Match Preview

Back to business, that is the message from St Jacques Vikings head coach Ray Smart this week ahead of their clash with Bracknell on Saturday afternoon at the KGV.

After two back-to-back friendly fixtures that saw the Vikings rotate their squad and start 28 separate players over the two matches, this week they are focussed on producing a step in performance once again and hopefully overturning their 39-29 loss to Bracknell from earlier this season.

As the black-and-yellows move towards the business end of the season, Smart is keen for his side to continue their rapid development. He said ahead of this game:

‘The challenge for our players after the last two friendly games is to see if we can bring some of what we learned about our game in those matches, into the more intense league environment.’

‘The weather and pitch will no doubt have a part to play this week and how each team reacts to that will have a big influence on the game.’

Bracknell are currently 4th in the Shield Division Two, having won their last two games and prior to that they took the league leaders Bury St Edmonds close, before eventually falling six points short. They are expected to be bringing a strong squad, in what could prove a massive test for the Vikings.

The home side welcome back a host of regular players who either sat our last week or were on the bench. This includes the Vikings captain Leon Gardner, the imposing Dave Harvey, Alex Lock, and Taylor Quate.

Mike Agyei-King also returns after a weeks rest, whilst big new centre Sean Gnanih is in line to play just his second game for the club.

James Regnard has failed to recover from a broken toe, but Jacob Smith who has impressed this season at number 8 continues.

The match kicks off at 2pm down the KGV.