Justin Burnell’s new look Ponty side made a huge statement earlier in the campaign when they beat Merthyr 42-29 at Sardis Road and since then they have gone on to overtake early leaders Bedwas with a run of seven straight wins.
They pipped Newport at the post in an epic 47-45 game last weekend at home and know they face arguably their toughest test of the season to date when they head the 14 miles up the A470 to Merthyr. The Ironmen ran out 23-12 winners at Bedwas last weekend and have played themselves into a bit of consistent form of late.
The other match on Friday night sees Cardiff head to Cross Keys looking to build on their 18-10 home win over Bargoed last weekend. They are currently in fourth place, two points behind Bedwas and six off Pontypridd in second.
Bargoed host Bedwas as they look to end a run of four successive defeats to try to move off the bottom of the table. Bedwas, so consistent at the start of the season, have now lost their last three games.
Newport host Ebbw Vale at Rodney Parade on Sunday in the final game of the weekend. Having scored seven tries against Pontypridd at Sardis Road and not won the game – they did pick up two losing bonus points – the Black & Ambers will want to find a way to regain the wining habit.
Principality Premiership East Division – Round 11
Friday, 17 November
Cross Keys v Cardiff
Merthyr v Pontypridd
Saturday, 18 November
Bargoed v Bedwas
Sunday, 19 November
Newport v Ebbw Vale
