Rugby Preview

Saturday, 11th October Fixtures

I was really disappointed that Whitland let me down last weekend and I was also wrong in tipping Cardigan and the Quins to win – whilst Crymych were delighted to prove me wrong at Laugharne (they even phoned to let me know so thanks lads!)  Still, seven out of 11 isn’t bad for someone with a reputation as a hopeless tipster – let’s see if we can greatly improve on that this weekend.

Division One (West):

Carmarthen Quins v Whitland

Whitland face a mighty challenge here against neighbours the Quins, who have won all five of their matches so far, most of them with a bonus point as well. A bridge too far for the Borderers and a sixth win on the trot for the Quins!

Narberth v Tonmawr

Perhaps the game of the day in this tough section as third-placed Narberth take on a high-flying Tonmawr outfit which is in second spot and has won its four league matches so far and looked sharp. I think Ton will shade the verdict, although I will be delighted if the Otters prove me wrong.

Division Three (West):

Cardigan v Laugharne

Cardigan will look to bounce back from the disappointment of defeat last week against a Laugharne side which lost at home to Crymych. The Teifisiders will win, as long as they can play the running game that has served them so well before they encountered Llanybydder last Saturday.

Crymych v Llanelli Wanderers

Crymych are going well, as they proved last weekend by winning at Laugharne, with three wins from four outings whilst the Wanderers have won two out of five starts. The Wanderers beat Newcastle Emlyn 37-10 at home but will find the Preseli Men a different kettle of fish at Parc Lloyd Thomas.

Newcastle Emlyn v Haverfordwest

Haverfordwest won well at home to Amman United but will need to raise their game a notch at Ddol Wiber because Emlyn are strong at home. The Blues to win this one, although it could be close!

Division Four (West):

Hendy v Tenby United

Hendy are in mid table after losing three of their five matches so far but they are strong on their tight pitch set in the valley so Tenby will need to be on form if they want a fourth success from five starts. The Seasiders to win – but they must play to form!

Pembroke Dock Harlequins v Brynamman

The Quins face a stern challenge because Brynamman are top of the table with four wins out of five games played. The visitors have already beaten Tenby 44-10 but lost against Llandeilo by 16-13 so the Quins know they can win if they play well. The Quins have players working and so might find it hard going against a strong side.

Tycroes v Pembroke

These two teams have identical records, with each enjoying two wins from four matches. The Scarlets are in form after three big wins on the trot but this could be much closer. Tycroes to win but Pembroke might just prove me wrong!

Division Five (West):

Aberaeron v Milford Haven

The Mariners are not the best travellers but might like Aberaeron because it is so close to the sea and they are used to the wind at their own Observatory Field. Mackie’s Men to win and maintain their 100% start to their campaign.

Neyland v Fishguard & Goodwick

Local derbies are traditionally hard –fought and this one will be no exception as the All Blacks and Seagulls do battle at the Athletic Ground. Neyland to win with home advantage.

St Davids v St Clears

This ‘Battle of the Saints’ has often been close over recent seasons and St Clears will start as favourites against St Clears, who have strongly recruited before the season started. St Clears should win this one after enlisting players from Laugharne, Llanybydder and Haverfordwest.

Swansea Uplands v Llangwm

Swansea Uplands have lost all four league matches played so far but will be looking to get off the mark with a win against Llangwm, who have only won once in four league games played. The Wasps are poor travellers but should target this as a win and make sure they set off with a strong side.