weekend predictions

All Wales Sport previews the sixth and final round of the British & Irish Cup along with the only Principality Premiership game taking place this weekend.


Pool 1 – London Scottish v Pontypridd

Having snatched defeat from the jaws of victory at Bristol almost a fortnight ago, Ponty recovered from that confidence-crushing defeat with a bonus-point home win over Connacht last week that reignited their British & Irish Cup hopes.

Another five-point win guarantees qualification for the last eight as one of the three best runners-up – while four points will almost certainly do as well.

Standing before them are London Scottish, who although already out, have only been beaten once (by Bristol) on their own ground this season while Ponty also slipped up here 26-21 almost exactly a year ago.

The pressure is on Ponty for sure but, although a lot will depend on what side the English Championship side put out with nothing riding on it for them, I’m going for a Ponty win nonetheless.

Prediction: Pontypridd by 6 points


Pool 2 – Ulster Ravens v Aberavon

Aberavon's losing run was extended to eight games with last Saturday's 42-14 home defeat to Rotherham.

The Wizards also have not won in any competition since they beat Ulster 18-14 at The Talbot Athletic Ground in the reverse fixture on October 11.

Although they have at least salvaged some pride with some gutsy recent performances in defeat and I’m backing Jason Hyatt's side to complete the double over winless Ulster.

Prediction: Aberavon by 5 points


Pool 4 – Doncaster Knights v Cross Keys

Seven of the 10 matches played in Pool 4 have resulted in a winning margin of five points or less.

Cross Keys, while bottom of the pool, have more than held their own this season – although were taken apart at home by Bedford last weekend.

Their two previous away trips to English Championship clubs have ended in a one-point win (v Bedford) and a one-point loss (v Cornish Pirates).

Group winners Doncaster won 37-32 at Pandy Park in round one and I’ve got them down to finish the group with a 100 per cent record.

Prediction: Doncaster by 7 points


Pool 5 - Carmarthen Quins v Jersey

The winners of this tie – being played at Llandovery – can still go through as one of the best runners-up, if Munster A and Cornish Pirates are well beaten.

Jersey are on a four-game losing streak but won with a bonus point when the sides met back in October.

Although I think Carmarthen – a composite Scarlets A side in all but name – will win on Saturday and finish on a high, I fear it’s a big ask for all the results needs elsewhere to go their way.

Prediction: Carmarthen Quins by 10 points

ALL ROUND SIX MATCHES KICK OFF AT 2PM ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13.


Principality Premiership – Cardiff v Neath (2.30pm)

There is also one Principality Premiership clash taking place on Saturday and it’s at the Arms Park between Cardiff and Neath.

The Welsh All Blacks have undergone something of a transformation with three wins from their last four Premiership outings to revive their flagging fortunes after a tough start to the season that, for many, left them odds on for the drop.

Patrick Horgan’s re-introduction at the Gnoll has certainly helped turn things around and will hope to carry on from where they left off three weeks ago when they beat Newport at Rodney Parade – despite playing with 14 men for much of the game.

However it must also be said that, although Neath dug in, Newport were also particularly poor on the day and a better side would have capitalised on their numerical advantage.

Cardiff on their own ground will provide a much sterner test and will themselves will be looking forward to returning to action after many weeks of being stop-start, with the league taking a back seat for the British & Irish Cup.

The Blue and Blacks currently sit in fourth place in the table with five wins from seven games.

I expect a fiercely-contested battle between these two but back Cardiff to win and make it six from eight with the enforced three-week break also likely to have halted Neath’s new-found momentum just slightly.

Prediction: Cardiff by 11 points

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Carl Field's Principality Premiership predictions

All Wales Sport's CARL FIELD looks ahead to tonight's action in the Principality Premiership, as well as tomorrow afternoon’s game at Rodney Parade…

Aberavon v Cardiff (7.30pm)

On paper, Cardiff should pick up a win at the Talbot Athletic Ground tonight, although the fact they haven’t played competitively since November 1 might work against them.

It’s up to Aberavon to exploit any rustiness and Jason Hyatt will be demanding a performance from his side after – by their own admission – some poor performances in recent weeks.

Prediction: Aberavon by 4 points

Bedwas v Llandovery (7.30pm)

Bedwas will be buoyed from their win at Bridgend last Sunday when they came from behind to steal the spoils late on – and I’m backing them to follow that up with another win against the Drovers at the Bridge Field this evening.

