Top scoring full back Ed Howley and scrum half Scott Gibson have joined Cardiff, prop Luke Garret has headed to Ebbw Vale, back row forward Ieuan Jones has returned to Cross Keys, scrum half Chris Morgan has gone to Swansea and prop Liam Tobias has joined Llanelli.
The Welsh All Blacks have hit financial difficulties and they have yet to win a game this season, leaving them propping up the Principality Premiership with a mere five points from 10 games. They are currently eight points adrift of Swansea, in 15th, and 12 short of Bridgend in the fourth and final automatic relegation slot in 13th.
Bargoed have won three times already this season and have improved dramatically. They will travel as firm favourites and will be eyeing up a potential full house of five points.
Cardiff are another of the much improved teams this season and Steve Law’s men will be chasing a sixth straight win when they head to Bridgend. They will travel without the services of Rory Pitman, however, after the former Scarlets No 8 signed a short-term contract with Doncaster Knights in the English Premiership.
Former Wales hooker Rhys Thomas has joined the Cardiff coaching staff as a forwards coach to take over from Neil Edwards, who is stepping down due to work commitments.
Newport are on a roll after winning their last four games and will go into their Gwent derby against Ebbw Vale at Eugene Cross Park high on confidence. The game kicks-off a crucial period for the Black & Ambers who now have to face the top five teams in succession.
Ebbw Vale skipper Ronnie Kynes will be hoping for a big performance from his players to help him celebrate his 200th appearance for the Steelmen.
League leaders Merthyr host Cross Keys in the second of their six successive home games at The Wern, while Pontypridd welcome Llandovery to Sardis Road for another crucial top-of-the-table clash.
Principality Premiership – Round 11
Friday, 16 November
Aberavon v Llanelli
Bridgend v Cardiff
Ebbw Vale v Newport
Merthyr v Cross Keys
Neath v Bargoed
Pontypridd v Llandovery
Swansea v Carmarthen Quins
Saturday, 17 November
RGC 1404 v Bedwas (11.00am)
