The Welsh Cup holds a special place in the recent history of Pontypridd RFC, and this coming weekend also holds the key to the relevant success of the club during this current campaign. As a one-off, winner-takes-all-encounter, this is Ponty’s biggest game of the season so far.
Their opponents occupy a lowly twelfth position in the league, but true to the tradition of the cup, league standings count for nothing and Ponty will be geared up for a tough challenge against a young Ravens team who have plenty of talent at their disposal.
Just like Ponty, Bridgend have advanced in the cup this season by taking to the road, with away wins at Bryncethin, Builth Wells and Narberth in previous rounds.
Himself a veteran of many of Ponty’s cup heroics in the past, assistant coach Dale McIntosh realises the significance of this quarter-final tie to the club’s aspirations this year.
“This is a crucial game for both clubs involved,” said McIntosh, “and will be a big occasion for our supporters as well, as the competition means so much to us all. League form and status will go out of the window for this clash.
“Bridgend have had a tough season, and will come out fighting, whilst the cup is a realistic target for us at Pontypridd this season, with the league crown being more or less wrapped up by Neath.
“Both clubs have a strong pedigree in the cup which will add to the sense of occasion, and we will take nothing for granted in going all out for the win which we so much want to achieve.”
Ponty welcome back winger Chris Clayton, hooker Duane Goodfield and No.8 and skipper Nathan Strong for the quarter-final clash, all claiming their places in the starting line up, whilst scrum half Rhys Downes returns from international duties with Wales U18 to feature on the bench.
Pontypridd: Lawrence Price, Chris Clayton, Gavin Dacey, Adam Thomas, Kristian Baller; Gareth McCarthy, Andrew Jenkins; Sam Hobbs, Duane Goodfield, Ryan Harford, Ryan Savage, Chris Dicomidis, Lee Evans, Wayne O’Connor, Nathan Strong (Capt)
Replacements: Matthew Hutchings; Rhys Downes; Ian Poley; Leighton Davies; Grant Harrington; Geraint Lewis; Rhys Shellard
