Narberth RFC v Pontypool RFC

It’s business as normal according to defence coach Andrew Quick as focus shifts to the WRU Championship Cup with a trip west to Narberth RFC.

Pontypool RFC have enjoyed a stellar start to the WRU Admiral Championship campaign with maximum points but a change in competition does not mean a change in attitude or approach.

“There is no difference for us we want to win every game so we’ll keep focused like we do every week,” said Quick.

“We know Narberth is a notoriously tough place to go.

“For us it’s about turning up with the right mindset and attitude and hopefully if we put a shift in we can get a win.”

“I think we’ve got to focus on us and what we do as a unit.”

After coming through a tough test at the Lewis Lloyd Ground earlier this year, there are no illusions on the challenge that awaits Pooler in Pembrokeshire.

History in this competition favours the hosts as they took victory in this same fixture 12 years ago – the only meeting between the two sides in the cup.

It will also be the first cup fixture for Pooler in 966 days since a 45-0 victory over Pontypool United RFC in the Ben Francis Cup in February 2020.

The tie will also allow Pontypool to name eight replacements and Quick believes that will be an added benefit.

“It’s nice to have eight subs this week, it makes a massive difference compared to five,” he added.

“It gives us a few options off the bench, which is great.

“All in all we know it is going to be a tough afternoon but hopefully we have prepared enough to get the job done.

“We’re lucky that we’ve got a very good squad.

“We’ve rotated the last couple of weeks and some lads have come in and done really well so it’s only fair that they keep their spot within the squad.

“It’s tough on some boys but having eight replacements on the bench gives us a little wiggle room.”

There are seven changes from the victory over Trebanos RFC a fortnight ago.

Sam Scarfe and Kelvyn Williams come into the front row while Callum Davies is also recalled.

Mathew Powell and Deon Smith provide threat on the wings with Pat Lewis returning to partner Joel Mahoney at centre.

Club captain Scott Matthews makes his return to the team as he comes in at number eight.

“It’s great to have him back in the team,” said Quick.

“It’s been a tough couple of weeks for Scott for a myriad of reasons but it’s really pleasing to see him back out there.”

Among the replacements are Aaron Quick and teenager Dylan Lewis.