Glynneath’s tough tie as ex-champs lie in wait

GLYNNEATH have been handed a home clash with twotime former winners Penallta in the quarter-finals of the WRU National Plate.

Grant Bignell’s side booked their place in the last eight with a 43-25 fourth-round win at One East Central counterparts Ammanford in what was a repeat of the 2011 final that they lost.

But they now face a stern test in the shape of the Pitmen, who are themselves riding high in One East.

Penallta lifted the Plate in 2012 and 2017, with victory on try count in the latter over Ystalyfera after the match finished 16-16. They are also bidding to reach a third Plate final in four seasons after also getting to the Principality Stadium in 2016.

Bonymaen will welcome Cambrian Welfare, currently mid-table in One East Central, to Parc Mawr.

Cambrian reached the final of the WRU National Bowl in 2015, losing 17-12 to Ystradgynlais.

The other quarter-final ties see holders Brynmawr heading to Treorchy as they continue their bid to become the first side to successfully defend the Plate. Nelson will host Brecon.

Meanwhile in the Bowl, Nantgaredig have already matched their record run of last season to the last eight and will bid to go even further when they host 2014 winners Clwb Rygbi Cymry Caerdydd. The ties in both competitions are due to be played on March 2.

Trebanos head to Principality Premiership powerhouses Llandovery on Saturday in the second round of the WRU National Cup.

It is a tough draw for the Crows, who eased past Maesteg Quins 34-5 in round one, while the Drovers annihilated Beddau 104-0.

Elsewhere, 14-time former winners Llanelli, the most successful club in the history of the competition, have their work cut out as they head to Sardis Road to tackle Pontypridd, while Swansea entertain Bargoed.

Trebanos went down 21-12 at Newbridge in their last Championship outing while Tata Steel lost 31-21 at home against Ystrad Rhondda. Cole Swanack, Kurtis Williams and Liam Wiggins all went over, with the former’s brace earning a bonus point.

Corey Shephard added all four conversions and a penalty.

Pontypool maintained their 11-point lead with an 18-16 victory at Narberth. There were also wins for Cardiff Met, Newcastle Emlyn and Maesteg Quins.