NEWPORT County defender and former Cardiff City idol Jason Perry (pictured) has appealed for calm among fans ahead of tonight's potentially explosive South Wales derby.

Gwent Police and the Dr Martens League club have taken precautions to avoid a repeat of the violence that marred the friendly clash between the neighbours in August 2000.

Tonight's FAW Premier Cup semi-final showdown (6.55pm) has been made all-ticket and Newport Stadium's capacity has been reduced by half to 2,000.

Only Cardiff fans with season tickets or membership cards were permitted to purchase tickets and visiting supporters - all arriving by bus - will have a police escort.

However, police are closely monitoring websites and using intelligence to ensure fans do not clash in Newport city centre or on the streets around the ground.

Former Bluebirds skipper Perry pleaded for supporters to behave.

The former Welsh international, 32, begged: "If fans of both clubs have got any respect for their club then please no violence or no trouble tonight.

"Welsh fans are by far the best and most passionate fans in Europe so let's show everybody that's true tonight and not ruin our reputation.

"Let's make it an entertaining game and make the talk in the newspapers afterwards be about good football and not off-the-field troubles.

Perry, who spent ten years at Ninian Park, admits the club are still close to his heart - but he added: "I am a County player and I'm 100 percent committed to them."

Fellow Exiles centre-back Jeff Eckhardt, also a former Cardiff player, says professional teams complement County's style of play well, as they proved against Swansea City in the previous round.

"We like to get the ball down and play," said Eckhardt.

"And professional teams give you a little bit more time so you cam put your foot on it. They will be fielding a weakened team but they'll be a match for us I'm sure."