Prediction: Bedwas by 6 points

Bridgend v Ebbw Vale (7.30pm)

The Ravens undid the good work they’d done at Aberavon by surrendering a 16-6 half time lead on their way to defeat at home against Bedwas last time out – and they are likely to be in for a tough evening against the Gwent side this evening.

The Steelmen have lost their last two outings – albeit against the likely top two come the end of the season in Pontypridd and Carmarthen Quins.

Jason Strange’s men have won five out of eight since returning to the top flight and I expect that to be six from nine come full time at the Bridge Field.

Prediction: Ebbw Vale by 15 points

Cross Keys v Carmarthen Quins (7.30pm)

With seven wins out of seven, Carmarthen Quins have put an early marker down as the main challengers to champions Pontypridd.

Louie Tonkin’s side certainly had to dig deep at the Gnoll last Friday in order to see off a determined effort from struggling Neath with defeat staring them in the face.

And it’s that ability to dig deep that sets teams on their way to winning championships.

Quins face another tough game at Pandy Park against Cross Keys, who have been a bit hit and miss in the early part of the season and I predict another win for Quins, as they look to keep hold of Pontypridd’s coat-tails heading into another break for the British & Irish Cup.

Prediction: Carmarthen Quins by 8 points

Newport v Neath (Saturday, 1.30pm)

Having not played since November 1, a break should have given Newport time to regroup and get some of their depleted squad back and build on their home victory over Llanelli last time out.

Although standing in their way tomorrow will be a Neath side with renewed confidence having beaten Cross Keys and taken Carmarthen Quins to the wire in their last two games.

I’m going for a narrow away win here…

Prediction: Neath by 3 points

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Principality Premiership predictions

All Wales Sport's Carl Field looks ahead to tonight's action in the Principality Premiership, as well as Sunday's game at the Brewery Field...

Llanelli v Aberavon

Aberavon head coach Jason Hyatt will demand a reaction from his side after last Friday’s poor display at Bridgend – which he labelled the "worst" under his stewardship. Anthony Buchanan’s Llanelli play their first home for six weeks buoyed by their performance – albeit ultimately in defeat – at Cross Keys seven days ago.

Prediction: Llanelli by 12 points

Ebbw Vale v Pontypridd

The Steelmen have been a revelation since returning to the top flight and were only narrowly beaten at Carmarthen Quins last Friday. Champions Pontypridd, meanwhile, haven’t been at their brilliant best in recent games and, although once again hampered by players off on regional duty, should just edge this one to remain top of the pile.

Prediction: Pontypridd by 3 points

Llandovery v Cross Keys 

Both these side have been a little bit Jekyll and Hyde so far this season with three wins and three defeats from their respective six games. It’s a difficult one to predict but I’ll just give it to the Drovers who will be looking to make full use of home advantage.

Prediction: Llandovery by 6 points

Neath v Carmarthen Quins

Neath will be looking for a repeat of their last outing a fortnight ago when they came from behind to record a stunning win over Cross Keys, which turned out to be Rowland Phillips’ last game at the Gnoll. Patrick Horgan will be looking for another positive result having taken on team affairs, although standing in their way are the mighty Quins - and it would take a brave punter to back against them maintaining their 100 per cent record.

Prediction: Carmarthen Quins by 16 points

Bridgend v Bedwas (Sunday)

Bridgend recorded a morale-boosting win at Aberavon last Friday and showed they have the ability to hurt teams, particularly when they get the ball out wide. Bedwas are likely to provide much stiffer opposition head coach Steve Law felt his side were unfortunate not to pick up a win at Pontypridd in their last game two weeks ago.

Prediction: Bedwas by 4 points

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Principality Premiership predictions

All Wales Sport's Carl Field looks ahead to tonight's action in the Principality Premiership...

Aberavon v Bridgend (7.15pm)

It looks like it could be a long hard winter for the Ravens, who are up against it after a tough start that has seen them lose four out of five while the Wizards, who have the same record, have targeted this game and home advantage should pay dividends for Jason Hyatt’s side tonight.

Prediction: Aberavon by 15 points


Carmarthen Quins v Ebbw Vale (7.30pm)

This is the pick of this evening’s games with Ebbw Vale – with five wins out of six so far – the surprising front runners in the Principality Premiership. The Steelmen have won all three of their games on the road so far and another win here would be the biggest scalp of the lot. However I expect the Quins to record another win against the Gwent side and maintain their 100 per cent record.

