Championship predictions week 9

Blackwood v Bonymaen

Neither of these sides have really got going so far and if their form continues, they will be scrapping it out to remain in the Championship come the end of the season. Blackwood did pick up their second win last week having given a good account of themselves at Glan yr Afon so far, and will be hoping for another strong home performance tomorrow. Bony will take heart in the fact that they came within a whisker of getting a result against Newbridge last weekend and will need to reproduce that kind of form away from home if they are to pick up anything tomorrow.

Verdict - Blackwood by 3 points 

Ebbw Vale v Beddau

The Steelmen suffered a double blow last week, losing Coach Neil Edwards and losing out to Whitland. However, you have to feel for Beddau in this scenario as Jason Strange will demand an immediate response after their loss at basement boys Whitland and I think the Steelmen will produce.

Verdict - Ebbw Vale by 25 points 

Glamorgan Wanderers v Cardiff Met

The Wanderers will be looking to build on their win at Bridgend Athletic last week, as they look to put a bit of distance between themselves and the lower echelons of the league, but will face a stern test in Cardiff Met. The students will be happy with their start to life with a 50% record and were convincing winners against Llanharan last week. I think this will be a closely fought contest, but I’m going to plump for a win for the Wanderers.

Verdict - Glamorgan Wanderers by 3 points 

Narberth v Bridgend Athletic

After being outclassed at Bargoed Park last week, the Otters will be desperate to return to winning ways if they are to be anywhere in the mix for the title come the end of the season. Fortunately for Narbeth, I don't think Bridgend will cause them too many problems tomorrow.

Verdict - Narberth by 10 points

Newbridge v Whitland

Newbridge didn’t look their usual free flowing best last weekend but still scraped a win, while the Borderers bagged the scalp of the season as they defeated Ebbw Vale. The big question will be can Whitland reproduce the same level of performance as last week? Personally, I don't think they will, but if outside half Nico Setaro can continue his fine fettle with the boot, it will be close.

Verdict - Newbridge by 10 points

Pontypool v Llanharan

After a quick start to the season, the Dairymen have lost their last three matches, while Pooler are understandably struggling this season. Llanharan should be too strong for their hosts but after the result at Whitland last week, they won’t be taking Pooler lightly.

Verdict - Llanharan by 15 points

Tata Steel v Bargoed

Undoubtedly the clash of the day. On paper, the pacemakers Bargoed will have to start as favourites as they are the only side that remains unbeaten in the league. If Bargoed are indeed to win the title this year, however, these next two weeks will go a long way in helping them do just that, but Tata have really grown into the competition over the last few weeks and their efficient pack will cause problems for all sides. If Tata can get their noses in front, the home support may just pull them through.

Verdict - Tata Steel by 2 points.