Neath’s team management were quietly pleased with Neath’s big win (60-17) against Cardiff Metropolitan on Saturday – particularly the clinical manner in which the Blacks put away what was in the end a talented but tired opposition.

The Blacks’ win was achieved despite a hefty injured list which includes Chris Morris, Sam Langford, Jon Barley, Ross O’Connor, Carwyn Sion, Nicky Griffiths, Louis Rees, James Roberts, Iestyn Morgan and Aaron Bramwell but they have three weeks now to prepare for their next league encounter at Ystrad Rhondda.

Friday’s anniversary game at Brynaman (kick off 7.15pm) is probably too early for many of that group to return. Neath will ring the changes but will be looking to build their patterns and depth and continue their good habits.