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Rugby Preview
Fixtures for 31st October 2009
I had nine successful tips from 13 matches last week but again Narberth foxed me as they carved out a narrow win - and both Tenby and Pembroke proved me wrong for different reasons.
We have a real mixed bag this week with several different competitions but I am hopeful that I can further boost my % of correct predictions despite that fact. Only time will tell, though!
Division One (West):
Whitland v Bonymaen
Easily the match of the day in West Wales as table-toppers Whitland entertain second-placed Bonymaen. They have identical records with seven victories from eight starts and both will be really up for the precious league points. Verdict: I think the Borderers will snatch a vital win if they play to their best form.
Tonmawr v Narberth
Tonmawr represent a real challenge for Narberth as they sit in third place behind Whitland and Bonymaen, having won six out of eight matches so far, whilst the Otters have found their winning form in their last two games. Verdict: I have to go for a home win since Tonmawr are a good side, especially at home.
Division Three (West):
Haverfordwest v Laugharne
This match has been rescheduled from Boxing Day and sees these traditionally friendly rivals up against each other with Laugharne in seventh spot and Haverfordwest in 11th spot but having lost only one more fixture than the visitors. Verdict: I think the Blues might pocket the points from this one because Laugharne are not playing as well as they did last season.
Swalec Plate Round One:
Cardigan v Kidwelly
This competition caters for teams in Divisions Two and Three and Cardigan (Division Three) play host to a Kidwelly outfit which occupies fifth spot in Division Two (West) having won five times from eight starts. Verdict: This looks a tough tussle for the Teifisiders and I have to go for Kidwelly.
Swalec Bowl Round 2
Amman United v Neyland
Amman United will provide a real test for Neyland, who are piling up the points in Division Five (West) but now take on opposition who are fifth in Division Four (West) but lost at home to Tenby last Saturday. Verdict: Neyland could cause a shock win here but it all depends on what sort of team gets on the bus in John Street when they set out!
Fishguard and Goodwick v Tycroes
This should be the banker bet of the round since Fishguard sit proudly atop Division Five (West) whilst Tycroes are bottom but one of Division Five (South West) with only one victory from seven games. Verdict: The Seagulls will soar in this cup tie – no doubt about it!
Milford Haven v Betws
Milford entertain Betws knowing that they have already won by 35-10 in Betws a few weeks ago. The Mariners’ only danger could be over-confidence as a result but coach Alan McClelland is sure to see his side are up for a good performance. Verdict: Plain sailing for the Mariners in an easy win.
Tenby United v Pembroke
This local derby is traditionally hard fought and Pembroke have already beaten the Seasiders 29-6 on the opening day of the season at Crickmarren; but playing at Heywood Lane is a different kettle of fish. Verdict: You can’t select a winner with any confidence because both teams are so unpredictable at present – but I’ll plump for Tenby to avenge their league defeat if they can repeat their form of last Saturday.
Pembrokeshire KO Cup
Crymych v Llangwm
Since both teams are not involved in the Swalec competitions this week it is planned they will play in the Pembrokeshire KO Cup at Parc Lloyd Thomas. Verdict: The Preseli Men should comfortably beat the Wasps, but they will have to remove their sting in the first quarter.
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