WHILE Merthyr are caught up in rumpus over their preparations for life in the Principality Premiership, Pontypool aim to quietly go about joining them in the revamped top flight, writes Chris Kirwan.

Earlier this week the SSE Swalec Championship leaders announced the signing of Gavin Dacey, a firm fixture in the hugely-successful Pontypridd midfield over the past 11 seasons.

In a move that has shades of the summer spat over Bedwas captain Phill Rees, who like Dacey is from Merthyr, the men from Sardis Road countered by saying no transfer had been agreed. Ponty state that while the centre has turned down a fresh contract, his current deal runs until the end of the season.

Bedwas took legal action after losing the under-contract Rees and received a compensation payout for the services of the lock/back row.

Merthyr are in a tight battle with Swansea for the title and continue their title challenge at Narberth tomorrow afternoon while third-placed Pooler host Newcastle Emlyn.

Last weekend Louie Tonkin's side romped to a 64-14 victory against a Llanharan side that are sadly finding life tough this season with no wins to their name.

They have lost just twice this season – to Swansea home and away – and triumphed 40-19 in the October meeting between the sides.

Pooler have hopes of forcing their way back into the title race but are also looking out for the results of their promotion rivals RGC 1404 and Bargoed with four spots available in the revamped Premiership. The north Walians entertain Beddau while the champions face a huge game at Swansea.

Newbridge showed plenty of spirit when downed 34-21 by Swansea last weekend and need a repeat when they host Glynneath.

Neil Edwards' side sit 11th in the table and taking the spoils at the Welfare Ground would ease them away from their one-from-bottom visitors.

Glynneath have won four times this season – but one of those successes was a 32-12 triumph when the sides met in October.

Other fixtures: Cardiff Met v Bridgend Athletic, Narberth v Merthyr, RGC 1404 v Beddau, Swansea v Bargoed, Tata Steel v Llanharan