Gough ready for battle

Gough (pictured) makes his first start for the Black And Ambers since May's Principality Cup final against Neath when he badly damaged a shoulder.

The 25-year-old has made three appearances as a replacement, played once for Wales A and earned his place back in the Welsh team against Australia last Sunday.

"It's been a long time coming," admitted Gough. "Mike Voyle has been playing well and it has created a problem for the coach, but I hope to prove a point.

"Sunday was a good run-out, it was tough and very physical but physically and mentally I'm back, though there's always room for improvement.

"There's always more to come, especially with a new coach with different ideas.

"Leinster have beaten us twice, but they've been close games and a good battle. We'll see what's between us now. They're a great team and it's going to take a massive effort, we know we've got a mountain to climb.

"They're unbeaten and they've got the cream of Irish rugby in their team, so if we win that will make it all the better."

But Gough believes Newport are in with a shout but admits: "It's always a bit harder to win away.

"However, we've done it at Bridgend, Neath and Newcastle and Leinster beat us at Rodney Parade, so people can win away," he said.

"Donnybrook is a formidable place with passionate support but if we play as well as we can we have a chance."

Gough goes head-to-head with Ireland and British Lions lock Malcolm O'Kelly for the first time tonight.

"I've played against him for Wales against Ireland last year, but I was front jumper and I haven't had the opportunity of playing him five against five," he said.

"He's a quality player, he's not a British Lion for nothing. He's great for Ireland in the line-out and he gets around the park."

But Gough remains optimistic despite the size of the task, adding: "We've been relaxed in training and we're looking forward to it."