This Saturday, December 6th, 2025 (2:30 PM kick-off), Ystrad Rhondda travel to Mount Pleasant Park to take on Beddau RFC in what promises to be a fiercely competitive festive derby. With the Christmas period underway, both sides will be determined to put down a marker and build momentum heading into the winter schedule.

Ystrad come into the match focused on continuing their development and putting in a hardworking performance on the road. Beddau, one of the league’s high-flyers this season, will be favourites on their home patch and will look to use familiar surroundings and derby intensity to their advantage. It sets the stage for a challenging afternoon and a high-energy encounter between two proud clubs.

A particularly special moment awaits hooker Liam Wiggins, who celebrates his 150th appearance for the club — a remarkable milestone that highlights his service, consistency, and impact in the Ystrad jersey.

Team Overview

Forwards

Leading the charge up front is a committed forward pack. The Front Row sees Tom Stacey, milestone-man Liam Wiggins, and Nathan English form a strong and reliable unit at scrum time. Behind them, Mason Roderick and Cole Parry line up in the Second Row, providing power in the tight and control at the lineout.

In the Back Row, Kian Carter makes his first start for the side at blindside flanker, bringing energy and intent to the forward pack. Captain Jarrad Llewellyn lines up on the openside, offering leadership and breakdown presence, while Jack Rees completes the trio at Number 8 with his carrying strength and defensive stability.

Backs

The new half-back pairing of Callum Phillips and Lewis Williams will focus on keeping things steady and managing the game sensibly, looking to build confidence together as they guide the side around the field. In midfield, Cole Morgan and Logan Hutchings form the centre partnership, blending direct running with defensive resilience.

Out wide, the back three of Cavan Davies, Kurtis Williams, and Alex Webber brings finishing ability, counter-attacking threat, and experience under the high ball — all crucial in a hostile away atmosphere.

Finishers

Ystrad’s bench options include Corben Evans / Curtis Whitford, David Webb / Carwyn Owen, Lloyd Matthews / Keian Richards, Josh Williams / Ryan Evans. This group provides strong depth across both forwards and backs, ensuring energy and impact can be injected into the match when needed.

Why This Fixture Matters

Derbies carry their own emotional weight, and this one is no exception. Passion, intensity, and physicality will all feature prominently, with both clubs eager to secure bragging rights. For Ystrad, the game also offers a chance to honour Wiggins’ 150th appearance with a performance that reflects the commitment and standards he has embodied.

Final Thoughts

A tough, physical battle awaits at Beddau, but Ystrad Rhondda will travel with focus, hunger, and a determination to compete for the full 80 minutes. If the forwards can provide a strong platform and the backs take their chances, this festive fixture has all the ingredients for a meaningful and hard-fought afternoon.