MERTHYR may still be top of the Principality Premiership but their somewhat stuttering form of late will give Bedwas hope for today's clash at Bridge Field (kick-off 2.30pm).

The Ironmen eased to a 27-7 win over Bedwas in the reverse fixture in September as Dale McIntosh’s charges began their defence of the league title in style.

And while they sit at the summit at the halfway stage, their results in recent weeks have given other teams cause for optimism.

Pontypridd are now only two points behind the leaders, who have dropped points in home defeats to Newport and Cardiff over the last month.

Granted, Bedwas go into this weekend’s encounter on the back of conceding 54 points at Sardis Road, but Merthyr also return to action following a loss.

One win in five doesn’t make for good reading if you are a Bedwas supporter, and the Premiership table isn’t a pretty sight for the Bridge Field faithful.

Their team is 13th out of 16 and locked in a titanic battle with Bargoed, Bridgend, Cross Keys, Llanelli and Swansea to avoid the dreaded drop to the Championship.

With the teams so close in terms of points, tomorrow is likely to see some movement in the standings.

While Bedwas take on the champions, Bargoed entertain Newport, Neath go to Bridgend, Llanelli host Pontypridd and Swansea are away at RGC 1404.

It’s Gwent derby time in the Championship as leaders Pontypool go for a league double over Newbridge at the Welfare Ground (kick-off 2.30pm).