photo by Ian Lovell

The domestic Welsh Rugby League season starts this Sunday with the annual Scott McRorie Nines tournament at Little Warren, the home of Neath Port Talbot Steelers RLFC and Greenstars RFC. The action starts at 11am.

All eight Co-operative Welsh Conference Premier sides will be competing in this tournament once again, with Cardiff Demons looking to retain the trophy that they won in convincing fashion at Blackwood last season.

The tournament is held annually to commemorate Wales under 18 international Scott McRorie from Port Talbot, who tragically died three years ago.

Neath Port Talbot Steelers will make their debut as a new entity in this tournament.

The revamped club, that were formerly known as Aberavon Fighting Irish, are delighted that it is coming back to its spiritual home.

Club Secretary James Davies said: “After a year away, where the tournament was contested in Blackwood, we are proud to say we have got the Scott McRorie Nines back to its spiritual home. This is where Scott played so proudly and is where his friends and family can come and enjoy a day hosted in his memory.

“Scott was a tremendous talent who no doubt would have gone onto further things. We will do our utmost to make this tournament the best yet in loving memory of a smashing young gentleman.”

Bridgend Blue Bulls, who won the Welsh Conference last year will be favourites to win the Nines, especially after securing the 2006 WRL Man of Steel Christian Roets from the now defunct Swansea Valley Miners.

The other five clubs competing this Sunday at Little Warren are Blackwood Bulldogs, Newport Titans, Torfaen Tigers, Valley Cougars and West Wales Sharks.

article by Ian Golden
10 May 2007