NEWBRIDGE will toast their 125 anniversary with an encounter against a Monmouthshire Select XV on Friday (kick-off 7.15pm), writes Chris Kirwan.

‘Bridge make the most of the break for international rugby to celebrate their landmark with a friendly at the Welfare Ground.

They will escape the pressure of the Championship to host an invitational side full of talent from nearby clubs.

“Monmouthshire will bring a strong side with plenty of players from the local area looking to impress,” said Newbridge team manager Darren Venn.

“They come from clubs with their own proud histories and will also want to catch the eye against a Championship side.

“It will be good preparation for our bread and butter, rugby’s about momentum and a win would set us up nicely for Cardiff Met the following week – but that’s not the main thing, this is about celebrating the club’s history and traditions.

“Everyone has been working hard to make sure it is a good night of celebration so hopefully plenty of people from around the area will come down to join in and watch what should be a good contest.”

Newbridge are currently 11th in the Championship after a summer of rebuilding following the departures of a handful of key players.

They will be looking to push on after spirited displays against leaders Ebbw Vale and second-placed Narberth before the international break.