| NEATH RUGBY WEBSITE | |
| BACK TO MAIN SECTION | |
| ARCHIVES | |
| ARCHIVES | |
 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Archived News - 2005/2006 - (Last updated 25-Apr-2006 20:16 )RESULT NEATH v MAESTEG (Konica Minolta Cup Semi-Final at Aberavon) Team News G.Morris, N.Clapham, S.Thomas, R.Johnston, A.Brew, A.Bevan, W.Mitchell, J.Spratt, J.Hook, A.Thomas, P.Horgan, G.James, M.Roberts; C.Griffiths, P.Jones, A.W.Davies, A.Littlehales, E.Shervington, G.Price, C.Mitchell, A.Howell; S.Martin (captain), B.Davies, M.Morgan, D.McShane, A.Llewellyn, H.Jenkins, S.Pengelly, J.McPhail, J.Davies Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips “When Maesteg were out of the top-flight, we continued to play them quite regularly in friendlies because we respect them as an honest side who will always challenge. We are very mindful that they have beaten sides like Llanelli, Swansea and Newport with considerable aplomb this season and they came within seconds of winning at the Brewery Field last week so their capability cannot be questioned.” “They have a well-knit pack with a strong lineout and in Ian Boobyer they have probably the most destructive player in the Premiership. He will no doubt be full nuisance-value as usual.” “Much pre-match attention is being focussed on three of my playing contemporaries in League and Union Allan Bateman, John Devereux and Kevin Ellis. I played alongside Allan and against Kevin in the 1990 final before we all went to League.” “But sentiment must not cloud anyone’s approach. This is about now and we at Neath have our own ambitions. We have 11 players still under-21 in our squad and it would be a dream for them to reach their first final and a dream for me to coach them there.” “I have been generally very pleased with the way we have coped with a taxing run of four consecutive wins away from home. The challenge for us now is to sustain that level of performance to the end of the season and to continue the hard work put in by the squad as a whole.” IMPORTANT BUS INFORMATION REGARDING BUS TIMES ON SUNDAY 23RD APRIL 2006 The following people are on bus 2 which leaves at 4pm outside the Gnoll on Sunday Mrs Webber Danny Williams Remaining Fixtures
21 April: 23 April: ALL BLACKS' FANS ARE POLITELY REQUESTED TO BE THERE
AND MAKE THE DIFFERENCE ! RESULT
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
“All at Neath were delighted to hear of James Hook’s elevation to the full senior Wales squad this week. His attitude is spot on and deserves every success that comes his way. The Western Mail rightly described it as “a coup for the Premiership” and certainly it has set the Town buzzing. Maybe James will become only the second player to be capped from a club in the regional era and, if so, he would follow another Neath man in Mefin Davies who was capped last year.”
|
|||
Don't forget: MONDAY
NIGHT IS CHAT NIGHT |
|||
NEATH RUGBY CHATROOM 
ADVANCE NOTICERESULT
Cross Keys 15 Neath 36
Match Report now available
NEATH v CROSS KEYS
Team News
After a couple of false starts, Principality Premiership leaders Neath finally hope to have skipper Steve Martin back for their visit to Cross Keys on Saturday, February 11th (kick off 2.30pm).
Although James Hook, Martin Roberts, Ed Shervington and Tom Smith are on Wales Under-21’s duty, the Welsh All Blacks have named a strong squad with Tongan international Siua (Josh) Taumalolo and scrum-half Patrick Horgan also fit to resume.
Neath v Cross Keys (Away) - probable
S.Taumalolo; J.Spratt, A.Bevan, W.Mitchell, G.Morris; A.Thomas, G.James; P.Jones, G.Price, C.Mitchell; S.Martin (captain), M.Morgan; D.McShane, H.Jenkins, J.McPhail
Replacements :- S.Thomas, N.Clapham, P.Horgan, A.Howell, A.Littlehales, B.Davies, S.Pengelly
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“Cross Keys are always a difficult proposition on their own patch and it will be the same this time as they build up to next week’s Cup-tie against Pontypridd which is obviously a very important game to them.”
“Our boys have benefited from last week’s break from League action although match-fitness was topped up in a keenly contested win over an Ospreys Select XV.”
“We had to pull out all the stops against the wind last time out in the League against Newport and we expect a similarly strong challenge from Cross Keys.”
NEATH RUGBY SUPPORTERS GROUP
Will all the supporters previously approached by Ron Reynolds to form a supporters group please contact him to discuss our preliminary meeting which is to be held at the club on Wednesday 22/02/06 at 7.30 PM.
Ron can be contacted as follows: Home 01639 760577 / Mobile 07889643873
NEATH V OSPREYS SELECT XV
Team News
Former Neath, Wales and British Lions centre Allan Bateman returns to The Gnoll on Friday when an Ospreys Select XV takes on the Welsh All Blacks in Patrick Horgan’s benefit match at The Gnoll on FRIDAY, February 3rd (kick off 7.15pm).
Another familiar face in the Select XV will be flanker Ian Boobyer who, after a long and successful career with Neath and the Scarlets, is now playing for Maesteg.
