There is a treat in store for Neath RFC and local rugby supporters when a dusting  of South Seas magic arrives at The Gnoll and Neath take on The Fijians  – with a slightly earlier than usual kick off at 2.00pm.

The match has been arranged to mark the 30th anniversary of the game in 1995 when Neath beat the touring Fijians 30-22 and, with the national side themselves taking on France on Saturday evening, the visitors field an interesting blend which includes many former internationals. Included in the visiting side are names like Matawalu, Little, Cavubati and Qera.

Captain Ben Williams leads Neath who make several changes from the side which won 47-25 at Cross Keys in the league last week with coach Tim Ryan keen to rest most of the players who have borne a heavy load in recent weeks.

Three players will make their debuts in a young Neath team : centre Harris Simmons (Cwmtwrch & Ystradgynlais) and two promising lads from Penlan scrum-half C.J. Morgan and lock Evan Davies. The replacements’ bench will be finalised once the appropriate permits have been received.

A Neath RFC spokesman said, “Thanks are due to Newbridge RFC who readily released us from our scheduled league fixture in order for the celebration game to take place. We are most grateful too to local sponsors who have backed the game including the Castle Hotel and Peter Morgan Real Estate (Mre) and to RAMIT – Rugby Against Mental Issues Together.

“The Fijian line-up includes mostly former internationals who did not need a second invitation to participate in this game which will be graced by the presence of several dignitaries from Fiji and closer to home.”

** Neath RFC Season Tickets ARE valid for this game but, to defray costs of this game, holders are politely requested to buy a souvenir Match Programme (£2 on turnstiles) and/or a drink from the Shack.

Otherwise adult admission £10 with accompanied Under-16’s FREE.

The weather is meant to improve with a dry Saturday in prospect and a good crowd is expected especially from the local clubs who are represented.

Neath v The Fijians (Home)

15 Llewellyn Hawkes; 14 Owain Clarke, 13 Jon Bayliss. 12 Harris Simmons, 11 Cellan Davies; 10 Iestyn Morgan, 9 C.J. Morgan; 1 Owain Watts,
2 Tom Richards, 3 Tarik Dabeh; 4 Steff Lewis, 5 Evan Davies; 6 Jonny Evans, 8 Ben Williams (captain), 7 Casey Williams

Replacements:
Morgan Little, Josh Jones, Ben Uphill, Ashley Morgan, Connor Thomas, Gethin Tremlett, Tom Collier, Louis Ford, Shaun Tennant, Harry Morgan

Referee – Mr. Paddy Bateman (Senghenydd)

Supporter Information

• Turnstiles at the Town End will be open and spectators are advised to arrive no later than 1.40pm for the big kick off at 2.00pm
• Adults – £10 cash or card at turnstiles
• Under-16’s FREE Admission when accompanied by an adult
• The special ‘collectors’ item’ programmes will be on sale inside the gates (still only £2) – don’t miss your copy !
• Refreshments available inside the ground – Shack Bar, Tuck Shop and Fish Bar
• Musical entertainment from Army & Air Force Cadets and Ospreys’ Supporters Choir.

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

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

Next Fixtures

Sat    December    6      Llanelli Wanderers                  Home                                                   2.30pm

Sat    December   20     Cardiff Metropolitan                Home                                                   2.30pm