Prediction: Carmarthen Quins by 7 points


Cross Keys v Llanelli (7.30pm)

Cross Keys will be looking for a reaction after their shock defeat at Neath where they tossed away a 19-7 half time lead before eventually going down 32-19 at the Gnoll. Llanelli head coach Anthony Buchanan admits his side looked rusty in their defeat at Newport – their first game for nearly a month – having started to look as if they were clicking into gear before the break for the British & Irish Cup.

Prediction: Cross Keys by 5 points


Llandovery v Pontypridd (7.30pm)

The champions haven’t been in rip roaring form of late – and only squeezed past Bedwas at Sardis Road last time out. I predict their 100 per cent record will go at Church Bank tonight – where they also lost in pre-season. Wing Richard Williams – who bagged a brace that day – will be looking to inspire the Drovers once again.

Prediction: Llandovery by 3 points

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Carl Field's weekend predictions

PRINCIPALITY PREMIERSHIP

Bedwas v Newport (Saturday, 2.30pm)

Bedwas return to action after three weeks off and are looking to pick up their first win at the Bridge Field this season having lost their first three home games. Although they will have been buoyed – by the performance at least – against Carmarthen Quins last time out, when they scored two tries inside the first three minutes, before eventually going down 44-29.

Newport have been in Premiership action in recent weeks and, although they’ve suffered defeats at Cardiff and then at home against Gwent rivals Ebbw Vale in the dying moments last week, they have been unlucky not to turn at least one of them into a win – and are due a bit of luck.

Prediction: Newport by 3 points

BRITISH & IRISH CUP

Pool One – Pontypridd v Bristol (Saturday, 2.30pm)

Premiership powerhouses Pontypridd go into Saturday’s match level on nine points with Bristol at the top of the pool – but with a superior points difference – having hit Connacht for six last weekend.

This match could go a long way to determining both clubs’ destinies in this season’s competition, with the hosts keen to avenge their defeat the last time these two sides met – a 36-25 loss in their B&I semi-final at Sardis Road back in 2010/11.

Prediction: Pontypridd by 7 points

Pool Two – Yorkshire Carnegie v Aberavon (Saturday, 2.30pm)

The Wizards came crashing back down to earth at Rotherham last Saturday having defeated Ulster Ravens the week before – and another tough afternoon is expected for Jason Hyatt’s side at Brantingham Park – home of Hull Ionians – on Saturday.

It’s the second successive season these two sides have been grouped together, with Josh Griffin the star of the show in the corresponding fixture last year as he grabbed a hat-trick in a thumping 72-0 win for Carnegie.

Both sides have four points going into this weekend’s round three fixture, with Carnegie full of confidence after their impressive 22-17 win at Ulster Ravens last time out.

Prediction: Yorkshire Carnegie by 15 points

Pool Four – Cornish Pirates v Cross Keys (Sunday, 3pm)

Cross Keys got their campaign back on track with a narrow 23-22 win at English Championship side Bedford Blues last week – snatching the game in the dying seconds having trailed 19-3 after 16 minutes.

However the group was blown wide open week with the news that Cornish Pirates, who had beaten Bedford 35-34 in their pool opener, had breached the rules related to uncontested scrums which means the result was overturned and a 34-28 victory was latterly handed to Bedford.

Pirates also lost 29-25 at pool leaders Doncaster last week so another win for the Gwent club could really make things interesting – particularly if Bedford also win at Doncaster.

Prediction: Cross Keys by 5 points

Pool Five – Carmarthen Quins v Leinster A (Saturday, 2.30pm)

A Scarlets development XV in everything but name, a composite Quins side ran out 29-16 winners over English Championship side Plymouth at Parc y Scarlets last Saturday and bouncing back having lost at Jersey the week before.

The reigning champions are in town this weekend – with the game being played at Carmarthen Park – and a third straight win for Leinster would see them open up a sizeable lead at the top of Pool 5.

Two hard-fought victories against Plymouth and Jersey puts Leinster on eight points after two rounds. Jersey are second on five, Quins have four and Plymouth two.

Prediction: Leinster A by 10 points

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Quins rocked by double departure

CARMARTHEN QUINS remain united despite being rocked by the recent resignations of two club officials after a row over selection for the British & Irish Cup.

Chairman Dorian Taylor and club secretary Don Davies have both quit due to regional influence over the Quins’ campaign – with the Scarlets using the competition to field a largely development XV containing contracted regional and academy players.

Both felt that, having qualified for the group stages, it should in fact be the Premiership side representing the  region – with help from the Scarlets – as is the case with the other three Welsh sides in the competition.

