Newport RFC head coach Ty Morris believes his side are determined to go one further after last season’s heartbreaking end away to Llandovery in the playoff final.
The Black and Ambers finished in second-place just one point behind league winners Llandovery on 104 points after winning 21 out of 24 games. Speaking on last season, Morris stated: Overall, we believe it was a successful season.
“The team showed significant improvement as the season progressed, though we narrowly lost in the final game to a strong Llandovery side. Our performance in the cup against Cardiff at the Arms Park was a bit disappointing, but we’re proud of the progress we made.”
Newport are deep into preparation for the new Super Rygbi Cymru league which kicks off on the 14th September, on pre-season he said: “This pre-season has been quite different from the last 4-5 seasons.
“With an entirely new coaching team, it’s taken some time to implement their changes. We’ve brought in valuable experience with Gareth Wyatt, Ceri Jones, and James Dixon who has transitioned to defence coach. This has given the team a fresh focus and renewed energy, unlike in previous seasons. I’m excited to see how this team grows and develops throughout the year.
“We’ve already noticed some progress with our pre-season wins, but the true test will come in the first Super Cymru League game against Bridgend. That’s when the intensity will really ramp up, and I’m eager to see how both new and returning players build on what has already been a demanding pre-season.
“It’s also challenging to predict the true impact of new signings, as we know it takes more than one player to build a successful team. Last year, we had four players leave due to retirement and work commitments, but we’ve added some Premiership experience and young talent to help ensure the team’s continued success and longevity,” he added.
The Black and Ambers have made a strong start to their pre-season campaign with wins over Usk RFC (106-5), Blackheath Rugby (40-24) and Brecon RFC (54-10) and they will conclude preparations by heading to Ding Crusaders RFC tomorrow afternoon, (KO: 3pm).
On the celebration of the clubs 150th year, Morris stated: “Even as we celebrate our 150th year, our on-field goals remain the same.
“We’re committed to playing an exciting brand of rugby that draws people in, whether to watch, follow, or join us. Our aim is still to be one of the top teams in the league, and we’re determined to go one step further than last season.
“Like every rugby team, we aim to be tough to beat both at home and away. While home games are never guaranteed wins, we make sure to bring our A-game at Rodney Parade and now at Spytty (Newport Stadium) as well,” Morris insisted.
The Black and Ambers begin the new era of Welsh domestic rugby by hosting Scott Baldwin’s Bridgend Ravens on September 14th. On the new league Morris emphasised the importance of youth integration by stating: “At Newport RFC, our policy has remained consistent since I began coaching nine seasons ago.
“Our mission is to support the development of future regional stars, helping them progress from academy age groups to senior regional and international levels. We recognise the importance of giving these young players as much game time as possible, alongside seasoned veterans.
“While we know they might make mistakes, we understand that this is an essential part of their learning process.”
Newport begin with home a tie against Bridgend, followed by a trip to St Helens to face Swansea before back-to-back games against Aberavon. On the biggest competitors in the league, Morris added: “It’s tough to overlook Llandovery, given their strength, depth, and back-to-back league titles.
“However, I believe Bridgend has recruited exceptionally well. With their new coaching team and dynamic players in the backline, they could surprise a few teams this season,” he concluded.
Words By Harry Tovey
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