EBBW Vale can give their own Principality Premiership play-offs push a big boost when they welcome leaders Llandovery to Eugene Cross Park, writes Chris Kirwan.

The Steelmen have put themselves right back in contention with victories against Aberavon, Bridgend, Bedwas and Neath. They sit in sixth place just three points back on third-placed Pontypridd and seven back on the Drovers.

If Ebbw can keep their fine league form going this weekend then they will close the gap on the pacesetters – and earn revenge for their worst afternoon for several seasons.

Nigel Davies’ team were hammered 50-0 when they headed to Church Bank in September with their hosts crossing for seven tries in a one-sided romp.

“We had a mid-season review in which we said we needed to win our next five,” said backs coach Nick Wakley. “We are four from four so need to finish off.

“It’s also a big revenge mission because they pulled our pants down earlier in the season so there are some scars that need to heal.”

A morning pitch inspection is likely to be needed at Eugene Cross Park and the surface, which was heavy for the Dragons Premiership Select XV’s win against Connacht last week, will decide the style of play against the free-flowing Drovers.

“I’d back our back division against anyone because Jared Rosser is in a rich vein of form while we are experimenting with two ball-players in Dai Langdon and Ian Smerdon,” said Wakley.

“But the game plan will be dictated by the conditions and there will be a big territorial battle while we also have a big, experienced pack.”

Ebbw won the corresponding fixture on the opening day of the 2014/15 season when they sneaked a 30-29 thriller thanks to a penalty try and scores by wing Wes Cunliffe, flanker Ronny Kynes and lock Ashley Sweet.