It is a high noon kick off for Neath when they open the 2019/20 season with an attractive home clash against London Welsh at The Gnoll on Saturday.

The 12pm kick off will allow players and supporters to watch the Wales-England international afterwards but for Neath captain Aaron Bramwell there is no mistaking which is the important game on Saturday.

“Ours without a doubt”, he said, “After last season, we are raring to go with an exciting new squad who cannot wait to get into action.”

“London Welsh don’t often appear in South Wales these days and it should be a treat for genuine rugby supporters throughout the area.”

NEATH SQUAD PREPARING FOR SATURDAY’S MATCH 
(Photo courtesy of Len Kowalski of www.lensworkphotography.co.uk @NeathTog)

Bramwell was in the squad when Neath last played London Welsh in 2011 in the British & Irish Cup when the Blacks beat the then professional Exiles 14-7 through two tries by centre Stephen Thomas, both being converted by outside-half David Langdon.

The only other survivor in the All Blacks’ ranks is back rower Leon Ward who made his debut that night.

Things have changed a lot since then – for both clubs ! – but Neath versus London Welsh is one of those classical rugby occasions which demands attention.

London Welsh are fighting their way back up the English league ladder and last season won a second successive promotion from London Division 3 North West losing only once.

Their player-coach is former Neath and Ospreys prop Cai Griffiths who is looking forward to returning to The Gnoll and he could have another ex-Neath man in the front row with him in Joel Ringer who has moved to London from RGC.

It is expected that the Neath team will be announced after training on Thursday.

Match Details :-
NEATH v LONDON WELSH
Kick off – 12 Noon
Admission – Adults £5, Under-16’s FREE
Hospitality – Tel. 01639 643328