Match Preview

St Jacques Vikings play at home for the first time this season on Saturday, as part of a treble-header of matches at Footes Lane.

Captain Matt Lomas has been passed fit for the visit of Tottonians Seconds, and he returns to the side.

Last weekend the black-and-yellows recorded an excellent 51-14 victory against Chichester Seconds to get the new season off the a flier. They are hoping to extend that positive start this weekend.

This weeks visitors had a tough start at home last week, going down 29-53 to fellow newly promoted side, Locks Heath Pumas. They will no doubt be looking to bounce back this weekend.

Head Coach Ray Smart has been able to recall second row Tom Creed, who was unavailable last week. He will add additional quality and experience to the Vikings forwards pack this week. He with partners try-scorer last week, Jacob Smith, in the engine room.

The Vikings have previously faced off against Tottonians, back when the club competed in the Hampshire Solent League, but it has been several years since we last played each other. They too now have a strong first team playing at a higher level, so their quality cannot be dismissed.

A former regular for the Vikings from seasons gone by also makes his first competitive appearance in a number of years. Tom Rihoy is back from university and slots into the back row.

Dale Rutledge also returns to Smart’s side, having been playing with Guernsey Raiders so far this season. He will be a huge boost for the side at scrum-half, particularly in the absence of Pierre de Garis, who played very well last week.

Another young player is likely to be handed a debut from the replacements this week, as seventeen year old Will Creber is also named. He is the younger brother of the Raiders back row Matt Creber, and has recently received permission to play adult rugby.

The Vikings are looking to take a step forward from last week’s performance, as we find our feet at this new level.

Guernsey Raiders Men’s & Ladies sides are also in action, for a jam packed treble- header.

Vikings v Tottonians II - 11.30am
Ladies v Pulborough - 12.30pm (club pitch)
Raiders v Esher - 2pm

Entry to the Vikings game only is free, however you will need to pay the Raiders entry fee which can be refunded at the gate if you leave before their 2pm KO.