Pontypridd, Aberavon and Cross Keys are also staging all their games on their own grounds, whereas only one of the Quins’ three group games will be played at Carmarthen Park – against holders Leinster A on October 25.

This weekend’s clash with Plymouth is being staged at Parc y Scarlets with the final group game against Jersey on December 13 taking place at Llandovery’s Church Bank.

Just four Carmarthen regulars started the 37-17 Pool Five defeat at Jersey last weekend, with nine players who normally represent Llanelli and two from Llandovery – making up the rest of the side.

However club official Alan Bowen says that, although the departure of two long-standing club stalwarts is regrettable, he feels the furore has been “blown out of all proportion.”

“It’s a pity that it has come to this,” said Bowen.

“We’ve had two serious committee meetings about the matter and the majority – 90 per cent – are in agreement with what the Scarlets are trying to do.

“But, unfortunately, some are not so have taken the decision to step down.

“We’ve got such a good relationship with the Scarlets and we thought it’s not worth jeopardising that for this competition.

“Everybody realises you have to have a parent club and, like everyone else in the division, the regions let us use some of their players. The whole division has prospered from it.

“We certainly wouldn’t be where were are now without the Scarlets and that’s why the system was introduced in the first place – with the talent developing through the academies to the Premiership and then on to the regions and it’s working well.”

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CARL FIELD'S WEEKEND PREDICTIONS

CARL FIELD previews the weekend’s action as the British & Irish Cup gets going, while there is one Principality Premiership fixture.

PRINCIPALITY PREMIERSHIP

Cardiff v Newport

With both these sides failing to make it to the B&I Cup group stages, the two face off in a league clash at the Arms Park.

Cardiff lost to Cross Keys on their last outing here – having won their first two games with a bonus-point – but bounced back with victory at Llandovery last weekend.

Newport, who have lost three from four so far, are currently ravaged by injury and unavailability and could be in for a difficult afternoon tomorrow.

Prediction: Cardiff by 15 points

BRITISH & IRISH CUP

Pool 1 – Pontypridd v London Scottish

After last year’s gut-wrenching exit to eventual winners Leinster A at the semi-final stage, Pontypridd will have targeted this competition as a priority.

There was only one score in it on both occasions these two sides clashed at the same stage last season and the visitors have a score of their own to settle, having missed out on qualification to Ponty on points difference.

Prediction: London Scottish by 3 points

Pool 2 – Aberavon v Ulster A

Aberavon have their work cut out if they are to qualify from their group which also includes English Championship sides Rotherham and Yorkshire Carnegie.

Ulster reached the semi-finals of this competition in 2010 and, although I don’t think they’ll qualify from the group, can see them heading home with the spoils this weekend.

Prediction: Ulster A by 7 points

Pool 4 – Cross Keys v Doncaster

Pandy Park hasn’t been a happy hunting ground so far this season for Cross Keys – losing both Principality Premiership home games on their own patch.

Doncaster are back in the competition after gaining promotion back to the English Championship and have won three of their five games so far – including two wins on the road.

Prediction: Doncaster by 7 points

Pool 5 – Jersey v Carmarthen Quins

Jersey have had an indifferent start in the English Championship, winning one and losing three of their first five games and are yet to win at home – although league form tends to go out of the window in cup competitions.

Conversely, Quins have made an excellent start to their league season and will need to get their B&I Cup campaign off to a flyer – in a group that also includes holders Leinster A – if they harbour any realistic hopes of reaching the knockout stages.

Prediction: Carmarthen Quins by 3 points

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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

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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.”

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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.”

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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.”

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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.

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McIntosh moves to quash speculation over Ponty future

Pontypridd head coach Dale McIntosh has reiterated he will remain at the club despite this morning being unveiled as a new member of the Cardiff Blues coaching setup.

Speculation had been rife as to whether he would continue to work with the reigning Swalec Cup and Principality Premiership champions after leading them to a historic first double in the season just finished – seeing off Neath 34-13 at the Millennium Stadium to lift to Cup, and trouncing Llanelli 47-15 in the Premiership Play-off final at Sardis Road.

But McIntosh declared the move as “no big deal” when it came to his work with the Valley Commandos. He said in a statement: “It’s very simple really. The Blues have asked me to come in to do some collision work with them. Two hours a week - and that's it. It won't cross over into anything I do with Pontypridd. Two hours a week - during the daytime - no big deal for Pontypridd.”

The club also reiterated that message in a bid to calm the fears of supporters, with the Blues also announcing a similar situation would be struck with Cardiff RFC coach Mark Ring. They had already announced Andi Kyriaco would be joining their coaching team.

