TORFAEN Tigers will play in the RFL Conference South competition in 2015 following their successful application to join the league.

They will join Gwendraeth Valley Raiders and the 2014 Conference South champions Valley Cougars in an extended ten-team league that features seven sides from the South and Midlands of England.

The Tigers and the Raiders have been admitted following a lengthy application process that saw their finances, infrastructure, facilities, and squad depth and ability scrutinised.

Like the Cougars in 2014, both sides have pledged to run reserve teams in the domestic Welsh competitions.

Tigers’ chairman Rob Davies said: "I am delighted to be moving up the league structure and giving the boys an opportunity to play in a longer, fuller season than was previously unavailable to them.

“It is a testament to the hard work put in by the players, the coaches Jamie Williams and Kyle Scrivens, as well as Sally and everyone behind the scenes over the last few years.

“We’re looking forward to renewing our rivalry with old foes Valley Cougars, who we famously beat 24-18 in 2013 to claim our first Welsh title.

“We are entering this league with the intention of winning it and anyone who thinks we are here just to make up the numbers can think again.”