BEDWAS were helpless in preventing last weekend’s Newport clash falling to the wet weather – today's foes Neath must have wished that rain had made its way to north Wales.

While the elements gave Ian Gardner’s troops an afternoon off, the Welsh All Blacks endured a Saturday to forget in Colwyn Bay, losing 66-3 to RGC 1404.

The Principality Premiership frontrunners ended up scoring nine tries against an under-strength Neath team, whose case wasn’t helped by the sending off of prop Ryan Thomas.

Neath held on gamely for 65 minutes before collapsing like a deck of cards to remain firmly rooted to the foot of the table.

Bedwas know they can expect a reaction at the Gnoll today (kick-off 2.30pm), though they will also be aware that Neath are still going to be hurting.

It has been a hugely disappointing season so far for Gareth Llewellyn and his squad, with just three league victories and a first-round exit in the National Cup.

Two of those wins came right at the start of the campaign, since when there has been very little to cheer for fans of a club which once ruled Welsh rugby.

After finishing bottom of the western conference, Neath now prop up the 16-club Premiership table with only one point to show for their efforts.

Injuries have played a big part in their shocking run of results, and it’s unlikely there will be any relief when Bedwas come to town.

Bedwas’ enforced lay-off last Saturday will have given bumps and bruises time to heal, and head coach Gardner is going to expect his players to hit the ground running come kick-off.

Elsewhere, Bargoed host Aberavon, Cardiff go to Llandovery, Merthyr entertain Pontypridd and RGC face Carmarthen Quins.