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Sad news
Twitch Would just like to pay my respects and condolences to Alex Evans and to his family and friends. Very sad news. Rest in peace buddy.
on 22.5.13 at 23:13
noooooo - tweet to keep ED
Daiponty1 Ealing Trailfinders Add Five More To Their Squad For Season 13/14
Ealing Trailfinders are delighted to announce five more signings for season 13/14:

Ed Siggery – Pontypridd – Back row

Josh Elliot – Bath Uni – Hooker

Conor Carey – Ulster – Prop

Dan Collier – Unattached – Second row

Jordan Saunders - Cardiff Met Uni - Prop

Ed Siggery has the ability to play 6 and 8. He is 6’3 and 112kg. Ed has played for Wales U20 before being signed by London Irish. Currently he plays for Pontypridd where they have finished top of the Welsh Premiership. Ealing Trailfinders are looking forward to seeing him making a big impact in the Championship.
on 22.5.13 at 19:32
- Sam Sad times, but he is good enough to be a pro, so good luck to him. Always welcome back ''THE SIGG''
  As long as we keep Jake we will be ok at 6. We probably need though to get another 6 in as cover, and maybe an 8 to give dan godfrey a breather more often
  on 22.5.13 at 21:53
  - Pontyboyo Firstly best of luck to Sig he deserves a chance at pro level.
    
    I think Sieniawski should be given a chance at 6 as I feel we have enough cover in the second row. He's not let us down when he's played. And hopefully Sheppard can stay injury free and he is more than capable of stepping in for Dan at 8.
    on 22.5.13 at 22:18
    - Pontydragon Killing me/us...what's Ealing Trailfinders?? Gutted, either way....AGAIN!
      No more Beer Can Chicken for Mr. Siggery ;-)
      on 23.5.13 at 4:12
- ianto Yeah, this seemed to be common knowledge on yesterday's trip to House of Commons. I was also told Dai Flan and Simon are both staying. Of course until official announcements are made nothing can be taken for granted.
  on 22.5.13 at 19:50
Congratulations to the Noisy Neighbours
Showboat13 Guys, remember PhilBB, that used to post on TT a while ago? Well he’s written some kind words about our great club in his blog, it’s not all positive, but the reality of our situation within Welsh rugby I guess.

Have a read, and play nice…

http://rugbyphilbb.wordpress.com/2013/05/20/congratulations-to-the-noisy-neighbours/
on 22.5.13 at 10:18
- ianto It’s a piece written by someone without influence who for good reason has been banned from most rugby forums. He started his blog while recently banned from Gwlad where many of the threads he contributes to evolve into abusive slanging matches. Fortunately, examples cannot be posted here as this site does not allow the type of the language used in these threads. When his latest blog did not attract much response he virtually requested it be posted on here in an attempt to get responses to satisfy his over inflated ego. I think it best to ignore his ranting which is why I have not commented on the content of his latest post.
  on 23.5.13 at 6:55
- Daiponty1 This gents 'comments' are valid assuming he actually knows anything. From the tone of his article everything revolves around money (as he states) and that the label is irrelevant - what absolute tosh - rugby/sport is a tribal game, just ask Bath and Bristol to combine, they will have more money but.... the guy is obviously an advocate of the failed regions - for Welsh to have a long term sustainable future you MUST engage with schools and stop disenfranchising the communities and supporters - it is impossible to control this engagement from a central base, hence why the club scene is so so important and their profile should be promoted at the highest level - whether these kids then end up playing pro or semipro will then depend on their ability - but currently, if we stick to current structure, less and less kids are taking up the sport as they cannot identify with meaningless labels - so there is an ever decreasing player base. This guy 'blogs' to full fill some self indulgent need to satisfy himself and garner his self importance - let him demonstrate what he has actually done/achieved in driving the game forward in Wales or his community - talk is cheap, or should that be 'blogging'
  on 22.5.13 at 21:13
- winsky01 Have to say I agree with the majority of that article and inparticular the paragraph about Valleys Rugby being woefully uncompetitive on a £1.7million budget and killing Pontypridd Rugby off in the process if it ever took off.
  
  His honesty makes a change from the usual drivel he spouts about us on various forums.
  on 22.5.13 at 21:07
- Neal Hammond Hard to disagree with a lot of the content in that blog. But I would ask, are the 'regions' in their present form the correct model for professional rugby in Wales either? In my opinion, clearly not.
  on 22.5.13 at 11:03
  - Ponty.net Since he wants a reaction, I'll say that this "The strength of PRFC and its ability to flourish as a semi professional club is not translatable to a higher level of rugby. It is the perfect set up for club rugby in Wales but that is its plateau and it should not try to push beyond that" is nonsense.
    on 22.5.13 at 14:11
    - Neil S Guy is a patronising idiot, always has been and always will be. Let the regions carry on on their path too doomsday on their phenomenal funding package from the WRU including handouts and TV money handouts. All while Pontypridd RFC does it on a miserly £120 odd grand a year from the governing body. Talk about punching above your weight. Since Phill is so obsessed with the old £ sign what percentage of revenues do the regions generate from sponsorship and self generated sources of income compared to Pontyrpidd and then talk about the model. The continued arrogant viewpoint that the TV money is "earnt" by the region is also ridiculous. The WRU strikes those deals and the WRU dishes the money out in the same way the Premier League does in football, the clubs are given the money for participating. Welsh rugby needs a competitive underbelly below the national side, instead it has a comfort zone propped up by a grossly under funded semi professional division.
      on 22.5.13 at 15:28
    - rhydhooker The financial risks of entering the top table of European rugby is immense whilst the rewards are paltry and the requirement for infrastructure investments would also be enormous for Ponty . No responsible director could reasonably justify an expansion of that magnitude under the current structure and arrangements .
      
      All of the existing regions currently trade insolvently relying on directors loans to be allowed to continue in .business
      on 22.5.13 at 14:37
      - Neil S And that model is one to drive success? I am starting to beleive that Wales can not sustain fully professional rugby as we understand it and a hybrid is needed involving clubs, centrally contracted players and representative sides in the HEC. We have tried the Irish model and it doesn't work for us, we need our own model.
        on 22.5.13 at 15:32
        Neal Hammond Definitely a better model. Don't divorce the players from their clubs. Scrap the 'regions' as they presently exist.
        on 22.5.13 at 16:33
TT ponty 15
Pontyboyo After such a successful season I thought we could have some fun during the off season. Would anyone be interested in having a pole of some sort where each day people vote on who they think should be first choice in each position? Then at the end we could have a TT ponty 15. What do people think? Could be a bit of a laugh while there is no rugby.

Owz could you help out posting via twitter/facebook if enough people are interested?

Thoughts below.
on 21.5.13 at 19:52
- ComeonthePont! Great idea if Owz can help make it simple I would love to take part.
  What are we going to do with just the Lions to watch?
  COTP
  on 21.5.13 at 22:00
10 years ago today
Gareth Harris
Two photos taken at the end of the game.

on 21.5.13 at 18:06
End of Season Terrace Talk Awards
The_Sion_King Just a bit of fun. A chance to reflect on our greatest ever season.

