Neath RFC play host to old rivals Cross Keys at The Gnoll in an important WRU Premiership fixture (kick off 2.30pm) on Saturday.

Neath and Cross Keys have been playing each other since before the First World War and many a stirring encounter has taken place between the two clubs since.

The Welsh All Blacks are averaging over 5 tries per game and beat Keys’ near neighbours Newbridge 38-22 last week when they scored six. As a pointer, the All Blacks should be mindful that Keys have beaten Newbridge twice.

Neath will be seeking a double after winning 47-22 in a remarkable game at Pandy Park in November and make several starting changes.

Behind the scrum, Morgan Meaclem returns on the wing and Charlie Thomas and acting-captain Connor Tantum link at half-back. Up front, those two try-hungry hookers Sion Jones and Kian Jones swap places while Josh Hughes, Jacob Blackmore on his 150th appearance for Neath and Casey Williams return too and Jack Powell is on the replacements’ bench.

Sun-glasses may be needed as the latest forecast indicates that the weather will be pleasantly warm and sunny and The Gnoll is drying out nicely now after the winter rains so an entertaining game is in prospect.

The match will be preceded by a minute’s silence in memory of former Neath flanker Andy Llewellyn who passed away suddenly last weekend.

Neath v Cross Keys (Home)

15 Iestyn Morgan; 14 Morgan Meaclem, 13 Luke Davies, 12 Aled Davies, 11 Ki Morgan; 10 Charlie Thomas, 9 Connor Tantum (captain); 1 Mason Morgan, 2 Sion Jones, 3 Marley Lovell; 4 Matthew Davies, 5 Josh Hughes; 6 Jacob Blackmore, 8 Casey Williams, 7 Gethin Tremlett

Replacements  – 16 Kian Jones, 17 Jack Powell, 18 Chris Thomas, 19 Jon Barley, 20 Ben Williams, 21 Kaden Davies, 22 Steff Williams, 23 Steff Lewis

Referee – Mr. Gareth Newman (Abergavenny)
Supporter Information

• Turnstiles at the Town End will be open from 1.45pm 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.

Neath RFC – Forthcoming Fixtures

Saturday    March  28      Newbridge          Away          2.30pm

Saturday    April      4      Llanelli Wanderers       Away          2.30pm