Neath have named a strong squad of regular players for the tie and, with Craig Mitchell on Under-21’s duty and Alun Wyn Davies called up for the Welsh Students, the Blacks have borrowed Tonna props Johnnie Thomas and Richard Durnell to augment the experienced duo of Paul Jones and Andrew Howell.
Horgan himself has been on the injured list since Neath’s win over Pontypridd on January 7th and wil lstart the game in readiness for next week’s difficult League visit to Cross Keys.
Neath v Ospreys Select XV (Home)
G.Morris; N.Clapham, J.Spratt, W.Mitchell, R.Johnston, A.Thomas, P.Horgan; J.Thomas, A.Littlehales, A.Howell; H.Jenkins, B.Davies; J.McPhail, A.Llewellyn, S.Pengelly Replacements S.Taumalolo, A.Bevan, G.James, P.Jones, G.Price, R.Durnell, M.Morgan
Quote from Assistant Coach Patrick Horgan
“My benefit year was launched with two functions at Glynneath RFC and Neath RFC but this is the first match. Others events are in the pipeline including a game between an International XV and a Neath Valleys XV at Easter.”
“I am very grateful to the Ospreys, David Arthur and Gethin Watts in particular, for organising the Select XV and to the players’ clubs for releasing their players.”
“It should be a good game as we have named a strong side from within the Neath squad. We have 5 players on Wales Under-21’s duty but we have a big squad and several will benefit from game time ahead of the League game at Cross Keys.”
For Match Day Hospitality please contact Stacey on 01639 622030
RESULT
Neath 23 Newport 19
Man of the Match: Hooker Gerwyn Price (chosen by former Neath player Randall Davies)
Team News
With no regional rugby being played in Wales on Saturday, the biggest crowd of the day will undoubtedly be at The Gnoll where Principality Premiership champions Neath play Newport at The Gnoll (2.30pm).
The Welsh All Blacks will be minus their five Wales Under-21’s stars. Tom Smith, named this week as Wales Under-21’s captain, ace goalkicker James Hook, scrum-half Martin Roberts, hooker Ed Shervington and Craig Mitchell all sit out the game.
The Neath side therefore has a rather more experienced ring to it than usual and, with prop Cai Griffiths doing duty for The Ospreys at Glasgow, the Blacks will not finalise their team until before kick off although fit-again Siua (Josh) Taumalolo, Patrick Horgan and skipper Steve Martin are named.
Neath v Newport (Home) - Squad
S.Taumalolo, G.Morris, S.Thomas, N.Clapham, R.Johnston, J.Spratt, A.Bevan, W.Mitchell, A.Thomas, A.N.Other, G.James, P.Horgan, P.Jones, A.Howell, A.N.Other, G.Price, A.Littlehales, S.Martin (captain), B.Davies, M.Morgan; D.McShane, H.Jenkins, J.Davies, A.Llewellyn, J.McPhail, S.Pengelly
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“Newport is always one of the biggest ties on the Neath calendar and we are looking forward to the game. As a squad, we are conscious that we did not produce our full capability last Saturday against Cardiff and know we must go up a few gears against Newport.”
“Earlier in the season, we had a titanic battle up at Rodney Parade and we will be looking to bring similar intensity to our game this time. We have great respect for Newport who remain a very good team although one or two results have gone against them recently.”
Rowland on Under-21’s selections
“As a Club, we are delighted to have Tom Smith named as captain of the Wales Under-21’s. He has outstanding leadership credentials and we had no qualms about handing him the captaincy of Neath against Carmarthen Quins last November when we won 67-10. In the absence of Steve Martin, he has since led us to victories over Pontypridd, Bridgend and Cardiff and set an outstanding example.”
“We are equally as delighted to see James Hook win his first cap for the Under-21’s. James’ goalkicking prowess is well-known after breaking the Neath individual seasonal record last year with 466 points that puts him ahead of legendary kickers like Paul Thorburn and Lee Jarvis. But, as he showed in the Wales Sevens, James is far more than just a kicker – he is a very mature all-round rugby footballer and has a very bright future.”
“Martin Roberts, Ed Shervington and Craig Mitchell are all on the replacements’ bench for Wales but all three have consistently shown for Neath that they have what it takes. We congratulate them all and Andrew Bishop who only moved up to The Opsreys from Neath this year while spare a thought for Aled Brew whose long-term groin injury keeps him out after being part of last year’s Grand Slam squad.”
KONICA MINOLTA CUP - FIFTH ROUND DRAW
Neath Rugby will face Llangennech at The Gnoll in the fifth round of the cup.
The cup-tie is scheduled for Saturday 18th February, 2.30pm Kick-Off.
