Bedwas have announced they are taking legal advice after becoming embroiled in another dispute with Principality Premiership champions Merthyr over an approach for one of their players.
The Bridge Field outfit have slammed Merthyr over what they claim is a “complete disregard for player contract integrity”, after last season’s league winners made a move to sign fly-half Richard Powell.
Powell, who has been with the Foster’s Challenge Cup winners since 2011, has racked up more than 1,200 points and captained the club, is under contract until the end of the 2017/18 season but has attracted interest from the Ironmen as they look to defend their title.
In a statement, Bedwas confirmed that they were seeking to retain Powell or receive compensation on the grounds of breach of contract.
In 2015, Bedwas were awarded compensation after then-captain Phill Rees signed for Merthyr, while in October last year they threatened to take legal action against one of their own players – Harley Thomson – over a contractual dispute also involving the Ironmen.
Mark Lewis, Bedwas Director of Rugby said: “Once again we find ourselves in dispute with Merthyr over a player contract.
“In previous cases, we have done our best to be cordial, maintain open communications and make the best of the situation. However, after this latest case it has become very clear that there is an issue with how Merthyr are conducting their business.
“We are a village club; a community club. We have worked damn hard to achieve what we have thus far and we refuse to be victimised once again. The matter is now with our solicitors.”
Bedwas have previously called on the Welsh Rugby Union to act to protect player contract integrity in the Premiership.
Merthyr RFC were approached for comment.