After impressively retaining the Investec Inter-Insular trophy last weekend, it is back to league action for St Jacques Vikings on Saturday as they travel to Ealing Trailfinders Under 23’s.

Ray Smart’s side last faced off against the West London club at the KGV in November, when they came away 29-20 victors.

The Vikings have developed significantly this season, playing at this higher level has meant they have had to find ways to improve their game, and whilst it has taken time, last weekend against Jersey this showed as they executed a game plan with control and precision.

For this away trip, they are able to name a returning Guernsey Raider who has been out of action for sometime with injury. Matt Thomas, who played a key role for the Raiders earlier this season in the back-row has struggled with various injuries since, but is now deemed fit and will add experience and power at the base of the scrum for the Vikings.

Taylor Quate is also back in the side after missing last week due to being on holiday. Quate is undoubtedly one of the most influential players for Ray Smart’s side, with power and pace he will add real a threat at outside-centre.

Reece De Jersey is unavailable this week, meaning Gearoid Lee starts at flyhalf. The La Mare De Carteret school teacher is a versatile player, and has played a range of positions amongst the backs this season, but the halfback role is his natural position. It is hoped he can go well and open up opportunities for the Vikings.

Another Vikings player who has been missing for a while is Callum Gladstone. The inside-centre has had a torrid run of injuries but has worked hard to get fit, and he will offer sound defence and a strong running option outside of Lee.

On the bench, Mitch Smith is rested after producing a huge shift last weekend, whilst young Tom Yarwood will likely get another opportunity to show what he can offer in the back-row. Former Guernsey Raiders scrum-half Dale Rutledge is also named, as makes his first game following returning to the island.

Smart will be hoping that his side can continue to build this week and come away with an important victory as they seek to climb up Raging Bull Shield ladder at the business end of the season.

Nico Ashplant
Leon Gardner (c)
Tom Bray
Jacob Smith
Dave Harvey
Tom Creed
Tor Ritchie-Bandy
Matt Thomas
Nico Alexandre
Gearoid Lee
Kieran Creber
Callum Gladstone
Taylor Quate
Cameron Le Prevost
Matthew Lomas

Michael Smith
Mitch Smith
Tom Yarwood
Dale Rutledge
Cashel Cahill