The Blues statement this morning read: “Last season saw us blood a number of young players and 20 matches were won or lost by less than one score.

“With that in mind, one of the main areas we wanted to develop was the technical skills in attack and defence as well as the set piece, especially the scrum.

“We aim to bolster the coaching team with the appointment of Dale McIntosh, Andi Kyriaco and, Mark Ring, who will be involved on specific times throughout the week with player skill development.”

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Jenkins back at The Gnoll

Neath have re-signed winger Alec Jenkins after a season with Llanelli.

The Carmarthen-born 25-year-old came through the Scarlets’ youth system and made four senior appearances for the region, before playing in the English Championship with London Welsh. He also includes Pontyberem and Carmarthen Quins among his former clubs.

He previously spent three seasons at Neath between 2009 and 2012 with an outstanding record; helping the Blacks to 47 wins in 69 games in all competitions and scoring 19 tries.

A Welsh international at Under-18, 19, 20 and 7s levels, he was a member of the Under-19 Grand Slam-winning side of 2006 that included recent full senior internationals Jonathan and Bradley Davies. That same year, he also lifted the Hong Kong 7s Plate with Wales, scoring a try in the final against Argentina.

Coach Neil Edwards said of his new signing: “I played with Alec here at Neath and he’s an outstanding rugby player and outstanding bloke. He gives 100 per cent and was disappointed to have left the club last year.

“He’s really looking forward to coming back and proud to be a Neath man again. He’s a big winger and he’ll do his job all the time. I’m confident we’ll have good displays from him next season.”

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Swansea RFC appeal for the return of stolen shirts

Swansea chairman Phil Llewellyn has asked all supporters and rugby fans to keep their eyes and ears out for news on four historical jerseys stolen from their clubhouse earlier this month.

The four shirts were taken from the Presidents’ Suite situated on the top floor of the building, with club officials unsure how they were taken, possibly while another room was hired out for a private function.

The four jerseys hold tremendous sentimental value to the club. One is a maroon colour Ranji Walker XV jersey from the 1970s, the second a combined England and Wales white shirt from around 1923 donated by the legendary Welsh winger and late Judge Rowe Harding.

The third is a green Irish jersey from around 1924, while the fourth is a Japanese international jersey, also from the 1970s, which contains red and white horizontal stripes

A fifth jersey was also taken – a signed, red Welsh international shirt donated to the club by former Swansea and Wales star Scott Gibbs.

Llewellyn said: “There are plenty of websites where people can sell them so we have to keep our eyes out and monitor what is being sold.

“We will be contacting websites and asking them to look out for them. The problem is if somebody sits on them for a few months while the fuss dies down and then tries to sell them. There’s now an international market so they are much harder to track down.

“If fans or anyone else hears of anything to do with the shirts, or if they hear anybody saying they have been in to the club to take them, please come forward.

“One can’t tell the value of them until they are put up for sale. We will now have to put them in to hard storage, where we have already placed all the other memorabilia from the suite of monetary value, which is such a shame for all our supporters who want to see them.”

An earlier club statement read: “They are an integral part of this great club’s history and part of our and the city of Swansea’s heritage. It is hoped that their return will allow them to be placed in a secure display to be enjoyed by all sports enthusiasts of whatever affiliation.”

Detectives in Swansea are currently investigating the incident, and are also calling on anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Dean Llewellyn of Swansea Central CID said: “These jerseys are important items of memorabilia for the club, and which they would like much to have returned.

“The club house has many rooms which are sometimes hired out to numerous organisations for various functions. I am appealing to anyone who has recently been in the club and saw any of these jerseys being removed, or has any relevant information to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Swansea Central CID on 01792 450618 or 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Further information and pictures of the four jerseys in question can be found on the club's website.

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Downs and Evans commit to Neath for next season

Nicky Downs and Lee Evans have committed to Neath for next season in an announcement that will delight supporters.

With the recent upheaval that saw coach Pat Horgan replaced by Neil Edwards following a disappointing season at The Gnoll, which ended in Swalec Cup final defeat to Pontypridd at the Millennium Stadium, supporters will be pleased two fans’ favourites have committed to the club.

Downs (26) and Evans (30) are the first to sign up for the new campaign, with Edwards saying: “We’re delighted that they’ve decided to stay with the club.

