THE Gwent sides propping up the Welsh Premier Division table will be desperate to record maximum points when they go head to head at Eugene Cross Park tomorrow (kick off 2.30pm).

Even at a time when games have a bearing on matters at the top and bottom of the table, the clash between Ebbw Vale and Pontypool stands out as one of the most important of the season.

The relegation dogfight has become a crowded affair in recent weeks and both Pooler and Vale find themselves deeper in the mire than most, sitting 15th and 16th in the table, respectively.

With Cardiff dragging themselves away from the basement with a run of four league wins out of six both teams realise the importance of stringing together some results.

Pontypool coach David Gray said: "It's going to be a battle and I think it'll be a case of winner takes all. It'll be hard for either side to make up the points if they lose because even the winner will face a tough enough task.

"It's such a big game, and the repercussions are huge. While you can't look at games beyond this weekend you have to think about the bigger picture and it would be desperate for the losing side. It will be the team that adapts to the pressure the best that will win the game."

Vale are chasing the double over their visitors after recording a 27-14 win on Boxing Day.

Coach Alex Codling said: "It's a massive match for us and the next week to ten days will determine the destiny of this club.

"The fact we are playing another team at the bottom makes no difference to the preparation of the side, but obviously there is an added significance come match day.

"Every week it's about making the right decisions under pressure and that will be even more so this weekend.

"It's a big opportunity for us to start a run of wins but all I'm looking at is this Saturday."

Both teams head into the game in indifferent form and will be desperate for a catalyst for the crucial run-in.

Gray said "They're a good solid side and they are in a similar position to us. I think both teams sum up the league, there isn't a huge gap between those at the top and those at the bottom.

"There's a fine line between winning and losing, and what both teams desperately want is to get above that line."