely be ringing in the Ravens camp having played a couple of extra games than the sides immediately around them, and, if they don’t start winning soon, the odds of them avoiding the drop will not be in their favour.

In the reverse fixture, the Drovers were far too strong at Church Bank and I think they should claim the double over Ben Rose’s outfit tomorrow; however, I do not expect it will be as one-sided as their clash earlier in the year.

Verdict-Llandovery by 14 points

Cross Keys v Neath

The Keys have only lost once at home this season and that was against Pontypridd. A good win here could propel them up the table with a game in hand on the teams sitting above them.

Winless Neath have had a less than stellar season so far unaided by problems on and off the field, and I can’t see it getting any better for them tomorrow.

In my opinion, the Pandy Park side will be too strong up front for their visitors and I predict a straightforward win for the hosts.

Verdict-Cross Keys by 10 points 

Newport v Carmarthen Quins

An interesting statistic as a backdrop to tomorrow’s match is the fact that the Black and Ambers have never lost to Carmarthen at Rodney Parade.

In my opinion, however, Newport will need more than history on their side tomorrow if they are to derail Carmarthen’s imperious start, and I think Steff Thomas’ troops should claim their eighth win of the season.

Verdict-Carmarthen Quins by 12 points

Pontypridd v Llanelli

Pontypridd have failed to reach the fluent heights of last season yet, but, ominously for the rest of the pack, they are level on points on the summit and have yet to lose. However, they haven’t been starting matches well this season and have needed a number of late shows to save the day. Without one main Head Coach overseeing proceedings at Sardis Road, it will be interesting to see how their season progresses; they clearly have an extremely strong squad, but have yet to gel, and Dale McIntosh’s departure may still leave a lingering effect on the Valley Commandos.

Llanelli have had a reasonable start, currently sitting just off the pace, but if Ponty make another stuttering start tomorrow could an upset be on the cards?

I think Ponty should come through tomorrow’s test but the defending champions are by no means as convincing as they were last season.

Verdict-Pontypridd by 7 points

Swansea v Bedwas

Despite so much of the season still left to play, it is not too early to look at matches and see the larger ramifications of a loss. Both these sides will be desperate to notch up a win and help ease their very real relegation worries. Swansea, who ended last season bottom, have undoubtedly improved from last term but have only claimed one win so far, and that was against current basement boys Neath.

Bedwas on the other hand were always going to struggle to replicate the form that nearly took them to the play-offs last season. Having said that, I think, come April, the Bridge Field outfit will be out of harm’s way and Steve Law will be targeting tomorrow’s encounter as a chance to make headway up the league, with teams around them all playing sides above them in the table.

Verdict-Bedwas by 5 points

Read More

Principality Premiership Weekend Predictions

With the wet weather showing no sign of easing up, this weekend’s Principality fixtures may turn into a bit of a mud fest. However, one place we’ll be sure of some running rugby is at the Arm’s Park where second place Cardiff host unbeaten leaders Carmarthen Quins in the match of the day on the pristine plastic pitch.

Aberavon v Llandovery

The Wizards currently occupy bottom position and will be really hoping that the home comforts of the Talbot Athletic Ground can spur them on to only their second victory, but it will be a tough ask against the Drovers who have won four of their six matches.

This will only be Llandovery’s second match on the road this season but they looked good in their victory over Newport last time out, winning at a canter. Despite the gap between these sides in the league table, and in the form guide, I still expect a competitive contest but I don’t think Simon King’s troops will get the win they so desperately need.

Verdict- Llandovery by 9 points

Cardiff v Carmarthen Quins 6.30 kick off

The top two clash in undoubtedly the match of the day at the later than usual time of 6.30, with Cardiff hoping a number of Blues fans stick around to watch the semi-professionals in action.

There are a fair few similarities in the way these two teams play, with big ball carriers taking the direct root before unleashing their potent backs, with each side having crossed the whitewash no less than 22 times already this season - only Llandovery have a better record.

