CRAIG Warlow will be hoping that a spate of injuries and unavailability won’t scupper his aim of a top-six finish for Newport in the Principality Premiership this season.

Relegation-threatened Llanelli, who Warlow used to play for, head east to Rodney Parade tonight (kick-off 7.30pm).

Newport currently lie seventh in the Premiership table, level on points with Aberavon, in sixth, and three behind fifth-placed Llandovery.

Seven of Newport’s last nine fixtures, including the final five, are at home, something which could have a big say in the Gwent club’s finishing position.

They were also on home turf last Sunday but on that occasion fell to a 28-25 defeat by RGC 1404.

“We had opportunities to score in the last few minutes and nick the game,” added Warlow.

“It was tough for them having a player sent-off but it’s even tougher for the other side in that situation, because you almost expect things to happen.

“When that happens to an opponent you’ve got to be patient, because if you are the gaps will open up for you – we weren’t patient enough.

“RGC took their chances well and kicked better than we did, whereas we tried to run too much.”

There won’t be any favours for his old club tonight, with Warlow keen to stress it’s all about Newport for him.

“I appreciate they are in a pretty precarious position and we’ve got to match their desire, that’s going to be key for us,” he said.

“I’m not focusing on anyone other than us and what we do out there.

“There are going to be so many twists and turns between now and the end of the season that it’s about doing all you can for the 80 minutes.”