It’s a big game for both Torfaen Tigers and West Wales Raiders this Saturday for the first of two RFL Conference League South clashes in three weeks at Cwmbran between these two sides (kick-off 2.30pm) writes Ian Golden.
With the top three sides in the League already confirmed, both Torfaen and West Wales are chasing the final play-off place.
Last week, Valley Cougars pulled off a dramatic 42-34 win at West Wales whilst the Tigers well hammered Gloucestershire All Golds’ second string 52-16.
Tigers’ coach Kyle Scrivens said: “It’s a massive game for us this Saturday. It’s always a close entertaining game when we play West Wales. Whoever wins will be in the driving seat for fourth place so we are keen to build on last week’s result and performance.”
Raiders’ coach Jon Ellis said: “With Torfaen putting in an impressive win at home last week, we understand how tough it’s going to be to travel to Cwmbran this weekend. It’s very close between us both in the league with the difference being just one competition point, so a win for either side this Saturday can change how the league will look.”
Valley Cougars have been the team to beat in Conference League South since they first entered it in 2014, winning the Grand Final that year and earning the runners up position last year after initially topping the table.
Now, they’re guaranteed a top three position and they, this Saturday, take on Coventry Bears who are one of four clubs chasing the fourth semi-final place to go alongside the already qualified Cougars, Nottingham Outlaws and London Chargers. The match takes place at Treharris RFC (kick-off 2.30pm).
Cougars’ skipper Scott Britton said: “After our win against a strong Raiders side last week, the squad have trained very well and are really looking forward to hosting Coventry at Treharris. The Bears are also coming off a very good win themselves but we have set a focus for ourselves to finish the remainder of the season unbeaten. We are approaching each game as if it’s a final and we are excited for the challenge that Coventry are going to give us.”
A win for Aber Valley Wolves at Bridgend Blue Bulls at Pyle RFC on Saturday will guarantee them top spot in the final Welsh Conference table (kick-off 2pm).
These two sides have contested the last two Grand Finals and this Saturday’s game is a potential dress rehearsal for this season’s big game in Caerphilly on August 13th.
Bridgend team manager Steve Smith said: “It’s a top of the table clash in the Welsh Conference. We are looking for a good performance and a win. It’s always the game of the season when we meet and I’m sure this week will be no different.”
