EBBW Vale full-back Matt James will be seeing points today as he looks to put the boot into Cardiff at the Arms Park.

Rather than the chance to achieve a rare double - after Cardiff were humbled 22-20 at Eugene Cross Park last December, James just wants to get his kicking boots on.

The 24-year-old is being switched from full-back to outside half to cover for the injured Scott Mitchell even though it is not his first-choice position.

With Vale second from bottom, James says the team are treating every game as a need for points in the Welsh/Scottish league which will guarantee their future.

Ebbw Vale, Neath and Caerphilly are the three top-flight clubs left out in the cold by the so-called 'Gang of Six' - and any chance they get to beat one of the six needs to be taken.

Earlier in the week, Rudy Joubert said Cardiff feel they owe Ebbw a win, but Vale and James will be doing everything in their power to make sure results on the pitch to demand their inclusion in plans for next season.

James said: "It's points, not the opposition, we are worried about. It's the same for Neath and Caerphilly to make sure they are as high as possible in the table, it's not nice to drop anyone at the end of the season."

Playing fly half for Garndiffaith a few years ago is hardly the ideal preparation for running out in the number ten shirt at the Arms Park, but with his smooth skills and footballing ability, James is well equipped to cope with the task.

Having played for Newbridge last season, James said: "I am a more accomplished now, I found my feet after a few games and I have matured a lot as a player.

"I was keen to establish myself as a full-back, but as a professional player you have to be prepared to play anywhere."

Cardiff are playing their cards close to their chest and will finalise their side before kick-off having named a squad, but Iestyn Harris is set to face James at fly-half.

Vale coach Mike Ruddock is looking forward to the tie and says the pressure will be off the Steelmen, while Cardiff are desperate for the win to keep their hopes of challenging for the league title.

Ruddock has made up his mind about his starting line-up for today's game, with captain Chay Billen taking a place on the bench.

Vale's under-21 player Daniel Rogers has been given a place on the bench with Andrew Wagstaff taking his place in the starting line-up.

Rhys Williams has been handed the number six shirt ahead of Kati Tuipulotu after recent impressive displays.