Player of Year - could have been Lewis Williams who lit up the first half the season, but overall for consistency and some key tries - Dico.
Most underrated payer - Chris Phillips. Most improved player and best scrummager in my book.
Signing of the year - rhys Shellard. Ok he's away with the 7s but when available he's been outstanding.
Game of the year - Llanelli play-off final (of course) but also Leinster home for the last minute winner. I also enjoyed the day out at Tata Steel.
Player to watch next season - Second row Dafydd Davis is worth a run-out. Has the frame and fitness to be a regular.
Unsung Hero - Stewart the waterboy. He's speed of the mark is remarkable.
Try of Season - Has to be the last minute winner against Leinster.
Low Point - Not many! Wasn't there for the defeats but I thought we got dragged into a dog fight against Jersey away. A smarter game and we would have won that one. Great trip though.
Merit award. The whole squad, coaches and management. The squad rotation policy is the way forward. Can't argue with results. Love the comment - best 2 teams in the league Ponty A and Ponty B!

on 21.5.13 at 11:35
- Major Cobbon Hard to disagree with any of that.
  on 21.5.13 at 16:21
  - ComeonthePont! Just for fun a couple of awards from me.
    1. Legend Status - The entire squad, Coaches, management and US the Supporters!
    2. Most entertaining player - Lewis I Williams (what a shame we saw so little of him but his try against Leinster in front of Geralf was gem.
    3. Unseen work heroes - Smurf and Stuart Williams (maybe his best Season at the Club.
    4. Top game controller - Humbers
    5. Cool kicker - Dai Flan (just from Humbers!)
    6. Top impact player - Tubbs
    7. New player of the year - joint Geraint Walsh and Owen Jenkins, both could become Ponty legends
    8. Most improved player: - Owen Sheppeard, Jake Thomas and Chris Phillips.
    9. Dynamite award - Darren Harris -so explosive (flanker maybe?)
    10. 1st name of the sheet award - Chris Clayton - 1 poor game in 6 years!
    11. Poor performance award - absolutely none - I really feel everyone of the players deserves an award (RCT are you out there?) and pretty much each player has played key roles at different times of the Season.
    Finally mus mention the leadership of Locvks, Dacey, Dico, Adam and Shellard, together with the rumbustiousness of Dowden, the barn door that is Kieran Jenkins, the athleticism of Cory, the class of Godfrey, the huge promise of Raikes and Lloyd Williams, the experience brought by Gareth James and Carl Thomas, the powerhouse named Garry Williams, the game reading of Gaggsy, the solid performances of Tom Pascoe, the revival of Nuts, the brilliant high ball specialist known as Owen Williams, with Scott Roberts playing really well at end of Season as well as the young Blues prop, and Tom Hetherington, who is so fast about the field you go cross-eyed. With promising players like Simon Williams, Aled Summerhill, Tom Williams and Dafydd Davies-
    I've run out awards - you get my drift (not to mention the most improved pitch in the WP!)
    COTP
    on 21.5.13 at 17:17
    - ComeonthePont! Jienawski also very good when called on, Palmer and Dando excellent front rowers who were unlucky with injuries, but as I said earlier, all class players in true Ponty tradition!
      on 21.5.13 at 21:59
    - Prince Dafydd 1. Legend - Wayne 'Goldilocks' o'Connor. A full decade of unstinting endeavour,
      2. Mr Consistency - Dico (because he plays more often than anyone else!), closely followed by Jake Thomas, Dowden, The Sig and a host of others
      3. Best newcomer - (ignoring the returnees) Walsh. He runs well, kicks well, tackles well, reads the game well and is good under the high ball. Everything you could want in a full back really. Special mention for Kieron Jenkins who put in a very good shift, particularly after Palmer was injured.
      Most promising young player - Lloyd Williams but Joel Raikes, Tom Pascoe, Owen Jenkins, Sheppy, Sienewski, Dando, Darren Harris and Thyer have all shown that they can cut it at the premiership level and perhaps beyond.
      Most improved player - Tubbs. Always had the 'grunt' but he is starting to add, dare I say it, some subtlety to his game. Chris Phillips is also improving season by season
      on 21.5.13 at 21:04
      - Pontydragon Very surprised no one mentioned the entire WP unsung hero....Mr. Ioan Dyer, "The Eggman"!!! I will provide a write up soon,
        on 23.5.13 at 4:14
Evening Kick Offs
Pat Vellian I think it is worth experimenting with a late kick off in the early part of next season. Im fully in favour of kicking off at 2.30pm for most games but it would be interesting to see the effect on the crowd if we had a 6.30pm kick off. On a nice night I think we would get a bigger crowd.
on 20.5.13 at 22:02
- ianto Not for me. You'd need a very big increase in attendance to make up for loss of bar takings. How would it work, when would you know it was going to be a nice night. Don't forget the temperature drops in the evening and you could end up with even less people watching. The general feeling amongst the supporters I know is 2:30 is the best.
  on 21.5.13 at 9:26
  - RhwsPontyFan Got to agree with this comment. Evening is no good for me either. 2.30 anyday!
    on 21.5.13 at 19:26
- Pontydragon Sounds like summer rugby might be welcome too, Pat. My trip for the Bristol game was very warm, and it sound like the final was too. I know the cold, and coats and scarfs are part of the game, but, nothing finer than watching some good egg shaped ball with a frosty lager. USA Collegiate 7's coming on June. Blood, Sweat and Tears, with perfectly chilled beverages... Will let you know how it goes.
  on 21.5.13 at 2:04
Player Development
Nightmare XV Comment from Scarlets forum:
"That was a game between men and boys. Ponty see this as their only goal due to the bad blood between themselves and Cardiff blues.
They remind me alot of how Neath used to be in this competition less about player development and more about the here and now"
I think this bloke has not realised how many players we have put through to the regions e.g Darren Waters & Wayne Evans (Dragons), Macauley Cook, Kristian Dacey, Ryan Harford, Sam Hobbs, Cory Hill, Rhys Williams & Lewis Jones (Blues), Richard Fussel (Ospreys) and lets not forget a certain Morgan Stoddart who I think left Ponty for some team called the Scarlets!!!

on 20.5.13 at 21:54
- winsky01 They're idiots. They're Scarlet rose-tinted glasses that they all wear don't allow them to look any further out from the bubble they all live in. They probably think Phil Bennett is still playing fly-half for them, tries are worth 4 points and they've only just beaten the All Blacks.
  on 20.5.13 at 22:56
- Pat Vellian and 4 or 5 Wales 7's players.
  on 20.5.13 at 22:00
- Pontyboyo Ian Evans at the Ospreys as well...
  on 20.5.13 at 21:58
  - Pontydragon He/She is clueless. Thinks everybody on the squad is 32 years old. Stupidest statement I've seen all year. Hope he/she doesn't professionally file tax returns for a living, or is a lawyer. Cripes, you'd never get out from under it!
    