Round Five: Weekend 17th to 19th February 2006
Aberavon v Newport,
Bonymaen v Cardiff,
Builth Wells v Nant Conwy
Dunvant or Penclawdd v Maesteg,
Glamorgan Wanderers v Swansea,
Llandovery v UWIC,
Neath v Llangennech,
Whitland or Cross Keys v Pontypridd
For Sponsorship / Matchday Hospitality contact:
Stacey Donovan - at the Neath RFC Office 01639 622031 or e-mail: s.donovan@neathrugby.co.uk
Neath Rugby call for Bridgend RFC Chairman to investigate ball irregularities at Principality Premiership fixture
Neath Rugby Chairman Geraint Hawkes today called on Bridgend RFC chairman Derek King to perform a full investigation into events at the Brewery Field during the recent Principality Premiership fixture (played on 31st December)
Background
During the first half of the match a particular ball boy was seen on a number of occasions to be passing sub-standard balls to Neath RFC marksmen James Hook and Arwel Thomas. Conversely, throughout the first half it became apparent that Bridgend kickers were being passed a regulation matchball for their kicks. The Neath kickers struggled to achieve their now customary high standards of accuracy throughout the encounter
When Neath players became suspicious of the ball boy they alerted our bench of their concerns and matters came to a head when a person we now know to be the Bridgend kit-man reacted in a manner that confirmed our suspicions. The kit-man blatantly attempted to switch the balls whilst Hook was lining up a conversion after Martin Morgan’s first half try. The incident occurred in front of matchday referee Nigel Owens and lead to a pitch-side confrontation when Hook demanded that the appropriate ball was to be used. The kit-man was sent from the touchline by Mr. Owens and he was seen to return to the Bridgend dugout
As a result of the pitch-side incident during the second half the sub-standard balls were used by both sides
Neath went on to win the New Years Eve fixture by 25 points to 16 and subsequently won Saturday’s Konica Minolta Cup game by 11 points to 3
Comment from Neath Rugby Chairman, Geraint Hawkes:
“An element of gamesmanship has long been at the heart of Welsh rugby, but it became clear to us when reviewing the video of the League match that on a number of occasions a Bridgend RFC ball boy was selecting a particular ball for their kicks, whilst passing inferior quality balls to the Neath kickers. The actions suggest that this strategy was developed in an organised attempt to disrupt our kicking game.
We feel that they overstepped the mark and clearly the intention was to give Bridgend an unfair advantage as through the first half it became evident that a different ball was being used by the Bridgend kicker.
We raised the matter informally with Bridgend before Saturday’s Cup game and we received a written reply indicating that they had censured their kit-man. The individual referred to in their letter was not present on Bridgend’s bench at Saturday match.
We did not feel it appropriate to air our views publicly before the Cup game as we feared it might stir up strong emotions and put unnecessary pressure on the players of both sides.
Having reviewed the response on Sunday we now call on Derek King to conduct a full in house inquiry as we believe the actions were of a more organised nature and not confined to the one individual. I am sure Derek will not tolerate this type of behaviour.
If a formal response and apology is not forthcoming we will forward our evidence to the WRU with a request that they conduct a full investigation. Fans can be assured that only properly inflated high quality regulation Gilbert balls are used for fixtures at the Gnoll.
Having won both games, we cannot be accused of “sour grapes” but we feel it essential for the credibility of the Principality Premiership that this incident is fully looked into. Bridgend need to properly address this issue in order to ensure other teams and referees visiting the Brewery Field are not faced with such problems”
Further Information:
Law 2.6 - Spare Balls
"A team must not gain advantage or attempt to gain an unfair advantage by using them or changing them"
Law 2.5 - Required Air Pressure
"9.5 - 10.0 lbs per square inch"
HOME INTERNATIONAL TICKETS
Season ticket holders are requested to submit their applications to the club office by the 3rd week of January for all three home games. The applications can be sent by post or email to admin@neathrugby.co.uk
Season ticket numbers and contact details need to be put onto every application.
Neath Rugby holds its
first two day singles Soirre - 27th and 28th January 2006.
RESULT
Neath 41 Cardiff 20
Man of the Match: Paul Jones (chosen by former Neath player, Peter Davies).
Photographs by Club Photographer, Julian Brock
Team News
Principality Premiership champions Neath play Cardiff at The Gnoll (2.30pm) knowing that the Blue and Blacks were the last side to lower the home club’s colours there in April, 2004.
Full back Gareth Morris has boosted Neath by declaring himself fit after leaving the field in last week’s Cup win over Bridgend and Wales Under-21’s flanker Tom Smith continues as skipper of the Welsh All Blacks as Steve Martin is a week away from fitness. However, the Welsh All Blacks welcome back top try scorer wing Steve Thomas and lock Ben Davies with former Wales ‘A’ No.8 Hywel Jenkins figuring on a strong-looking bench. Experienced prop Paul Jones will start as Cai Griffiths is promoted to The Ospreys after a string of stirring displays for the Blacks.
Neath v Cardiff (Home)
G.Morris; S.Thomas, A.Bevan, W.Mitchell, R.Johnston; J.Hook, G.James, P.Jones, A.Littlehales, C.Mitchell; B.Davies, M.Morgan; T.Smith (captain), D.McShane, J.Davies Replacements – N.Clapham, A.Thomas, M.Roberts, A.Howell, G.Price, H.Jenkins, S.Pengelly
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“Cardiff is always a very keenly anticipated fixture for the fans who have been returning to The Gnoll in numbers over recent League games. With the Blues away on Sunday we hope that Cardiff will bring a few too to help create a good atmosphere.”
