Last year’s champions Glyncoch are just one of a number of teams to receive a bye straight into round two after Shaun Baggs masterminded a comeback over New Tredegar in last season’s final at the Millennium Stadium.
Glyncoch trailed 14-0 at one stage but fullback Baggs kicked three penalties and converted a Mike Webb try as his side came back to take home the trophy.
And last year’s win for Glyncoch has seen the club go from strength to strength with the Gladiators still unbeaten so far this season.
“The cup win was massive for the club,” said Glyncoch team manager Dai Jones. “It attracted more players to the club and as we’re in division five we can do it again this year.”
Who will take home the trophy this year though is anyone’s guess and there are again a number of choice local derbies in round one of this year’s tournament.
These include Benllech vs Shotton Steel, Bangor vs Abergele and Bangor University vs Flint in north Wales alone.
In mid Wales, Newtown and Machynlleth clash at Newtown’s Recreation Ground.
Llandaff North take on Abercwmboi, Clwb Rygbi welcome St Josephs while Usk face fellow Monmouthshire side Chepstow in three of the other first round fixtures.
All will be competing for the chance to play in the final at the Millennium Stadium next year and Jones says it is a day his club will never forget.
“Players want to play at the Millennium Stadium it’s a massive pulling factor,” he added. “It was a great day out and the players got to see how the internationals live for a day. We’re still unbeaten and we’re aiming to win the trophy again.”
