The biggest game in South West Wales on Saturday should attract the largest crowd of the season to The Gnoll when second-placed Neath play unbeaten WRU Championship leaders Pontypool (kick off 2.30pm).

Earlier in the season, Pontypool edged a high-quality reverse encounter 34-30 on a glorious afternoon at Pontypool Park and the Blacks know that only their best will do against a side who have not only won all their games but who have collected a bonus point each time too.

Pooler currently lead the table by seven points from Neath with Bargoed a further ten points behind but with a game in hand.

Neath make five changes from the side which defeated Ystalyfera 39-10 last time out with returns for wing Ryan Griffiths, centre Sean Wilcox, prop Tim Ryan, lock Matthew Davies and No.8 David Griggs.

Coach Pat Horgan said, “There were a number of close calls on selection but one thing is certain – our 20 will need to produce the season’s best on Saturday,”

** Gates open at 1.30pm and spectators are advised to get to the ground early to avoid congestion. Light rain is forecast to clear in the afternoon but in any case it should not dampen supporters’ spirits as spectator accommodation on three sides of The Gnoll is under cover !

Neath v Pontypool (Home)

15 Aled Brew; 14 Ryan Griffiths, 13 Ryan Evans (captain), 12 Sean Wilcox, 11 Louis Rees; 10 Steff Williams, 9 Nicky Griffiths; 1 Jack Powell, 2 Sion Crocker, 3 Tim Ryan; 4 Matthew Davies, 5 Jon Barley; 6 Elis Hopkins, 8 David Griggs, 7  Owain Morgan

Replacements –  16 Josh Clark, 17 Gareth Lloyd, 18 Morgan Kneath, 19 Luc Jones, 20 Rhys Harris

Referee – Mr. Ben Breakspear (Abercynon)

Forthcoming Fixtures :-

Sat     Feb    25      Bedwas                           A        12.30pm      Championship

Sat     Mar      4      Narberth                         A        2.30pm        Championship