NEWPORT are taking no notice of the embryonic Principality Premiership table ahead of Sunday afternoon's derby with Bedwas at Rodney Parade, writes Chris Kirwan.

The Black and Ambers have started the season strongly, albeit they were edged out by Cardiff last weekend, while Bedwas have struggled.

However, Newport forwards coach Ty Morris is swift to point out that the men from Bridge Field have lost three time to clubs likely to be in the title mix.

"They have had Pontypridd, Merthyr and Llandovery – it doesn't come much harder than that because they are all teams who will be in the top five at the end of the season," said Morris.

"Bedwas have had a tough start but we are under no illusions about how tough it will be against them. They will raise themselves for a Gwent derby.

"The conditions could dictate things with the weather that we have got at the moment. We will need to have a solid defence against their big ball carriers and really dictate the short game."

Newport started the season with bonus point successes against Carmarthen Quins and Bargoed but had to settle for a consolation bonus when beaten 29-27 at Cardiff Arms Park.

"We were disappointed to lose but I thought it was the best we have played this season," said Morris.

"Now we have to bounce back and get back to winning ways with Bedwas and Llanelli away. We want to get back up towards the top of the table."

Newport tinkered with their side for the capital with Morris changing seven of his starting pack, Dragons lock Rynard Landman the sole survivor.

"We've been given some selection headaches and a number of the boys have stepped up really well," said the forwards coach.

"There is competition for places and I hope that we reap the rewards of that as the season goes on."

The teams met four times last season with all three Premiership games going with home advantage, Newport sneaking the Rodney Parade game 28-25

The Black and Ambers won at Bridge Field on their way to the WRU National Cup final.