Ystrad Rhondda return to Gelligaled Park this weekend for what promises to be one of the toughest assignments of the season as we welcome an in-form Neath RFC side in the Admiral Premiership.

Neath arrive in Rhondda flying high after an impressive away victory over Merthyr last weekend, and the Welsh All Blacks will be full of confidence as they look to carry that momentum into Saturday’s contest.

Team News

The Ystrad coaching staff have named their side for Saturday’s encounter, with Liam Wiggins captaining the side in the absence of regular skipper Jarred Llewellyn.

In the back row, Morgan Burgess (on permit from Newport RFC) continues in the starting XV, while Ben Williams (on permit from Scarlets) comes into the side alongside Kelly Jones, as Ystrad prepare for a demanding afternoon against one of the league’s most physical packs.

There is a new half-back pairing for this fixture, with Callum Phillips and Lewis Williams set to link up once again. Cole Morgan returns in the centre, adding experience to the midfield.

Team Overview

Forwards

Up front, Tom Stacey, Liam Wiggins and Nathan English will face a stern examination at the set piece against an experienced Neath front row. The second-row pairing of Mason Roderick and Cole Parry will be key in the tight exchanges and at line-out time.

The back row of Morgan Burgess, Ben Williams and Kelly Jones brings energy and work rate, but they face a significant challenge at the breakdown against a Neath side that prides itself on forward dominance and physicality.

Backs

With a new half-back partnership, Callum Phillips and Lewis Williams will be tasked with managing territory and tempo against an opposition well versed in applying pressure through structure and discipline.

In midfield, Cole Morgan and Logan Hutchings provide balance in both attack and defence, while the back three of Cavan Davies, Kurtis Williams and Alex Webber will be looking to take advantage of any opportunities that arise against a well-organised Neath defence.

Finishers

Ystrad’s replacements include Carl Williams, Curtis Whitford, Leon Moore, Carwyn Owen, Jack Rees, Keian Richards, Jacob Symes and Garin Lane, offering impact and versatility as the contest enters its latter stages.

The Opposition

Neath RFC arrive in excellent spirits after their eye-catching away win at Merthyr last weekend. Known for their physical approach, strong set piece and game management, they will come to Gelligaled Park expecting a hard, uncompromising battle.

Their recent form underlines the size of the task facing Ystrad this weekend.

Final Thoughts

This Premiership encounter represents a significant test for Ystrad Rhondda. With a new half-back combination, changes in leadership and a confident opponent, the home side will need to be disciplined, accurate and resilient throughout the full 80 minutes.

Neath arrive as deserved favourites after last week’s result, and Ystrad will be aiming to rise to the challenge in front of the Gelligaled Park faithful.

Kick-off: 2:30pm, Saturday 10th January 2026 – Gelligaled Park