EBBW Vale may have had a slightly different approach this summer but their ambition remains unchanged, says backs coach Nick Wakley.

The Steelmen now have former Wales and Scarlets coach Nigel Davies at the helm after Jason Strange left for a full-time role with the Welsh Rugby Union.

He has big boots to fill after Ebbw finished as runners-up to Pontypridd on their return to the Principality Premiership but Wakley says everyone at the club in enjoying learning from such an experienced rugby man.

"I feel like a very lucky coach," he said. "I was in the right place at the right time when Jason asked me to work with him last year and now it's great having Nigel's insight and being able to pick his brains.

"They have very different approaches. Jason was very much down the line of staying out on the training field until we got it right while Nigel will have timings for sessions and then we are off.

"Neither is right or wrong and the boys have reacted superbly to Nigel's way, just as they did to Jason's.

"We've got a great set of lads who only want to improve and go one better in the league than last year.

"People will know our strengths now and we caught a lot of them cold when they thought we were just a set piece team. There are plenty of challenges ahead and we are looking forward to them."

Wakley will miss Ebbw's first workout of the summer as he is coaching Newport Gwent Dragons at the Singha Premiership 7s while the Steelmen take on Moseley in the West Midlands on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).

NEWPORT are also heading over the border to face English opposition with a trip to face the famous Rosslyn Park club (kick-off 3pm).

The Black and Ambers could come up against the familiar face of lock Adam Frampton, who moved to the Londoners after nine seasons at Rodney Parade.

BEDWAS romped to an 85-5 success against Rhiwbina last weekend but things should go up a notch when they host their friends from Henley on Saturday (kick-off 2.30pm).

Steve Law's men have taken on the Hawks in the last two seasons, winning 40-33 away last summer and 12-7 at Bridge Field in 2013.

CROSS KEYS got their preparations under way with a useful workout against a spirited Cardiff and District side at Pandy Park on Wednesday evening.

Keys ran out 59-7 winners thanks to tries by wing Elliot Jones (2), centre Polu Uhi, lock Tom Lampard, scrum-half James Leadbeater, hooker Aaron Davies, back row Adam Powell and lock Danny Hodge.

New full-back Owen Howe kicked eight conversions and a penalty in an impressive display while Luke Thomas crossed for the visitors, whose endeavour ensured it was a useful tune-up.