“Both had offers to go elsewhere but it shows that they’re hell-bent on helping Neath to rise up the Premiership next season. They’re staying for the right reasons in rebuilding Neath RFC. They’ve a great attitude [and] both have been with us a long time so it’s a great statement.”

He added of their performances over the last campaign: “Lee has been outstanding all season. He had a couple of small injury issues but had some fantastic games. The one I can remember well was when he came off the bench at Bridgend and turned the game around. Generally, he’s a [100-per-cent player]. He had a massive impact in our road to the Millennium Stadium this season and didn’t falter.

“Nicky has been a fan favourite for a number of years. Unfortunately, he had an operation on his knee this year which put him out for the latter half of the season, but he’s a proud Neath man and he wants to stay around to see this rebuilding process through and help Neath back to the top where we belong.”#

Downs played 16 times for the club this year, while Evans made 20 appearances.

The news follows that of Edwards appointing Llyr Lane as his number two, and 2005 Grand Slam winner Robin Sowden-Taylor arriving as the new strength and conditioning coach.

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Ponty outclass Llanelli to secure historic double

Pontypridd beat Llanelli 47-15 at Sardis Road last night to secure a historic league and Cup double that will live long in the memory.

It was the third title clash between the sides in as many years, with Llanelli winning the 2011 tussle and Ponty levelling last time out. This victory for the defending champions by such a large scoreline outlines their dominance of the sport in Wales currently.

The teams run out for the Championship match.

Simon Humberstone starred for the Valley Commandos with a personal haul of 25 points, and when Llanelli’s intuitive backs did break the Ponty line they often found themselves isolated with very little support to keep their momentum going.

A raucous 5,000-plus crowd packed in to the famous old stadium to witness this historic encounter, and although Llanelli brought a fairly sizeable following they were kept largely quiet by an emphatic Pontypridd performance, especially in the first half.

Ponty started the better of the two sides, and two Humberstone penalties in the opening 10 minutes were followed by the opening score through home skipper Chris Dicomidis on 13.

Llanelli were penalised at the scrum and No8 Dan Godfrey’s quick thinking saw him tap quickly and storm through a gap. He fed the giant second row, who left the covering Dan Thomas in his wake to go over in the corner, which Humberstone converted.

Jordan Williams opened the visiting score on 18 with a penalty, but other than a tantalisingly close drop goal attempt minutes later by the same man, they were unable to stop the imperious Valley Commandos in a remarkably dominant first half.

They extended their lead on 24 minutes as Humberstone shone again, somehow squeezing over through a couple of tackles with the help of the supporting Dafydd Lockyer, before dusting himself off to kick another conversion through the posts.

Rhys Shellard then marked his 100th appearance for the club on 36 minutes, reacting quickest to an over-long Llanelli line out to burst through and keep his feet despite the defence’s best efforts to dive over. It was a heart-warming moment for the long-serving flanker and brought a standing ovation from the home crowd. Humberstone again converted, and added a penalty on the stroke of half-time for a half-time lead of 30-3.

He kicked another just again after the restart, but then it was Llanelli’s turn to turn the screw.

On 62 minutes, a flowing move across their backline saw Chris Keenan find Nic Reynolds with a delightful pass. He darted between two defenders to touch down, with substitute Johnny Lewis converting.

A bumper crowd was on hand to see history made.

But almost immediately, Ponty dashed any thoughts of a revival when Adam Thomas burst through the middle with another fantastic solo run. He slipped the ball to Matthew Nuthall, who crossed the whitewash, with Humberstone again kicking the extras.

Llanelli did assert some late pressure, and after consistent phases were halted by astute defending in the Ponty 22, Kristian Phillips finally squeezed over on the right following another flowing move with minutes remaining. Lewis missed the conversion.

Then in injury time, substitute hooker Darran Harris fought his way through with a barnstorming solo run following a team foray down the right, with fellow sub Dai Flanagan converting for the final say.

That brought about the final whistle, and the champagne began to flow as Pontypridd received their prize – the third in their history.

SCORERS:

Ponty:

Tries: Chris Dicomidis (13), Simon Humberstone (24), Rhys Shellard (36), Matthew Nuthall (65), Darran Harris (80+4)

Cons: Simon Humberstone (13, 24, 36, 65), Dai Flanagan (80+4)

Pens: Simon Humberstone (5, 10, 40+2, 46)

Llanelli:

Tries: Nic Reynolds (62), Kristian Phillips (78)

Cons: Johnny Lewis (62)

Pens: Jordan Williams (18)

WHAT THEY SAID:

Ponty’s star man Simon Humberstone: “We just came here for the double and we know that if we play well there’s always a performance like that in us. I think tonight all the little cogs came together and we did play well.

