Neath continue their preparations for the 2023/24 season with their second warm-up match against Richmond at The Gnoll on Saturday evening (kick off 7.00pm).

The match kicks off at 7.00pm due to cricket on the adjacent ground which at least allows supporters to watch the Wales-South Africa game beforehand.

Neath had a useful first outing last week in a 52-14 success over Builth Wells but Richmond – among the favourites to win England’s National League 1 this year – will be a considerable step-up although famous names like Blackheath, Moseley, Plymouth Albion and Rosslyn Park will also be in contention.

The coaches have made several changes from last week’s starting line-up with Lewis Evans back in his normal full back role and Joe Hutchings and Ryan Griffiths occupying the wing slots.

Skipper Ryan Evans has a new partner in Kieren Charles while Kristian Jones and Elis Horgan team up at half-back.

Richmond will have a powerful pack and Sion Crocker returns at hooker and is propped by Jack Powell and Gareth Lloyd while Jacob Blackmore and Cai Arnold from Trebanos are in the second row.

A lively-looking back row comprises Ben Williams who has joined from Ystalyfera, Carwyn Sion and Fergus Kneath.

There will be changes during the 80 minutes and the replacements’ bench is yet to be finalised pending permits :-

Neath v Richmond (Home)

15 Lewis Evans; 14 Joe Hutchings, 13 Ryan Evans (captain), 12 Kieren Charles, 11 Ryan Griffiths; 10 Kristian Jones, 9 Elis Horgan; 1 Jack Powell, 2 Sion Crocker, 3 Gareth Lloyd; 4 Cai Arnold, 5 Jacob Blackmore; 6 Ben Williams, 8 Carwyn Sion, 7 Fergus Kneath

Replacements –  TBC

Referee – Mr. Dewi Phillips (Pencoed)

Supporter Information

• Turnstiles at the Town End will open at 6.15pm
• Team sheets with up-to-date news will be available (only £1)
• Season Tickets not valid for non-League games
• Usual non-League match admission applies (£5 Adults, FREE for Under-16’s).
• Refreshments available inside the ground.