NEWPORT can move to the brink of the Foster's Challenge Cup semi-finals by beating Cross Keys at Pandy Park this evening (kick-off 7.30pm), writes Chris Kirwan.

The Black and Ambers are in command of the three-team Pool One of the development tournament thanks to victories against Bedwas at Bridge field, with a bonus point, and Keys at Rodney Parade.

A third victory would leave last season's runners-up Bedwas having to win their remaining three fixtures to qualify.

Both Keys and Newport head into the game on the back of super Principality Premiership victories that kept alive their hopes of making the top eight to be title contenders, the former against Bedwas and the latter against Aberavon.

While the two teams will ring the changes for the tournament, they will also be keen to strike a blow ahead of the vital Boxing Day showdown at Pandy Park in the league.

If Ebbw Vale are to keep alive their hopes of the semi-finals then they need to beat Merthyr at Eugene Cross Park tonight (kick-off 7.30pm).

The Steelmen have so far lost to Pontypridd and edged out Bargoed on home soil so need to beat the Ironmen, who have a perfect 10 from 10 at the head of Pool Three.

Premiership champions Ebbw have struggled in defence of their crown and are sweating on a top-half finish after their weekend hammering at RGC 1404, so will be relieved that the break until their key Boxing Day fixture with Bedwas gives a chance to reduce their lengthy injury list.

After being beaten at Sardis Road in the league on Saturday, Bargoed attempt to turn the tables when hosting Pontypridd (kick-off 7.15pm).

The Bulls have enjoyed victory just once this season, against Swansea, but produced another tenacious display at Ponty.

Home captain Rhys Shellard said after a 37-15 win: "It was close at times and Bargoed kept coming back at us but the boys dug in."