“We have a lot of respect for Cardiff who are one of the most positive sides in the division and who always try to entertain. It is a mystery to me that they are where they are in the League because they also seem to do well enough against us.”
“They were the last side to beat us at The Gnoll so we will need to be focussed on the task ahead of us. Our injury situation up front has eased and we now have almost a full complement to choose from up front.”
“We have had to play well since Christmas to overcome leading opposition in Aberavon, Bridgend (twice) and Pontypridd and some of our younger players have really come of age in some physical confrontations. Players like Craig Mitchell, Ed Shervington, Tom Smith, Martin Roberts and Jonathan Spratt are really showing the way forward and we are looking to them to continue their progress.”
Result
Neath 11 Bridgend 3
Man of the Match: Jonathan Spratt (chosen by Osprey and Wales star, Ryan Jones)
Match Report and Photographs - Click Here
Neath Rugby Website - Technical Problem Resolved (Saturday 14th January)
ISP Report: 14th Jan 2006 17:32 Routing problem
- We suffered routing problem which caused a loss in connectivity at around 16:55 this afternoon. Services have now been restored, and we are investigating the cause of this.
We apologise to customers for this outage. - Update 19:30 We are aware that connectivity has been slow for the last 30 minutes or so. This is related to the earlier problem which was caused by a faulty router at the LINX in London. Engineers are looking into this now.
Team News
The big tie in Saturday’s Konica Minolta Cup sees four times winners Neath take on twice winners Bridgend at The Gnoll (2.30pm). The match is a repeat of the 1990 final that Neath won 16-10 (see below).
A fortnight ago, Neath won 25-16 at the Brewery Field to end Bridgend’s long unbeaten home run that stretched back to November 2004 but coach Rowland Phillips is playing down the significance of that result as the Cup is very much a one-off.
Over 10,000 fans have trailed through the Neath turnstiles in the last two home games against Aberavon and Pontypridd and the Welsh All Blacks expect another bumper crowd for the visit of Bridgend.
Skipper Steve Martin remains an unlikely starter for the Welsh All Blacks so Wales Under-21’s flanker Tom Smith will again lead from the front. Tongan international Siua (Josh) Taumalolo and lock Ben Davies have reported fit with Paul Jones (who lifted the Cup as Neath’s captain in 2003/04) also raring to go.
Neath v Bridgend (Home) – (Probable)
G.Morris, N.Clapham, J.Spratt, A.Bevan, S.Taumalolo, W.Mitchell, R.Johnston, A.Brew; J.Hook, A.Thomas, G.James, P.Horgan, M.Roberts; P.Jones, C.Griffiths, G.Price, E.Shervington, A.Howell, C.Mitchell; B.Davies, D.McShane, M.Morgan; A.Llewellyn, T.Smith (captain), H.Jenkins, J.Davies, J.McPhail, S.Pengelly
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“The Cup has always held a very special place in the hearts of Neath fans ever since we became its first winners in 1971/72 when the late Martyn Davies was captain.”
“We were happy to win at Bridgend a fortnight ago as that result and last week’s excellent win over Pontypridd has given us a little breathing space in the League. But this is a different competition and we know from what we saw at the Brewery Field that Bridgend are a very accomplished unit. They defend aggressively, have a good set-piece and compete strongly for the loose ball so we must be at our best.”
“They will obviously be up for the challenge but so must we be. The Cup always puts an extra yard on everyone and in that sense last week’s game against Pontypridd was top preparation as the game was played at great pace and with great intensity throughout. It thrilled our growing band of supporters and showed what rugby at this level can be all about when both sides approach it positively.”
1990 Cup Final – Neath 16 Bridgend 10
Neath – Tries Martyn Morris, Chris Bridges Conv & Pen Paul Thorburn
Drop Jason Ball
Bridgend – Try Kevin Ellis Drops Aled Williams (2) – Crowd 53,000
RESULT
Neath 22 Pontypridd 10
Man of the Match: Tom Smith (chosen by Osprey and Wales Second Row, Brett Cockbain)
Match report and photographs now available
Team News
Principality Premiership leaders and defending champions Neath play the first of four consecutive home Saturday games this month when they host second-placed Pontypridd at The Gnoll on Saturday with coach Rowland Phillips expected to make changes from the side that won at Bridgend 25-16.
Neath are gearing themselves for another big crowd at The Gnoll after their last home game - the Boxing Day derby against Aberavon - attracted a record Premiership attendance of 7,198.
Skipper Steve Martin is again an unlikely starter for the Welsh All Blacks but fit again are centre Wayne Mitchell and Wales Under-21’s flanker Tom Smith who became Neath’s youngest ever League captain when he led the Blacks to a storming 67-10 victory over Carmarthen Quins in November.
