Bedwas RFC and Cross Keys RFC have both had festive fixtures selected for television coverage over Christmas.
As the race to clinch a place in the top tier of the Principality Premiership draws to a close, Welsh-language channel S4C will show three live Premiership matches over the festive period.
On Boxing Day, Bedwas’s clash against Ebbw Vale at Bridge Field will be televised live at 4.45pm.
The Steelmen are struggling in ninth position, and will look to secure a valuable win at Bedwas to consolidate a top-eight position. Bedwas, fifth, will be wary of dropping points and places before the division splits into two in the first week of January.
Cameras then turn to Sardis Road on New Year’s Eve, where last season’s finalists Pontypridd host Cross Keys at 3pm.
Pontypridd look to have made the cut, sitting in third, while Keys are hopeful of a late charge into the top tier from their current position of tenth.
The coverage kicks off a run of 15 televised games on S4C over the season, including matches from the Premiership, National Cup, Plate and Bowl.
The choice of televised match for Saturday January 7 will be made after Christmas, while the National Cup Round One tie between Llanelli and Pontypool on January 28 has been confirmed as a live televised encounter.
WRU Head of Rugby Performance, Geraint John said: “The interest in the Principality Premiership has clearly increased this season with very competitive matches and with the added incentive for clubs of trying to get into tier one.
“We are working closely with the Premiership clubs to provide coaching support and we can look forward to an exciting climax of this first part of the season, S4C’s coverage will play a big part in that.”
S4C’s Sport Content Commisioner, Sue Butler, said: “We are committed to supporting every level of rugby in Wales and delighted to broadcast live games from the Principality Premiership and The National Cup, Plate and Bowl.
“Rugby is again at the heart of our Christmas and New Year schedule and we hope fans of all ages will enjoy the coverage.”