NEWPORT will get a chance to earn revenge against Carmarthen Quins in round one of the Swalec Cup, writes Chris Kirwan.

The Black and Ambers suffered a 31-20 defeat out west to their Principality Premiership rivals in the quarter-finals last season.

This time the clash will take place at Rodney Parade on the weekend of January 9 while there is another reunion between Gwent rivals – Bedwas thumped Pontypool 46-10 at Bridge Field in February but the Swalec Championship side will have home advantage this time.

Cross Keys, Ebbw Vale and Newbridge have all been given byes while holders Bridgend, who stunned Pontypridd at the Millennium Stadium for their first cup triumph in 35 years, travel to Beddau.

Round one: Beddau v Bridgend, Glynneath v Newcastle Emlyn, Llandovery v Cardiff, Llanelli v Cardiff, Llanelli v Tata Steel, Narberth v Merthyr, Neath v Bargoed, Newport v Carmarthen Quins, Pontypool v Bedwas, RGC 1404 v Llanharan, Swansea v Pontypridd.

Byes: Aberavon, Bridgend Athletic, Cardiff Met, Cross Keys, Ebbw Vale, Newbridge - Bedwas’ pre-season friendly against Glamorgan Wanderers in Ely next Wednesday has been cancelled.

Steve Law’s men host a warm-up fixture against Henley on Saturday, August 15 before travelling to Bargoed on Saturday, August 22 (both 2.30pm kick-offs).

They then take part in the Foster’s 7s at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park on Sunday, August 30 before opening their Premiership campaign against Carmarthen Quins at Bridge Field on Saturday, September 5.