Neath v Pontypridd (Home) – (Probable)
S.Taumalolo; (From) G.Morris, J.Spratt, A.Bevan, W.Mitchell, R.Johnston; J.Hook, P.Horgan; C.Griffiths, E.Shervington, C.Mitchell; D.McShane, M.Morgan; A.Llewellyn, T.Smith (captain), S.Pengelly
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“Obviously, as the League table suggests, this is another big challenge for us. We were very pleased to win at Bridgend last week as that result gave us a six-point lead at the top of the table but we are keeping our feet firmly on the ground.”
“Pontypridd are the only side to have beaten us this season – way back in September when this team had just come together – but we do not view it as simply a chance to correct one result. We believe we have improved a lot since then, as I am sure Ponty have as well, so it will be interesting to measure our progress.”
“Both clubs are working very hard on developing the next generation of stars and many candidates for this year’s Wales Under-21’s XV will be on display. Like us, Pontypridd want to play the game at pace so it should be fire-cracker of a match for both sets of fans.”
“We have trained well and hard this week, players in our squad are bursting to get a start so we will freshen up the side with a few changes. It is Welsh rugby’s match of the day that should attract the crowd of the day and I know the All Blacks’ “Barmy Army” intend to out-shout what will be a vocal Pontypridd following.”
ROWLAND PHILLIPS TO COACH WALES UNDER 18
Neath Rugby statement on WRU ticketing investigation
Neath Rugby wish to correct reporting in certain media organisations in respect of its involvement in the WRU’s ticketing investigation
We can today confirm that the WRU has not amended Neath Rugby’s international ticket allocation. The allocation is unchanged from previous seasons
Neath Rugby has not been informed of any sanction being taken against the club by the WRU, in respect of our ability to purchase any extra international tickets that may become available or in respect of any other matter
Neath Rugby can confirm that our Chairman and Commercial Manager met with the WRU Ticket Policy Committee last week in order to clarify rules in respect of the distribution of international tickets. Although the vast majority of our international tickets are allocated to season ticket holders, in common with many clubs, a portion of our ticket allocation is distributed as part of sponsorship packages. This practice is in line with WRU guidelines
Detailed records in respect of recent ticket distributions were made available to the WRU Ticket Policy Committee. As a result of the last weeks meeting Neath Rugby has undertaken to endeavour to keep detailed records are in respect of not only the first recipient of international tickets, but also in respect of second and subsequent recipients
Comment from Neath Rugby Chairman, Geraint Hawkes:
“We fully support the WRU’s stance in respect of organisations and individuals selling international tickets at inflated prices. It is vital that these tickets are distributed to genuine supporters of Welsh club and grassroots rugby. The touts who profit from the trade in these tickets need to be eradicated from the game and Neath Rugby is firmly behind the WRU’s efforts in this matter”
CHRISTMAS PRIZE DRAW RESULT
The winner of the competition is Wyn Myers from Ystalyfera, Swansea.
Wyn and his wife Delyth are both Neath and Osprey supporters and will be at our game on Saturday to accept their prize. The prize consists of Two Matchday Tickets for Wales V England at Twickenham, First Class Rail Travel and two nights accommodation in a luxury hotel.
All Blacks Chatroom
|
|||
Don't forget: MONDAY
NIGHT IS CHAT NIGHT |
|||
NEATH RUGBY CHATROOM 
RESULT
Bridgend 16 Neath 25
Match Reports and Photographs now available
Team News
Principality Premiership leaders and defending champions Neath visit second-placed Bridgend at the Brewery Field on Saturday with coach Rowland Phillips expected to make a few changes from the side that defeated Aberavon 31-23.
The Boxing Day derby attracted a League record crowd of 7,198 and many Neath fans are expected to make the short journey to Bridgend.
Skipper Steve Martin is an unlikely starter for the Welsh All Blacks after suffering a recurrence of his ankle injury against Aberavon so scrum-half Pat Horgan will probably take over the captaincy. The team will be finalised on Friday evening following a special training session called after scheduled midweek sessions fell foul of the adverse weather in South Wales.
Neath v Bridgend (Away) – (Squad)
N.Clapham, G.Morris, S.Taumalolo, A.Brew, R.Johnston, S.Thomas, A.Bevan, J.Spratt, J.Hook, A.Thomas, G.James, M.Roberts, P.Horgan; P.Jones, C.Griffiths, A.Howell, C.Mitchell, E.Shervington, A.Littlehales, G.Price, B.Davies, D.McShane, M.Morgan, J.Davies, H.Jenkins, A.Llewellyn, J.McPhail, S.Pengelly
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“Obviously, as the League table suggests, this is another big game for us but we will go to the Brewery Field in a relaxed frame of mind, as expectations were so high against Aberavon in front of a record Premiership crowd on Boxing Day."
“Bridgend’s recent results speak for themselves, and the imminent cup meeting will give us something extra to work on but the pressure is on them really as they are defending a long home record that stretches back to November, 2004.”
“Last season’s game at Bridgend proved frustrating and the manner in which we lost was even more disappointing. They messed us about at the set pieces and at the tackle area and took the points. We will certainly be hoping for a faster game than we had against Aberavon.”
