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Fixtures for 4th November 2010
Division One (West):
Felinfoel v Narberth
Felinfoel are sitting in 11th place in the table, with just one draw and 10 defeats, whilst Narberth are still in second spot, despite losing to UWIC in their last match. Verdict: This should be a banker bet for the Otters and the double for them since they beat Felinfoel 33-9 on the opening day of the season.
Whitland v UWIC
Whitland have played really well after their bad start to the season, which included an opening day defeat by 28-18 to UWIC in Cardiff. The Borderers have worked hard, grown in confidence and need not be afraid of any team in the section. Verdict: Whitland will need to stifle the students’ running rugby – and might just do that!
Division Three (West):
Haverfordwest v Mumbles
Mumbles arrive at Merlins Bridge with just one defeat in nine matches and a deserved second spot in the table so this is something of a challenge for The Blues, who are in sixth place having won three and drawn one of their ten games. Verdict: Haverfordwest are capable of beating anyone in the section but I fear Mumbles might edge this one!
Penclawdd v Crymych
Crymych travel to Penclawdd looking to maintain their 100% record in Division Three (West) but know that The Cocklemen, currently eighth in the table, are very strong at home, backed by a vociferous set of supporters. Verdict: The Preseli Men will need to be at their most committed for this one and I think they can keep winning – but it will be hard!
Division Four (West):
Cardigan v Neyland
Cardigan have been playing some good rugby and are in third place as their reward, winning six times from eight starts, whilst Neyland are languishing at the foot of the table with just one victory and seven losses. Verdict: This should be a comfortable win for the Teifisiders but the All Blacks are going to find form at some time and cause a surprise.
Hendy v Tenby United
Tenby travel to Hendy knowing that this could be a banana skin to their promotion aspirations because although the opposition are ninth they are traditionally strong at home. Verdict: The Seasiders have a strong, experienced squad with a winning habit – so they will pocket the points in this away tussle and maintain first place.
Llanybydder v Milford Haven
Milford found some form in their last match but Llanybydder are in fourth place, with five wins in eight matchers so far, and have home advantage over the Mariners. Verdict: Llanybydder start as favourites but Milford could spring a surprise if they have a full squad travelling.
Pembroke Dock Quins v Amman United
Amman United are certainly the team to watch in Division Four (West) since they have won all seven games played so far, but the Quins are gradually gaining in confidence and are now just out of the relegation zone. Verdict: The Quins are on a learning curve with their young side and I feel that Amman’s greater experience will pay off in this match.
Division Five (West):
Pembroke v Llandybie
Pembroke will be looking to return to winning ways as they entertain a Llandybie side in fifth place with five wins and three losses. Verdict: The Scarlets are third, having lost twice in eight fixtures, and should make it seven victories if they play to their best form.
Pontyates v Llangwm
Pontyates have lost all eight games as they hold up the table but they have recruited a few experienced players and are usually able to field a stronger team at home. Llangwm are playing some good stuff as they sit comfortable in mid table with a fit young side. Verdict: The Wasps should win this match, with a little in hand.
St Davids v Fishguard
This local derby draws out considerable passion in both camps and has been much closer in recent seasons because the Saints have improved no end. They won their first three matches but have dipped since, whilst the Seagulls are undefeated near the top of the table. Verdict: The Saints will battle hard, but I expect Fishguard to maintain their excellent run of results since their pack might be too mobile for the homesters!
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