“I think we showed everyone how good we can be tonight which is very satisfying. To do it on this stage and to put that result away, we’re very happy.”

“We’ll enjoy tonight and then we’ll have a couple of weeks off. I think it’s well deserved for a lot of the boys. I’ve only done a half season so I feel fresh but this boy [Dicomidis] has been going for a whole year so we’ll enjoy the next couple of days and couple of weeks and then I’m sure we’ll rock up on July 1 [for pre-season training] and we’ll be just as hungry again.

“I think one of the best things the Chief [Dale McIntosh] has done is assemble a squad of players where the competition within is so strong that you can’t just turn up on July 1 and doddle your way through until the end of September. You’ve got to be ready to go so we’ll have a couple of enjoyable days now and get stuck in on July 1.”

Victorious skipper Chris Dicomidis: “Moments like this take a while to sink in. We said before the game the great players like Neil Jenkins, Paul John, Dale McIntosh, they won the league and they won the Cup but they never did the double.

“We’ve created history and we broke a record tonight as well for the most consecutive wins by a Pontypridd team so we’re double record breakers.”

Llanelli coach Kevin George: “We didn’t match their physicality it’s as simple as that. Rugby is a very physical game and it’s getting more physical by the year. What we didn’t do today was come and match any of the physicality that was coming our way.

“All the periphery stuff, all the nice little rugby bits and the nice intricate moves, they don’t even enter into it until you match the physicality, especially when you go away from home. That’s a lesson we learned today.

“We didn’t match the physicality in the contact area. We only missed about five tackles in the first half. That just shows that they outplayed us in so many different areas.

“I’ve got a young group. They’ll come back hard and hopefully we’ll be in the same place again. As I said in the week, it’s the experience of this. If you’re not in it you don’t get the experience and you learn further down the line.

“When the boys stood behind the posts a few points down, you hope the pain in their belly would not want to make them be in that position again. These are young boys who hopefully will learn from that and kick on next year.

“I think that Ponty had that respect for us. I think they feared that we could come out of our shackles. But ultimately today they were a hungry team and they came after us and we didn’t cope with it and that was the end of us.

“Every time they play us they go after us in those sort of areas and we’ve got to deal with it.”

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Ponty and Llanelli primed for round three in title clash saga

This Saturday will see Pontypridd and Llanelli clash horns for the third time in as many years in a tantalising fight for the Premiership crown.

Sardis Road plays host to the Principality Premiership Championship Play-off final after the Valley Commandos finished the regular season 23 points ahead of second-placed Llandovery. Yet this match will be no easy task, with both sides having won one of the last two clashes apiece.

The hosts go in to the crunch encounter on the verge of history as they are looking to secure a first league and Cup double having shown great work ethic and spirit to stage a comeback and beat Neath 34-13 in the WRU ‘Finals Day’ at the Millennium Stadium on May 4.

Their coach Dale McIntosh has called on his players not to overcomplicate things as they chase a historic moment. He said: “We need to concentrate on getting the little things right during the course of the game: to be tight in defence; to give ourselves a solid set piece platform; to work through the phases and carry the ball hard; to put players into space.

“We can put a strong 23-man squad into action on Saturday night and we are capable of playing expansive rugby to win the game. It will be one hell of a battle as Llanelli themselves are hitting form and have some dangerous strike players with an abundance of pace and creativity.”

They will agree. They came through a tough semi-final at Llandovery on the weekend 29-20, with Jordan Williams starring throughout with a try, three conversions and a penalty. They also ran in four touchdowns through as many scorers, so they will believe they have the firepower throughout to trouble Ponty.

Head coach Kevin George believes getting this far has matched their objectives over the season. He said: “Our objectives for the year were to get through in the British and Irish Cup, which we did, and then return to the league.

“We’ve had our limitations. We had a lot of boys in the Wales U20s, and with so many Scarlets players called up to the Wales squad they soaked a lot of our players up. So we had a mid-season dip, which we understand, and then came back strong.

“We’re building up nicely after the last couple of performances, but we’ve got to be clinical and a lot sharper then we were against Llandovery. We’ve got to match their passion and physicality, stay with them and then try and get ahead in the second half.

“We’ve got to equal the crowd, the Sardis Road effect and everything else. We have to be good at the basics and see what develops, but we’ve done it before.”

