TOMORROW'S top-of-the-table First Division battle between Pontypool and Bedwas may not be the title decider, but don't tell Pontypool that.

Leaders for the first time this season, Pontypool are hungry to remain there and three points over second-placed rivals Bedwas at Pontypool Park would strengthen their grip. "Alongside our game away to Aberavon, this is the biggest game of the season for us," said Pontypool team manager Tony Clark.

"Although a win or loss won't dictate the final league standings, it is important for us to win our home games."

Pontypool spies have watched Bedwas in action and Clark himself has seen them in training.

And he warns there is much more to the side's game than their notorious pack. "Bedwas have a strong scrum, but it's easy to tell there is more to their game outside it," he said. "They have a good back line that isn't rushed and is always dangerous. I have been impressed with them. They have made some good signings." "Bedwas have remained consistent and look like they are making a big push. You have to pat them on their back for that."

Last season's Division Two champions have been a surprise package in Division One, but Pontypool's top point scorer, Byron Hayward, was quick to underline his determination to beat them.

"We need to keep our winning run going up until Christmas. The motivation is to stay on top," he said.

Bedwas coach Ian Gardener acknowledged: "It's going to be very difficult for us, a real test. I went to watch Pontypool last Saturday and they are really coming into a bit of form. "They have a big, strong pack and a wealth of experience behind and I couldn't really see any weaknesses.

Pontypool make just one change from the side which defeated Blackwood last week, Gareth Jenkins taking over from Nicky Lloyd at scrum half.

Bedwas include Simon Grainger, on dual registration from Caerphilly, in the back row for shoulder injury victim Matthew Lewis while wing Geraint Cook also has a shoulder problem, Paul Phillips switching to his position with Matthew Evans in at full back.

Pontypool: J Griffin, L Woodard, C Landry, J Hawker, S John, B Hayward, G Jenkins, G Gunter, L Jones, U Moa, K Faletau, M Powell, M Jones, C Treherne, M Tuipulotu. Replacements: D Smith, N Lloyd, I Jones, J Sulway, A Howarth, A Lloyd, L Murray. Kick-off 2.30pm. Meet ground 1pm. Bedwas: M Evans, P Phillips, A Harrison, C Murphy, M Pizey, G Samuels, W Bray, J Tilley, L Tomlins, M Wilson, R Edwards, A Evans, H Davies, S Grainger, D Mattravers. Replacements: R Bilton, T Carless, J Salter, L Griffiths, D Hawthorne, G Downes, P Williams.

*PICTURED: Pontypool's Byron Hayward is determined to succeed against Bedwas tomorrow.