The Welsh All Blacks made 11 changes for their 44-3 Cup win at Gilfach Goch last week so several players return to the frame for the Brewery Field clash. Among those returning to the squad are wing Kristian Phillips, centre Wayne Mitchell, scum-half Kevin Farrell, props Nicky Downs, hooker Gerwyn Price and flanker Gareth Gravell.
The Welsh All Blacks are celebrating the selection of their newest Barbarian with flanker Steve Tandy set to don the famous jersey against the Scarlets on Saturday while two more back rowers – Lee Beach (captain) and James Merriman – are heading for the no doubt sunnier climes of Wellington (N.Z.) and San Diego with the Wales Sevens squad.
Director of Rugby Rowland Phillips said: “Our 44-3 win at Gilfach Goch was well executed even if at times we did not take the simplest option. But it was solid preparation for the task that awaits us at Bridgend who will be out to correct things after being on the receiving end of a similar cup scoreline at Newport.
“Bridgend beat us at The Gnoll earlier in the season on a hugely disappointing day for us and, as a consequence, our squad is in a very determined mood ahead of this weekend’s game.
“The Black Army travelled in big numbers to Gilfach Goch last week, contributing to probably the biggest crowd of the round, and I would appeal to our supporters to come out in force again this week even though the game is televised. Our boys respond to atmosphere and the more who travel the better.”
Menwhile, outside-half Howard Thomas who has yet to appear this season after dislocating his shoulder in pre-season training is set to return in next Saturday’s friendly clash with Cwmllynfell at The Gnoll.
Neath v Bridgend (Away) From – G.King, M.Nuthall, D.Evans, K.James, K.Phillips, L.Ford, W. Mitchell, M.Jarvis, A.Thomas, M.James, K.Farrell, T.Knoyle; N.Downs, P.Jones, A.Howell, C.Mitchell, G.Price, A.Littlehales, A.James, E.Evans, N.Edwards, H.Pugh, L.Evans, G.Gravell, S.Miles
