Neath RFC will attempt to “redefine the rugby experience” when they host Rygbi Gogloedd Cymru 1404 (RGC) at The Gnoll Stadium on Saturday, April 20th.

The fixture with RGC is Neath’s last home game of the season and tickets are free for supporters.

Channelling the “spirit of rebellion”, Neath have announced an “Entertainment Extravaganza”, which includes, along with the rugby, Heels Empowerment Dancers and Super Choir UK, all compèred by Dirty Sanchez’s Matthew Pritchard.

A ‘world class’ film crew will be capturing the events as Neath attempts to “put itself firmly on the world rugby map.”

This move comes amid the controversial decision by the WRU to turn down Neath’s application to join Welsh rugby’s new Elite Domestic Competition (EDC).

The EDC is designed to bridge the gap between the semi-professional teams and the four professional regions, with a particular emphasis on developing players between 18-25.

The competition will replace the existing Welsh Premiership from next season and will be ring-fenced for three seasons, with no promotion or relegation.

The club described their initial omission from the EDC as “grossly unfair” and “reprehensible”.

Wales and Neath legends such as Jonathan Davies and Shane Williams have come out publicly in support of their old club’s fight.

Williams, Wales’ record-try scorer, said it has been “tough time for Neath, but it’s one of the most historical and biggest clubs in the game.”

“It’s where it all kicked off for me. My blood is black. Come on, boys,” he said.

Former Wales captain, Davies added: “Good luck to Neath RFC in the race to the EDC.”

“I hope your application is successful because it’s a wonderful club with a history of great players and also fantastic supporters.

“My best wishes to you all.”

Neath, who submitted a second application, will likely find out whether they have been awarded the final place this week, with Cardiff RFC the most likely other club to be given a place.

The other nine teams are: Aberavon, Bridgend, Carmarthen Quins, Ebbw Vale, Llandovery, Newport, Pontypool, Swansea and this week’s visitors, RGC.

This coming Saturday, though, promises to be an example of the kind of events that Neath hope to put together when part of the EDC.

Chairman James Hadley has been forthright in his views on where the sport is going and where Neath want to take it.

“The fabric of rugby commercialism is old and malfunctioning,” said Hadley.

“So we’ve changed it. What Neath are going to do will be closely copied by others, and we welcome that.

“This will become the model for future sport in the UK and Northern Ireland. You cannot miss this first event.”

Gates open at 12:30pm, with the entertainment starting at 13:45 and the match at 14:30pm. Entry is free with tickets available at neathrfc.com.