Rugby Union: Jenkins deal looks imminent

CARDIFF AND Pontypridd have walked away from Tuesday night's showdown meeting about the transfer of the Lions stand-off Neil Jenkins, claiming that the matter should be resolved by the weekend.

Both clubs insist that the Welsh international is their man, and Cardiff's operations director, David Jenkins, said yesterday: "There were no final conclusions at the meeting but we hope it will be finalised by the end of the week."

Despite the problems surrounding the transfer, the Pontypridd chief executive, Cenydd Thomas, agreed that a deal is close. Thomas said that the meeting was not all about an improved transfer fee from Cardiff but also other matters which needed to be resolved if the move is to take place.

The Western Province and Stormers centre Andy Marinos has signed a two- year deal to play for Newport.

Marinos, who joins Newport in September, confirmed that he had been contacted by the Welsh Rugby Union and the national coach, Graham Henry, with a view to playing for Wales in the World Cup in October. The 27-year- old qualifies through two of his grandparents who are from Wales.

"It has been a tough decision, as I have thoroughly enjoyed playing for the Stormers and Western Province, but I have been presented with an exciting opportunity to go and play in Wales," Marinos said.