NEWPORT have taken command of Pool A of the Foster's Challenge Cup thanks to a hard-fought 17-11 victory against Cross Keys on Wednesday evening.

The Black and Ambers headed into the Rodney Parade fixture on the back of a bonus-point win at Bedwas in the three-team group.

However, it was Keys who went into the lead in a keenly-contested derby thanks to a pair of penalties by James Thomas.

It got better for the men from Pandy Park when Nathan Williams went over out wide to make it 11-0 but Newport battled back to get their noses in front at the break.

Centre Chay Smith went over for a try that fly-half Matt O'Brien converted and then turned provider to put wing Wes Cunliffe in, the extras making it 14-11 at half-time.

Max George, son of Newport hall of famer Glenn, was sin-binned early in the second half but Newport held firm and extended their lead through O'Brien's right peg.

Keys spent the closing stages pressing for a win but the Black and Ambers held on to take a step towards winning the group and qualifying for the semi-finals. The December block sees Keys host Newport then travel to Bedwas.

Ebbw Vale edged out Bargoed 12-10 in Pool Three but it looks like Merthyr will be the team to beat after recording a victory over holders Pontypridd.

The Steelmen struck late to deny the Bulls at Eugene Cross Park with fly-half Dai Langdon converting his own try at the death after adding to a score by back row Kier Hughes.

Merthyr sit on top of the group thanks a 36-15 romp against Ponty at the Wern, their second bonus-point success of the competition.

Bargoed host Ponty on December 7 while Ebbw welcome the Ironmen then the following week Merthyr entertain the Bulls and the Steelmen head to Sardis Road.

The Principality Premiership returns on Tuesday with a repeat of last season's Grand Final when champions Ebbw head to Ponty.