BEDWAS are flying the flag for Gwent clubs in the Principality Premiership and could land a telling blow in rivals Cross Keys' bid to sneak into the title mix.

The clubs clash at Pandy Park tomorrow with the hosts needing to win to keep alive their hopes of a late charge for the top eight.

Keys have been hard hit by injuries and sit 10th with a seven-point gap to the final berth, currently held by Llandovery.

They have no margin for error with just four fixtures – third-placed Bedwas followed by Newport, Pontypridd and Ebbw Vale – left until the league is split into title contenders and those playing for pride.

Keys have suffered big blows with back row forward Ieuan Jones (ankle) and lock Simon Williams (knee ligaments) suffering serious injuries in their 38-14 loss to Cardiff in the capital last weekend.

They are already without captain Scott Matthews (ankle), his fellow flanker Josh Skinner (wrist) and prop Richard Cornock (calf) but head coach Greg Woods says there is no wallowing.

"We've lost some big players but there is no negativity – injuries happen and we have been lucky in the past few seasons, it's just our turn," he said.

"This is a huge opportunity for some of our youngsters and they have to stake a claim and show they are ready for life in the Premiership.

"Rhys Fitzgerald (young flanker from Penallta) has come off the bench twice and shown his worth so he gets a chance while we've got (back row forward) Joe Thomas from the Dragons academy on the bench.

"It will be tough against Bedwas, because they are playing really well and are confident, but RGC 1404 were red hot when they came down here and we produced a big performance to get the win. It's about looking after ourselves."

Another win would probably be enough for Bedwas, who recorded a superb bonus-point triumph against RGC last weekend, but boss Steve Law isn't one for complacency.

"Our club officials and coaches will be disappointed if we didn't get in the top eight from here but we won't take anything for granted until we are mathematically there," said the head coach, whose side's home Boxing Day clash with Ebbw Vale will be televised live on S4C at a new kick-off time of 4.45pm.

"We've worked hard to get in this position after strengthening our squad and won't be resting on our laurels.

"We know that Cross Keys have a lot to play for and will be looking for a reaction after pretty much gifting Cardiff points.

"Their results have been indifferent but we are expecting the usual Keys with a strong set piece and plenty of physicality along with no little ambition and skill.

"They have probably underachieved a little this year but still have good personnel and we will have to be at our best."

Bedwas are set to tinker with their starting XV, giving a chance to several players who have impressed off the bench in recent weeks.

- Cross Keys Past Players Association are meeting before the game at 12.30pm in the clubhouse.