WRL fixtures and previews

Total RL.Com Welsh Rugby League Conference Saturday 10th July (2.30pm) Aberavon Fighting Irish v Torfaen Tigers (Aberavon Greenstars RFC) Newport Titans v Valley Cougars (Pill Harriers RFC) Swansea Valley Miners v Cardiff Demons (Ystalyfera RFC)

Saturday's top of the table clash between Aberavon Fighting Irish and Torfaen Tigers at Aberavon Greenstars RFC is a must-win game for both sides. After losing 32-39 to bottom side Valley Cougars last week, the home side know that another defeat will virtually hand the top spot to Bridgend Blue Bulls while Torfaen are competing against their Gwent neighbours, Newport Titans for a place in the play-offs.

Aberavon will be more confident going into this game as they welcome back their eight international stars who were representing Wales in last week's 34-26 win in Scotland.

Coach Chris O'Callaghan commented on last week's performance, "It was a disappointing day for us but a good day for rugby league in Wales. Realistically, we will have to come through the back door to win the grand final by the second and third place play-off."

Valley Cougars are away at Newport Titans. The Cougars were brought back down to earth on Wednesday with a 66-16 defeat at Bridgend Blue Bulls. Cougars will have to fight hard for a win at their Pill Harriers ground as the home side need to carry on winning to secure a play-off place.

Cardiff Demons go to Swansea Valley Miners knowing that only a win will do if they want to secure a home tie in the Shield play-offs. Cardiff have lost their last four games but go to Ystalyfera full of confidence as they welcome back Mark Bow and Mark Dando, two highly influential players who both missed last week's defeat at home to Newport.

Demons' coach Wayne Williams comments, "We have a stronger side out than last week giving us an excellent chance for a win at Swansea. The Miners are struggling at the moment especially with Simon Bevan out for the season. I expect to see us come home with the points."