“Bridgend are a very good side and their temporary signing of Nathan Budgett before he joined Bristol shows their desire. We have not played them yet this season but know they have a combative pack and a good lineout backed up by experienced half-backs and a top goalkicker in Gareth David so our discipline will need to be spot-on.”
“Games over the holiday period are never easy and we will freshen up the side with a few changes. We are gearing up for a big effort in what will be our final away game for a while as Neath fans are in for a treat in January with successive home Saturday games against Pontypridd, Bridgend in the Cup, Cardiff and then Newport.”
Forthcoming Fixtures
Saturday, January 7 – Pontypridd (Home) 2.30pm
Saturday, January 14 – Bridgend (Home) 2.30pm
Saturday, January 21 – Cardiff (Home) 2.30pm
Saturday, January 28 – Newport (Home) 2.30pm
RESULT
Neath 31 Aberavon 23
Man of the Match: Andrew Llewellyn (chosen by Neath Legend G.T.R. Hodgson)
Some snapshots of the match
Cheerleaders Christmas Photos 2005
PRIMESTART CHRISTMAS PARTY - PHOTOGRAPHS
Team News
Principality Premiership leaders and defending champions Neath are advising fans to get to the ground early to avoid any festive congestion when they host Aberavon at The Gnoll in Boxing Day’s big holiday derby (kick off 2.30pm).The Welsh All Blacks are confidently predicting a record attendance for a Premiership fixture with huge interest manifesting itself in both towns and in the West Glamorgan area as a whole as Swansea played Llanelli on Christmas Eve and the Swans are away at Brentford.PRE-MATCH ENTERTAINMENT
Neath’s ground manager David Howells said, “We advise everyone to get to the ground early. The hospitality suites sold out weeks ago but the bars inside the ground will be open, there is pre-match entertainment from 1.30pm and the Under-8’s of Aberavon Green Stars, Banwen, Cwmafan and Neath Athletic will be displaying their skills. We aim to recapture the traditional family occasion that always surrounded this fixture in the past and everyone’s enjoyment will be increased if they get there in good time.” The Welsh All Blacks have virtually a full squad to choose from with only Alun Wyn Davies (neck) and Aiono Senio (knee operation) unavailable. Coach Rowland Phillips will probably stick largely to the side that last week played Glamorgan Wanderers who have given Neath two of their toughest games this season.Neath v Aberavon (Home) – (Squad) N.Clapham, G.Morris, S.Taumalolo, A.Brew, R.Johnston, S.Thomas, A.Bevan, J.Spratt, W.Mitchell, S.Thomas, A.Thomas, J.Hook, G.James, M.Roberts, P.Horgan; P.Jones, C.Griffiths, A.Howell, C.Mitchell, E.Shervington, A.Littlehales, G.Price, S.Martin (captain), B.Davies, D.McShane, M.Morgan, T.Smith, H.Jenkins, A.Llewellyn, J.McPhail, S.Pengelly
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“Neath against Aberavon is a traditional Welsh derby fixture that can bring out the best and the worst in people. From my own playing days, the games were no harder than any others but the atmosphere was always keener due to the rivalry between the spectators.”“Until their surprise defeat at Bedwas last Saturday, Aberavon have been going well this season and other than that only Pontypridd and Llanelli have beaten them. Kevin Hopkins and Mark Jones have got them fitter than ever before and they are playing with much more positive intent than perhaps they used to.” “We were nowhere near our best last Saturday at Glamorgan Wanderers but we did take it 4-nil on tries and managed a win. We have worked hard in training and are aiming to put on a good show in front of what we anticipate will be our biggest crowd of the season.”
“It is a little-known medical fact that the best cure for any festive over-indulgence is to stand on the Gnoll terraces on Boxing Day and shout Neath, Neath, Neath in a very loud manner,” he added.
RESULT
Glamorgan Wanderers 18 Neath 22
Match Report now available
Some snapshots of the match
Team News
Principality Premiership leaders and defending champions Neath visit Glamorgan Wanderers at the Memorial Ground (kick off 2.30pm)
The Welsh All Blacks select from strength with almost a clean bill of health - only flanker Aiono Senio (knee op) is a long-term casualty. Aled Brew and James Hook are likely to return from Wales Sevens duty where both impressed in the Welsh team’s successes.
Neath v Glamorgan Wanderers (Away) – (Probable)
S.Taumalolo; A.Brew, A.Bevan, J.Spratt or W.Mitchell, S.Thomas; J.Hook, M.Roberts; P.Jones, G.Price, C.Griffiths; S.Martin (captain), M.Morgan; A.Llewellyn, B.Davies, J.McPhail
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“We had a very useful work-out last week against Cwmllynfell who, very much like Glamorgan Wanderers, were an enterprising unit and they made us work hard despite the 52-11 score-line in our favour.”
“We now enter a crucial phase of the season when we start playing sides for the second time around and they will know what to expect. Glamorgan Wanderers ran us desperately close at The Gnoll in September before we won 15-10 and they have had four good home wins already but we have hit form recently and are, as ever, seeking continued improvement.”
