RGC begin the defence of their WRU National Cup this Saturday when they travel to Ebbw Vale.

The Gogs recently tied up the Principality Premiership West crown, and opened the second half of their campaign with an impressive win over Bridgend Ravens in preparations for the tie.

Hooker Evan Yardley, said: “After finishing the first half of season on top, we have the chance to focus on the cup now and put the league to one side.

“Last year’s win is just a memory now and all of our attention is on this campaign and retaining the cup. There are not many tougher places to go than Ebbw Vale in the first round but it is something we are relishing as a group.”

“In terms of preparing for the game we are very much focused on ourselves and improving our own performance.

“We have shown glimpses of what we are capable of as a team this season, but not quite produced an all round performance.

“On Saturday we will need to step it up another level in terms of set piece and physicality. We know we can go toe to toe with any team in this league but sometimes we lack that mental edge and allow teams to get on top. If we stay focused and stick to our game plan I am positive we can get the result.”

Head coach Mark Jones has named a strong squad for the cup clash, with former Wales U18 international Efan Jones coming in at scrum half joining a powerful looking back-line which features the in-form group of Dion Jones, Afon Bagshaw, Tiaan Loots and Jacob Botica.

Forward and squad mainstay Joe Simpson, added: “It is a fresh challenge as we turn our attentions to the cup.

“We are in a new situation as defending champions so we know that everyone will be wanting to take that away from us.

“Also having not played Ebbw Vale this year will make the game all the more interesting. I have also read that they have new Head Coach Greg Woods starting this week so I am sure many of their players will be looking at the cup game as an opportunity to prove themselves.”