LAST weekend the Pembroke First XV entertained Pontardawe RFC in their first pre-season warm up match; Pontardawe will be playing in WRU Division 4 West Central in the coming season, with Pembroke in a parallel level in Div 4 West A, writes Darrell Willington.

With the pitch in marvellous condition and the weather fair, both squads were able to express themselves fully in what turned out to be a very competitive match.

The lovely conditions allowed both squads to enjoy a full run out to test themselves and their game plans after weeks of conditioning.

Pembroke ran out worthy winners and the coaches were well pleased with the overall performance and those of their four debutants.

The new First XV kit for the season has been generously sponsored by the following, Woodenbale 2000, Cresselly Arms, CFS Ltd, Milford Haven Chiropractic Clinic and Sealand Ltd (Pembroke).

Future pre-season fixtures for the club’s squads include: Saturday, 16 August, First XV at home to a Milford Development squad; Friday 22 August, Narberth Athletic away in Rd 1 of the Pembs KO Cup Ko 7pm, Saturday, 30 August ,Tonyrefail home KO 2.30pm; Panthers play Tycroes away on Sunday, 17 August; Youth play Llangwm home on Friday, 22 August and away on Friday, 29 August, KOs 7pm.

The First XV open their League season at home to PD Quins on Saturday, 13 September, KO 2.30pm, whilst Panthers play Newcastle Emlyn home on Sunday, 14 September, KO 2.30pm. Youth play Neyland away Saturday, 6 September, KO 2.30pm.

Lloyd Davies will Captain the First XV again this season, whilst the Panthers’ new skipper is Jamie Dufresnoy-John (with vices Megan Cole and Sophie James) and the Youth will be led by skipper Callum Edwards with Lewis Dennison as his vice.

Presently, Panthers head coach Dale Humphrey, who secured one of the very few places available each season, is being supported by the club to complete his WRU Level 3 coaching award and they all wish him every success as he works through this demanding process.