TWO of Division One East's frontrunners go head to head tomorrow afternoon as the race hots up for a place in the Premiership.

Leaders Pontypool host Blackwood in the top clash of the day, with only Bargoed separating the pair at the head of the table.

Pooler currently have a seven-point lead but a loss to the Glan-yr-Afon Park outfit would really open things up.

On the other hand, a win for Gareth Lintern's side would make it a pretty commanding lead over the chasing pack.

Caerphilly, level on points with Blackwood, travel to Llantrisant keen to keep up the pressure while Bargoed host Rumney.

But the meeting at Pontypool Park is the one that really catches the eye and it is an unexpected bonus for Blackwood.

Backs coach Jeremy Lloyd said: "We didn't anticipate being in this position so everybody is excited and the pressure is on them not us.

"Pontypool are a good side and have the strongest squad in the league. They were expected to be up at the top of the table, that's not the case with Blackwood.

"It will be nice to go into the game as underdogs because we have been favourites a fair few times in recent weeks and our players are not that old or experience, so I think prefer to be unfancied.

"We are at full strength and will give it a real go."

Blackwood have Dragons Academy loosehead Aaron Coundley, who has been at Cross Keys this season, in their ranks.

Pooler head coach Lintern said: "Blackwood are obviously in form and are close on our heels so it should be an interesting game.

"Matches between the sides are traditionally open affairs so hopefully there will be some excitement.

"Both camps are largely made up of local boys and I think that team spirit has been noticable in the results, so it could be a tight game."

Elsewhere, Newbridge host bottom side Fleur-de-Lys with the visitors determined to improve on last week's 36-5 reverse to Bargoed.

Bridge have had a disappointing campaign, understandable given the death of coach Steve Jones, but will look to start the new year strongly and lay the foundations for next campaign.

Newport Saracens, who lost at Rumney last week, face a tough challenge when fifth-placed UWIC visit them.

Sarries are tenth in the table and need a few more wins if they are to avoid a battle at the basement.