Cardiff have home advantage, but the Blue and Blacks know that if they put in a repeat performance of their first half showing against Swansea last week they could very well be out of the match come the interval. Quins will take a great deal of confidence in the way they dispatched a dogged Bedwas at the Bridge Field last week and I think the visitors will keep their winning record intact...just!

Verdict- Carmarthen Quins by 3 points

Cross Keys v Swansea

Keys will be looking to complete an early season double over the Whites having defeated them on the opening day of the season at St Helens. However, the Gwent side only just squeaked past Mefin Davies’ troops that day and I envisage another slogfest tomorrow.

Swansea should have a host of talent available to them again after International commitments, including Junior World Player of the year Sam Davies, while full Welsh international Dan Baker may also get a start.

The hosts did just enough to dispatch Bridgend last weekend but in my opinion they will need to put in a better showing if they are to come away with the points tomorrow.

Verdict- Cross Keys by 6 points

 Newport v Bridgend

Newport’s solitary win of the season came against Ospreylian opposition at Rodney Parade and the home faithful will be hoping their team can once again produce the goods. However, Sven Cronk’s side were woeful at Llandovery last weekend, while Bridgend picked up a hard-fought point at Pandy Park. I don’t expect a feast of running rugby here but both sides will feel a win is essential, and with the teams in the lower echelons of the league already nervously anticipating a dog fight for relegation, picking up points against their rivals at the bottom will prove crucial.

This is a tough one to call but, with home advantage, I think the Black and Ambers should come out on top.

Verdict- Newport by 3 points

Read More

Principality Premiership Weekend Predictions

The Principality Premiership has been rocked this week by the very sad news of the sudden and tragic passing of Pontypridd prop Stuart Williams last Monday. The club’s match with Neath that was scheduled for this weekend has been postponed until further notice. Everyone at All Wales Sport would like to express our condolences to Stuart’s family, friends and colleagues, and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

Bedwas v Carmarthen Quins

Neither of these sides have been in action since the beginning of the month but this should be a great battle. Bedwas saw off Llanelli at home last time out and are always a tough nut to crack at the Bridge Field. Steve Law’s side, however, can only field 5 of the players that saw off Llanelli three weeks ago.

Early pace setters Carmarthen Quins will also be hoping that the break will not mean a loss of momentum on the park. Quins, who are the only team left in the division with a 100% record, will be without hooker Rhodri Clancy (ankle) and powerhouse flanker Sion Bennett, who has starred for them this season, after he dislocated his shoulder representing Llanelli in the B and I Cup last week.

I think the clash will be a closely fought affair but I think Quins will do just enough and extend their advantage at the summit.

Verdict-Carmarthen Quins by 5 points

 Cross Keys v Bridgend

Cross Keys have been busy in B and I Cup action claiming two wins on the bounce, and will be hoping to keep the momentum going when they switch to league action tomorrow. The Keys have made a whole host of changes to the side that won at Ealing, but the valleys side, who completed the double over their Ospreylian visitors last season, have still named a strong squad for tomorrow’s clash.

Unlike their hosts, Bridgend have had a three week lay-off and Ben Rose’s troops should be raring to go; however, I feel they will face an upward battle on Saturday. If the Ravens don’t maintain parity up front, it could be a long afternoon for the visitors.

Verdict-Cross Keys by 8 points

 Llandovery v Newport

Both sides have had a two week break going into this round of fixtures, with Llandovery looking to build on their position of fourth while Newport really need to kick their season into gear after recording just one win out of five so far.

The Drovers, who are unbeaten at home since Boxing Day last year, have once again made an impressive start to their league campaign and they should have seen off last season’s champions Pontypridd at Church Bank a few weeks ago.

Newport have really struggled to get going so far and despite running away to victory against Swansea at the start of the month, they really failed to put in a performance last time out at Cardiff.

With Newport missing a few key personnel, I think the hosts will take the points from this one.

Verdict-Llandovery by 9 points

 Llanelli v Aberavon (6.45pm kick-off - live on S4C)

The postponement of the Pontypridd v Neath match has seen this clash switch to the later time of 6.45. Although Llanelli have impressed in the B and I Cup and currently sit on top of their group (despite going down at Bedford), their last league performance wasn’t one to write home about as they slipped to their second defeat of the season at Bedwas.

