RUGBY PREVIEW

Showing confidence and panache Newcastle Emlyn have recorded

back-to-back Championship successes to climb out of the danger zone and if

Alex Williams and colleagues complete a hat-trick at the expense of

fifth-placed Newbridge at Ddol Wyber this Saturday they could move into the

top half of the table.

Currently in seventh, the Red and Whites won away against bottom of the

pile Glynneath and fellow strugglers Rhydyfelin – a third win on the bounce

would give them at least 38 points with six fixtures remaining.

Saturday's visitors, who are nine points ahead of the Tivysiders, have

won nine of 17 games and have five fixtures to complete.

In the corresponding fixture in south Wales nearly four months ago the

hosts came out on top 36-17 but with improved recent form and home advantage supporters will hope their favourites can avenge the defeat.

The following weekend Emlyn visit third from bottom Beddau in Rhondda

Cynon Taf when they will also be hopeful of picking up points.

A large crowd is expected at Parc Lloyd Thomas in Crymych on March 10

for a WRU National Plate quarter-final tie between the Preselimen and

Ystalyfera of League 1 West Central.

But the coaches at the north Pembrokeshire club are sure to impress on

their charges that there is a more pressing engagement this Saturday when

bottom of the pile Crymych host League 1 West high-flyers Gowerton.

Despite heroics on the Plate front Crymych have endured a torrid time

in the league and are currently 11 points from safety with 11 fixtures outstanding.

Last time out Crymych showed what they are capable of when emerging

37-14 winners at Penclawdd – it was the club's second success of the term.

In contrast Gowerton have won eight of 15 and in their most recent

outing sprang a thrilling 42-37 win over visitors and leaders Dunvant.