By Glen Leat
August 13 2002

Here we are with just two weeks to go before the start of the new season and already Bath fans have to make a difficult decision this week-end on where they will watch their rugby, do they troop off to Twickenham for the Middlesex Sevens or cross the Severn to Bridgend?

With a difficult opening day match against London Irish Bath coach Michael Foley will be taking his charges to Bridgend for what will no doubt be a more bruising encounter than Bath teams have been used to in the past in pre-season friendlies. Not for the Aussie management team is it a cosy afternoon in Keynsham, instead Foley will be putting his charges under as much pressure as he dare against the tough taffs. Following this up the following week with a game at Cardiff, the Bath players will certainly know they are knocking on the door of the new season.

Chris Malone, the Australian under 21 fly half, is expected to start his first match for the club, whilst Alessio Galasso, Adam Vander and Ross Blake are all expected to make their Bath debuts and coach Foley has confirmed that he expects the whole of the squad to get involved.

Although spectators will see most of Bath's top stars at The Brewery Field on Saturday this is still just a training run, with players on and off the pitch like as often as Dean Ryan used to get sent to the bin, so I was a little surprised to see that a charge of £10 or £5 is being made. Anyone wishing to travel to Bridgend, have been asked to purchase their tickets through the Bridgend Ticket Office on 01656 652 707.

If you want to know more about Bridgend RFC click on their website at Bridgend RFC.

Contact details: (Bridgend RFC, The Brewery Field, Tondu Road, Bridgend, CF31 4JE)

Directions to Bridgend

Follow the M4 and exit at junction 36