Neath play waiting game

Neath, unbeaten in the Celtic League to date, prepare for what coach Lyn Davies considers their toughest assignment when they host Munster in the principality tonight (The Gnoll, 7.05).

Davies is recognised as one of the most innovative coaches in Wales and has been in charge for four years at the Gnoll.

He prefers to operate at his own pace, illustrated by the fact that he names only the 22-man match squad, saving the team announcement for the last possible moment.

His main injury concerns ahead of this match are Allan Bateman (foot), former Wales captain Gareth Llewellyn (shoulder), Brett Sinkinson (foot) and former Lions hooker Barry Williams (knee). All are expected to be fit.

The squad also includes South African John Slade, Steve Martin, a son of former Welsh legend Allan, and James Storey, son for BBC athletics commentator, Stuart.

Davies was especially complimentary when discussing the merits of the visitors. "We will not underestimate the enormity of the monster Munster challenge that we will face.

"They are a fine team with quality players, particularly up front. They have a well-rounded game plan and are among the favourites for the European Cup, let alone the Celtic League."

Munster coach Declan Kidney has decided to rest the majority of the side that started in their victory over Connacht to help deal with a demanding schedule over the next seven days.

This will be a difficult trip for Munster and satisfaction may be gleaned only from the aptitude of several young players to cope with the pressure.

For Munster to win it would represent a huge achievement, although the strength on the bench suggests that they might just squeak it.

Neath squad: N Bonner Evans; D Pugh, S Connor, D Tiueti, R Francis, L Jarvis, G Morris, A Moore, P Horgan, A Bateman, J Slade, P Jones, G Llewellyn, S Martin, B Sinkinson, A Howell, S Jones, B Williams, A Millward, D Jones, J Storey, S Tandy.

Munster: D Crotty; J O'Neill, J Kelly, J Holland, A Horgan; R O'Gara, P Stringer; P Clohessy (capt), F Sheahan, M Cahill; D O'Callaghan, P O'Connell; J Williams, A Foley, D Wallace. Replacements: J Hayes, J Fogarty, M Galwey, A Quinlan, M Prendergast, M Mullins, J Staunton.