What a way to start the new season – Pontypool at Rodney Parade and live on S4C. Our visitors have waited a long time to take part in the Indigo Premiership and they will be keen to show everyone they deserve to be there. Games between the two clubs are always well contested and this one will be no different. We are familiar with several of their players who have worn the famous Black & Amber and this will add a bit of spice to the encounter. Welcome, Pontypool, and we hope you enjoy your visit to Rodney Parade – but not too much!
Newport have had a good pre-season with some varied training sessions and four games on the road. With wins against Bedwas, Dings, Brecon and a loss against Esher when they scored an injury-time try and a touchline conversion to snatch the win – well, it was their centenary game!
The coaching team has used many players in these games but has mainly gone for the tried and tested for this first league game.
Newport: Thomas Davies, Henry Palmer, Nathan Evans, Elliot Ferriman, Barney Langton-Cryer, Rhys Jenkins, Josh Reid, Ben Roach (Captain), Dafydd Buckland, Carwyn Penny, Lloyd Lewis, Matt O’Brien, Joe Westwood, Elliot Frewen, Ioan Davies.
Replacements: Tyler Olding, Aaron Dowse, Garin Harris, Jon Verrier, Kyle Tayler, Che Hope, Jacob Lloyd, Iestyn Galton.
Referee: Adam Jones
AR1: Keith David
AR2: Mark Butcher
AR3: Neil Perkins
TMO: Jon Mason
Kick-off: 17:15
Venue: Rodney Parade
A big crowd is expected for this game and supporters are advised to get their tickets on-line to avoid the queues. If this isn’t possible then please arrive early.