Neath created a shock by knocking Cup holders Pontypridd out of this year’s competition in a hard-fought humdinger of a game at The Gnoll.

This fixture has a long tradition and Neath zoomed out of the blocks with tries from No.8 and skipper Ben Williams and winger Ki Morgan, both converted by outside-half Paul Short. Pontypridd hit back with a try by full back Dale Stuckey and another by centre Stuart Floyd-Ellis which outside-half Jorge Lucey converted but the Welsh All Blacks finished the half stronger and were rewarded with two penalties by Short.

Leading 20-10 at half-time, the Neath forwards were in determined mood and continued to set the pace and Short added his third penalty. The tackling of both sides was relentless before Pontypridd got a third try by Floyd-Ellis which Lucey converted to make it 23-19 and Neath controlled the territory in the dying minutes to make the game safe.

Last 8 :- Bargoed, Beddau, Brecon, Cardiff Met, Llanelli Wanderers, Merthyr, Neath, Ystrad Rhondda