photo by Simon Green

Last years Welsh Finalists go head to head on Saturday when 2007 runner-ups Newport Titans host the Bridgend Blue Bulls at Pil Harriers RFC. Bridgend beat Newport 24-14 in last years final but not a single player who represented the Bulls that day is in the squad to face the Titans, and with Jon Purnell injured and Tevita Manaseitava unavailable scrum half Lloyd O’Connor will become the sides youngest ever captain at just 21.

At Blackwood RFC there is a battle between the top and bottom clubs with

the Bulldogs hosting the West Wales Sharks. Blackwood are so far unbeaten in this years competition and are firm favourites to finish top, that will see them receive a bye in the first round of the play-offs and a home draw in the semi-finals. The Sharks however will be desperate for a first victory as the bottom side will miss out on the play-offs.

While Blackwood look odds on to achieve top spot up to four clubs could finish second, but the Valley Cougars could seal the runners-up slot if they beat Cardiff Demons at St Peters, but a Cardiff win could see them caught by the Demons, Titans and Blue Bulls.

At Pontypool the Torfaen Tigers host the NPT Steelers, the Tigers have a busy schedule ahead of them as they will be at home again on Wednesday v Newport Titans then away to the Blue Bulls the following weekend.

article by Simon Green
10 July 2008