The Gwent side have one shot at a return to Welsh club rugby’s top-table in Friday’s Principality Premiership play-off against Llanelli (kick-off 7.05pm). Pooler, who agonisingly missed out on promotion back in 2016, head into the make-or-break clash on the back of another stunning season.
They won all 22 of their matches in the competitive Championship to extend their record-breaking run of 47 games unbeaten. If they make it 48 wins in-a-row at the Talbot Athletic Ground this weekend, they will end the seven year wait for Principality Premiership rugby. Standing in their way are a Llanelli side who have a proud history in the Premiership. Pontypool back Kieran Meek is ready to seize their golden opportunity.
“To pick up 65 victories from 66 games and to have set a new record of 47 straight victories in the division is testament to the standards that we have set ourselves.” said Meek.
“We may have had a few tricky moments along the way, but we have achieved some special things and we can now look ahead to the play-off. We will be ready and raring to go.”
If Pooler are to realise their top-flight ambitions, they will have to overcome a Llanelli side desperate to save their Premiership status. They were forced into the play-off on the last day of the season after Bridgend shocked Pontypridd at the Brewery Field to stay up and relegate Bedwas.
Llanelli got into the play-off courtesy of a stunning run of their own. Paul Fisher’s side finished the season with six successive victories including impressive wins over RGC 1404 and Aberavon.
The high stakes and both teams’ fine form makes for an intriguing spectacle at the home of Aberavon where Pontypool and Llanelli will leave it all on the line to secure Principality Premiership rugby next season.
Pontypool supporters will be able to purchase tickets (priced at £10, U16s free) ahead of the match at Pontypool Park at the following dates and times:
Wednesday 15th May: 12pm-4pm.
Thursday 16th May: 6pm-7:30pm.
Pontypool RFC is also running a number of complimentary coaches to ensure supporters get to the ground in plenty of time. Supporters wishing to reserve their free space are asked to email secretary, Jamie Hallam (jamie.hallam@pontypoolrugby.co.uk).
Llanelli supporters can book a place on their official supporters bus for £8 by calling 01554292939.
