The clash on the training field at Parc Y Scarlets, which is live on S4C Chwaeron, will be the first meeting between Wales’ top two rugby establishments since they met in the Welsh Schools & Colleges League final last season. In fact, they have met in the last seven finals!
And, as far as Sir Gar is concerned, they have featured in every single final since the tournament began in 2010. Yet, for the first time in their history, they find themselves needing to win their final regular season fixture to guarantee a ticket into the final.
“It is very much a win or bust situation for us. The game against Cymoedd is really like a semi-final fixture – if we don’t win it, we won’t make the final,” admitted Sir Gar director of rugby, Euros Evans.
“We have a great relationship and rivalry with Cymoedd and it is always a game we look forward to. But this time there will be a real edge to it because neither of us can really afford to lose.”
Cardiff & Vale College currently sit on top of the league with 49 points from 12 games, Sir Gar are second with 48 from 11 and this season’s stand-out side, Coleg Gwent, are third with 47 from 11. Then come Cymoedd with 45 points from 10 outings.
Gwent beat Sir Gar 18-8, but went down 24-12 to Cymoedd in their only defeat to date. The only blemish on the record of reigning champions Cymoedd is a 14-114 draw with Ysgol Glantaf.
Gwent reached the first two finals, falling 20-19 to Sir Gar in 2011 before taking the title the next year with a famous 17-16 triumph. They complete their fixtures with a home game against Llandovery College on Wednesday, by which time they will know what will be required to reach their first final in eight years.
“Gwent have been very strong this season and are in with a good shot at reaching the final once again. They beat us earlier in the season and are very strong up front,” added Evans.
Welsh Schools & Colleges League
Tuesday, 7 January
Coleg Sir Gar v Coleg Y Cymoedd (kick-off 7.30pm, Parc Y Scarlets Training Pitch)
Wednesday, 8 January
Gower College v Bridgend College
Coleg Gwent v Llandovery College
Whitchurch HS v Pembrokeshire College
TBC
Coleg Llandrillo v Coleg Y Cymoedd
