Neath’s preparations for the new 2022/23 season step up a gear on Saturday when old Premiership rivals Ebbw Vale visit The Gnoll (kick off 2.30pm).

Ebbw Vale have named an experienced team but they have boosted their resources by bringing in a host of new players over the summer.

Neath too have last season’s side at their core but several players are absent due to holidays and injuries.

Of Neath’s summer recruits, Lewis Evans and John Thomas will start against Ebbw Vale although Ioan Jones, Sam Martin and Morgan Kneath will certainly emerge from the bench at some stage.

Neath v Ebbw Vale (Home)

15 Aaron Bramwell; 14 Lewis Evans, 13 Ryan Evans, 12 Ben Atkins, 11 Iestyn Morgan; 10 Steff Williams/Elis Horgan, 9 Elis Horgan/Macauley Griffiths; 1 Jack Powell, 2 Chris Morris, 3 John Thomas; 4 Sam Langford, 5 Ross O’Connor; 6 Carwyn Sion, 8 David Griggs, 7 Owain Morgan

Replacements :- TBC

Referee – Mr. Maickel English (Llanwern)

Forthcoming Fixtures :-

Sat. Aug. 20 Crymych Away 2.30pm Non-League

Fri. Aug. 26 Swansea Home 7.15pm Non-League

Sat. Sep. 3 Bargoed Home 2.30pm League

Sat. Sep. 10 Cross Keys Away 2.30pm League

Sat. Sep. 17 Bedwas Home 2.30pm League

Sat. Sep. 24 Pontypool Away 2.30pm Leagu