After a 16-day break, Principality Premiership champions Neath continue the search for their second silverware of the season when they entertain Llandovery at The Gnoll tonight in the Premiership play-off competition. (KO 7.10pm)
The Welsh All Blacks ran out 34-3 winners over Pontypridd over a fortnight ago and it seemed that the Sardis Road men were poised for a rapid return to The Gnoll. But an administrative oversight by Ponty saw them field an ineligible player against Llandovery so it is the Drovers who have a second bite at the competition.
Again, Neath have reduced admission charges for their season ticket holders who can gain admission to what is effectively a Cup semi-final for just £5.
Neath make three changes from the side which beat Pontypridd with Wayne Mitchell, top points scorer Gareth McCarthy and Adam Whitney coming into the starting line-up.
Neath Head Coach Patrick Horgan said: “After a long period of inactivity we can’t wait to get back into action although preparations have been hampered somewhat by the prevarication over our opponents.
“Llandovery are a very useful side and we are mindful that they won at Aberavon to clinch a place in next year’s British & Irish Cup. They provided us with a very strong challenge when we played them at The Gnoll back in December when weather conditions were a little bit different and we very much respect the talent they have at their disposal.
“We have been playing some good rugby in recent games and we will be looking to continue that form in front of our own supporters who, having seen us play Ponty three times inside the last month, will be pleased to see different opposition at The Gnoll.”
Neath: G.King; N.Brew, S.Thomas, W.Mitchell, A.Jenkins; G.McCarthy, K.Farrell; A.V.Lott, A.James, M.Jones; E.Evans, N.Edwards; G.Gravell (captain), L.Evans, A.Whitney
Replacements from : R.Smith, T.James, E.Lewis, A.Littlehales, P.Sidoli, M.Collins, H.Pugh
