WELSH rugby's First Division clubs had a 'positive' meeting with WRU chief David Moffett last night.

And as a result the chances of the four province system being approved at next month's extraordinary meeting of all 239 clubs have taken a big step forward.

The First Division clubs pressed Moffett for a 16-team premier division next season, not the planned 12, with seven of the current first division included instead of the proposed three.

"To be fair, he listened to us and he took everything we said on board. It was a very good meeting," said Cross Keys vice-chairman Colin Vernall.

"Everyone left with a much better feeling, the general committee will discuss our plans tonight and we will meet again next week."

Meanwhile, premier division benefactors, including Newport's Tony Brown, back from a trip abroad, meet with Moffett again today.

But there is precious little chance of any agreement ahead of tonight's meeting of the WRU general committee when Moffett will outline the criteria to bidders for the four provincial franchises.

One of those is believed to be that no bids from single entities will be allowed, which would immediately set Moffett on another collision course with Llanelli and Cardiff.

Llanelli chief executive Stuart Gallacher admits: "It's an absolute disaster, but there just doesn't seem to be a positive way ahead.

"We had five meetings last week and one this week and we still haven't got anywhere.

"The easy deal to do was in Gwent between Newport and Ebbw Vale, but further west it's more complicated. I just can't see any change in anyone's stance."

Pontypridd and Swansea have repeated their threat of legal action against the WRU if they feel excluded from any new set-up.

Pontypridd have refused to link with Bridgend and Neath in a new suggestion.

If legal action is pursued Moffett says he will back off, not wanting to involve the WRU in expensive litigation, and it will remain as nine sides - which no-one wants.