BEDWAS are in command of the Gwent group of the Foster's Challenge Cup as Cross Keys and Newport prepare to clash in the development competition this evening (kick-off 7.15pm), writes Chris Kirwan.

Steve Law's side top Pool Three thanks to Saturday's comprehensive 46-0 victory against Newport at Bridge Field.

However, Cross Keys can keep the heat on Bedwas with a victory against the Black and Ambers, who still have four fixtures to fit into their hectic schedule.

The men from Bridge Field regained top spot from Ebbw Vale, who have one game left at Rodney Parade, by running in six tries at the weekend.

Back row forward Sam Feehan (2), centre Mike Callow, prop Keiron Jenkins, full-back Iwan Phillips and centre Adam Williams crossed in a one-sided affair.

Things promise to be tighter when the clubs meet again in the Principality Premiership this weekend, with Newport aiming to maintain their push for the play-offs, and by then Bedwas could have one foot in the Challenge Cup semi-finals.

Keys have no margin for error in tonight's game if they are to make the knockout stages – they are currently third and 10 points back on the leaders.

Failure to fire this evening would help Bedwas' cause, although the pacesetters only need one win from their remaining fixtures to cement a semi-final berth.

Pontypridd and Carmarthen Quins have already won the other groups with Bedwas, Keys and Newport still able to overhaul Cardiff's tally of 18 to enter the last four as the best runner-up.

Standings: Bedwas (P4, 16pts), Ebbw Vale (P5, 12 pts), Cross Keys (P3, 6pts), Newport (P2, 0pts).

Remaining fixtures: Cross Keys v Newport (tonight), Newport v Ebbw (February 2), Cross Keys v Bedwas, Newport v Bedwas, Newport v Cross Keys (dates TBC)