By Webmaster
September 6 2002

Who will start for Pontypridd as they prepare to face Newport in their first home match of this seasons Celtic League?

    It is thought that Neil Jenkins maybe ready to make his first competitive start for Ponty in three seasons. The Wales and British Lions outside half came on as a replacement in Ponty's 31 - 18 defeat to Leinster last Friday evening however Jenkins has supposedly proved his fitness and is ready to start in the number 10 jersey for Ponty this weekend.

    Ceri Sweeney is more than capable of filling the outside half role as Ponty supporters saw last season however Jenkins, a more experienced player looks set to make an emotional homecoming in front of his home crowd.

    Another possible change is Michael Owen coming in for Nick Kelly at flanker. Owen would provide extra line out opportunities for Ponty should he play. Having said this, nothing is confirmed at the moment with Ponty keeping their cards close to their chest and the team will be revealed some time on Saturday before the match kicks off.

    Newport have released information about their team with Leigh Jones and Richard Hill making only a few changes to the team that lost to Bridgend last Friday. Jason Strange comes in at outside half with Shane Howarth moving into the full back berth and as a result, Matt Pini drops down to the bench.  Newports other change is Dale Burn taking over at scrum half from Lyr Lane with Ofisa Tonu'u taking a place on the bench.