Match Preview

The dragons are coming for St Jacques Vikings, as Basingstoke roll into town tomorrow looking breathe fire on the Vikings' unbeaten record.

The two sides will face off as the only remaining unbeaten teams in Counties Two Hampshire, and both will be looking to maintain their 100% start to the campaign.

The game will now be played at Les Ozouets Campus, having been moved from the Garenne Stand due to the wet weather, making two men’s games not possible on the pitch.

Whilst the Vikings have been on the rise in recent seasons, Basingstoke have come down a few levels but are in no doubt regrouping this season, as they seek to return to level seven As quickly as possible. This contest is likely to be a competitive test for both sides, with the Vikings hoping that playing on home soil for the first time since September will help improve their form.

They had a close call with Winchester Seconds last week, but eventually came through with a 29-27 victory following a second-half comeback. Basingstoke secured a more comprehensive 29-12 victory over Locks Heath Pumas at home.

Tom Creed missed the trip to Winchester through injury, but he returns to the Vikings side this weekend in the second-row. One of the most consistent performers in black-and-yellow this season, his return is timely for this big game.

Another big game player returning to the side is Dale Rutledge at scrum-half. He played for Guernsey Raiders last weekend, but will be back to help steer the Vikings ship on Saturday.

Matt Lomas will lead the Vikings from the wing, as Gearoid Lee slots back in at fullback having been unavailable last weekend. Niall McGann continues in the midfield, whilst Lucas Barker is promoted from the replacements last week to start on Saturday alongside McGann.

Kieran Creber has been ruled out of the squad this week, after he picked up an injury in training. It is not thought to be a significant setback, and he could return in the next few weeks.

In the forwards Tom Bray returns after a rest last weekend, he starts in the front row along with Darrin Bellingham and JP Phelan.

Liam Welch starts at number 8, whilst Mitch Smith and Phil Le Noury complete the back-row.

The Vikings have identified some areas from last week where they needed improvement, and have worked on that this week. Ray Smart and his coaching team will be hoping that comes to bare fruit on Saturday, if they are to continue their positive start to the season.

Kick-off is 12.30PM at Les Ozouets.

Guernsey Raiders men’s match against Canterbury in National Two East goes ahead on the Garenne at 3pm. Guernsey Ladies will also play Canterbury Ladies at 5pm at Footes Lane.

Come on down & support all three teams, on a bumper day of local rugby!