The SWALEC Cup champions host the Principality Premiership runners-up in what is sure to be an exciting and open clash. Kick-off is at 1:30pm to accommodate those wishing to watch the Wales v Italy World Cup warm up which starts at 5pm.
Last season, Ebbw Vale returned to the Premiership in style. At Eugene Cross Park, Bridgend were disposed of comfortably by 45-3. In the previous clash, at the Bridgend Ford Brewery Field, it was a different story, as Bridgend ran their visitors close. It was two late, late, pushover scores from the Steelmen which was enough to take the points and break Raven hearts. That clash finished 20-27 in favour of Ebbw, and Bridgend will look to reverse that come Saturday afternoon.
The Steelmen have had a tricky pre-season, where they faced some difficult opposition. The highlight was undoubtedly a comprehensive 0-33 win at Gwent rivals Pontypool, with defeats to Moseley and London Welsh either side of that victory.
The new look Bridgend squad turned in three impressive performances to win all of their pre-season games.
Wins against Swansea, having being 0-18 down at half time, Beddau and Maesteg Quins have sent Bridgend into the new campaign in positive fashion.
The Ravens starting line-up is much changed from last campaign under the leadership of Mike Hook, Dean Ronan and new skipper, Zac O’Driscoll. Marc Bennett retains his place at fullback, with Dai Evans and Mike Powell on the wings. Joe Gatt continues in the centre with debutant Aled Jenkins alongside him. Vice captain, Ryan Evans is at 10, partnered by Will Baird.
In the pack, there is a Premiership debut for Ifereimi Boladau. The O’Driscoll brothers pair up on the flanks to complete the back row. The impressive Ashton Evans partners Gavin Bilton in the second row, and the front three is Cai Lewis, Dale Rogers and Nicky Boyce, who is also making his Premiership debut for Bridgend.
Bridgend: 15 Marc Bennett 14 Dai Evans 13 Aled Jenkins 12 Joe Gatt 11 Mike Powell 10 Ryan Evans (vice captain) 9 Will Baird; 1 Nicky Boyce 2 Dale Rogers 3 Cai Lewis 4 Ashton Evans 5 Gavin Bilton 6 Adam O’Driscoll 7 Zac O’Driscoll (captain) 8 Ifereimi Boladau
Replacements: 16 Iestyn Merriman 17 Lewis Francis 18 Chris Davies 19 Stephen Bevan 20 Craig Moses 21 Geraint Watkin 22 Joseph Scrivens 23 Jack Pring
