The former Dragons second row helped Wales to win the Six Nations title in 2013 and has steered the Unicorns to the semi-finals of the WRU National Plate. One more win will see them head to the Principality Stadium for the first time.
Standing in their way will be table-topping Brynmawr, who have already beaten them once this season in Division 1 East. But the game at Llanharan’s Dairy Field this weekend will be a one-off and Coombs wants his players to give the village a much needed shot in the arm.
“We need some excitement in the club and in the village. It’s a thankless task trying to run a local rugby club and at times it can be very difficult,” said Coombs.
“People put in a lot of hard work and it’s more for them really – for the guys who do all the unseen work. The backroom staff, the kit-men and it’s those guys that deserve to get there more than anybody.
“That’s what we are trying to achieve as a team. We want to get there and make some good memories and make some history for the club.”
Nelson beat Ystrad Rhondda in the quarter-finals and now have to tackle a Brynmawr side that has been inspired by former Ebbw Vale skipper Damien Hudd and has only lost once to date this season, against Brecon.
“They are a very tough team with a good set piece and it’s about trying to take away their weapons,” said the 10–times capped Coombs
“I was proud of the effort the guys put in against Ystrad Rhondda. They are a very good team and we dismantled them, which was really nice.
“The boys stuck to the game plan and were very accurate on the night which was pleasing. But I think Brynmawr will pose a very different challenge.
“They are top of our league and are clear favourites. It’s going to be the biggest challenge we have faced not just this season but over a few seasons.”
The other semi-final sees Nant Conwy face Ystalyfera in Llanidloes. Divisoin 1 North leaders Nant Conwy were beaten at the same stage last season, while Ystalyfera lost in the final to Penallta on try-count.
Nant currently lead arch-rivals Pwllheli by seven points in the league table and, after three successive season of being pipped to the title by them, look set to win that title for the first time since 2013. They last reached the Plate final in 2012.
Ystalyfera are in the throes of another excellent season and have been fired-up ever since their ‘defeat’ by Penallta last season to return to the Principality Stadium to take the title home. They head to Mid Wales boasting an unbeaten record in league and cup matches, having won every game since being held to a 17-17 draw by Bonymaen on the opening day of the season.
