Pontypool RFC v Swansea RFC

Pontypool Park will play host to a Premiership fixture for the first time in over 11 years when Swansea come to town.

It’s been a long, gruelling wait for such an iconic venue to be hosting matches at this level and it is an occasion that supporters, coaches and players will surely savour.

Pooler got their first taste of Premiership action last weekend in a thrilling Gwent derby against Newport in front of a raucous Rodney Parade atmosphere.

Despite not coming away with any points, teenager Huw Anderson enjoyed testing himself in a new league and believes the club can learn from their opening-day performance.

“It’s a massive step up,” said Anderson, who started on the wing.

“Everyone was gunning to get out there [on Sunday], wanting to experience the highest level, which is what we have been waiting for, and I think we brought a lot of intensity to the game.

“We’ve looked at a few things in training this week, where we can be more clinical, and we’ll take that into Saturday against Swansea.

“The major differences from Championship level are the intensity and the skill level, which is much higher. It was good fun to play in.

“I think we made a statement even though we were unlucky not to pick up some points but going forward there is a lot to build on.”

The Wales U20 international featured primarily at full back last season but has been used on the wing in pre-season and last weekend.

Anderson insists he is happy to play where he is needed and is relishing running out in front of the faithful home support.

“I leave that up to the coaches,” he said.

“I class myself as a back three player, I enjoy both positions.

“I just like to do my bit on the pitch and wherever they put me I’ll just try and do my best and enjoy it.

“Everyone feels nervous before games but it is all about what you do with those nerves.

“The best thing to do with those nerves is turn them into excitement and the best rugby you play is when you are enjoying it.

“If you are having fun then it comes much easier.

“The atmosphere they [the supporters] brought to Rodney Parade was absolutely massive, during the warm-up and the whole game.

“It’s a massive boost for the boys and I can’t imagine what it is going to be like on Saturday in front of the home crowd.

“Swansea are a dangerous side but we are not really focusing on them. We’ve built a good foundation and it’s more about us really.”