Pontypridd top the table with 13 points, and poised in third place trailing by just a point are the Wizards of Aberavon.
Aberavon will host Ponty in an early season clash of the form teams (KO 2:30pm). This encounter will undoubtedly signify a step up in the intensity of the league programme for Ponty and will give an indication of the team’s ability to challenge for honours.
Pontypridd head coach Dale McIntosh has been preparing his squad for the challenge ahead and is optimistic of their chances.
“Its always a big test for us down at Aberavon, a place where we haven’t won for many a season” said McIntosh. “Expectations are high and we will be up for a tough battle against our old friend Simon King.
“We are well aware, unlike our previous three games, that if we don’t fulfil our potential at the Talbot Athletic then we will come unstuck. However we have a strong squad and have prepared well, both mentally and physically for this big test. Hopefully we can come away with a result”.
Sidelined with injury for Pontypridd are flanker Darren Waters (thumb), prop Stuart Williams (dislocated finger) and hooker Huw Dowden (ankle).
The squad is bolstered by the inclusion of Blues trio, prop Sam Hobbs, hooker Kristian Dacey and lock Cory Hill, whilst scrum half Garyn Lucas makes an early and welcome return from illness.
Pontypridd: 15.Adam Thomas. 14.Gareth Wyatt. 13.Dafydd Lockyer. 12.Gary Williams. 11.Owen Williams. 10.Simon Humberstone. 9.Garyn Lucas; 1.Sam Hobbs. 2.Kristian Dacey. 3.Ryan Harford. 4.Cory Hill. 5.Ryan Savage. 6.Ed Siggery. 7.Wayne O’Connor. 8.Chris Dicomidis (capt)
Subs: Kristian Baller; Dean Gunter; David Gratton; Tom Hetherington; Jake Thomas; Craig Locke; Ken Knaggs.
