Pontypridd coach Lynn Howells believes that Saturday's Parker Pen Challenge Cup Round 2 first leg match against Leeds Tykes will give his players the perfect opportunity to erase the memories of their disappointing Celtic League quarter-final defeat.

Pontypridd were beaten 13-12 by Neath and Howells stated: "Losing has annoyed us all and we'll be looking to make up for it against Leeds.

"It's going to be a tough game as they are a good side. They're flying high domestically and our preparation has been far from ideal but they won't relish coming to Sardis Road.

"Losing always upsets me but the manner in which we were defeated by Neath is especially hard to take. We didn't play to our full potential and we didn't show our true colours - and that is what hurts the most.

"The players are keen to get the game out of their heads as quickly as possible and, luckily, they have an opportunity to do that relatively quickly."

Howells has had Leeds watched on several occasions and singled out their pack for special praise.

"They are formidable and will be ready to do battle," he said. "We can't give away possession and will have to cut down on our unforced errors if we are to win the game.

"It should be quite entertaining though as both teams will be looking to keep the ball in hand.
"I used to coach Tristan Davies when he was a youngster and he is also a very good player so we'll have to keep a close eye on him."

And while many may prefer to play the second leg at home Howells is happy that the first leg is to be played at Sardis Road.

"I think it's dangerous to start thinking about scoring enough points at home as an insurance for when you travel away," said Howells.

"You should aim to win both games - and that's what we will be doing. Playing at home first is an advantage as it gives us a better chance of getting off to a winning start and psychologically that is very important."

PARKER PEN CHALLENGE CUP - ROUND 2 FIRST LEG
(All kick-offs LOCAL time)

FRIDAY, 6 DECEMBER
Bridgend v Bath Rugby (BBC Wales) 1930 Didier Mene (F)

SATURDAY, 7 DECEMBER
Rugby Treviso v Newcastle Falcons 1430 Andrew Ireland (S)
Montauban v Borders 1930 Olan Trevor (I)
NEC Harlequins v Stade Francais 1500 Alain Rolland (I)
RC Narbonne v Connacht 1930 Geraint Ashton Jones (E)
Pontypridd v Leeds Tykes (S4C) 1730 Eric Darriere (F)

SUNDAY, 8 DECEMBER
Saracens v Colomiers 1500 Iain Ramage (S)
London Wasps v Bordeaux-Begles 1500 Gareth Simmonds (W)