Rugby: Up for the cup

Apr 24 2008 by Robert Skeels, Port Talbot Guardian

ABERAVON head coach Simon King is planning the downfall of his former club Pontypridd, writes Robert Skeels.

The two Welsh Premiership sides go head-to-head in the semi-finals of the WRU Konica Minolta Cup at the Arms Park this Saturday, kick-off 5.30pm.

King has tasted cup success with the Sardis Road side and is confident that his new club can emulate Ponty’s cup pedigree.

But the Wizards have flattered to deceive since winning their quarter-final tie against Ebbw Vale. One victory in three games has not been the ideal build-up to the crunch clash.

King called Saturday’s defeat at Cross Keys “shocking” but has faith that the Red and Blacks will be firing on all cylinders against Ponty.

“It is imperative that we put in a big performance against Pontypridd,” said King.

“We must not let this opportunity slip from our grasp.

“I know the boys have a performance in them and they have to step up to the plate.

“If we can’t get up for this game we never will.

“Ponty beat Aberavon in the semis three seasons ago and I know they are still hurting from that loss.”

King was happy that the Wizards will be underdogs for the cup clash.

He also didn’t attempt to hide the fact that influential fly-half Jamie Davies’s unavailability with a broken arm wasn’t a big blow.

King, said: “Jamie was the last player you would want to lose. A player who scores 300 points in a season is a big blow, but it is a chance for youngsters Ricky Thomas and Garland to shine.”

l The Wizards will be making their 14th appearance in the semi-finals and will be bidding to reach the grand final for the third time in their history.

Ticket prices for the game are as follows £10 for Adults (stand or field) and £5 for senior citizens/under-16s.

Tickets are available from behind the clubhouse bar in the evenings until Friday, April 18. Cash or cheque only accepted

Wizards’ replica jerseys are available to purchase from the club shop which will be open all week from 10am to 2pm. Semi-final tickets are also available from the shop.

To book your seat on the supporters’ bus for the game contact Jeff Preece on 07967426231 or jeff.preece@aberavonwizards.co.uk or Dennis Morgan at dennis.morgan@aberavonwizards.co.uk.

The bus will leave the clubhouse at 1pm and will return back to the Aberavon clubhouse straight after the game.