MOST clubs would want to avoid Pontypool in their opening game of the season, but Gwent rivals Newbridge are looking forward to tomorrow's Welfare Ground clash.

"It's a massive start and a very hard game," said backs coach Jonathan Westwood, "but one the players will relish.

"Pontypool have invested heavily to try to win the division, much more heavily than we could contemplate, and they will have an advantage because of that in many respects.

"Playing their so-called superstars makes us clear underdogs so our boys are looking forward to it in a way because we've got nothing to lose."

Westwood admitted the old Gwent rivalry still exists, adding extra spice to the encounter, but is keen to play down this aspect.

"We have the utmost respect for Pontypool, their players and coaches Steve Jones and David Manley and we hope they have the same respect for us," he said.

"All this old parochial rubbish has got to stop and we are just hoping for a good game, a good crowd and a great atmosphere."

Pontypool, meanwhile, don't believe their pre-season spending and big-name signings will have any bearing tomorrow - but see the derby factor as the most important element of the match.

Asked if their spending would make the opposition even more determined to beat them this campaign, team manager Tony Clark said: "I don't think so. I certainly don't think it will make any difference against Newbridge, or Cross Keys or Blackwood for that matter.

"These are Gwent derbies, they are a different kettle of fish to other games, and it doesn't matter whether the teams concerned are top or bottom of the table.

"I'm not trying to be clever, but if I was playing tomorrow or Byron Hayward or whoever, it would be a tough game.

"I'm sure Newbridge, who were without a game last week, will have done their homework on us."

Pontypool have added to their strength in depth this week by signing Pontypridd prop Sven Cronk and flanker Matthew Lloyd on dual contracts.

This is to cover for injuries (front row pair Alun Phillips and Christian Johnson are currently out of action), but also to keep everyone on their toes.

"It's important to do that," said Clark. "We believe we have strength in depth now and that this season we have the players to enable us to change our game plan from game to game."

In view of their signings and in view of their link-up with Torfaen council, designed in part to make Pontypool a community-based club, the win over reigning title holders Aberavon last week was vital.

Injuries rule out Newbridge backs Paul Collett (ankle and hamstring) and Huw Lock (groin) while John Bowd is attending a wedding.

The club give league debuts to centre Shane Webley, prop Paul Douglas and former Abertillery trio Craig Blunsdon, Gareth Howells and Geraint Gladwyn.

Gareth Turner and Damien Cooper play after returning to the club.

Pontypool leave naming their team until just before the game after a run-out at Newbridge leisure centre.

Newbridge: A Harries, G Patterson, A Green, S Webley, G Turner, Jason Williams, M Sage, P Douglas, D Williams, P Taylor, C Blunsdon, A Edwards, G Howells, D Cooper, G Gladwyn. Replacements: Jonathan Williams, G Bisp, M Spencer, L Davies, S Llewellyn, S Greedy, M Ackerman, Kick-off 2.30pm. Meet 1pm.