    Yes, it was men against boys....unfortunately, ours were younger, not professional, much smarter, out-coached, and totally full of whup arse! And you're right, Winsk...they all (well, some certain ones) talk about US with rose-tinted glasses...gimme a break!
    on 21.5.13 at 2:12
    - Neil S Why worry about that statement; the here and now is what counts and if playing good rugby in a winning environment does not develop players then I am afraid this person has less of a clue than me. So what if Pontypridd is looking after itself while providing the best platform possible for players who want to progress; Pontypridd should not deny that it should endorse it. The WRU or regions have not looked after Pontypridd to any great extent so why should Pontypridd go out of its way to look after anyone other than itself? We all know there were stacks of players 25 and under who played in the cup final and the play off final so don't worry about it. It's just a lazy and bitter excuse making piece of commentary on the club.
      on 21.5.13 at 9:01
      - MC Phill And they mention Neath too - Lets have a look...
        James Hook, Craig Mitchell, Huw Bennett, Ian Evans (also - We share him lol!), Martin Roberts, Paul James, Kristian Phillips (although he's back in Club Rugby), Lee Beach (went pro, came back), Aled Brew, Ed Shervington, Tavis Knoyle - Not forgetting people like Adam and Duncan, Jabba - Steve Jones, (now sadly retired) - All of the above are (or were til very recently) either in Regional Rugby, or playing pro Rugby of some sort - I've probably missed a few too...
        
        Back in the present and Neath have announced two new back room staff members - Robin Sowden Taylor as Strength and Conditioning and Llyr Lane as a Backs Coach - Plus one more to follow in the next day or so (kicking coach hopefully!!)
        on 21.5.13 at 10:15
      - MC Phill And they mention Neath too - Lets have a look...
        James Hook, Craig Mitchell, Huw Bennett, Ian Evans (also - We share him lol!), Martin Roberts, Paul James, Kristian Phillips (although he's back in Club Rugby), Lee Beach (went pro, came back), Aled Brew, Ed Shervington, Tavis Knoyle - Not forgetting people like Adam and Duncan, Jabba - Steve Jones, (now sadly retired) - All of the above are (or were til very recently) either in Regional Rugby, or playing pro Rugby of some sort - I've probably missed a few too...
        
        Back in the present and Neath have announced two new back room staff members - Robin Sowden Taylor as Strength and Conditioning and Llyr Lane as a Backs Coach - Plus one more to follow in the next day or so (kicking coach hopefully!!)
        on 21.5.13 at 10:09
        Pontyboyo I agree with both you and Neil S. Personally I think it just the lack of knowledge the Turks have of the current structure. That's mainly due to the fact they live in their own little world and don't care about anything outside. Their away support is an embarrassment and so never talk to any supporters of other clubs to chat about rugby and what the other club is currently up to.
        on 21.5.13 at 20:02
        Graham Have to say the Llanelli fans we chatted to in the lounge before the match were fine, they hoped of course that Llanelli would win, but said that it would be a farce for Ponty not to be league champions.
        on 22.5.13 at 11:29
        MC Phill They still think that Carwyn James will be popping in for a team talk and Roy Bergiers will lead the line! 9-3 mun ;-)
        on 22.5.13 at 12:07
Next Season / Transfers
Sam A few clubs have started announcing their new signings. Any rumours going around for us?
Any of this years squad moving on?
on 20.5.13 at 21:18
- Pontyboyo Out: I've heard Cory is off to Cornish Pirates, Sig is leaving, not sure where and Dai Flan is off to Cross Key's. Humberstone is heading back to England. Wyatt and O'Connor are both retiring.
  
  In: Lloyd Williams and his brother have signed. Also the young full back that played in the away game at Cardiff has signed, as has the young second row player in that game (I'm afraid I can't remember their names). Not sure on Joel Raikes but he would also be a great addition.
  
  I must state that these are nothing more than rumours. I have no way of knowing if any are true in any way.
  
  I think it's a must we keep AT LEAST one of Dai/Simon, ideally both. Also keeping Sig is a must. Cory will be a huge loss but I hope he gets the pro contract he deserves.
  
  O'Connor and Wyatt deserve to go out on a high and no better way for them to bow out than in the style of winning a double. Both, again, will be a huge loss but it's understandable if they decide to call it a day.
  
  Anyone who has a lot more knowledge can hopefully tell me the rumours I heard are wrong. I certainly hope I am wrong!
  on 20.5.13 at 21:34
  - Gareth Harris
    Very cheeful Pontyboyo. Could have let us have a few days of glory before getting us to worry about next season. Ponty.Net says ENTIRELY WITHOUT FOUNDATION." Thats good enough for me.
    on 21.5.13 at 0:12
    - Pontyboyo Someone asked Gareth so I answered with what rumours I heard! Don't shoot the messenger. I posted what I heard in the hope someone would tell me what I heard was wrong.
      on 21.5.13 at 7:26
      - Gareth Harris Fair enough boyo.
        on 21.5.13 at 18:10
  - Daiponty1 why on earth would Dai want to join Keys, unless he is not in the Ponts plans for next year - remember he went on a journey before and ended up back at the home of welsh rugby - dont see it myself
    on 20.5.13 at 22:20
  - Ponty.net The vast majority of the "Outs" are entirely without foundation. :-)
    on 20.5.13 at 22:19
    - Twitch That's good news then Ows!
      on 20.5.13 at 23:28
    - Daiponty1 especially when there is the 'treble' to go for next year League/Swalec and BiC
      on 20.5.13 at 22:59
    - Pontyboyo I certainly hope so!
      on 20.5.13 at 22:33
- Twitch Rumours that Dai Flan is off to Cross Keys. Hope it's not true but best of luck to him if it is.
  on 20.5.13 at 21:34
  - Twitch If all those are true then they're some pretty big losses for us. Best of luck to all those moving onto other clubs and retiring from playing. Wayne and Gareth have been fantastic for the club, as have Sigs, Cory, Dai and Humbers. Best of luck to all of them. Good to hear we've signed up some youngsters though. We'll need to find some quality fly halves considering we also lost Lewis K Williams earlier in the season as well!
    on 20.5.13 at 21:51
    - Pontyboyo I think Dai Flan signed a two year contract when he came back so Key's will have to buy him out of the final year. They must be offering Dai big money for him to want to leave a team with potential to win trophies next season.
      
