NEWPORT face Cross Keys in the Konica Minolta Welsh Cup on Sunday knowing that victory will take one step closer to a historic league and cup double.

Not since the 1992/93 season has a side looked like completing the league and cup double, but along with Neath the Black and Ambers must rate their chances very highly...if they can beat Cross Keys.

Llanelli were the last and only side to do it over 10 years ago and although the structure of rugby has changed since the introduction of regional rugby it would still rank as a fantastic achievement.

While Black and Ambers coach Leigh Jones isn't getting carried away at this stage of the season, try-machine Craig Richards has revealed an entirely different view.

And the winger has admitted that the Newport dressing-room is starting to talk about the possibility of achieving the double.

He said: "The games keep on going by and we keep winning.

"And the longer that continues then the closer we get to winning both the league and the cup.

"The possibility of the double is starting to creep into the back our minds and people are starting to talk about it in the dressing-room now but we have some tough games coming-up."

The fact that it is a Gwent derby makes it a mouth-watering prospect, particularly as the clubs have just met in the league and that will simply add some extra spice. And the indications are that Pandy Park will be bursting at the seams.

"Cross Keys will undoubtedly be a tough game and if we can get through then it becomes even more of a possibility of reaching the final," Richards added.

"But all derbies are tough and we are away from home so anything less then our best performance could see us lose. But I'm sure we will have big support up there."

Richards has been on fire this season and scored his 21st and 22nd tries of the season against Swansea on Saturday.

But the former Llanelli and Bridgend player insists that he hasn't set himself anything to aim for and refuses to take all the plaudits for his performances.

"I seem to get all the glory but it is the rest of the team that set up all the chances for me.

He added: "I haven't really set myself any targets.

"I just want to continue playing well and take my opportunities." While Richards and his team-mates may well be thinking of a league and cup double, coach Leigh Jones is keeping his feet firmly placed on the floor.

"There is still a very long way to go, and it would be wrong to start thinking of that, (the double).

"We've got a difficult cup match at Cross Keys and they will be really up for it, and that is as far ahead as I am thinking."

l Tickets for the Welsh Cup clash with the Black and Ambers are on sale at both the Cross Keys - Pandy Park clubhouse and also from Newport's Rodney Parade.

Prices: Stand, £10; ground £7 and £5 for concession and children.