CROSS Keys are looking to build up a head of steam when they take on Bridgend at the Brewery Field tomorrow afternoon, writes Chris Kirwan.

The Pandy Park outfit sit in fifth place in the Principality Premiership and, while there is a 12-point gap to the final playoff berth, last season's runners-up haven't given up hope of extending their season into May.

December was a tricky month, pitting Keys against three strong English sides in the British and Irish Cup as well as runaway leaders Pontypridd, but they ended on a high with a hard-earned home win against Newport.

They emerged triumphant in the mud thanks to a try by flanker Scott Matthews, three penalties by fly-half Ethan Davies and some determined defence.

Now they are hoping a settled line-up enables them to build some momentum with a Swalec Cup cracker against Llanelli at Parc y Scarlets looming next weekend.

"I was pleased with the Newport game, it was a good win in tough conditions against a side that fought really hard," said head coach Greg Woods.

"Bridgend is a different challenge and the Brewery Field isn't a particularly happy hunting ground for us. We have got to be positive and take the game to them.

"They had a poor result last weekend (losing 58-21 in Llanelli) and will be determined to hit back, while we are looking for consistency.

"It's a big few weeks for us with this game then the cup and we want to keep challenging on two fronts. I don't think third place in the league is gone yet but it's vital that we string some results together."

Keys are yet to win back-to-back Premiership games this term and lost last year's corresponding fixture 21-6, although it was the final game of the regular season and had no impact on the final standings.