The Steelmen are hot on the heels of the leaders Neath at the top and are undefeated since the opening game of the season. In recent weeks, they have seen off the challenges of Newport, Pontypridd, Cardiff and Neath, and are becoming masters in the art of closing out tight games, with all of the above being decided by one score or less. Ebbw have recalled a number of players for the trip to the capital. Ian George returns in the front row and Rhys Williams also packs down after injury, whilst Andrew Bevan and Kristian Owen will both line-up in the three-quarters.
Wanderer’s Head Coach Richard Hodges has delayed naming his starting line-up until the morning of the game as he monitors several injuries but he does have last season’s top try-scorer Jamie Jones available again after a groin operation.
Neath meanwhile will not want to concede anymore ground to the chasing pack after faltering last weekend at Pontypridd. They welcome Cardiff to the Gnoll, who will have bad memories about travelling west fresh in their minds following last weekend’s drubbing at Stradey Park. They too have delayed naming their side for the trip but will be keen to keep their season on track with a morale boosting away win.
Maesteg recorded a much needed win last time out away at Bedwas and will be hoping to continue the trend against visiting Pontypridd. Ponty are on the crest of a wave though after downing leaders Neath, and have their tails up for the game at Llynfi Road. Maesteg will be without Ospreys youngster Gareth Owen for the match due to regional commitments while a number of injury setbacks for Ponty give starting spots to Dan Hitchings and Paul Matthews, who have been playing for Abercynon in recent weeks, and Ian Poley who comes in at loose-head prop.
Two of last weekend’s victors, Aberavon and Cross Keys, face off at the Talbot Athletic Ground. The Wizards fought their way to a 20-15 triumph at Llandovery while Keys overcame Bridgend, 22-17 at Pandy Park. It promises to be a keenly contested game as Aberavon sit just one place above their visitors in the table.
Bottom club Bridgend are at home to Bedwas while Swansea entertain Llandovery at St Helens. The match between Newport and Llanelli at Rodney Parade has been postponed until Friday 23rd November and kicks-off at 7.15pm.
