Ponty ready to face a whirlwind from the north in cup final

PONTYPRIDD are bracing themselves for a northern whirlwind when they face RGC 1404 in an historic WRU National Cup Final at the Principality Stadium tomorrow.

It’s Ponty’s 12th appearance and they have lifted the trophy on six occasions but they are expecting a humdinger of a match against firsttime finalists RGC.

Pontypridd captain Chris Dicomidis, said: “I think it will be a good, open and expansive game because both teams like to play an attacking brand of rugby.

“RGC have got a quick team and they beat us convincingly at Colwyn Bay in the Premiership. They have got a good midfield and two wingers who are sharp and can score tries from anywhere.

“With everything that’s gone on on and off the field at Ponty, to be in a cup final and third in the league, we’d have bitten your hand off.

“We have got to be confident in our ability because we have been here before. Both teams will bring loads of fans and it should be a tremendous occasion.”

The north Wales region was formed by the WRU in 2008 and only entered the National League structure five years ago but have flown up the divisions and are in the top tier of the Premiership in their inaugural season at that level.

Utility back Carwyn Ap Myrddin, who walks five miles a day in his job as a warden on Wales’ highest mountain Snowdon, said: “One of our aims at the beginning of the season was to go for the Cup because we know, on our day we can play and compete with anyone.

“It’s a dream come true this week. There’s a few like me who have been here from the start in Division One East. We still talk about those days now and again and reminisce.

“It’s been great, the progress we have made. There’s been some tough days along the way as well but it’s worth it for a big day out in Cardiff.

“We have backed ourselves and we are confident, which is something we need to be. We have got faith in ourselves as a team.

“That’s the main thing, we are a team, not a bunch of individuals. We group together and play as a team. I’ve always loved following the Welsh Cup so, to be part of a big day like that, is quite special.

“I’m so happy we’re playing a big team like Pontypridd. They have got great supporters and lots of history.

“I was fortunate to play at the Principality Stadium in the Plate Final with Nantconwy. It was great to be part of it but it’s something you always look back but I’d like to have won. Having another chance with RGC is great and we’re definitely going there to win it.”