The WRU Cup Quarter Final takes place this weekend as Ystrad Rhondda RFC travel to Stradey Park to face Llanelli Wanderers on Saturday, October 25th (2:30PM K.O.). With a semi-final place on the line, another competitive contest is expected between two well-matched sides.

The fixture provides further opportunity for the Ystrad squad to develop combinations and maintain momentum, with several rotational changes made from last weekend’s selection.

Milestone Moment for Lewis Williams

This weekend marks a proud milestone for Lewis Williams, who makes his 50th appearance for Ystrad Rhondda.

Having joined the club ahead of the 2022/23 season, Lewis has become an important member of the squad and brings with him experience from spells with Pontypridd, Ebbw Vale, Llanelli, and Bridgend. He has also represented Wales U16s and Wales U20s.

Reflecting on the achievement, Lewis said:

“I had watched my brother in a handful of games towards the end of the season and every game was very entertaining. I remember thinking after the Pontypool home game I would have loved to have been on the pitch that day. When I was asked ‘do I fancy pre-season?’ it was an easy decision for myself and I couldn’t wait to get started.

I set a goal in my head at the end of my first season to get to 50 games, and to do it in the Premiership with this group of boys has made it that more special. It’s a great club with a top group of boys. Hopefully my legs let me have a few more seasons — bring on the next 50!”

It will also be a special afternoon for the Williams family, as Lewis’ brother Josh makes his first start of the season at fullback, joining the starting XV alongside his brother for the first time this campaign.

Team News

The coaching group have made a number of rotational changes across the squad for the trip to Stradey Park.

In the front row, Callum Dawe makes his first start of the season, joining Curtis Whitford and Liam Wiggins, who captains the side for the afternoon. Morgan Burgess and Cole Parry continue in the second row, while the back row features Mason Roderick, Jack Rees, and Carwyn Owen — also making his first start of the season.

A new half-back partnership sees Callum Phillips and Lewis Williams combine.

In the backline, Garyn Lane and Logan Hutchings start in the centres, with a back three of Ieuan Chedzoy, Cavan Davies, and Josh Williams, offering balance and attacking potential.

Among the finishers, Corben Evans, Tom Stacey, Lewis Jones, Kelly Jones, Jarrad Llewellyn, Keian Richards, Jacob Symes, and Kurtis Williams complete the matchday squad — all offering impact from the bench later in the game.

The Opposition

Llanelli Wanderers will provide a familiar challenge, with the two sides meeting last month at Gelligaled Park in a closely fought encounter, with Ystrad taking the spoils 13–6 on that occasion. The hosts are known for their set-piece strength and physicality, while Ystrad will aim to produce a disciplined and composed performance on the road.

Another competitive fixture is expected at Stradey Park, with both teams looking to progress to the semi-final stage of this season’s WRU Cup.

Kick-off at Stradey Park is 2:30PM on Saturday, October 25th. All supporters are encouraged to make the trip and get behind the boys.