Captain Martin applauds Premiership

The Welsh All Blacks skipper was part of the successful Newport side in the inaugural season of semi-professional rugby. He then joined Neath who won the title in 2004 and has since led the side to the top of the table for the past two seasons as captain, culminating last weekend when Neath were handed the trophy.

“There is no doubt the quality of the Premiership has increased over the past few seasons. Our playing record shows that – winning the title this season has been harder than any other. Any side can beat anyone else now, we slipped up a few times during the season, and the fact that Llandovery lifted the Konica Minolta Cup last weekend is proof of the strength in depth in the competition.

“You can never have enough success and at Neath we always want more. Everyone works very hard at the club and there is a desire to kick on and raise the bar again next season.”

According to Neath Head Coach Rowland Phillips, who has masterminded all three Premiership title wins, winning is getting sweeter each year.

“It’s been sweeter this time round as we’ve had to work harder for the title. Last year we won with three games to play but we had to fight to succeed this season which is what Neath RFC is all about.

“I try to instill that ethos in the squad of players at the Gnoll. It is something I learnt from the likes of Ron Waldron and Brian Thomas and something that I feel is unique about the club – although I know many coaches would probably say the same about their clubs.

“We have a backs-to-the-wall attitude that brings out the best in us when we fight for success rather than accepting situations. I want to keep that going.

“You don’t look ahead and plan to win the league next season. You have to train hard, prepare well and aim to win your next game. It’s the whole process that makes the difference and if that brings a trophy at the end of the season, we will continue to do the same.”