Pooler still looking for first victory (From Free Press Series)

Pooler still looking for first victory

PONTYPOOL defence coach Kevin Weaver has promised fans there will be no repeat of last season's dismal run when the club went twelve games without a win.

But the former Pontypool forward admitted some of the club's players just aren't giving enough after Saturday's 16-11 defeat against Cross Keys.

"We will not fall in the same trap as last season with all those defeats," pledged Weaver.

"We are getting together as a coaching team and looking at bringing in new faces. I think we have to be ruthless for the supporters sake and the life of the club. We do not want to be like that, but we have to be.

"Players have to know that are not coming down to the Park for a ride on the swings. They have to give 150 percent every time they play. I think some of them are hiding at the moment. They have to come out of their shells," he added.

Pooler are yet to win a game after defeat in the season's opener against Newport and Saturday's lacklustre display against Cross Keys.

In Weaver's own words Pontypool only crafted two decent runs of offensive play in that game and for most of the time seemed content to just defend.

"We need to up the tempo of our game," said Weaver. "Our preparation in the pre-season couldn't have be any better. It's now up to the players to look at themselves and take the structure on board.

"At the moment we have one of the best defences in the Premiership, but that is because all we seem to be doing is staying in our own half and defending.

"Some of the players are hiding behind Cae Trayhern. They need to take responsibility on their own shoulders and knuckle down," he warned.

Captain Trayhern got Pooler's only try on Saturday and will be just as disappointed as Pooler's coaching staff at the side's start.

Tonight's game against Newbridge is cancelled meaning the player's have a small rest before Saturday's trip to Aberavon.

According to Weaver it could be a good time to face last year's Premiership runners-up.

"They've lost their coach Chris O'Callaghan and if we start getting field position we have a chance," he said. Saturday's math kicks off at 2.30pm.