League rugby finally kicks off today

The waiting is over with the return of competitive league rugby today and local clubs are in the thick of it, writes Gary Williams.

Although clubs will have played a few pre-season fixtures, these were under the ‘game on’ rules which are different to the pre-Covid rules which return come 2.30pm.

Welshpool, who have suffered an erratic pre-season, will have been buoyed by some excellent home performances against Newtown, Llanidloes and Machynlleth. However, their away form fell well short of expectations.

The Maesydre men kick off their campaign with a home game against Wrexham, still disappointed that Covid cut short their promotion ambitions when they were top of the Division. Pool will have to be at their best against a strong Wrexham side who will be looking to continue where they left off.

Dave Roberts, Welshpool’s Head Coach, admits his boys have a massive challenge on their hands but he is sure that his young squad are well capable of securing a good result.

“We’ve got a very talented group here at the Maesydre and we’re more than a match for any team in our division on our day,” he said. “We just need to get out of the blocks quickly. What a game to start the new season with, we’re ready and raring to go’.

Newtown, also in Division Two North, won’t be relishing a trip to Teirw Nant, a team who are always difficult to beat, especially on their own patch.

Newtown will be encouraged by their continued improvement during their pre-season games and will see Saturday’s game as an indication of whether they can be title challengers.

In Division One, COBRA have the sternest of tests when they entertain Llandudno, champions of North Wales for the last two seasons. 

Llanidloes, voluntarily dropping to Division Three North for this season, entertain Mold 2nds at home and will be looking for an encouraging start.

Mid Wales’ other representatives in this division, Machynlleth, make the long trip to Menai Bridge.