NEWPORT County AFC fans are being urged to cheer on a host of former favourites as Merthyr Town look to clinch promotion to the Southern League Premier Division this weekend, writes Andrew Penman.

Having missed out on promotion for the last two seasons in the play-offs Merthyr are 13 points clear of second-placed Evesham United at the top of the Southern League Division One South and West.

A home win over Mangotsfield United on Saturday (kick-off 3pm) would all but guarantee promotion given their far superior goal difference and a further point when Bishops Cleeve visit south Wales on Monday afternoon would finish the job.

And County season ticket holders, alongside those from Cardiff City, Swansea City and Welsh Premier League clubs can gain entry to the Cigg-E Stadium (Penydarren Park) at a reduced rate for the matches.

The Merthyr club website states: “Season ticket holders of Cardiff City, Swansea City, Newport County and Welsh Premier League clubs will receive a 33% discount on production of their season ticket, while Hereford Trust Members will receive free entry on production of their membership card.”

Tickets are £9 per adult, £7 for concessions and under-16s get in free.

Merthyr, managed by former County player and assistant boss Steve Jenkins, have several former Exiles in their ranks.

Kerry Morgan, Jake Harris, Adie Harris, Richard Evans and Ryan Newman are all in the Martyrs squad, while current County players Kyle Patten and Aaron Collins have both been on loan at the club this season.