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Rugby Preview
5th September 2009
Division One (West):
Bridgend v Narberth (Playing Sunday)
This is a really tough start for the Otters against a former top-class side itching to get back its place in the premier section of Welsh Rugby, especially on its own ground at the Brewery Field. Narberth have recruited sensibly in the summer and should do well in the division again – but how well will be shown after Sunday! Verdict: Sadly, a home win – but I hope the Otters prove me wrong!
Whitland v Bridgend Athletic
The Borderers did well to finish seventh last season but will be looking to move up a little this campaign. They have a settled squad and an astute management team so I hope they make a god start against a Bridgend Athletic side promoted from Division Two (West) with 16 wins from 22 starts. Verdict: The Borderers to start with a win.
Division Three (West):
Crymych v Llanelli Wanderers
Crymych had an amazing season and there is no reason why they can’t build on that with Lyn Williams and Elgan Vittle’s experience off the pitch and players of the experience of John Davies and Andrew Morris on it. Verdict The opposition came tenth last campaign so a home win is my banker bet!
Lampeter Town v Cardigan
Cardigan had a cracking season where they came fourth playing some superb rugby and although they have to travel to Lampeter Town they should be too strong for a home side who came ninth in the section. Verdict: Cardigan to win although it might be a little harder starting with an away match.
Laugharne v Haverfordwest
These teams met at Haverfordwest last season on the opening day and drew 13-all but I don’t think it will be a draw in Laugharne somehow. Verdict: The Blues have played a couple of pre-season friendlies but I think they might lose to the Laugharnies this time!
Division Four (West):
Milford Haven v Trimsaran
Milford Haven gained promotion last season and coach Alan McClelland was delighted with the Mariners’ form on a pre-season tour to Bristol and in a narrow defeat at Haverfordwest. Trimsaran were seventh in the section last season with ten wins. Verdict: The Mariners to start in this section with a win as long as they have their right heads on!
Pembroke v Tenby United
A local derby always creates interest and none more than this one. The Seasiders are reputed to have lost some key players whilst the Scarlets are always happier at home than they are away so they might be looking for victory against their old rivals. Verdict: Home advantage to pay off with a win for the Scarlet Runners!
Tumble v Pembroke Dock Quins
Tumble were relegated with just one win from 22 starts but are supposed to have strengthened their squad in the close season. The Quins are under new management and will be looking for a good start for Paul Rogers, Colin Burton and Roy Davies. Verdict: The Quins are not the best starters so I have to go for Tumble – but I would love the Quins to prove me wrong.
Division Five (West):
Fishguard v Pontyates
Fishguard are again led by Alan Phillips and Huw Evans and if they play to their potential they should beat Pontyates (eighth last year) and do better than their seventh spot last season, especially if the likes of Romeo Colella and Graham Davies are still going strong. Verdict: The Seagulls to fly high with a good home win.
New Dock Stars v Neyland
New Dock Stars are new to the section but Neyland will need to build on their form from last season to achieve the sort of position they are capable of. Verdict: Travelling to Llanelli is never easy against New Dock so I hope my tipping the Stars will help them along the way!
Penygroes v St Davids
Penygroes are also new to this division but St Davids made a cracking start under new skipper Fraser Watson with a friendly win at Haverfordwest. Verdict: Penygroes has an experienced squad so I have to pick them.
St Clears v Llangwm
St Clears were fifth last season and Llangwm came a disappointing tenth with only three wins all campaign – and new skipper Nick ‘Canteen’ Phillips has a big job to drum up a revival. Verdict: I hope ‘Canteen’ can put the sting back in the Wasps but I have yet to be convinced.
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