Behind runaway leaders Neath, just five points separate the next five clubs from second to sixth position in the table.
Third placed Pontypridd have a home league tie against Llanelli this Saturday (kick-off 2:30pm) with the Valley Commandos hoping to build up some momentum in their premiership campaign.
A home win over Glamorgan Wanderers last time out saw an improvement in Ponty’s performance following a lean spell, and an ambition to play expansive attacking rugby could be realised against a Llanelli side who are traditionally well-equipped to play the same type of game.
There are injuries to report in the Pontypridd camp, with the latest casualties both forced off in the Wanderers match, being winger Chris Clayton and prop Stuart Williams, both with shoulder problems. Club skipper Nathan Strong is still struggling with a groin strain, just failing to make the cut, whilst hooker Duane Goodfield is also sidelined with a sprung rib cartilage.
Other absentees, all away on international duties, are scrum half Rhys Downes and hooker Rhys Williams, with Wales U18, and centre Tom Riley with the Wales Sevens, whilst outside half Dai Flanagan continues on duty with the senior Blues squad.
Ponty can welcome back flanker Rhys Shellard, recovered from injury, to take a place on the bench. Matthew Hutchings comes in at fullback as Lawrence Price moves to the wing, with Sam Hobbs converting from his usual tight head role to loose head prop – a position which he has occupied this season for the Wales U20.
Pontypridd:
15. Matthew Hutchings
14. Lawrence Price
13. Gavin Dacey (Capt)
12. Adam Thomas
11. Kristian Baller
10. Gareth McCarthy
9. Andrew Jenkins
1. Sam Hobbs
2. Leighton Davies
3. Ryan Harford
4. Ryan Savage
5. Chris Dicomidis
6. Lee Evans
7. Wayne O’Connor
8. Geraint Lewis
Replacements:
Jason Pocock
Paul Matthews
Neil Burnett
Ian Poley
Lee Pearce
Grant Harrington
Rhys Shellard
