GREG Woods famously helped guide Cross Keys to the WRU National Cup for the first time in the club’s history six years ago – now he is looking to repeat the feat with Ebbw Vale.

The trophy has eluded the Steelmen since the cup’s inception in 1972, with their final defeat to Llanelli in 1998 the closest they have come to winning it.

But if Woods’ record at former club Cross Keys is anything to go by then Ebbw could well mount a serious challenge for the competition’s top prize this season.

Woods makes his debut as Ebbw head coach today as the Eugene Cross Park outfit bid for a place in the last eight at the Brewery Field against Bridgend (2.30pm).

“The club has made me feel very welcome,” said Woods following his arrival from Pandy Park after Key’s first-round victory over Pontypridd.

“I just want the games to come thick and fast now because it has been a bit of a lull since the last cup tie.

“I think the cup is wide open. Two big sides went out in the last round and there are some meaty fixtures in this round.

“There’s a final for us at Bridgend. It is difficult being away from home in the cup but if the guys play with the same energy and heart then it’s all to play for.

“They are going into this on the back of three wins so they are in a good place.

"I’ve told the players how important the cup was for me at Keys and I’m just looking forward to the challenge.

“Performances go out the window, it’s about making sure you’ve got enough points on the board – we’ve got to play smart cup rugby.”

On his task at Ebbw, he added: “I’m keeping an open mind and giving people opportunities to see how they play.

“I’m not trying to change too much but over time I’ll naturally put my stamp on the side.

“I’ve told them what I expect and their training so far has been excellent.

“We’ve got an experienced core group of players, which I’m used to dealing with, and I look forward to working with them.”

Elsewhere today, Keys host Bedlinog, Pontypool entertain Carmarthen Quins, Bedwas go to Beddau and Bargoed have home advantage against Rhydyfelin.

Merthyr go to Cardiff and Llanelli visit Llandovery, while Newport welcome Aberavon to Rodney Parade tomorrow.