NEWPORT County AFC’s League Two clash with Swindon Town at Rodney Parade next month has been brought forward.

The fixture will be played on Saturday, February 4 at 12.45pm rather than 3pm with the Exiles stating it is a “decision that has been made due to safety concerns”.

Swindon, County’s closest rivals in League Two this season, are likely to sell out their allocation of tickets of just over 1,100.

Last season a Robins fan was given a three-year ban after running onto the pitch at Rodney Parade to celebrate Jack Payne’s last-gasp winner.

The game takes place on the same day as Wales’ Six Nations opener against Ireland, which kicks off at 2.15pm in Cardiff.

That Principality Stadium fixture is likely to lead to the M4 and trains being busy, along with Newport city centre.