CROSS Keys forwards coach Simon King takes his side to former club Caerphilly for their Premier Division opener tomorrow believing it could be their toughest test of the season.

King knows all about the Caerphilly set-up and says they start the season as one of the new division's title favourites and probably the best prepared side.

"They've had a good experience in the old Premier Division where they produced very committed performances," he said, "and they will be keen to make their presence felt.

"They have kept the core of their team from last season and have known about and prepared for the changes for a long time, so for them there is no transition like the rest of the sides. They'll be one of the strongest sides in the new Premiership but we're looking forward to the challenge."

Of the new 16-team semi-professional division, King said: "I think every game will be difficult for everyone. "Many of the players should be looking to make their mark with a view to stepping up into the regional squads, so it should be very competitive.

"And I think that the fact so many players will be playing week in, week out with purpose should attract the crowds back. We had around 3,000 for our friendly with Newport and I think the fans are looking forward to the games against teams like Newport, Cardiff and Llanelli.

"They may not be the strength of old but the names alone will pull people in. For the last couple of seasons, with no promotion, the First Division was not so interesting but it will be this season and it is our duty to make sure we put out a competitive and attractive product."

Of his side's chances of doing well, King said: "We'll know our capabilities and where we stand as we go along and gauge the merit of the opposition and we'll change our goals accordingly.

"But we have a better squad than last season and have been lucky to pick up some top quality young players who'll bring a lot to the party."

Cross Keys give debuts to five newcomers, including young hjalf backs Scott Mitchell and James Ireland.

Cross Keys: D Miles, G Chapman, L Humphries, R Williams, D Price, S Mitchell, J Ireland, I Evans, A Brown, D Evans, P Watkins, D Hallman, B Watkins, T Morris, W Thomas. Replacements: G Stroud, K Lewis, D Crimmins, A Gibbs, D Tovey, R Jones, M McKee. Kick-off 2.30pm.