The last time that the two clubs went head to head was at the Millennium Stadium back in early May in a cracker of a Welsh Cup Final. Ponty took the honours that day with a 35pts to 24 victory, but only after holding at bay a spirited Aberavon fightback.
Ponty also completed a league double over the Wizards last season, but will know that a difficult encounter lies ahead as always against a team coached by former Sardis favourites Simon King and Nicky Lloyd.
Encouraged by a bonus point away win in difficult conditions at Tonmawr last weekend, Pontypridd make minimal changes to their line-up for the Aberavon clash. An ankle injury sustained by centre Gavin Dacey in training sees a revamp of the back line with Matthew Nuthall moving to midfield, Gareth Wyatt taking over at full back and Owen Williams given a start on the wing.
Highly promising youngster Chris Phillips is rewarded with selection in the loose head prop position. Centre Gary Williams returns from injury to take a place on the bench.
Pontypridd: 15.Gareth Wyatt. 14.Lewis I Williams. 13.Matthew Nuthall. 12.Adam Thomas. 11.Owen Williams. 10.Dean Gunter. 9.Rhys Downes; 1.Chris Phillips. 2.Huw Dowden. 3.Pat Palmer. 4.Cory Hill. 5.Ryan Savage. 6.Chris Dicomidis – cpt. 7.Wayne O’Connor. 8.Dan Godfrey.
Replacements: Gareth Williams; Lewis K Williams; Gary Williams; Tom Hetherington; Calum Thomas; Owen Sheppeard; Ken Knaggs.
