Pontypridd dug deep to secure a heroic Konica Minolta Welsh Cup final victory over Neath at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday May 6th, a last gasp drop goal from outside half Dai Flanagan clinching a narrow victory by 26pts to 25.
The final was played at pace, and with a full on physical committment which befitted the national stadium, and highlighted the standard of premiership club rugby. The young players involved from both teams took to the big stage with confidence, and set up a thrilling climax to the showpiece final.
There were a number of young players that have represented the Blues on show for Pontpyridd, including Tom Riley, Matthew Nuthall, Dai Flanagan, Scott Roberts, Chris Dicomidis and Rhys Shellard.
Flanagan said: "You go through different stages throughout a game, especially after last year's final.But we dug deep and recomposed ourselves after their third try and said to each other: 'We are not losing this one.' We knew what we had to do and we did it for the Chief. It's a shame he wasn't out there."
With the Cardiff Arms Park pitch out of commision, the final league game of the season sees Cardiff entertain Pontpyridd at Taffs Well RFC on Friday 12th May (kick off 7.15pm).
Cardiff head coach Howard Stone said, "We are really grateful to everyone at Taffs Well for helping us out again. We have had two very successful visits there already and we know we are guaranteed another warm welcome and great hospitality on this occasion."
In their two previous visits as 'guest hosts' Cardiff have emerged victorious against Bridgend, 37-32 in 2003-04 and 22-18 last season.
Cardiff RFC season tickets will be valid for this game.
For more information visit:
www.cardiffrfc.co.uk
www.ponty.net