SWALEC Plate preview

The Bridgend outfit have started the league season in style and are top of SWALEC Division 1 East after only one defeat in their opening seven matches. They are looking to hold on to the trophy they secured at the Millennium Stadium in May with a thrilling 20-19 victory over Rhydyfelin and will be confident of making progress at the expense of the Tigers, from Division 3 South East.
 
Last season’s beaten finalists, Rhydyfelin, have also been drawn away. They make the trip to Penarth to play the Seasiders, who are two divisions below them. Rhydyfelin have had a difficult start to the season in Division 1 East with only one victory to date.
 
Division 1 West leaders Glynneath head to Division 3 South West side Bryncoch hoping to maintain their winning streak, while there will be locdl derby at Welfare Park, Senghenyyd where Caerphilly are the visitors.
 
Dowlais, who play in Division 2 East with Senghenydd, entertain Glamorgan Wanderers, while another Cardiff-based team, St Peter’s, face a difficult trip to fellow Division 3 South East side Brecon.
The Rocks, who are still remembered for their famous cup giant-killing exploits against Cardiff, are third in the league while Brecon are struggling near the foot of the table. The sides have already met in a league match with St Peter’s winning 36-13 at the Harlequins, so they will go into the tie as firm favourites.
 
Unbeaten Tenby United, who sit proudly at the top of Division 3 West, open their SWALEC Plate campaign at Llanybydder, who have yet to win a match this season. The two teams met earlier in the season, when Tenby ran out convincing 43-14 victors at home.