They face Fairwater at Penygraig in the semi-final of the WRU Bowl on Saturday, with the winner set to face whoever comes out on top between Aberavon Green Stars and Llanharan. And Bryncethin’s players and supporters are motivated by the potential opportunity to represent the club in one of the best stadiums in world rugby.
“The Principality is the holy grail, and we are desperate to get there as a club,” said Bryncethin secretary Andrew Jones. “They are playing really well and so committed to Bryncethin.
“We’ve had a successful season so far, but to reach a cup final would be the icing on the cake. Most of these boys won’t get the opportunity to play at the Principality Stadium again so this is an opportunity we are determined to take.”
Bryncethin have shown strength and confidence throughout the tournament after beating a strong Tumble side in the quarter-finals. Despite their magnificent form they are determined not to underestimate what is a dangerous Fairwater side.
“We have not lost a competitive game in two years but by no means are we going to into the game thinking we are going to win, the boys in themselves know that it is just down to them,” said Jones.
“We have a lot of respect for Fairwater, and we won’t be taking them lightly at all. We will need to be at our best to win.” As for Fairwater, they won five of their six games to come top of their district table and get through to the knock- out stages.
“We are all excited for the game but apprehensive as well,” said Fairwater head coach Ray Leigh. “When you get to this level of the competition you know all the games are going to be difficult, we will not be taking them lightly, but the boys are confident and have shown a lot of strength and character to get here so we are going in with a lot of confidence in our rugby.”
They will be hoping they can continue their run and form and clinch that coveted spot for the Principality in late April. In the other semi-final, Aberavon Green Stars take on Llanharan having comfortably dispatched of Usk in the quarter-finals.
“The boys are really looking forward to it, it is a big game for everyone at the club,” said Aberavon Green Stars team manager Andrew Harris. “Getting to the Principality would be a dream come true, it would be fantastic for the club but Llanharan are a tough side with a long history so they will be a great test for the boys.”
In the WRU Nationanl Plate semi-finals Brecon face Treorchy at Ebbw Vale while Penallta tackle Newcastle Emlyn at Neath.
In the WRU National Shield semi-finals Tonna earnt a place at the Principality Stadium with a hard-fought 25-12 victory over Ferndale. They will face Crumlin in the final after they ran out convincing 53-22 winners over Pontardawe.
