CROSS Keys return to league action this weekend after sealing their place in the cup semi-finals, with head coach Greg Woods praising the impact of skipper Scott Matthews since his return from injury.

Back row ace Matthews made his first start in five months last Saturday, leading Keys to a 19-3 victory over Pontypool at Pandy Park in the last eight of the WRU National Cup.

That win was a seventh in succession for Keys in all competitions, and they can make it eight in a row tomorrow when they welcome Bargoed in tier two of the Principality Premiership (kick-off 2.30pm).

Captain Matthews ruptured ankle ligaments against Llandovery last October and so missed the previous meeting between the sides this season at Bargoed Park on November 4.

Keys came out on top 23-16 back then and start tomorrow’s encounter as favourites after winning all three of their opening tier two fixtures.

That said, Bargoed have only played one match since the league split, and they won it, beating Swansea 18-13 at St Helen’s.

“Places are up for grabs and this is another huge Gwent derby,” said Woods. “After last weekend’s game the boys can’t wait to play again.

“Everyone is enjoying the cup run but it’s back to the league now.

“There are no new injuries in the squad and everyone is looking healthy.”

Speaking about Matthews, he added: “I was very impressed with Scott against Pontypool, he was magnificent, and they couldn’t handle him. He was winning turnovers and carrying, and it took three to tackle him.

“He was destructive in the contact area in attack and defence, but that was why he was Premiership player of the year a couple of seasons ago.

“He was out for five months and we certainly missed him – he’s a quality player.”

The carrot of a place in the side to face Pontypridd in the semi-finals of the cup later this month is a big incentive for the Keys players to keep performing well.

Those currently occupying the jerseys in the starting XV will hope to hold on to them in the coming weeks so they can have the chance to take Keys into just a third cup final in the club’s long history.