      I guess we'll hear of any transfers in the next several weeks.
      on 20.5.13 at 22:00
      - Twitch I've heard Keys are splashing some cash around and have already made some other good signings. Not sure who though.
        on 20.5.13 at 22:07
        Prince Dafydd Would be surprised if Humbers left. It would directly contradict something I overheard him say only a few weeks ago.
        on 20.5.13 at 22:30
        winsky01 Wow if Flanagan AND Humberstone both left that would be a massive blow for us. I also thought Smurf was staying on for another year? He should do the way he's been playing!
        on 20.5.13 at 22:58
        Martin Williams My m8 has asked flanagan and he has turned down the keys. Humbers i have heard has finished his degree and is going back to england but he talks on his interview after the mstch about next year. Who knows wot is happening.
        on 20.5.13 at 23:22
        ComeonthePont! Frankly i'm amazed and disappointed if this is true.
        We have the top Club, decent investment, huge support and any players going to other Wlsh Clubs in particular will miss the Ponty experience, maybe for cash.
        I agree that to lose Flan and Humbers would be a blow as they are the 2 best 10s in the WP in my opinion.
        Cory is a real Ponty boy but if the Blues cannot use him then good luck if he goes to England.
        Gaggsy retiring (hopefully staying as Coach) I can understand, and maybe Smurf, albeit I think he could do another Season.
        Sig would also be a loss as an enforcer, but as Manu u have done under Sir Alex we will need to bring in fresh blood who know what it means to wear the badge and take us on again.
        I am confident our Coaches will do it.
        I am aware of some of the young players mentioned as coming, and believe me they are very good players, but maybe we need 1 or 2 old heads if the departures are correct to help bed them in.
        COTP
        on 20.5.13 at 23:15
        Pontydragon First things first...we have to hang Pontyboyo from his meat and veg, off the Olde Bridge, for making me cry. Not fair. I know it's all speculation, but jeeze...like a knife in the back right about now. Sam is in deep doo-doo too, for bringing this up so soon.
        I can see Humbers staying in the 'wrong home' if he graduated, and it fits for him. Dai'...he would never feel 'at home' at the Keys. The guy likes the Ponty family too much. If Humbers goes 'home', Special K is a must to get back.
        Gareth is being brought into the coaching world nicely. These days, how often do you see something as smooth as that? Natural progression, as smooth as it gets.
        Waynebow and Sig....wow...legends. Wayne has given everything there is to give for this club. Leave on his terms, not ours.
        Sig...I honestly don't don't think he would be truly happy playing for anybody else. He has his best chance at naked cup pics, by staying with the Pont.
        Cory, Adam and Rhys...not getting the shot they truly deserve. WRU blackballed they are.
        And the rest of them....Dico, Jake, Huw, Darran, Nuts, Mika, Lion, Dan...consummate team players. Like Lynn Howells said about Gavin Henson...I'd take any one of these boys over a player like him. It's not all about talent....its teamwork, true concern for your fellow man, and friendship.
        You can tell these boys truly love each other, and the supporters.
        But, $ is $, and we can't fault them for that.
        No matter what happens, still my friends!
        But, let's get Baller back! and Strongy too! ;-)
        on 21.5.13 at 2:41
        Pontyboyo Sorry PD but someone asked so I posted what rumours I heard at the play off final with the hope someone would tell me it was all nonsense.
        on 21.5.13 at 7:29
        Pontydragon Just busting pbo
        on 22.5.13 at 2:47
        Neil S Why would anyone leave Pontypridd unless it was for career progression (ie full time rugby) or a large pay increase (remembering money unfortunately does pay the bills). Cory Hill going full time pro I could understand also with Gareth Wyatt and Wayne O'Connor choosing to reture I can understand them going on their terms; but the others, unless it is for the reasons above I could not understand to be honest. Surely there is no better club in Wales at the moment to play rugby?
        on 21.5.13 at 9:10
        Pontyboyo I agree Neil. This season the competition for places seems to have made every player in the squad step up a gear and play to their best. The talent in this squad has helped the players get the best out of each other.
        
        As I mentioned above I posted the rumors in the hope someone with more knowledge of the club would tell us they were nonsense. I'll not bother next time if people like Gareth just have a pop at someone answering a question.
        on 21.5.13 at 9:44
        Neil S You have had a bit of a hard time on this post fella, not sure why...
        on 21.5.13 at 19:48
        Neal Hammond The close season always seems to abound with rumours. My golden rule is never to believe any player rumours until officially confirmed. I believe ponty.net. My personal feeling is that, if anything, team management will ensure that the squad will be even stronger next year.
        on 21.5.13 at 10:54
        ComeonthePont! Fair enough.
        Whatever team we have next Season we will be the team to beat - no doubt at all about that.
        Let's enjoy our position at the summit of the game in Wales and build from here.
        The key to continued success is succession planning when successful.
        As long as we do that, with our current support and general feelgood that exists around the Club we will be fine!
        COTP
        on 21.5.13 at 10:31
        RhwsPontyFan Never listen to rumours! They are more than often wrong, as I can testify from what I hear about things supposed to be happening in my work. In my opinion anyone wanting to leave Ponty is on a loser. They will never find a better club to play in. We are the best club in Wales, and were we a full time professional club then we would probably be the best club in the country. We are Pontyypridd RFC, let's be proud of that!
        on 21.5.13 at 13:41
Re the "chancers" down west
Ed Roberts I was a tad annoyed at Llanelli trying it on with Gareth Davis so I wrote to the WRuin for na explanation. here is their response:
"Gareth Davies was selected to play in the Premiership Final but was withdrawn from the squad once it was pointed out the player did not qualify, under National League Rules, to play in the fixture." Short and sweet and to the point! I wonder if there will be an apology coming from the Turks for trying to "bend" the rules. Doubt it somehow.
on 20.5.13 at 17:09
- ComeonthePont! Thanks Ed
  I wondered why this happened.
  If an administrative error that is incompetence, otherwise it is an attempt to cheat - we'll have to decide.
  Anyway spared him a few bruises!
  COTP
  on 20.5.13 at 18:41
- pontinhavana Well done Ed you probably put them on the spot and they had to act!
  on 20.5.13 at 18:40
  - Neil S Reckon they would have pointed it out to Ponty or would they have just left it and disqualified the club after...hmmmmm, I wonder!
    on 21.5.13 at 19:49
Nice match report here
Gareth Harris
http://www.thisissouthwales.co.uk/Pontypridd-47-Llanelli-15/story-19033973-detail/story.html#axzz2Tq2Po6kD
on 20.5.13 at 15:18
- winsky01 Yes good article.
  on 20.5.13 at 23:02
PREDICTION LEAGUE
Hoppy Well if you thought the game on saturday was exciting, I tell you now it had nothiing to compare with the Prediction League for excitment and thrills and spills. As you may recall the Hammond organ stood tall and proud at the top of the table with an11 point lead over biscuitboy and a 14 point lead over third place Pontydragon. All jokers had been played by these three so it was a walk in the park for Neal to hold onto the lead and win the title. OR WAS IT.... Pontydragon went for a big Ponty win guessing that Ponty would score 43 points against Llanelli's 15 (13 points in the bag) but he didn't stop there. Bert also looked in the crystal ball for the number of tries, Ponty Tries and Penalties. 7, 5, and 5 came the numbers out of the mist. And thanks to Mr Harris who score in the last minute to make it 7 tries in total, and 5 Ponty tries Bert was able to get another 5 points and 2 more for the pens. Also getting a Hoppy bonus of 1 point for the highest points difference, Bert collected 21 points. Mr Hammond was unable to register a single point, being too conservative with Ponty's ability to score tries and believing the hype that Llanelli will score more points against the best defence in the league. So where did that leave Biscuitboy? I hear you cry. nowhere. not bothered telling you about him look at the table. So it is with GREAT Pleasure I annouce that our greatest supporter (who lives in the USofA) is also the best game predictor of the 2012 -2013 season. Well done Bert. great effort. Thanks to all who took part. I hope you enjoyed it and if you didn't take part but enjoyed reading the results, then join in next season.
HOLD THE LINE

