Having already won the League 1 East title with two games to spare, attentions have turned to the Millennium Stadium, where Merthyr hope to achieve similar success against the Squirrels.
Merthyr head into the tie with their lower league opponents in high spirits having lost just two games in the league this season, and their momentum shows no sign of slowing after they beat Bedlinog 22-12 last Saturday.
It’s a stark contrast from last season, when they were threatened with relegation, but head coach Lee Jarvis isn’t taking anything for granted ahead of what could be a historic day for the club, especially as Rhiwbina are eight points clear at the top of League 2 East.
“We don’t class Rhiwbina as a second division side – we need to give them the respect they deserve,” said Jarvis, who was capped once by Wales at fly half against Romania in 1997.
“As far as preparation is concerned, it’s been the same as it has been all year. We’re going to have a real intent to play and are going to look to score tries – that’s what we’re about.
“Obviously the pack are excited about the occasion but they’ve got to stay calm and make sure their heart doesn’t rule their heads. Hopefully we can use the full width of this pitch and put on a show for the supporters who come down and watch. It’s a great concept, the three finals on one day and it will be a tremendous occasion.”
Buses of Merthyr support are expected to flood the capital on finals day, and fly half and captain Steve Lang is fully aware of the excitement that surrounds the game.
“I think fifteen buses are coming down, so the people of Merthyr are going to be out in force. The whole town is buzzing,” added Lang.
