PONTYPOOL are through to the second round of the WRU National Cup after their home tie with Neath was called off.

Pooler were handed a bye into the last 16 by the Welsh Rugby Union as Principality Premiership strugglers Neath were unable to raise a side for tomorrow’s match.

Financial problems resulted in a player exodus earlier this season and games against Bedwas and RGC 1404 being postponed.

Players on permits from other clubs have been helping the Welsh All Blacks fulfil league fixtures, but rules state that a maximum of six permitted players are allowed for cup matches.

“Everybody at Pontypool RFC is very disappointed in this outcome, but we are equally sympathetic to Neath RFC's volunteers, remaining squad members and supporters,” said a Pooler statement.

“We wish those who continue to act in the best interests of Neath RFC every success in overcoming their current difficulties.”

Pontypool CEO Ben Jeffreys said the club had been informed of Neath’s position this morning by under-fire owner Mike Cuddy.

At lunchtime today, Argus Sport was told by a WRU spokesperson that the union expected the game to go ahead.