game_34_predictions_league_table.pdf

game_34_predictions_results.pdf
on 20.5.13 at 14:10
- Neal Hammond First of all. Thanks Hoppy for running such a great fun competition in COTP's footsteps. I really enjoyed it. Secondly, well done, Bert. You deserved to win with that brilliant last prediction. What could be more fitting! Hasn't it been an absolutly perfect season on and off the field. What a climax!
  on 20.5.13 at 15:53
  - Pontydragon Great job, Hoppy. As always, thoroughly enjoyed it. I think I have to give credit to the Eggman, for his live updates, and insight in the blog. Gets me a lot closer to the action...so I can 'see' things better.
    Thanks, Neal. Much appreciated. Great fun it is.
    Looking forward to defending the Crown next season. Hope more can join us!
    Will send you a pic of me hoisting 'the cup' ;-)
    on 20.5.13 at 17:48
    - ianto Yeah, a big thank you Hoppy for all your work in organising this year. Much appreciated, and great fun.
      
      Congratulations Bert in doing a Ponty, i.e. finishing top!
      on 20.5.13 at 18:40
      - ComeonthePont! Well done Hoppy in keeping this 'tradition' going.
        And as for you Bert, what can I say - just brilliant!
        Seldom has so much been achieved from so far!
        Ponty really does reach out to Scranton - superb.
        What Club, what a Season and what a Predictors Champ!
        COTP
        on 20.5.13 at 18:45
        Martin Williams Nice 1 hoppy, great fun. I finished near the bottom but my claim to fame is i was top for 1 week. Well done pd r u chief in disguise. Perhaps we cud all get together and have a pint before next season as it wud be nice to know who people are, cheers.
        on 20.5.13 at 19:12
        biscuitboy Congratulations butt and what a second half blinder Bert! Hopefully we can do it all again next year thanks a mill Hoppy
        on 20.5.13 at 19:53
        Hoppy Thanks All. I'm setting up the spreadsheet ready for next year to make it a bit easier. Hoping for a few more punters next year, not too many mind you. 25 or 30 would be fine. Anymore and I'll get it in the neck from Mrs Hoppy as I sit down for 3 - 4 hours on a Sunday morning to score the predictions. LOL
        Have a nice break and see you next year.
        on 20.5.13 at 21:51
        ComeonthePont! Well done Hoppy - tell me about it!
        (Especially when the PC plays up!)
        COTP
        on 20.5.13 at 23:17
        winsky01 Cheers from me Hoppy! Top work throughout the season. All the best.
        on 20.5.13 at 23:32
        Pontydragon Know the feeling, Hoppy from past experiences doing the pee-wee gridiron and girls softball websites. I still hear 'Stella' yelling in my ear...3 years after doing 8 years of it
        on 21.5.13 at 2:47
        ComeonthePont! And dinners in the bin!
        on 21.5.13 at 10:28
        The_Sion_King Wow, what a finish to the season and the prediction league! Well done PD. Cheers Hoppy for running the show. Greatly apprecaited. I was doing well around the New Year but since then have done a 'bedwas' and fell short at the business end of the season.
        on 21.5.13 at 11:21
        Paul Marshall Thanks from me also Hoppy, great work this year and hopefully you will ocntinue into next year.
        on 21.5.13 at 13:52
That's commitment for you!
martyn lewis The Chief and Cory Hill turned up at the Club yesterday to present the trophies etc to our Under 14's. After what they had achieved the day before is magnificent and shows their true loyalty to Ponty and it's young players. Well done both of you and thanks.
on 20.5.13 at 13:00
- Neil S Excellent...no doubt after a few sherberts on Saturday as well!
  on 20.5.13 at 14:58
  - Pontydragon All kinds of 'Feel Good' stories...love it!
    on 21.5.13 at 2:48
Congrats
MC Phill ... to everyone associated with Ponty!

They tried to pull a fast one with the Scrum Half but didn't get away with it!

We'll be going full tilt to try and knock you off your perch next Season ;-) !!!
on 20.5.13 at 11:34
- Pontydragon Thanks, Phill. Looking forward to it already!
  on 20.5.13 at 12:14
  - Neal Hammond That's what it's all about Phill.
    on 20.5.13 at 13:45
    - MC Phill Class will out - I always believe that ;-) P.S. Congrats on the Prediction League Bert :-) !!
      on 20.5.13 at 15:04
Lat night
Gareth Harris
So did the Ponty web-site crash last night? And if it did is it any wonder? If not, what's wrong with my computer? Still glowing after Saturday. What a night!
on 20.5.13 at 11:05
- Twitch Crashed twice! I tried most of the day to get on....with not much luck!
  on 20.5.13 at 11:24
  - Gareth Harris Heard a lot of people down Llanelli complaining there was something wrong with their TV on Saturday evening!
    on 20.5.13 at 11:30
    - Gareth Harris And their team!
      on 20.5.13 at 11:31
- Gareth Harris So, looking at facebook it crashed twice. Whew, no need for a new computer then. But I was desperate to read more about Ponty last night. It's like and addiction isn't it? Had it since 1977. Don't think I'll every lose it, or want to!
  on 20.5.13 at 11:23
Ponty anthems
Twitch First of all....congratulations to everyone involved with Ponty RFC. I was confident we could win but that performance and scoreline were immense!!!

Now that I've calmed down after Saturday I just thought I'd make a comment on what was discussed on here a few days ago. Apart from the scrums we completely dominated Llanelli in every other facet of the game and I thought the supporters put in a good performance too. However, I definitely agree that we need some sort of anthem or some actual songs rather than just the chants (as much as I love them!). As much as we slate Llanelli they are by far the best supporters when it comes to singing. This tends to frustrate me as we have so many songs of our own that we could sing.

