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Merthyr and Pontypridd set for mammoth National Cup clash

29th January 2019


Merthyr and Pontypridd are set for a mammoth WRU National Cup encounter in March, and a place in the semi final is at stake at The Wern.

Following victories over Ebbw Vale and Llanelli in the second round, the defending champions will go head-to-head with their inter-regional rivals in a firey knockout encounter in Merthyr.

Last season's comprehensive final victory at Principality Stadium over Newport was the Ironmen's first appearance in the cup final, while Justin Burnell's side are bidding to lift the trophy for the seventh time - and the first since the 2014 win over Cross Keys.

Meanwhile, Cardiff also booked a place in the quarter final following an impressive win over RGC at Colwyn Bay, meaning two Cardiff Blues sides could feature in the final four.

Head coach, Steve Law, will welcome his former side, Bedwas, to the Welsh capital, as the Blue and Blacks target a first cup final since 2007.

The seven-time winners last lifted the trophy in 1997, thanks to a Leigh Davies and Nigel Walker-inspired performance in a 33-26 victory over Swansea.

Elsewhere, the last-standing Championship side, Pontypool, host Bridgend Ravens and Llandovery welcome Swansea to Church Bank.

Fixtures to be played on the weekend of March 23

Merthyr v Pontypridd

Llandovery v Swansea

Pontypool v Bridgend Ravens

Cardiff v Bedwas