Newport season preview

The Black and Ambers pack reigned supreme for much of last season, but the plentiful possession it supplied was often squandered by a predictable back-line or the erratic boot of Shane Howarth.

The loss of Matthew Watkins to title rivals Llanelli is a blow for the new coaching partnership of Leigh Jones and Richard Hill, but the arrival of Springbok Percy Montgomery should provide an adequate replacement.

The adaptable Montgomery will add a much-needed injection of raw pace to the backline and his occasional bouts of the erratic should at least add to the excitable atmosphere at a packed Rodney Parade.

Ofisa Tonu'u is one of the best scrum-halves in the business despite appearing as if he has escaped from the front row, and the Black and Ambers will hope he stays injury free.

Peter Buxton's departure to Gloucester, coupled with the loss of Joe Powell to Swansea, is another blow, and the recruitment of former England flanker Steve Ojomoh is more of a stop-gap than a long-term replacement.

However, the backrow and front five still remain strong and should ensure that the likes of Ireland wing Matt Mostyn have plenty of ball to work with.