SEVEN wins in a row have put Newbridge in a position where they could be joint Welsh First Division leaders before Christmas.

They are away to Merthyr tonight, chasing their eighth successive win and games against Blackwood, leaders Bedwas and Whitland follow.

Success in all could put them joint top and though coaches Jonathan Westwood and Mike Watkins refuse to look that far ahead, Westwood conceded: "That would be an outstanding achievement.

"Given the level of investment we have been able to make, it would be a hell of a result."

Westwood conceded: "We worked hard in the summer, brought in the players we wanted at a price we could afford and at the moment it's paying off.

"The most pleasing aspect for the club is that they can see the boys we have here are committed to the cause. If some of our recent performances have not been pretty, they have been committed.

"The players brought in have given us a real hard edge and that's been a big bonus."

That hard edge was never more evident than in the recent 12-3 win over Tondu when Newbridge suffocated their opponents up front before killing them off.

Outside half Jason Williams scored just two points in that game, so needs six more tonight to become the second Welsh player after Neil Jenkins to pass 2,000 league points.

And Westwood believes he has added more to his game this season since the arrival of scrum half Matthew Taylor.

"When we took over at Newbridge we were told Jason doesn't do this and Jason doesn't do that," said Westwood, "but he's been a pleasure to coach and is a great team player.

"Anyone who has scored 2,000 league points doesn't need any advice, but I do believe Taylor has helped take some pressure off him and helped bring a better balance to his game.

"Matthew has been a tremendous signing and it's no coincidence we have not lost since he started playing for us."

Of tonight's task, Westwood said: "I hope we can grind out another win, but nobody goes to Merthyr and gives them a hammering.

"Under Chris Davey's influence they are sure to be a well-drilled side, but hopefully our experience up front can prove too much for them."

Newbridge: Jonathan Williams, P Collett, A Green, S Pennell, A Harries, Jason Williams, M Taylor, M Spencer, L Davies, M Price, G Howells, A Edwards, S Greedy, D Cooper. Replacements: G Bisp, G Patterson, G Turner, A Oliver, D Williams, P Taylor, J Browd. Kick-off: 7.15pm