Millbrook, newly promoted this season, are familiar opponents for the Vikings, with the two sides having previously met during their time in Counties 2 Hampshire. The hosts have adjusted well to life at the higher level, earning one victory and narrowly missing out in two others — including a one-point defeat to Portsmouth last weekend. Although they also lost to Chichester by a similar margin to the Vikings, their opening performances have shown they are a disciplined and well-drilled side who compete fiercely across 80 minutes.

For the Vikings, the focus is on building momentum after last weekend’s encouraging display against Chichester at Footes Lane. While the 45–26 scoreline did not reflect the balance of play, the performance was a major step forward. The Vikings fronted up physically, created multiple try-scoring chances, and showed a marked improvement in set-piece and defensive structure. Having established that platform, Head Coach Layton Batiste is now challenging his side to replicate the intensity and accuracy for the full duration of the contest.

Training this week has been purposeful and detailed, with emphasis placed on maintaining defensive shape, improving decision-making under pressure, and staying switched on throughout each phase. Batiste has been pleased with how the group has responded to recent lessons, and the general feeling within the squad is that the pieces are beginning to fall into place.

The Vikings are strengthened by the inclusion of three Guernsey Raiders players – James Burger, Tom Bray, and Phoenix Mahy – who bring valuable experience and athleticism to the line-up. Burger and Bray’s addition bolsters the forward pack considerably, providing extra power at scrum time and a hard edge in close quarters. Mahy, meanwhile, returns to the side on the wing after missing last weekend and adds genuine pace and finishing ability on the outside channels.

Lucas Barker makes his first appearance of the season following injury and starts at scrum-half. A composed and experienced playmaker, Barker’s inclusion brings leadership and control at the base of the ruck, while his game management will be key in guiding the Vikings around the park. Gearoid Lee moves to the opposite wing, forming a lively and balanced partnership with Mahy, while in midfield Will Creber earns his first start of the season after his brother Tom Creber impressed with an outstanding defensive display against Chichester.

In the pack, Angus MacCallum, who made a notable impact off the bench last week, steps into the starting XV and continues to build on his impressive early-season form. He replaces Kieran Williamson, who is ruled out through injury, joining a forward unit that retains continuity through Jacob Smith, Mitch Smith, and co-captain Chris Croft. Their consistency in selection has helped stabilise the side’s platform up front, something Batiste and his coaching team have been keen to build upon.

The replacements bench offers both youthful promise and fresh energy. Francesco Rega is named to make his Vikings debut and will be eager to make an impression when called upon. He is joined by talented Guernsey Academy graduate Henry Watkin, who continues his development after a composed debut last weekend, and Marcus Whitfield, who provides experience and flexibility in the half-back and backline positions.

This weekend’s match presents another opportunity to demonstrate that progress. The group will look to impose themselves early, sustain intensity for the full 80 minutes, and continue to refine the defensive standards that have been a clear focus in recent weeks. If they can do that, the Vikings will have a good chance of returning to Guernsey on Saturday evening with a well-earned win.

Kick-off at Millbrook RFC is 1:00 pm on Saturday