AS Teifi rugby clubs prepare for their first league matches of 2022, a Welsh government limit of 50 spectators for adult sport remains in place at grounds, although clubhouses can still open with Covid restrictions.

Crymych RFC are due to host Yr Hendy in Division One West on Saturday, January 8, with Newcastle Emlyn scheduled to play at Llanelli Wanderers, and in Division Three West A Cardigan RFC are at home to Tregaron.

Ironically, some rugby matches could have more spectators watching games from inside the clubhouse than outside around the pitch.

And despite a limit of 50 spectators being in place, WRU community director Geraint John has pointed out many Welsh clubs play at venues which are not fully under their control.

"Anybody can walk around local authority parkland and stop and watch a game," said John.

"The key message from us is just to try and adhere to the guidelines of Welsh government. But it is very difficult for the clubs to take responsibility for anybody who is walking by.

"That is the difficult question that clubs are constantly asking. What if the 51st person is walking with their dog or simply out with the family?"

John said he accepts clubs will take differing views on whether or not to play matches, with some postponements expected.

"Clubs can play rugby if they want to play. If clubs don't want to, because they can't have many supporters, we will support them also," he said.

Newcastle Emlyn, who are due to host Gorseinon the following week, have advised sponsors that "further meetings are taking place over the coming week," regarding their next home fixture.

With three wins from three matches, Emlyn are currently in second spot in Division One West behind leaders Llangennech.

Despite being hit by injuries Emlyn have thrived from the word go and with the likes of No. 8 Bryn Jones and openside flanker Dafydd Rotes ready for comebacks they could be even stronger after the festive break.

The Red and Whites notched an excellent 41-18 away win at Aberystwyth in their last league outing on December 18, to follow up wins against Gowerton and Yr Hendy in what has been a very stop-start campaign so far.

Meanwhile Crymych are hoping to go for a second league win of the season when hosting Yr Hendy on Saturday. Having lost narrowly at Whitland in their first game, they beat Pembroke, before losing at table-toppers Llangennech.

Cardigan have been enjoying life in Division Three West A with four league wins on the bounce this season, including a 24-20 win over Laugharne last time out on December 11.

The Cardis have also come out on top against St Davids, Pembroke Dock Quins and Llanybydder and will be keen to maintain their winning momentum as they look ahead to their new year fixtures.

Fixtures (provisional): Saturday, January 8:

Division One West: Aberystwyth v Llangennech; Crymych v Yr Hendy; Gorseinon v Penclawdd; Llanelli Wanderers v Newcastle Emlyn; Pembroke v Gowerton; Whitland v Felinfoel.

Division Two West: Burry Port v Mumbles; Carmarthen Athletic v Tycroes; Kidwelly v Pontyberem; Milford Haven v Nantgaredig; Pontarddulais v Loughor; Tenby United v Fishguard.

Division Three West A:  Aberaeron v Llanybydder; Cardigan v Tregaron; Lampeter Town v St Clears; Llangwm v Neyland; Pembroke Dock Quins v Laugharne; St Davids v Haverfordwest.