THE race for the Division 1 title is likely to be as competitive as ever this season.

After missing out on promotion last season, Underwood will again be one of the main challengers but Severn Tunnel and Thornwell are bound to offer stiff opposition.

Add in the extra incentive for Mathern Reserves players to show why they should be in the Gwent County League side and there are unlikely to be any easy matches in the league’s top flight.

Undy Athletic will again be a force to reckon with, providing their best players are not required for the club’s Welsh League matches, and Severn Bridge will want to show they deserve to be in the division having been promoted from Division 2.

Bridge entertain Chepstow Athletic on Saturday while Caldicot Town are home to Caldicot Castle A.

Mathern Reserves A are at Seven Tunnel A, Undy welcome Thornwell while Tintern Abbey are home to Underwood SC A

In Division 2, Severn Tunnel C are home to Portskewett & Sudbrook, Chepstow Town entertain Sudbrook CC and Severn Tunnel B visit Thornwell.

Underwood SC B welcome Mathern Reserves B with Caldicot Castle having to wait another week for league action.

All games kick-off at 2.45pm