Key Teams to Watch in the Upcoming Welsh Domestic Rugby Season
Image Credit: Seth Whales
Now that the 2023/2024 domestic season is over, it is time to look forward to a refreshed beginning, as each team around the country will be looking to make the most out of the new season. Many teams are making key moves to work up the league tables. Three teams have the potential to have a fantastic season this upcoming year.
Llanharan
Llanharan has had somewhat of a revolution over recent years due to many quality players returning to their childhood clubs. The 'Dairyman' has been the talking point of the national league. Not only have they been beating every opposition that has gone against them, but it is safe to say they have been dismantling everyone. One of the many factors for this is their dominating pack, which has been running riot for a couple of years. Last year, in particular, laid waste to League 2 Central East. The team went unbeaten and notched up 106 points in the table. Their scoring was prolific, as the team scored 931 points throughout the season, which averaged 42 points per game. They were solid on the defensive side of the ball, as they only gave up 302 points throughout the season. This means they gave up only 13.7 points per game on average and had fewer than two converted tries. Llanharan will be heading into League One with much optimism and confidence after coming off back-to-back title wins. It will be a tremendous achievement if they capture the three-peat.
Heol-y-Cyw
Heol-y-Cyw are a popular team in the Bridgend area with a loyal group of supporters. After a relatively successful campaign last season in League Two West Central, which saw them finish fourth, narrowly missing out on a promotion spot, it looks like the team only has one goal in mind: to make their way to League One. They have made some great signings that are indeed a blend of youth and experience. They have brought back two returning legends to the fold. The first of these signings is Paul Short, who is arriving with a bag of experience, which includes stints at Bridgend Ravens and Glamorgan Wanders. Arron Pinches is the second key signing that Heol-y-Cyw has made. He will bolster their backline and bring all his experience from the premiership, where he played for Merthyr and Cardiff. All these additions to the back line make the prospect of Heol-y-Cyw's attack exciting. On paper, they have all the tools needed to challenge for the title and the experience to execute it.
Neath
When thinking about Welsh Rugby, Neath is one of the first clubs that comes to mind. After finally reaching promotion to the premiership, Neath had a disappointing season, finishing at the bottom of the table. However, thanks to the introduction of Super Rugby Cymru, they are still in the premiership division. Even though the results on the field weren't what they wished for, their growth off the pitch has been impressive after the WRU's controversial decision to leave Neath out of the new league. The club launched a massive campaign on social media, and its following has grown at a tremendous rate. The departure of the top teams from the prem may leave the door open for Neath to pick up some great results. It is safe to say they have the talent to do so, and they play an exciting brand of rugby. The Gnoll could be an inspiring place to watch a rugby game if the club capitalises on the momentum they gained over the off-season.
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