Neath RFC play the first of two Christmas games when they entertain Cardiff Metropolitan in the WRU Premiership at The Gnoll  on Saturday ahead of playing Bonymaen on Boxing Day (both games will kick off at 2.30pm).

Neath were not in action last Saturday due to the odd number of sides in the Division but Cardiff Metropolitan were – and the students just lost 10-13 to Cross Keys who kicked a late penalty.

Neath make several changes from the side which beat Llanelli Wanderers last time out with skipper Ben Williams leading from centre. Wales rugby league international Llewellyn Hawkes returns on the wing with Morgan Meaclem moving to full back while Iestyn Morgan and Connor Tantum pair up at half-back.

Up front, Jacob Blackmore returns at lock allowing Steff Lewis to move to No.8, Jonny Evans comes in on the flank and on a fairly experienced replacements bench there Is a first chance for Cellan James (Abercrave).

Spectators need not worry about the weather as The Gnoll is fully enclosed with cover on three sides – and the pitch was in good condition on Thursday evening.

Neath v Cardiff Metropolitan (Home)

15 Morgan Meaclem; 14  Llewellyn Hawkes, 13 Ben Williams (captain), 12 Sean Wilcox, 11 Sam Harris; 10 Iestyn Morgan, 9 Connor Tantum; 1 Mason Morgan, 2 Kian Jones, 3 Marley Lovell; 4 Matthew Davies, 5 Jacob Blackmore; 6 Jonny Evans, 8 Steff Lewis 7 Casey Williams

Replacements  – 16 Morgan Little, 17 Josh Jones, 18 Cellan James, 19 Will Pope,  20 Gethin Tremlett, 21 Jacob Daniel, 22 Paul Short, 23 Jon Bayliss

Referee – Mr. Jack Davies (Porthcawl), SLM – Mr. Mark Jones (Bridgend)

 Supporter Information

• Turnstiles at the Town End will be open from 1.30pm and spectators are advised to arrive no later than 2.15pm for the kick off at 2.30pm
• Adults – £10 cash or card at turnstiles
• Under-16’s FREE Admission when accompanied by an adult
• Match Programmes (£2) will be on sale inside the gates – don’t miss your copy !
• Refreshments available inside the ground – Shack Bar and Tuck Shop

Stadium Information

• Bag searches may be conducted to prevent illegal bringing in alcohol
• For the comfort of spectators and health of the players, no dogs allowed (other than sight-assisting)
• No smoking or vaping inside ground.
• Main Stand – please keep the concourse clear at all times for safety and to allow others to enjoy the match.
• Please refer any problems to the stewards and obey their instructions at all times

Car Parking

Plenty of car-parking available nearby including :-

• Multi-storey car park 50 metres diagonally across road from The Gnoll
• Small surface car park opposite The Gnoll.

Next Fixture

Boxing Day    December   26     Bonymaen              Home          2.30pm