THERE is a double serving of Gwent derby action this afternoon with big ramifications at the bottom of the table.

Bottom club Pontypool head to Newport while second-from-bottom Ebbw Vale welcome Cross Keys, who could themselves be dragged into a basement battle, to Eugene Cross Park.

The Steelmen were given a rock solid start to the season in terms of fixtures and the league standings show that.

They have recorded just one win from their first seven games (which were against teams from last season’s top seven) and they have been given some thrashings.

Their relief that such a tough period has come to an end is tempered by the lengthy injury list that will leave them going into a crucial four-week period with a threadbare squad.

The pack has been particularly hard hit and that will put huge pressure on openside flanker Simon Pengelly in today’s clash with the Keys.

The visitors will come with a big, fired-up pack and the former Neath back row forward will have to lead the charge.

Keys have delayed naming their side because of sickness in the squad but hooker and skipper Lloyd Burns is always a pivotal figure in fiery derby battles.

Also sure to have a big influence are a pair of former Bridgend men who left the Ravens following last season’s relegation.

Ebbw’s Gareth Bowen and Keys’ Gareth David will be on kicking duty and could have a big say on which team celebrates the four points come four.

It promises to be even more physical at Rodney Parade when winless Pooler try to get off the bottom of the table against Newport.

The Black and Ambers have made a stuttering start to the campaign but all four other clubs from the Dragons region would love their seventh place in the table.

Newport need to play themselves into form but winning is all important and they have a 100 per cent home record to protect.

The return of influential wing Mike Poole, one of many ex-Pooler men in their ranks, from injury is a welcome boost as he often sets the tone in both attack and defence.

Meanwhile, the visitors have their own good news on the comeback front with flankers Cae Trayhern and Geraint Morris ready to make an impact from the bench.

Pooler played some good rugby in the 35-31 loss to Bedwas last weekend but cannot afford to be as naïve at Rodney Parade.

Half-backs Tom Edwards and Sam Mills must ensure they play in Newport’s half while forwards Grant Webb, Rhys Bowen, Sam Pailor and Morgan Allen must carry hard.

The Pontypool faithful like nothing better than beating the Black and Ambers, though moving along their bonus point tally may be just as welcome at a venue where few leave with anything for their efforts.

Other fixtures: Cardiff v Bedwas, Llandovery v Aberavon, Swansea v Neath, Glamorgan W v Pontypriddd, Carmarthen Quins v Llanelli.