Champions Neath continue to lead the way but their iron grip on the league, which has seen them claim the last three titles, is being severely threatened by the exploits of both Ebbw Vale and the league’s form side Glamorgan Wanderers.
The leaders will certainly need to improve on recent showings if they are to maintain their advantage at the top as they face the stern challenge of a revitalised Newport side at Rodney Parade. The Welsh All Blacks crashed to a 20-13 home defeat against Cardiff last time out while Newport ran in five tries in an impressive 33-19 triumph over Llanelli.
The Scarlets travel to Eugene Cross Park this week to face second placed Ebbw Vale and they will be keen to halt their slide down the table with a morale boosting win. They include Daniel Evans at fly-half, after his impressive performances for the Scarlets regional side, and Scottish international Bruce Douglas at tight-head.
They face a tough task though as the Steelemen will be smarting from their loss against Glamorgan Wanderers, their first since the opening day of the season.
The Wanderers themselves go to Llandovery who are languishing in twelfth position and come in to the game on the back of a 30-9 hiding against Swansea at St Helens. The Cardiff club will be out to put their hosts to the sword to confirm their status as realistic title contenders.
Pontypridd have regained their early season form in recent weeks but have been struck by an injury crisis as they aim for a third win on the trot against Bridgend at Sardis Road. They will be without Chris Clayton, Tom Riley and Fionn McLoughlin in the backline and Duane Goodfield and Sam Hobbs up front but to name a few. Paul John can be consoled though, by the return of centre Lawrence Price and back-rower Geraint Lewis.
Cardiff welcome basement boys Maesteg to the Arms Park and will need a full five points if they are to stay in touch with the leading pack while Bedwas host Aberavon at the Bridge Field in a contest of two of the sides amongst the tight mid-table group which sees fourth and eleventh place separated by only seven points.
The final tie of the round Cross Keys will be looking to recover from a 30-6 drubbing at the hands of Aberavon to put up a better show against visiting Swansea.