Anthony Buchanan will be hoping his side can get their league program back on track when they welcome Aberavon, who currently occupy bottom position in the table.

The Wizards will be hoping to dig themselves out of a hole when they travel west tomorrow; although they have looked good in the cross border competition, their league form will definitely be a worry for the club’s supporters.

I expect a much better performance from both sides since their last league offerings but I can’t see past a home win here.

Verdict-Llanelli by 7 points

 Sunday 27 October

Cardiff v Swansea

This fixture was originally scheduled for Saturday, before the Rugby League World Cup put paid to that. The hosts then switched it to Friday night, but I’m not sure they informed their visitors who consequently appealed to the WRU, who in turn decided it should be played on Sunday.

Cardiff currently sit third in the table and really do look an impressive unit, both up front and behind. Their only loss this season came on the opening day at Llandovery in horrendous conditions and even that match they should have won.

Swansea, who finished bottom of the pile last term, will need to continue to improve this season if they are not to become embroiled in a relegation battle with the rest of their Ospreylian rivals. I’m sure the All Whites will be determined to better their last league outing where they were trounced at Rodney Parade, but even if they do, in my opinion, I can only see one team taking the points.

Verdict-Cardiff by 12 points

Read More

Principality Premiership Predictions - 12th October

As the group stages of the British and Irish Cup get underway, there are only two fixtures set to take place tomorrow afternoon in the Principality Premiership.

Those matches see Cardiff, who narrowly missed out on the B&I Cup after a 22-19 loss to Pontypridd in the final play-off, host Newport whilst Neath travel to Llandovery.

Cardiff v Newport

The Blue and Blacks will finally introduce the Arms Park’s new artificial pitch to the Principality Premiership on Saturday when they welcome Newport for their first home game of the season.

It will also be the 415^th meeting between the two old rivals according to the home team’s website.

Since their narrow loss in their opening game of the season away at Llandovery, Cardiff have been unbeaten.

Away victories at Bedwas, Aberavon and Neath have pushed Martyn Fowler’s men to fourth in the table and with their next five Premiership matches scheduled at home, they could set themselves up for quite a successful year.

With the likes of Wales Under 20’s captain Ellis Jenkins and Jonathan Edwards in the back row and classy fly-half Ceiron Thomas and in-form centre Luke Ford in the backline, Cardiff are capable of beating any side in the league on their day.

Even though victory was gained last weekend, the Arms Park side may have switched off during the second half as Neath were allowed a way back into the match with an unsuccessful conversion attempt in the dying moments robbing them of a draw so that will give coach Fowler food for thought.

Newport on the other hand will be buoyed by their first result of the season against Swansea last Saturday and will be full of confidence when they travel to the capital city.

Geraint O’Driscoll, who was superb against the Whites last week scoring 22-points from the tee, misses out through injury as the Black and Ambers have been forced to make numerous enforced changes.

With it being Cardiff’s first game at the Arms Park, they will want to put on a show and what better way to do it than a derby versus Newport so I fully expect them to continue their recent winning ways.

Verdict – Cardiff by 13 points.

Llandovery v Neath

Llandovery were robbed of a memorable victory last weekend as Pontypridd once again struck late to snatch a draw at Church Bank.

Added to their loss at Cross Keys, the Drovers have failed to register a win their last two fixtures and will be desperate to come away with a result tomorrow.

Some may think that this is the perfect match for them to achieve this as they host a struggling Neath side who are the only team in the Principality Premiership this season who have yet to taste success.

With relegation on the cards this season, Neil Edwards men will want to start picking up points sooner rather than later.

They have Wales international Dafydd Howells making his first appearance of the season against Llandovery as well as influential flanker Matthew Rees taking his place in the back row so will be hoping for the best at Church Bank.

Unfortunately though I think it won’t be this weekend when Neath claim their first scalp.

Verdict – Llandovery by 11 points.

Read More