NEWTOWN renew rivalries with Aberystwyth Town in the semi-finals of the J D Welsh Cup on Sunday (12pm.)

Bala Town’s Maes Tegid ground hosts the latest chapter in a famous rivalry born throughout 134 years of jostling for dominance.

Robins manager Chris Hughes returns to the bench following a three match touchline ban and urged his players to seize the day.

“It’s a huge game for both clubs,” said Hughes.

“We have played each other a lot during the last few years and each game is a battle and one both sets of fans look forward to.”

Hughes insisted he had no preference of semi-final opposition despite the other tie pitting Bangor City and Connahs Quay Nomads.

“Any club which reaches the semi-final have done so on merit,” said Hughes. “Bangor, Connahs Quay and Aberystwyth have each done well to reach the last four and will fancy their chances of winning the cup outright.

“We have done well in the cups during my time at Newtown and I would expect the players to use their experience of winning and losing semi-finals on Sunday.”

Hughes welcomes playmaker Ryan Kershaw back to the fold from suspension while midfielder Jay Denny is also back in the mix.

However defender Callum Roberts is cup tied while long term injury has claimed Jamie Reed and Jamie Price.

“We are making the trip with confidence,” said Hughes.

“I have heard a few complaints about the kick off time and venue but it was never something we could influence.

“All we can do is ensure we are ready come 12pm on Sunday and prepared for the game.”

Hughes remained upbeat despite defeat to Carmarthen Town last week.

“I thought we controlled the game but a poor start to the second-half cost us in the end,” said Hughes. “We just left ourselves with too much to do.

“However I think we can be happy with the fact the lads never gave up and that is encouraging as we head into the big game on Sunday.”

Newtown lost to Aberystwyth Town just last month and will end their season at Park Avenue at the end of this month.

However the Robins have come out on top in the big games between the sides in recent years, none more so than the play-off final in 2015 which saw Newtown snatch a Europa League spot from under the noses of their traditional Mid Wales rivals.

“We have had some good games and bad games against Aberystwyth,” said Hughes. “Hopefully we come out on top on Sunday.”