Kick off has been brought forward to 1.00pm when Neath RFC play The Fijians at The Gnoll on Saturday promising some South Seas sparkle in what has been (so far) a South Seas-like summer.

Last season’s game was a cracker and convinced Neath to repeat the occasion  this time with bigger and better entertainment around the game.

But the rugby is central to the day and Neath have named an interesting side for their last full-scale rehearsal ahead of the commencement of the league season. Only two of the side started last year’s game; many others wished they had !

The Fijians’ side features experienced internationals alongside promising younger players.

Ben Williams returns to skipper Neath from the back row which also sees the return of Jordan Evans. Lewis Jones comes in at loose head prop with Kian Jones back at hooker, Jack Phillips at lock and Rhys Barrow at flanker. Two starting changes behind the scrum bring in WRU Cup final try-scoring hero Llewellyn Hawkes on the wing and Sion Wilcox at centre.

The replacements’ bench has yet to be finalised

Neath v The Fijians (Home)

15 Steff Williams; 14 Llewellyn Hawkes, 13 Sam Harris, 12 Sean Wilcox, 11 Morgan Meaclem; 10 Paul Short, 9 Connor Tantum; 1 Lewis Jones, 2 Kian Jones, 3 Marley Lovell; 4 Jack Phillips, 5 Matthew Davies; 6 Rhys Barrow, 8 Ben Williams (captain), 7 Jordan Evans

Replacements  (From) – Iestyn Morgan, A.N. Other, Lochie Barron, Kieran Charles, Ryan Callaghan, Dion Jones, Rhodri Jones, Mason Morgan, Sion Jones, Kamren Harris,   Josh Hughes, Brynley Thomas, Jacob Blackmore, Sonny Minto, Gethin Tremlett

Referee – Mr. Jack Davies (Porthcawl)

  Supporter Information

• Turnstiles at the Town End will be open from 11.30am and spectators are advised to arrive no later than 12.30pm for the kick off at 1.00pm
• Adults – £10 cash or card at turnstiles (no re-entry)
• Under-16’s FREE Admission when accompanied by an adult
• Souvenir Programmes (£2) will be on sale inside the turnstiles. Features include a Sir Billy Boston tribute, past Fiji clashes and other Neath RFC INFO – don’t miss your copy !
• Refreshments available inside the ground – Shack Bar, Tuck Shop and many other stalls
• Bouncy Castle, competitions etc. for younger supporters

Match/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 – Next Fixture

Saturday    September 5      Llanelli Wanderers                     Home                                                   2.30pm