THE HIGHLY anticipated Ospreys v Emirates Lions match in the EPCR Challenge Cup has been moved to Parc y Scarlets after Storm Darragh caused structural damage to the Swansea.com Stadium. The fixture, originally scheduled at the Swansea venue, will still take place on Sunday, December 8, with a 3:15pm kick-off.

Following extensive consultations with EPCR, alternative venues such as St Helen’s and the Dunraven Brewery Field were considered. However, Parc y Scarlets was chosen as the best option, ensuring both player safety and supporter welfare.

In a joint statement, Ospreys and EPCR expressed gratitude to the Scarlets for their swift cooperation in accommodating the match at short notice. “We are incredibly thankful for the Scarlets’ support during this unexpected situation,” the statement read.

The change of venue does not alter the match schedule, and arrangements for ticket and hospitality transfers are being finalised. Supporters are advised to await further updates regarding these details. The match will be broadcast on Premier Sports, SuperSport, and FloRugby.

An EPCR spokesperson added: “We appreciate the understanding of fans during this unforeseen change. We look forward to an exciting game at Parc y Scarlets.”

THE FAW has announced the postponement of all football matches scheduled for Saturday, December 7, as Storm Darragh is set to bring life-threatening conditions to the country.

The decision follows a rare red weather warning issued by the Met Office, forecasting winds of up to 90mph and heavy rainfall across Wales and parts of southwestern England. This is the first red alert since Storm Isha in January, with forecasters warning of extensive disruption, including potential damage to buildings, power outages, and severe flooding.

An FAW spokesperson said:
“The Met Office has issued red, amber, and yellow weather warnings for the vast majority of Wales due to Storm Darragh, which is expected to bring damaging winds and heavy rain, causing significant disruption and danger to life.

“It is not safe to drive in such weather, including travelling to and from football matches. Being outside in high winds increases the risk of injury, and the Met Office advises people to stay indoors if possible.

“Clubs have been advised to check for and secure any loose items around their grounds if it can be done safely. This includes bins, furniture, goalposts, and fences.”

Precautions and ongoing assessments

The FAW confirmed that matches scheduled for Friday, December 6, and Sunday, December 8, will be reviewed individually, depending on league policies and updated weather conditions.

The Met Office has also issued a yellow warning for rain in Wales from 3:00pm today until midday tomorrow, alongside two amber warnings for wind on Saturday. Rhondda Cynon Taf, where severe flooding affected between 200 and 300 properties during Storm Bert last month, is among the areas bracing for renewed challenges.

Residents are urged to prepare for potential disruptions and stay informed of weather updates. Storm Darragh’s impact is expected to be one of the most severe weather events in recent months, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety advisories.

Goodwick United 7 – Monkton Swifts 2
GOODWICK UNITED extended their lead at the top of the table with a commanding 7-2 victory over Monkton Swifts. Rhys Dalling was the standout performer, netting four goals, including a stunning solo effort to complete his hat-trick. Goodwick led 2-1 at half-time thanks to goals from Kieran Blundell and Rhys Jones. The second half saw an attacking masterclass as Jonny Horgan added two more before Dalling rounded off the scoring. Monkton Swifts managed a brilliant 25-yard strike from Connor Davies but were unable to contend with Goodwick’s relentless firepower.

Clarbeston Road 4 – Carew 4
A dramatic 4-4 draw unfolded as Carew snatched a stoppage-time equaliser at Clarbeston Road. Marcus Griffiths gave Carew an early lead, but Laurie Haworth and Ben John turned the game in favour of the hosts by half-time. Leon Davies’ brace put Carew back in front, but goals from Matthew Davies and a second from Haworth saw the Road edge ahead once more. Zac Rowell salvaged a crucial point for Carew in the dying seconds, lifting them out of the relegation zone in a pulsating encounter.

Hakin United 2 – St Ishmaels 0
Hakin United climbed to second in the standings with a solid 2-0 victory over St Ishmaels. The Vikings took control early, with Ryan Wilson opening the scoring with a spectacular long-range effort. Liam Parks doubled the lead with a close-range finish. Despite dominating the game, Hakin couldn’t extend their advantage further. The result pushed St Ishmaels into the relegation zone after a tough outing.

Pennar Robins 3 – Milford United 1
Pennar Robins overturned a first-half deficit to secure a 3-1 win against Milford United. Milford took the lead just before the break through Jack Dyer, despite Pennar dominating possession. Ben Adams equalised early in the second half, followed by a stunning finish from Cameron Brunton to put the hosts ahead. Luke Phillips sealed the victory with a late penalty. Milford goalkeeper Charlie Malloy put in an impressive display, but his heroics couldn’t prevent the defeat.