NEWPORT head coach Craig Warlow hopes to use his specialist knowledge of Aberavon to down his former side on Saturday.

He was backs coach at the Wizards before first joining the staff at the Black and Ambers in January 2014 in the same capacity.

Appointed Newport chief earlier this year, he is plotting to inflict a first defeat of the season on his old employers when he and his team travel there this weekend.

Aberavon have won four out of four in the league so far, something that certainly doesn't amaze Warlow.

"I'm not surprised to see them doing so well," he said. "I know a lot of the people involved down there and know how hard they work.

"They have some very mature players who know how to play good rugby."

Newport themselves are showing much promise this season after an ignominious campaign last season and have won two out of their four Principality Premiership encounters so far.

Last week they edged a Gwent derby thriller, beating Bedwas 24-22 at Rodney Parade in a showdown the hosts won somewhat fortuitously, as Warlow was quick to point out.

"It was a real test of character for us more than anything," he admitted. "Bedwas missed numerous opportunities and we had the luxury of somehow being 24-6 up early in the second half.

"But we just managed to ride the storm in the last 20 minutes and hold on.

"It's important for us to get the ball against Aberavon, keep possession and go through the phases. Every coach will tell you that."

Newport warmed up for Saturday with a midweek friendly against the Welsh Guards which the Black and Ambers won 59-0 at home.

The fixture was organised not only to help celebrate the regiment's 100th anniversary, but also remember First World War hero Stanley Horatio Williams, a legendary Black and Ambers figure.

"It was a very useful exercise for us against the Welsh Guards," Warlow said. "A few young talented players have stuck their hand up for selection.

"Full-back Ed Howley has a fine array of skills and I thought Aeron Bidgood was electric at scrum-half. There is an awful lot of talent in Gwent which we are focused on unearthing."

Newport scored nine tries against the 2013 British Army champions through Howley (2), Bidgood, wings Tomos Howells (2) and Jonathan Morris, centres Paul King and Andrew King as well as hooker Henry Palmer. Outside half Julian Mogg kicked seven conversions.