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Rugby Preview for 10th January 2009
First there were the blinking autumn internationals and then the frost last week to stop rugby getting up a head of steam. Of course I had the Tenby United forecast right and even mentioned they should gain a bonus point for four tries – so let’s hope this Saturday sees a full programme of games involving Pembrokeshire clubs!
Division One (West):
Corus v Whitland
Whitland beat Corus 14-10 at home and another close contest would seem to be indicated as the clubs sit fairly close to each other in mid-table. The Steelmen have a big pack and ex-Narberth star Chris MacDonald at scrum half can control a game if he is allowed to so the Borderers’ back row could be kept busy.It could go either way but I plump for Whitland to complete the double – but only just!
Narberth v Carmarthen Quins
This is sure to be one of Narberth’s toughest assignments of the campaign as they entertain the league leaders, who beat them 42-20 at Carmarthen Park. The Quins have a very big pack and sharp backs which kept them with a 100% record into the new year so The Otters will have to be at their very best to lower the Quins’ colours.I would love to see a Narberth win but the form book says it has to be the Quins!
Division Three (West):
Cardigan v Llanelli Wanderers
Cardigan will be looking to win this match with something in hand, with the real possibility of a bonus point against a side in the lower reaches of the section.The Teifisiders won 59-7 in Llanelli and should be fairly close to that result again on Saturday.
Crymych v Aberystwyth
Crymych are well capable of lowering Aberystwyth’s colours but will need some yeoman work from their forwards to limit the possession enjoyed by Aber’s excellent back division.Crymych skipper Richard Llewellyn and henchman John Davies will be very aware of that fact but I think that Aber might repeat their 25-15 home verdict over the Preseli Men.
Laugharne v Haverfordwest
Laugharne and Haverfordwest shared 26 points at Merlins Bridge earlier in the season but the Blues have suffered a number of injuries since then, whilst Laugharne have moved up the table.Laugharne might just snatch this match, despite all the Blues’ yeoman efforts.
Division Four (West):
Pembroke v Hendy
Pembroke lost 33-10 at Hendy and have not found their consistent form so anything could happen here.With home advantage I’ll go for the Scarlets but I have to admit that it is more in hope than anticipation!
Pontarddulais v Tenby United
Tenby United have done really well this season but know that this is a potential banana skin to their hopes of promotion because Pontarddulais are physically strong and now in fourth place after some good results.The Seasiders beat the Bont by 31-25 at Heywood Lane and will need to play even better in this return fixture - and I believe they might just manage a victory.
Tycroes v Pembroke Dock Quins
These two are ninth and eighth respectively in the table so a tough encounter is on the cards. The Quins smashed Tycroes 43-3 at Bierspool but are not the best travellers so there will be no 40-point margin this time.I fear Tycroes might win but I’ll pick the Quins because if only they are at full strength they can beat any team in the section!
Division Five (West):
Fishguard v Llangwm
This is sure to be a battle royal because neither local side will want to lose to the other. On form it should be a win for the Seagulls but the Wasps stung them 13-11 at Pill Parks to record their only win of the season up to Christmas.Big Al’s team to win and stop Llangwm achieving the double.
Neyland v Aberaeron
Neyland are also seeking the double over Aberaeron since they won by 13-8 when the teams met in Mid Wales but the visitors have improved since then and have climbed to fourth spot in the table.Neyland are in mid table but if they focus on the rugby and not get drawn into any nonsense they might just sneak this one.
St Clears v Milford Haven
The Saints have recruited a number of experienced players but are now languishing in seventh place after high expectations – whilst Milford Haven have built a team of local youngsters and a couple of old heads. The latter is clearly paying off because the Mariners have been playing some cracking rugby and scoring lots of tries.But they only beat St Clears 12-3 at the Observatory Field – although this should be plain sailing for the Mariners against the ageing Saints.
St Davids v Cefneithin
St Davids have failed so far to light last season’s spark but are always hard to beat on their own pitch, as Cefneithin have found previously.But the visitors won 57-3 at home and are in contention for a promotion place so they can be expected to pick up the win they need at Fishguard Road!
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