Tom Jones is from Treforest. We should be singing songs like Delilah and there's also songs such as Cwm Rhondda or When The Coal Comes From The Rhondda that we could sing, especially as they're refering to the local area! It'd definitely add to the atmosphere if we sang a song or two so I'd agree that we should get an online poll or something on this debate and to play some local songs such as these during the match build up and half time.
on 20.5.13 at 10:05
- Blotto I think this is something we should peruse in an off season poll. So many good songs out there that we could use. The song when the coal comes from the Rhondda is a great call tho!
  on 20.5.13 at 21:43
  - Twitch I don't see why we can't sing a few to be honest. Delilah would be good before the match to get the crowd warmed up, as it did against Bristol a few seasons back. Anything to make the atmosphere even better, along with celebrating local songs and culture should be welcomed!
    on 20.5.13 at 22:05
- MC Phill Why not 'We Are The Champions'?!
  on 20.5.13 at 11:32
  - Hoppy Twitch, Don't forget they sing The Ponty anthem everytime Wales play mun.
    on 20.5.13 at 13:34
    - Twitch I know, but unfortunately I can't see us singing that : ) Shame.
      on 20.5.13 at 13:46
    - odorocks You beat me to it Hoppy, I was just about to suggest that.
      on 20.5.13 at 13:43
      - Gareth Harris Long as the team is on song I don't care!
        on 20.5.13 at 20:40
I thought it just couldn't get any better!
Sam Have a flick through the llanelli forum http://www.scarletfever.org/forum/pontypridd-v-llanelli-premiership-final_topic37229_page10.html
talk about standing by their team lol! they want them all hung drawn and quartered by the looks of it.
hahahahaha
on 19.5.13 at 9:53
- Prince Dafydd What an excellent thread. It starts with the normal, pre-match 'frothing at the mouth' abuse of our team and our supporters, and the assumption that on a dry day and a hard pitch they would run us ragged; it ends with a realisation that their team was hopelessly ill-equipped for the task in hand, the slagging off of their own players, and best of all, real pessimism about the future of their so called region. I have no doubt that there must be real Llanelli supporters somewhere out there who respect the opposition and support their own side through thick and thin. But on the evidence of that forum, they are pretty few and far between.
  on 19.5.13 at 16:03
  - jimbob I think those are views of real supporters who just realise that they were completely outplayed, and can recognise failings in the structure of the game in wales when they; a team of mainly proffesionals get completely demolished by a team of semi-proffesionals. The majority of posts during/after the game seem to recognise that a good number of the semi professional Ponty players are superior to their's who have regional experience.
    
    Yes they do seem quick to critiscise their players, but what else can they do? They appreciate that the ref was good, they arent blaming anybody else, they fairly concede that they just weren't good enough.
    
    I think that "real" fans of welsh rugby can be frank and honest when met with a display that exemplifies such painful failings in the welsh game as opposed to blindly supporting their own team.
    
    With regards to the pre-match slagging off of Ponty, i dont think you see things vastly different to that on here pregame regarding other teams, i think their posts about the ref and about our plays are refreshingly fair.
    on 19.5.13 at 17:42
    - winsky01 There are also a lot of comments saying they weren't committed, they didn't turn up etc. which I think doesn't do justice to the way we played yesterday. I've watched the re-run of the match twice today and we were superb in every area. Literally straight from the kick-off when Humberstone dropped the ball on a sixpence for Owen to catch it we started massively on the front foot and didn't look back from there. Quite a few of their posters are whingeing saying that they're a young side with a lack of experience but the way we set our stall out yesterday I don't think it would have mattered who and what aged team we played against.
      on 19.5.13 at 23:06
- odorocks Just had a read now, they seam very upset with a number of there players (and very misinformed about a number of ours).
  on 19.5.13 at 15:51
  - winsky01 LOL I read that from the 1st page and it's hilarious! They are an embarrassment, they slate Pontypridd town like Llanelli is the best place in the World to live. Reading their comments about the Scarlets, Llanelli club side and their coaches you can see why they boo their players at Parc-Y-Scarlets. They never deserved a stand alone region and what they continually prove why. They should take their professional status off them and make the Llanelli club side a feeder for the Ospreys.
    on 19.5.13 at 16:05
    - Neil S I totally 100% agree with you winsky. How Llanelli can be a "region" I will never know! Swansea, Newport and Cardiff you can kind of understand but Llanelli, do me a favour. Blazer brigade at the WRU have always favoured the Turks, utter nonsense.
      on 19.5.13 at 17:05
      - Showboat13 9-3 mun.
        on 19.5.13 at 19:12
        Graham Love this one on there, "That was a game between men and boys. Ponty see this as their only goal due to the bad blood between themselves and Cardiff blues.
        They remind me alot of how Neath used to be in this competition less about player development and more about the here and now " So Ponty don't develop players now eh?
        on 20.5.13 at 17:33
        odorocks Like I said above they are very misinformed about our players. They also don't seam to understand that players can have passion to play for there club, without playing in that snorefest Pro12. Community clubs like us, Neath and a lot of other premiership clubs care about their club and the areas they represent. If the Llanelli way is the right way to do it then hell, I'm glad we are all wrong.
        on 20.5.13 at 20:03
        Prince Dafydd The comparison between us and Neath is a valid one in the sense that winning the competition is extremely important to us. But unlike Neath, who relied on the financial input of one man in order to achieve success and almost went under when the money dried up, we have built success whilst living within our means. It is totally wrong suggest we don't care about player development and care only about the here and now. Most of the players in Saturday's team first joined us as players in their teens or very early 20s. Some of them have left and then returned but a good number of others have been with us for many seasons.The team has 'Made in Ponty' stamped all over it.
        on 20.5.13 at 22:58
        Neil S Frankly, who gives a flying what a snivveling Turk thinks? They only have their professional side because they are favoured by the WRU. Take your beating in Llanelli and shut up for goodness sake!
        on 21.5.13 at 9:13
Record?
Gareth Harris
Forgive me if I'm wrong, but surely Ponty have never scored so many points in one game against Llanelli?
Fantastic occasion, great result. Many thanks to players and coaching team for a fantastic season.

PS. Is that a 'fair weather' Ponty Panda, you don't see if all season and then just as you look as if your going to win something, there he is! Mind you, there were a lot in the ground like that for the game. Let's hope it encourages them to come bacjk again next season.
on 19.5.13 at 1:57
- odorocks If that performance doesn't bring back the "fair weather" fans then I don't know what will? Not to mention our record this season, league and cup double and only team to beat the champions in the BIC. If they don't come back then it's there loss I say.
  on 19.5.13 at 16:04
BBC Sport Article
winsky01 I just wish they'd open it for comments like they do with the 'regional' articles.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/22573080
on 19.5.13 at 0:56
- Pontydragon Shortest article I've ever seen
  on 19.5.13 at 4:27
Club Legend
winsky01 Just like to say, what a match, what an evening and what a season. Just doesn't get any better! All the players, coaching team, board and supporters deserve massive credit but I would say now a Kiwi is our club's greatest.

We at Pontypridd RFC have been blessed with so many legends, I'm not even going to start listing them as I'll be here all day but in terms of what an individual has offered as a player AND as a coach there is nobody greater than the chief!