“Since we last saw League action in the 67-10 win over Carmarthen Quins on November 17th, our captain Steve Martin, Hywel Jenkins and Gareth Morris have returned to fitness and we are pleased to see our long-term injured getting back into action as we face a tough schedule of fixtures over the next few weeks when squad options will be tested to the full.”
All Blacks Chatroom
|
|||
Don't forget: MONDAY
NIGHT IS CHAT NIGHT |
|||
 |
| Neath Rugby PRIMESTART 2006 Calendar Winners Announced! |
RESULT
NEATH 52 CWMLLYNFELL 11
Man of the Match: Ben Davies
Some snapshots of the match - Click Here
Team News
Principality Premiership leaders Neath have fixed up a friendly fixture against Division 1 side Cwmllynfell at The Gnoll on Saturday (kick off 2.30pm). The fixture replaces the League game against Bedwas who are playing Cross Keys in a postponed Konica-Minolta Cup tie.
The Welsh All Blacks welcome back skipper Steve Martin who has been sidelined since injuring his ankle in the Blacks’ 58-13 win at Llanelli on November 12th. Full back Gareth Morris and ex-Wales ‘A’ back rower Hywel Jenkins play after making injury-comebacks as replacement in the 86-3 Cup win at Taffs Well last week while assistant coach Patrick Horgan starts at scrum-half.
Neath v Cwmllynfell (Home)
G.Morris; N.Clapham, A.Bevan, J.Spratt, R.Johnston; A.Thomas, P.Horgan; A.W.Davies, E.Shervington, C.Mitchell; S.Martin (captain), M.Morgan; H.Jenkins, B.Davies, J.McPhail
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“We are very grateful to Cwmllynfell for stepping in to fill the fixture-gap as we have a lot going on around this game through our PRIMESTART schools’ initiative but we will be preparing as we normally do. We are mindful of Cwmllynfell’s prowess near the top of Division One this season and they certainly have the capacity to cause us problems.”
“We are obviously pleased to see most of our long-term injured getting back into action as we face a tough schedule of fixtures over the next few weeks. As a team, we will be concentrating on our own display, setting realistic goals and hopefully maintaining our own high standards.”
Injuries
Neath have almost a clean bill of health with only flanker Aiono Senio (knee op) a long term casualty.
Neath Rugby PRIMESTART
2006 Calendar Winners Announced!
All Blacks Chatroom
|
|||
Don't forget: MONDAY
NIGHT IS CHAT NIGHT |
|||
 |
ADVANCE NOTICE - CHATROOM CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Monday 19th December 2005 Neath Rugby Head Coach, ROWLAND PHILLIPS, will join us online, on Monday 19th December between 8.30pm and 9.30pm. Access to the Chatroom, will be via the usual link: www.neathneathneath.com |
||
ALL BLACKS
CHATROOM
CWMLLYNFELL AT THE GNOLL
Bedwas have re-arranged their Konica-Minolta Cup tie at Cross Keys, postponed on December 3rd, to Saturday, December 10th so the Principality Premiership game between Neath and Bedwas scheduled for Saturday has been postponed.
However, the good news is that NEATH will now host Cwmllynfell who before last Saturday were lying third in Division One, tucked in behind Bonymaen and Whitland. Kick off will be at 2.30pm. at The Gnoll. Just after the war, Cwmllynfell supplied Neath with prop Les Anthony who went on to play for Wales and full back D.Glyn Davies who appeared in the Victory Internationals.
Cwmllynfell may be an unfamiliar name to many Neath fans but this season they have beaten the likes of UWIC and Caerphilly and drawn with Newbridge and Bonymaen. Their current side includes ace goalkicker Peter Thomas (ex-Neath Athletic) who used to play for Neath Under-21’s as did centre Paul Davies (Resolfen), prop Chris Hunt (Aberavon Quins) and lock Craig Singleton (Neath Athletic). Their captain is outstanding No.8 Jim Morgan from Ystradgynlais who has worn the Neath senior jersey.
Neath last played Cwmllynfell in the Cup in 1997/98, winning at the top of the Swansea Valley on a very cold December day. Cwmllynfell (who are coached by ex-Aberavon outside-half Mike Lewis, assisted by Crynant’s Brian Lewis) recently created a bit of history when they attracted a four-figure crowd for their home game against Bonymaen and they expect to be well represented on Saturday.
Making a seasonal visit to The Gnoll as well on Saturday is Santa Claus who will be dispensing free gifts to young fans in the crowd.
