IAN McIntosh faces his first league game in charge tonight when Newport face Cardiff at the Arms Park (7.35pm)-- but he knows exactly what to expect (writes Robin Davey). The South African earned a healthy respect for Welsh rugby in the 70s, and he says little has changed on the club front.

"I go back a bit with Wales as an outsider. I came here in the early 70s when you were on top and I learnt a lot," he said.

"I've been here since and I know there's tremendous rivalry."

Skipper Simon Raiwalui is eagerly anticipating his first match in charge against Cardiff. "I love playing against Cardiff, it's always good to play at the Arms Park, it's one of my favourite grounds.

"They are one of the top clubs in Europe which is what we're aiming for. "This is the big one with all the local rivalry, but it's a tough game every time we play them."

Mike Voyle goes in against his former club just over a week after arriving back in Wales. "I know them pretty much, Cardiff-Newport is always a big game and I'm sure it means a lot to Newport now," he said.