COACH Kristian Gay hopes that Newbridge can spring a surprise on Bridgend in the WRU National Cup tomorrow, writes Chris Kirwan.

'Bridge take a break from the pressure of a Championship relegation dogfight when they entertain the Ravens in the last 16.

The teams haven't met since 2005 and most will expect an away win despite Bridgend having their own battle against the drop in the Premiership.

"It's a big day for the club and an exciting chance for the boys to play against a Premiership side," said former Ebbw Vale prop Gay.

"We are the underdogs but if we put in a good performance then the result will look after itself, then that will give us a boost in the league.

"We will respect Bridgend, because they are a Premiership team, but we have to take it to them.

"They won't be expecting much from us because of where we are in the Championship but I'd like to think that we will surprise them."

The Pigs are buoyed by last week's fine 21-12 victory against Trebanos that gave their survival hopes a shot in the arm, although they remain in the four-team dropzone and their rivals have games in hand.

Newbridge have added to their management team with Gay and Scott Williams joined by Jason Williams with the former fly-half returning to the Welfare as kicking and defence coach.

While 'Bridge are trying to cause an upset, Bedwas attempt to avoid one when they head to Cardiff Met of the Championship.

The Students are coached by former Bridge Field boss Ian Gardner and sit second in the tussle to be runners-up behind runaway leaders Pontypool.

The cup is a release from the tension of the battle at the bottom of the Premiership for Bedwas, who rallied in the second half for a share of the spoils with Newport last weekend.

Stefan Sankala's side earned a place in round two with an away win at Rhydyfelin at the start of the month.

Bargoed are in deep trouble after losing to rivals Cross Keys at Pandy Park last week.

The Bulls have just Neath beneath them and need to string together a run of wins if they are to keep their hopes of beating the drop alive.

Tomorrow's clash at Swansea, one of four all-Premiership ties, presents the chance to build some confidence for a vital February that pits them against Cardiff (home), Bedwas (away) and Llanelli (home).

The Bulls, who beat Newcastle Emlyn in round one, endured a 50-7 thrashing when they headed to St Helen's in November.