Dale McIntosh I salute you.
on 19.5.13 at 0:02
- martyn lewis Is this the biggest win over the 'pans ??? Fantastic night/season/ :)
  
  on 19.5.13 at 11:46
- ComeonthePont! Must agree totally
  Magnificent display tonight and what a turn out, and on a pitch that was better than the Millennium Stadium last week.
  COTP
  on 19.5.13 at 0:05
  - Prince Dafydd Chief and the other coaches deserve enormous credit. CHIEF CHIEF CHIEF!
    on 19.5.13 at 0:19
Pinch me I think Im dreaming
Willsponty What a way to end the season, a great game with Tubs The Sig Godfrey working like Trojans and what about Humbers and the rest of the Team - a fantastic advert for Valleys Rugby and an atmospher reminiscent of the old days -my thanks to everyone involved in the club You have all made this season a great one!
on 18.5.13 at 22:41
- Sam The most complete performance for 80 mins, I have ever seen.
  I knew this group of players were special, and one day they would give somebody a real hammering on a big stage, and I witnessed it last night!
  That on paper was the strongest Llanelli team we have faced all season, with 11 full time pros in the starting line up. They were lucky to come second! Awesome.
  I heard a few people talking about what can we possibly do better next season?
  Win the league again (we would then go above Cardiff on titles since 1990)
  Another Swalec Cup.
  And really go after the BIC. After all we beat the champions at home! A bit of luck with the draw along the way, we could definitely make the knockout stages next year.
  Great season lads. Enjoy your well deserved rest this summer.
  
  on 19.5.13 at 9:38
- Prince Dafydd Roedd pawb mewn crys du a gwyn yn anhygoel. If I had to pick out one player for special mention it would be young scrum half, Lloyd Williams. What a prospect he looks. Pontypridd - y tim gorau yng Nghymru, heb os nag oni bai!
  on 18.5.13 at 23:15
  - Pontydragon He is the youngest one of the 23, I believe. And yes, deserves a lot of credit, in a pressure cooker like that baby.
    on 19.5.13 at 4:25
    - Willsponty Totally agree, I though Joel was unlucky to get a start but Lloyd showed his selection was spot on, let's hope we sign them both for next season!
      on 19.5.13 at 9:29
Lucky...
Pontydragon The lucky one is me/us. I/we am/are so fortunate to be able to know, and support, the most incredible bunch of kids in the world! And the best coaching and training folks in the world. Being a bit older, I've experienced wins by my favorite teams, by teams I've played on, and teams I've coached.

But, when I put them all on the scale, none of those can compare to what Pontypridd has meant, and given to me. I've gained friends, that live thousands of miles away from me, and are just as close as my friends up the street.

I know players, that truly appreciate it, when I send a little note of encouragement. They almost always reply.

Special players, special staff, special committeemen/women, and special supporters. Yes, I/we are, some very, very lucky, and special people. Thank you for an incredible season!!! Now give the boys some rest....August will be here before you know it ;-) ♪ Olé Olé Olé Olé, PONTY PONTY ♫
on 18.5.13 at 22:40
- Nightmare XV Bert, you are one genuine & special supporter!! ;-)
  on 18.5.13 at 23:29
  - biscuitboy yep id secnd that ....just got back from the llan
    on 19.5.13 at 2:17
  - biscuitboy yep id secnd that ....just got back from the llan
    on 19.5.13 at 2:17
  - biscuitboy yep id secnd that ....just got back from the llan
    on 19.5.13 at 2:17
    - biscuitboy ooppsy daisy
      on 19.5.13 at 2:18
      - Pontydragon Just wish I could get people over here to understand where I'm coming from. Never say 'Dai'. hahahaha! I'll get them, sooner or later!
        on 19.5.13 at 4:21
Score thread
iksmudge@yahoo.co.uk Pontypridd 13 Pans 0
Dico try from cheeky free kick on 12 mins. Great kicking by Humberston so far. All Ponty so far.
Though the pans no.10 looks really dangerous.
on 18.5.13 at 20:15
- iksmudge@yahoo.co.uk Pontypridd 20 - Pans 3. 23 mins. Humberston try via forwards hard work. Though Humberston had hard work to do to score it.
  on 18.5.13 at 20:25
  - iksmudge@yahoo.co.uk Superb Shellard try on 35 mins on his 100th appearance.
    27-3. Game over already? Lets hope we keep at it in the second half though.
    on 18.5.13 at 20:39
    - iksmudge@yahoo.co.uk Wow!
      Ponty 30 Pans 3. HT.
      on 18.5.13 at 20:44
      - iksmudge@yahoo.co.uk 59 mins.
        Ponty 33- pans 10.
        Game really open now.
        Pans throwing the kitchen sink at us.
        on 18.5.13 at 21:20
        iksmudge@yahoo.co.uk 69 mins.
        Ponty 40 pans 10.
        Game still being played at break neck speed. Real credit to both sides.
        I'm out of breath just watching.
        on 18.5.13 at 21:32
        iksmudge@yahoo.co.uk 75 mins.
        Ponty 40- pans 15. Good try and deserved by pans.
        Must say, the referee has been superb.
        on 18.5.13 at 21:38
        iksmudge@yahoo.co.uk 78 mins. Try!!!
        Ponty 47 - pans 15.
        Comprehensive performance and win.
        And that's full time.
        on 18.5.13 at 21:42
        pj_becks Champions again, well deserved double! Well done to all. :-)
        on 18.5.13 at 22:04
WRU - finger on pulse
Gareth Harris
http://uk-mg42.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.rand=0oqe088bhumso

WRU web-site promoting Pontypridd v Llandovery, May 18th JKick off 7 P.M!
on 18.5.13 at 15:28
Weather tonight !!!! Bring your shades!!
martyn lewis 1900 14 °C W 11 mph 23 mph Very Good
on 18.5.13 at 14:19
- martyn lewis Sun symbol not copied across :)
  on 18.5.13 at 14:31
Appeal to the 16th Man
Willsponty Let's make some noise!!!!!!!!!!
on 18.5.13 at 14:06
In the Mood
Blotto Been up two hours already - soooo excited. Can't stop singing ole ole ole ole Ponty and for some reason I keep singing Whats that coming over the hill it's Daffydd Lockyer, its Daffydd Lockyer - catchy I think. Can't wait to get to Sardis and cheer then boys on - this will be our night!
on 18.5.13 at 9:03
- ComeonthePont! Yes and remember the BIC - the only team to beat the Winners - PONTY!
  That same spirit will be needed for the toughest game of the Season.
  We are ready!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  COTP.S. Sounds like you've got your anthem!)
  on 18.5.13 at 12:10
  - Hoppy I guess you're not talking about this one.
    
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5njyO9h9Ys
    on 18.5.13 at 14:35
  - Hoppy I guess you're not talking about this one.
    
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5njyO9h9Ys
    on 18.5.13 at 14:35
    - Hoppy And While there I thought this seemed apt.
      
