Cross Keys RFC are preparing for one of the biggest games in their history when they take on Cornish Pirates in the British & Irish Cup semi-final at Pandy Park on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).
Having topped their Pool in the cross border competition, and with a convincing 32-8 win over Llanelli in the quarter-finals, Cross Keys are one match away from their first Cup final.
But first they must overcome former British & Irish Cup champions Cornish Pirates and they know how difficult a challenge that will be.
Head coach Greg Woods said: “This next week will define how we finish the season. We are still in the hunt for three titles – we have the SWALEC Cup semi-final the following weekend, plus a key league match against Pontypridd in between – but our main focus this week is definitely on the British & Irish Cup semi.
“Cornish Pirates are brimming with experienced players at this level, including former Dragons outside half, Canada international Matt Evans. They are very strong all over, certainly one of the best sides at this level.
“However, we are in a good place at the moment. We have a squad that has been together for a couple of seasons, growing in confidence all the time. We have some talent in our dressing room too, and the players see this as a potential stepping stone to other things. We have been lucky to have had two home draws in this competition, in the quarters and semis, but we will take that, and the Pirates will be a big challenge all the same.
“We have loved every minute of this competition, the whole club has embraced the opportunity and it would be amazing to represent this area at the final in Dublin. Ever since we beat Llanelli in the quarter-finals, there has been a buzz around the whole village and the wider area ahead of this home quarter-final. I don’t think many people thought we would even win one match in this competition so to be in the last four is already a great achievement, and to reach the final would be even better.”
The club are encouraging supporters to get their tickets early for Saturday’s match and will be selling tickets this evening and tomorrow evening (Thursday and Friday) from 5.00pm to 9.30pm.