Llanelli wait on Ravens as survival fight goes to wire
PAUL Fisher insists it is vital Llanelli retain their Premiership status after thrashing Neath at Parc y Scarlets.
The West Walians have moved out of the relegation zone but should Bridgend win their remaining fixture at Pontypridd on Saturday, Llanelli will be forced to face Pontypool in a play-off to stay in the top flight.
“The history and tradition of Llanelli RFC is known worldwide and it’s really important for Llanelli to maintain a top-class side,” said Fisher.
“It’s also important from a Scarlets point of view as well.
“It’s vital as a region that we’ve got three Premiership clubs so that we can serve the regional requirements.”
Callum Hall opened the scoring for Neath with a penalty but Llanelli had them on toast in the scrum and were eventually awarded a penalty try.
As the first half wore on Llanelli got on top, with some excellent handling by their back division allowing Scarlets openside flanker Dan Davis to squeeze in at the corner.
Llanelli crossed for their third try when Australian centre Paul Asquith cut open the Neath defence before drawing his man to put Johnny Lewis over.
Rees then secured the bonus point as he crashed over from close range.
Chris Long opened the secondhalf scoring for the hosts when he touched down after a powerful line-out. Aaron Bramwell touched down for Neath after Davis was sent to the sin-bin for killing the ball.
Lewis grabbed his second try for the hosts as he ran in unopposed from 30 metres. Ed Kennedy crossed for another home try after Leon Randall was sent to the sinbin for Neath.
Ryan Davies and Greg George crossed for late tries for the hosts.