NEWPORT received a welcome boost when wing Matt Mostyn reported fit for today's Heineken Cup clash against Toulouse at the Stade Ernest Wallon (2pm GMT).

Mostyn has missed Newport's last two games with a groin injury and his absence would have placed an even greater strain on resources with nine backs already ruled out because of injury or ineligibilty.

Newport arrived in Toulouse yesterday evening to the first snow in the city for 12 years, though it was only a light fall.

But it was still bitterly cold with temperatures forecast today of minus six degrees although the pitch had been covered for several days.

The Black and Ambers know exactly what is facing them on the pitch, says scrum half and vice-captain Ofisa Tonu'u (pictured).

Toulouse have won all four Heineken Cup pool games and are big favourites not just to do the double over Newport but to secure a home draw in the quarter-finals.

But at least Newport have the benefit of knowing they went to Toulouse last season and performed creditably in the same competition before going down 36-23, also in January.

"We know what to expect and we have prepared a lot better. We are familiar with the ground and the travel and what is ahead of us," said Tonu'u.

"We have practiced what we have wanted to do this week. We tried a few things in our last match against Cardiff and some came off, we went through the moves and just got pipped in the corner."

Skipper Simon Raiwalui will also draw on last season's experience.

"It's a great place to go, they've got wonderful facilities which promotes good rugby," he said.

"But we need to put in two good performances in a row and carry on from there. No-one is complacent."