Twelve-time champions Llanelli will face two-time winners Bridgend in the semi-finals of the Konica Minolta Cup at The Gnoll, Neath.

The last time the two teams played in front of TV camera’s Llanelli ran out convincing winners in atrocious conditions at Stradey Park.

Since then Bridgend have hit top form and will go into the tie full of confidence, the Gnoll has not been a happy hunting ground for the Ravens down the years and they will be looking to change that.

From the Western Mail:

BRIDGEND lock Nathan Strong checked the calendar last week and gave a significant sigh of relief.

Thankfully, Sunday's second Konica-Minolta Cup semi-final between his beloved hometown club Bridgend and cup kings Llanelli, does not clash with his rigorous 12-hour shifts at local company Rockwool.

Quite simply, Nathan Strong is a blast from the past, an honest forward who plays for the love of the game.

Born in Bridgend, raised in Bridgend and back playing at the Brewery Field after spells with Tondu and briefly with Caerphilly, Strong represents the community game that the Welsh Rugby Union is trying hard so hard to support.

On Sunday afternoon, Strong and his Bridgend team-mates will be wearing the blue and white with pride as the Ravens hope to ease into the final at the expense of Scott Quinnell's Scarlets.

"Playing for Bridgend means everything to me," said Strong. "It's tough at times especially when you have to squeeze a game of rugby in between a couple of 12-hour shifts, but to be honest, I wouldn't have it any other way.

"I have enjoyed my career, both here and with Tondu, and I would love to crown it all with a visit to the Millennium Stadium."

Strong has been named in the second row alongside captain Michael Powell for tomorrow's potentially explosive clash at the Gnoll.

Coach Chris Stephens, who has spent all week mulling over his options, has plumped for an all-action back five which he believes will do the job against Quinnell's Llanelli side.

Bridgend have not won a cup game against the Scarlets since the 1981 semi-final when they won 22-15.

Bridgend (Predicted):

15. Anthony Carter. 14 Grant Epton. 13. Ryan Howells, 12 Chris Tossell, 11 Richard Mustoe, 10. Paul Williams, 9 Nicky Griffiths.

Replacements 16 Geraint Long, 17 Ieuan Dobbs, 18 Lee Manning/Scott Roberts, 20. Gareth Williams 21 Brendan Roach and 22 Gareth David