Pontypridd downed previously unbeaten Bridgend 26-9 at the Brewery Field on Friday night, and home wins over Scottish sides Borders and Glasgow in the next two weeks would have them in prime position for a home quarter-final.
“Our forwards are playing very well, and our halfbacks have been able to dictate play because of the quality ball they’re getting,” Howells said.
“We’re basically strangling teams with our possession.
“We’ve had a good couple of weeks – getting a win on the road in this type of competition is crucial.
“We’re coming back to Sardis Road for a couple of weeks, and that’s good for the players and for the fans, who were in great form at Bridgend.
“It’s always good to play at home, and being at Sardis adds a bit of spice to the game.”
Howells said he didn’t know a lot about Scottish new boys Borders – “but I will by the end of the week.
“They’re obviously going through a steep learning curve, but they have a lot of experience to call on, and no one can take them lightly.”
World record Test points-scorer Neil Jenkins bagged seven penalty goals at the Brewery Field, but Howells said the “Ginger Monster” wasn’t as calm as he appeared to be.
“I haven’t seen Jenks that nervous ever,” Howells said.
“It was his first start for a long time and it was a very big occasion for him. You could see he was a bit nervous early on, but he’s a professional and came right pretty quickly.”