      'Here Again'
      
      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXSCm_4ND3g
      on 18.5.13 at 14:39
"It's Ponty Eve"
Willsponty Well only one more sleep before" Ponty Day" let's not get to excited,but look forward to a great game tomorrow, followed by the perfect present the cup - we have made our own luck all season by the boys playing for the shirt, so same again lads all the best - we will be there in numbers
on 18.5.13 at 0:25
BIC Result
winsky01 FT - Newcastle 17 Leinster 18.

Good night if you're a Leinster supporter after the 'A' side won the BIC and their 1sts beat Stade Francais to win the Amlin Cup.

Pontypridd the only team to defeat Leinster on their way to lifting the BIC this season.
on 17.5.13 at 23:56
- RhwsPontyFan Yes! A point well recognized. But will anyone take any notice of that fact? No! Only thing that is recognized is Llanelli were the only team to qualify from the 1st stage.
  on 18.5.13 at 0:31
BBC Sport Preview article
winsky01 For anyone interested....

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/22573080
on 17.5.13 at 21:20
- RhwsPontyFan Good article. At least it shows that the Pont deserve to win the trophy? Really looking forward to tomorrow evening. Come on the Pont!!!!
  on 17.5.13 at 23:31
South Wales evening Post
Gareth Harris
Pontypridd finished the current regular season 23 points clear at the top of the table, and they were on their own at the summit in the previous two campaigns.
That led to a sense of sourness when they lost to Llanelli in the 2011 final and, even if the West Walians triumph again tomorrow, they will not regard themselves as champions.
"We look at this game as a play-off. The league champions are Pontypridd," said Llanelli's head coach Kevin George.
"They've been far and away the best team and they deserve their tag of having won the league.
"But this is another part of the competition. As far as we're concerned, Ponty are the league champions."
Oddly, however, Pontypridd disagree.
"The fact of the matter is that we've finished top of the table but, unfortunately, the play-off final decides who wins the league," said head coach McIntosh. "When we lost two years ago, it was Llanelli who were awarded the cup.
"Yes, we were given money for finishing top, but they had the cup. You can't put money in the trophy cabinet.
"All the other finals are water under the bridge. All that's gone. We need to win this tomorrow."
Although Pontypridd are the current title-holders, there is still a burning sense of frustration about the 2011 defeat.
"People ask if I'm getting fed-up of playing Llanelli but you can't get fed-up of these occasions," said McIntosh.
"We've got to relish the occasion but not let it overawe us, as it did two years ago when Wayne O'Connor got a red card.
"We've got to make sure our discipline is totally accurate and make sure we're at our best."
Meanwhile, having already lost three matches to Pontypridd this season, Llanelli will need to up their game if they are to reclaim the Premiership trophy.
"This is bridging the gap between Premiership and regional rugby, so this is as close as it gets for the semi-pro teams to a game against Munster or Ulster," said George.
"There will be a lot of young players but it's big for the stalwarts as well, the likes of Adam Powell and so on.
"If it's not at Parc y Scarlets, Sardis Road is the place where we want to be playing.
"There is no better place, with the big crowd and the atmosphere.
"For semi-pro players, there isn't that much money in the game so it's for days like these you play rugby."

on 17.5.13 at 17:11
- Twitch I think that's mind games from Llanelli to be honest. As much as we don't like it, whoever wins the playoff is crowned champions, be that us or Llanelli. As long as we play the way we've been playing and cut out silly mistakes we should win. They're going to be up for it just as much as us though so it should be a great game. Fingers crossed the weather holds out too!
  on 17.5.13 at 17:51
Gareth Davies in Llanelli team?
saethennin The WRU laws stipulate a regional player must have played five times for the Premiership team (in the league) to be selected for the Play Off games. Gareth Davies has only appeared twice for Llanelli in the Premiership (v Cardiff and Swansea) this season. Have the WRU given him special dispensation to play on Saturday?
on 17.5.13 at 0:52
- graigwen I made it 4. Gardener just once against us.
  on 17.5.13 at 1:13
  - saethennin Gardiner's not in the regional squad though. Gareth Davies has appeared 28 times for the Scarlets this season, but only twice in Premiership league games for Llanelli RFC from the records on their website.
    on 17.5.13 at 10:22
  - Pontydragon It just don't matter...
    on 17.5.13 at 2:03
    - Neil S Turks will probably have some kind of special dispensation to allow it from the WRU. The very best to the Pontypridd team tomorrow. I wont use the word "luck" as I am positive the team does not need to rely on luck. Hopefully my cricket match will finish in time for me to tune in from the off. Sardis should be bouncing now go and hammer those Turks!
      on 17.5.13 at 8:44
      - Paul Marshall As you said Neil they probably applied for special dispenstaion. I really don't care though and they can send the likes of George North up as well if it means that much to them!! But then of course this is the only piece of silverware they are ever realistically going to win each season!!
        on 17.5.13 at 14:01
        Martin Williams I couldn't care either Paul. It is unfair that Gareth Davies played in the semi last week and Llanelli will do anyting to win at all costs and he hasn't played the 5 games. The threw us out a few years ago for fielding Garyn Lucas but this is Llanelli. All we have to do is smash their pack so hard Gareth Davies won't have good ball, i'm sure we will do it and win by a score or two, cmon y pont.
        on 17.5.13 at 17:13
        Huw Davies I've done a bit of digging here & according to paragraph 4.6.2 of the National League Rules:
        
        "In relation to Premiership games no player registered to a Regional Organisation or a Regional Academy shall be allowed to play in a play off match for a Premier Division Club on permit unless that player has played for that Premier Division Club at least 5 times (at least 45 minutes on the field in each match) in League matches that season or the Regulatory Committee has granted specific permission for the player to play in a Play Off match"
        
        I don't think it will come as a shock to anyone that they've clearly been given such dispensation when we were denied such considerations with Garyn Lucas
        on 17.5.13 at 18:23
        winsky01 It's a farce. They have this reputation (not just with Ponty supporters but all Welsh supporters regardless of club) as being the 'precious love child of the WRU' and they wonder why with things like this.
        on 17.5.13 at 22:19
        RhwsPontyFan I have contacted WRU to find out why, but really, will he make that much difference? We are the Pont! Be there in the thousands to shout our team to victory! Come on the Pont!!!!!!!!!!!
        on 17.5.13 at 23:53
        Neil S I reckon Ponty have a real strong bench that can carry it hard and also change atctics if needed for the last part of the game. I think that may well see Ponty through to a 5-10 point win.
        on 18.5.13 at 10:19
        Neil S Typical Turks. Their whole entire existence as a professional side is special dispensation in my opinion!
        on 17.5.13 at 15:02
        ComeonthePont! Ok we need to know why that is given, but that can wait till after the game.
        For now we must focus and rise up more than ever and treat them to a real SARDIS WELCOME!
        Just a shame a great Club has such baggage in their locker.
        COTP
        
        on 17.5.13 at 19:18

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Premiership Play-Off Final 18.5.2013: Pontypridd - Llanelli 47:15
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