NEWPORT full-back Percy Montgomery can expect to be targeted tonight on his first visit to Ebbw Vale for a Welsh League Gwent derby clash.

His ability under the high ball is sure to be put to the test as the welcome mat is put out for him in the cold of Eugene Cross Park.

But Newport coach Leigh Jones expects Monty to be up to the task, and the player himself dismisses it.

"Perhaps it will be a little culture shock for Percy," admitted Jones, adding, "he's taken everything in his stride so far and bounced back. I'm sure he'll do it this time."

Montgomery's confidence will be lifted by his 17-point haul against Pontypridd last week at the first time of asking with the boot.

He took over the place kicking role and was applauded as he walked up to gather the ball before his first attempt.

He responded by landing four penalties, a dropped goal and a conversion, failing only with two touchline conversion attempts.

"I'm used to that sort of game, I've been there before," said Montgomery with a shrug of the shoulders when asked about the derby clash at Ebbw Vale.

Mike Ruddock, the Vale coach, played down suggestions that his side would adopt the high ball tactic against Montgomery.

"We've expanded our game now and we're playing good rugby. We want good conditions with the way we're playing," he said.

But Jones is still hoping the cold weather eases before the match, knowing how Ebbw Vale use it to their advantage.

"I'd like it to be a little milder, it always seems to be on the cold side there when they have big games," he admitted.

"It works in their favour, but professional rugby has hardened the players' mentality. We're a rugged bunch, so let the weather do what it wants."

Jones pays tribute to Ian Gough, the Wales lock who has made a successful switch to blindside flanker, where he remains tonight.

Gough is training with Wales and is aiming for a place in the Six Nations squad when coach Steve Hansen announces it on Monday.

"Ian sees himself as a lock, but it is a reflection of the modern game that he is able to double up," said Jones.

"It's about the back five now, not the front five, as it was years ago.

"It shows Ian's versatility and that will stand him in good stead for international recognition.

"This is the best balanced side we can take to Ebbw Vale."

Gough's switch has also given Newport a formidable three-pronged line-out, with skipper Simon Raiwalui at the front, Mike Voyle in the middle and Gough at the tail, though they alternate according to the planned calls.

"The line-out is a key area, but Ebbw Vale are good there as well, so it should be an interesting battle," said Jones.

Newport team manager Jim McCreedy believes Gough may, in fact, have taken over some of the role left by Peter Buxton, who departed Rodney Parade to join Gloucester.

"Peter was one of the main players in the Newport pack, but Ian has shown similarities, especially in the last few games. Peter was always there and he's been a big loss, but the side has come to terms with it."