Swalec Championship Weekend Predictions

Bargoed v Llanharan

Top host bottom in this clash - pacemakers Bargoed have started the season with three bonus point wins and I find it hard to see winless Llanharan getting anything from this match. The Blues have not only ground out wins but have also looked clinical behind, and this should be their fourth bonus point victory of the campaign.

Verdict- Bargoed by 28 points

Bridgend Athletic v Swansea

Swansea have made it three wins out of three in their bid to make a swift return to the Welsh Premiership. So far, they have conceded just one try but have notched up 18 of their own. Athletic have got one victory to their name but I don’t see the Newbridge Field side doubling that tally tomorrow.

Verdict -Swansea by 20 points

Merthyr v Glynneath

This is an intriguing fixture that sees the promoted new boys facing off - the Ironmen have taken the step up in their stride and should comfortably finish mid table, while I think there are still some question marks, however, over Glynneath. The Neath Valley side did pick up a confidence boost with their first win of the season but it was against a Newbridge team that are yet to find their feet this season. The visitors will also be hoping to avenge their Swalec Plate thrashing at the end of last season, and although I don’t see Merthyr running away with this tie I think Lee Jarvis’ side will ultimately come out on top.

Verdict-Merthyr by 7 points

Newbridge v Cardiff Met

Newbridge have looked anything but assured so far and have the second leakiest defence in the league at present. Meanwhile, the Students saw a big slice of their squad - which took them to the runners-up spot in the league last season - graduate, but they have been there or thereabouts in each game and I expect them to make it two wins on the bounce tomorrow. Unfortunately for Newbridge, I think they could be one of the teams struggling at the foot of the table this year.

Verdict-Cardiff Met by 15 points

Pontypool v Narberth

Potentially the fixture of the day, Pooler will be boosted by the news that they, along with Swansea and RGC 1404, have gained the WRU ‘A’ Licence, meaning if they did clinch the Championship title they would be promoted. Bargoed destroyed Pontypool on the opening day but the Gwent side have bounced back well and will be a stern test for the Otters, who are so far undefeated. This is the toughest game to call but I think home advantage should see Pooler to victory.

Verdict-Pontypool by 5 points

RGC 1404 v Tondu

The Waterwheelers started their campaign with an emphatic win over Newbridge but have since then stalled somewhat. The North Walians on the other hand haven’t set the league alight and they will be disappointed to have lost against Bargoed at Fortress Eirias. Having said that, I can only see one winner tomorrow.

Verdict-RGC 1404 by 22 points

Tata Steel v Blackwood

 Blackwood have been on the wrong end of the scoreline in every match so far this season and I don’t think that will change tomorrow in Port Talbot. Tata were well beaten by Swansea last weekend, but their pack fronted up well against the All Whites and they should pick up their third win tomorrow.

Verdict- Tata Steel by 12 points.