Ponty will start as favourites having won the three clashes between the sides – both in the league and also in the Swalec Cup on route to the final – with an aggregate score of 72-48. But this is a one-off affair, and Llanelli’s 24-18 triumph in 2011 shows that over 80 minutes nothing is certain.

Saturday’s game, live on S4C, sees the West Wales side going for their fifth title. Ponty will be hoping to capture their third, having beaten Llanelli 15-13 last year to gain revenge for the 2011 reverse.

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Horgan leaves post at Neath

Swalec Cup finalists Neath have announced that head coach Patrick Horgan has stepped down from his role with immediate effect after five years in charge.

The club statement said he was ending his 17-year association with the club “to concentrate on his business and career pursuits”.

The former Neath captain was at the helm for the league and Cup successes of recent years, and he is widely recognised as one of the leading and most astute coaches on the Premiership scene.

Speaking after Neath’s 34-13 Cup final defeat to Pontypridd at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium on May 4, he had seemed intent on helping his side get back above the Valley Commandos in the Welsh rugby pecking order.

He said at the time: “When it comes down to it, Pontypridd are a better team than us at the moment. They’ve overtaken us and it’s up to everybody at Neath Rugby Club, not just coaches, not just the players, but people at board level [to] push [us] forward now.

“Let’s get back, not to where Ponty are now, but let’s get back on top of Ponty because that’s where we were [a few] years ago.”

It seems things have changed, and now the club must take a new direction without their talismanic coach.

Former Neath chairman Geraint Hawkes has paid tribute to the man he worked with for over a decade. He said: “During my direct involvement for over 10 years, Pat has been a major driving force both as a player, assistant coach and recently head coach. It has very much been a backs against the wall philosophy for both of us.

“He has been at the heart of keeping everything on an even keel. His core values, true grit determination and exceptional coaching qualities are admired from all quarters.

“Together we had some extremely challenging times, but Pat has remained steadfast and helped bring the side through to the Cup final this year. He is Neath through and through, and I have fond memories of some truly epic rugby moments.

“His relationship with the club spans over 17 years, and probably gives him more right to the place than anyone else. Everyone associated with Neath RFC would like to wish Pat all the best with his future endeavours.”

The club also posted on its Twitter feed: "A big thank you to Pat Horgan for all his efforts over the years with Neath RFC from all Neath fans [far and] wide, [especially] from the Cow Shed!"

The statement also indicated that an announcement on Horgan’s replacement and the make-up of the back-room team will be made shortly.

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Dixon, Owen and George fly in with the Ravens

Bridgend Ravens have announced that Carmarthen Quins outside half James Dixon has signed for them ahead of the new season.

The 27-year-old six footer from Maesteg has also previously played for Swansea, where he spent some time on permit at the Ravens when they were playing in Division One West.

The news follows hot on the heels of the announcement the club have also signed winger Ryan Owen from Bedwas, as well as hooker Greg George from Llanelli.

Dixon represented Carmarthen on 26 occasions this term, scoring 96 points. Bridgend will be hoping he will bring that eye for point-scoring to their side as they look to kick on in the Principality Premiership and improve on their 11^th-placed finish, where only Swansea finished below them.

He outlined his joy at switching to the Brewery Field for next season, saying: “I’m delighted to have become part of such a great club for the coming season.

“The Ravens have blooded a fair few youngsters over the past few seasons, and have almost been victims of their own success with a good number progressing to play in the PRO12.

“I’m hoping we can be very competitive next season in all competitions, and with all going well, I don’t see any reason why we can’t challenge for silverware. As a bare minimum, we want to establish the Ravens as the best Premiership team in the region.”

Ravens’ head coach Ben Rose was ecstatic to get his man, saying: “He is proven as one of the best outside halves in the league while at Swansea and Carmarthen Quins. His wealth of experience will be great for Lewis Williams and the younger players around him.”

Carmarthen Quins team manager Steffan Thomas wished Dixon luck at his new home, saying: “I’d like to thank him for his time and efforts and wish him all the best. He will be a good addition for Bridgend.”

Owen (26) is experienced after spells with Bedford Blues, Newport and Pontypool, while 22-year-old George was recently part of the Swansea University side who overcame arch rivals Cardiff in the Welsh Varsity match.

Rose believes these signings will help the current crop of young stars develop and mature in to top talents along the line, adding: “These signings prove that the club is serious about its Premiership status and show that the club is aiming to be more than just competitive in next season’s league. I believe the development of the young players will be enhanced with the signings of these players.”

A whole host of current Bridgend stars have already put pen to paper on new deals for next season.

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