NEWPORT County AFC have announced that Saturday’s home clash with Portsmouth will not be moved to avoid a clash with Wales’ Rugby World Cup quarter-final.

The League Two match at Rodney Parade will kick-off at 3pm, an hour before Warren Gatland’s Wales side take on South Africa at Twickenham.

The Exiles have previously rearranged matches on international rugby weekends but say a change at this late stage would be unfair on travelling supporters.

A County statement reads: “While we understand that many fans will be disappointed that our fixture against Portsmouth will clash with Wales taking on South Africa in the Rugby World Cup, an alteration to the kick-off time for our fixture isn’t possible at such short notice.

“A change of kick-off time would involve consulting with the visiting team and the Football League, and due to the short period of time before the match, it would be unfair on the travelling team and supporters, many of whom would have made travel arrangements many weeks in advance.

“After the football has finished on Saturday, there will be outlets in the Bisley Stand that will remain open to show the rugby, so you can watch the conclusion of the action from Twickenham.”

Tickets for the Portsmouth match are still available online at www.newport-county.co.uk or from the club ticket office, which is open from 10am to 3pm until Thursday and 10am to 7pm on Friday.

Meanwhile, County have been drawn away to Cardiff Metropolitan in the second round of the FAW Youth Cup.

The Exiles youngsters, then coached by Mike Flynn, reached the semi-finals of the competition last season.

Regan Poole, now at Manchester United and current first team squad members Kieran Parselle, Tom Owen Evans, Aaron Collins, Lewis Bamford and Corey Sheppard all featured as County lost in a penalty shootout to Cardiff City in March.

Also in the southern section of the draw Cwmbran Celtic will host Caldicot Town and Goytre are at home to Cardiff City.

The matches are to be played on Sunday, November 8.