Captain's Blog #12

When I was writing my last blog, I was sure we could continue with our winning ways and leapfrog Swansea to pole position in the league.

Not only did we leapfrog Swansea but we also maintained our winning run at home and we are now sitting on top of a very competitive Premiership table. I was a very proud captain following that win against Swansea, proud of the team and proud of the tremendous support, which was noted by many of my family and friends, and no doubt the wider TV audience.

The game was fast and open, with both teams contributing to a fantastic spectacle. At the end of the day, that’s what people want to watch, as we are continuously told – it’s a shame the regions are not listening!

The one problem with being at the top of the league is that every team raises their game in an attempt to topple the leaders. Our game at the Wanderers was no exception. The Memorial Ground is always a difficult place to go, as previous seasons have shown, and when we are playing against sixteen men it becomes even more difficult!

It was a very frustrating game with neither side allowed to build up any momentum, and as such was not a great spectacle for the big travelling support that we took down there… but a win nonetheless. We failed to gain a bonus point, which allowed our rivals Neath to overtake us in pole position.

Its not often you get a chance to take on a team you have recently played and lost against. Following a disappointing performance at Newport just a month ago, we had the opportunity to seek early revenge and to defend our 22 month ground record.

This was a hard fought game, and as the final whistle sounded I was a very relieved captain, as I’m sure was everyone involved with Pontypridd.

Unfortunately due to the very physical nature of the rugby being played, we have suffered numerous injuries of late. This does not concern me greatly as we have a very strong and versatile squad. Whatever twenty-two players are involved on a Saturday will always give totally 100%.

We have a difficult run of games coming up, and what a challenge to begin with this coming Saturday, against our bitter rivals Cardiff.

We are once again league leaders with Cardiff nipping at our heels in second place. An exciting encounter awaits, and as in past seasons I would love to have the atmosphere at the away venue feel just like a home game, with our fantastic level of travelling support.

I can hear it now as I write, the Arms Park echoing to the chants of Ponty! Ponty! Ponty! from our dedicated followers. Lets make it a day to remember!

Nathan Strong
27/10/09