KONICA MINOLTA CUP - ROUND FOUR
Ties to be played 13-15 January 2006
Abercynon v Glamorgan Wanderers or Ystrad Rhondda
Caerphilly v Llandovery
Builth Wells v Cardiff HSOB or Kidwelly
Dunvant v Penclawdd
Ebbw Vale v Aberavon
Maesteg v Carmarthen Quins
Mumbles or Llangennech v Tonna
Nant Conwy v Rhydyfelin
Neath v Bridgend
Newport v Merthyr
New Tredegar or Newport Saracens v UWIC or Llantwit Fardre
Pencoed v Penallta or Bonymaen
Pontypridd v Narberth
Swansea v Llanharan
Tonmawr v Cardiff
Whitland or Bridgend Athletic v Cross Keys or Bedwas
| RESULT |
| TAFFS WELL
3 NEATH 86 (WRU CUP) Some snapshots of the match Match Report now available |
Team News
Principality Premiership leaders Neath break new ground on Saturday when they visit Taffs Well in the Konica-Minolta Cup. The Welsh All Blacks welcome back skipper Steve Martin who has been sidelined since injuring his ankle in the Blacks’ 58-13 win at Llanelli on November 12th. Last season’s championship-winning captain Gareth Morris is likely to be on the replacements’ bench after injuring his shoulder in Neath’s 39-3 win at Swansea on November 4th. Arwel Thomas will start at outside-half and Neath have yet to decide who will start at hooker in a strong-looking pack.
Neath v Taffs Well (from)
S.Taumalolo; S,Thomas, A.Bevan, W.Mitchell, R.Johnston or J.Spratt; A.Thomas, P.Horgan; P.Jones, A.Littlehales, C.Mitchell; S.Martin (captain), M.Morgan; A.Llewellyn, B.Davies, J.McPhail
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“Having only been involved in League games so far, the Cup is something different but we have not changed our preparation and we will be treating Taffs Well exactly the same as we do any Premier opponents.” “We are well aware of the potential pitfalls posed by the Cup. Its history is littered with shock defeats for some of the so-called “big clubs”. By getting this far in the competition, Taffs Well deserve and will receive the respect we give all opponents.” “The Cup is very important to us at Neath and has been since Martyn Davies’ team won the inaugural competition in 1971/72. Sadly, Martyn who was one of Neath’s greatest ever servants died during the summer and, without heaping any pressure on our lads, it would be nice if we could honour his memory by making an impact in the competition this year of all years.” “I played at Taffs Well recently for the Welsh Charitables against the Welsh Deaf XV and was very impressed by their fabulous facilities. Their ground has hosted a couple of Cardiff’s Premiership games and it should be a good occasion as our fans have always enjoyed a special relationship with the Cup and the “Black Barmy Army” will be out in force at Taffs Well.” “As a team, we will be concentrating on our own display as it is all about maintaining our own high standards.”
Injuries
Hywel Jenkins (shoulder op) and Dan McShane (hand) are almost ready to return.
Neath Rugby Lottery Winners - November 2005
2005-6 Team Wallpaper
This
season's squad photo can be downloaded onto your PC and set as wallpaper if
required.
Available here
Fantastic opportunity to purchase discounted Wales v Australia tickets from Neath Rugby
Due to a return of tickets from our sponsors Neath Rugby are pleased to be able to offer Welsh rugby supporters a fantastic opportunity to purchase tickets for Saturdays Wales v Australia fixture. The 74,000 sell-out match kicks off at 5.00pm on 25th November
Individual tickets are available priced at face value (£33 or £45) from the Welsh All Blacks shop on Old Market Street, Neath
However, supporters purchasing a ticket at face value can purchase one equivalently priced ticket at half price (saving up to £22.50 on each pair of tickets purchased)
The shop is open Monday to Friday from 9.00am - 5.30pm and on Saturdays from 10.00am – 5.00pm
Alternatively, supporters can contact the shop on 01639 622030/ 622032 or 622033
| NEXT GAME (Home) |
| Thursday, November 17th – Carmarthen Quins, 7.15pm KO. |
Don't forget: MONDAY NIGHT IS CHAT NIGHT |
||||||
RESULT
NEATH 67 CARMARTHEN QUINS 10
Man of the Match: Craig Mitchell (chosen by Osprey, Lyndon Bateman)
Team News
Neath hand the captaincy to Wales Under-21’s flanker Tom Smith for their game against Carmarthen Quins at The Gnoll on Thursday (kick off 7.15pm).
At the age of just 20 years of age, Tom will become Neath’s youngest-ever League captain although he took over the leadership with great success in the Blacks’ handsome 58-13 victory at Stradey Park on Saturday after Steve Martin injured an ankle - Steve is likely to be absent for a fortnight.
Returning to the squad are experienced props Paul Jones and Andrew Howell who missed the Llanelli game as they were in Bermuda with the Welsh Classicals while fit-again centre Wayne Mitchell and all-action hooker Gerwyn Price are also expected to start.
Neath v Carmarthen Quins (from)
A.Thomas, N.Clapham, A.Brew, A.Bevan, S.Taumalolo, J.Spratt, W.Mitchell, S.Thomas, R.Johnston; J.Hook, M.Roberts, P.Horgan; P.Jones, A.Howell, G.Price, A.Littlehales, C.Mitchell, C.Griffiths; M.Morgan, B.Davies, A.N.Other; T.Smith (captain), A.Llewellyn, J.McPhail, S.Pengelly, J.Davies.
Quote from Coach Rowland Phillips
“Carmarthen have had a tough time off the field recently with their coach