EBBW Vale boss Nigel Davies admits he has been given food for thought by the performances of the Steelmen's experimental side in the Foster's Challenge Cup, writes Chris Kirwan.

Ebbw return to Principality Premiership action tomorrow afternoon when they travel to Aberavon (kick-off 2.30pm).

They do so on the back of a spirited display in defeat in horrendous conditions at Cross Keys and a comprehensive win against Newport in the Challenge Cup.

Vale used the opportunity to bring in some promising talent from surrounding clubs as well as fringe members of their squad.

"It's been a very productive few weeks," said head coach Davies. "We have been able to involve a few local boys in the Challenge Cup and they did well, we were pleasantly surprised.

"They have certainly given us something to think about for the future because they played some really good rugby.

"It was also good to see Adam Jones, Ashley Sweet and Harrison Keddie doing well for the Dragons Premiership Select side. It's good that players can see that pathway from amateur rugby to semi-professional and then to professional."

The Steelmen are poised to bring back the core of their side for the trip to the Talbot Athletic Ground with captain Damien Hudd making a welcome return following a groin problem.

The Wizards have started the season strongly with just two losses to their name and enjoy a nine-point lead over Ebbw.

Davies said: "Parallel to the Challenge Cup we did a review of our season so far with the group and compared to last year we have five wins compared to seven. The margins are very small.

"Aberavon are a good side and probably didn't want the break in the Premiership, they are very capable and are well coached.

"We know it's a big challenge but we are just concentrating on making those small improvements that will lead to us turning close defeats into wins."

The Wizards have won the last three encounters in Port Talbot with Ebbw downed 27-21 in February.