The game will be played at Glan-yr-Afon Park on Saturday 16th February, kicking off at 2:30 pm.
Ponty have twice previously visited Blackwood in the cup, and if such omens carry any credibility, have on both occasions progressed to the final, in 2002 and 2005. There can be no complacency amongst the Pontypridd ranks if they wish to make it three times lucky against a Blackwood team who are placed fourth in their division, and who will be relishing the chance of a giant killing act to make the draw for the quarter final round of the cup.
The Ponty squad has suffered a few injury setbacks in training over the past week, with outside half Gareth McCarthy sidelined with a hamstring twinge, full back Lawrence Price still struggling with a groin strain, flanker Lee Evans out with shoulder damage, and full back Matthew Hutchings laid low with flu.
There are changes made to the Pontypridd line up, with Jason Pocock coming in at full back, Gavin Close reintroduced on the wing, Paul Matthews in at centre and Neil Burnett resuming at outside half.
Amongst the forwards, Ian Poley is given a start at loose head prop, with lock Grant Harrington making a comeback from injury, and newly re-signed fellow lock Chris Martenko taking a place on the bench.
Pontypridd:
15. Jason Pocock
14. Chris Clayton
13. Gavin Dacey
12. Paul Matthews
11. Gavin Close
10. Neil Burnett
9. Rhys Downes
1. Ian Poley
2. Rhys Williams
3. Ryan Harford
4. Ryan Savage
5. Grant Harrington
6. Wayne O’Connor
7. Rhys Shellard
8. Nathan Strong (Capt)
Replacements:
Kristian Baller
Adam Thomas
Andrew Jenkins
Stuart Williams
Duane Goodfield
Chris Martenko
Geraint Lewis
