Small fry seeking big impact in cup as big fish swim together

Jan 26 2008 by Phil Blanche, Western Mail

AT least four Premiership clubs must fall in the fourth round of the Konica Minolta Cup today.

The draw for the last 32 threw up some intriguing ties that will encourage the minnows attempting to advance into next week’s fifth-round draw.

While the four all-Premiership matches might hold most of the neutral interest, five of the other six clubs should make the fifth round comfortably.

But if there is to be a shock it could come at Carmarthen Park where the Quins look to repeat their 17-11 win over Cardiff three seasons ago.

Quins full-back Anthony Rees, a former Wales Sevens player, was a member of that squad and said, “We certainly want promotion more than cup success, but that does not mean we won’t be trying for a repeat victory.

“Cardiff are still the big name and there is no reason why we cannot perform well.”

Premiership leaders Neath look for their first home cup win over Swansea in a televised evening game.

Amazingly, Swansea have won all five previous ties at the Gnoll and the Welsh All Blacks could be without Gareth King, Dafydd Lockyer, Martin Jones, Gerwyn Price, Kristian Phillips and Gareth Williams.

Reflecting on Swansea’s grip over them in cup competitions, assistant coach Gruff Rees said, “What is more pertinent to us is the sharper form we have shown since the turn of the year.

“But we are mindful that Swansea took us close last month and since then three decent wins have made them the form side.”

Llanelli, 13-times winners of the cup, will entertain a Pontypridd side, whose assistant coach Dale McIntosh has been banned from the touchline for 12 months.

Aberavon will take on holders Llandovery, who are bottom of the Premiership – exactly the position the Drovers held when they won the cup last May.

Maesteg face Glamorgan Wanderers, but home coach Gareth Brown’s eyes could be more on league survival.

Cross Keys face a tricky trip to Merthyr and Bedwas visit Bonymaen, though both Premiership sides should survive.

Bridgend are at Builth Wells and both Ebbw Vale and Newport have home ties. The lowest-placed club, Glynneath from Division 4 South West, face a lively Narberth side.

Minnows will also progress from the Old Illtydians-Tondu, Aberavon Quins-Blackwood, Tonmawr-Waunarlwydd, Newport Saracens-Ystrad Rhondda and Whitland-Bargoed ties.