This week’s trip to Romsey marks the half-way point in the season for the Vikings, as they go in search of extending their perfect unbeaten record.

Ray Smart’s men come into the clash after a much needed week off, having previously played every weekend since the second week of the season. It is hoped with fresh bodies they will return to their imperious form, that has seen them chalk up ten victories on the bounce.

The opposition this week find themselves in 8th place in the table, with their most recent result a 17-17 draw against Fareham Heathens. The Vikings come into the clash following a hard fought 22-34 away victory over Andover Seconds.

Matt Lomas, the Vikings captain returns for this away trip, having been unavailable for the Andover match-up. He lines up at full-back, and is joined by a newer face on the wing, Sam Ferry

He has made one substitute appearance this season, but the former hockey player gets his first start of the season on Saturday. A former youth player, he has returned to the oval shaped ball game this season, and will want to impress with this opportunity.

James Mroch is unavailable this week, but thankfully two fellow experienced front-row players are again available to the Vikings. James Burger and James Beck return to the squad, and they join Corey Wallis.

Barney Paul has been a standout performer this season, but he is unavailable this week, meaning Tom Yarwood finally gets to make his seasonal debut for the Vikings 1st XV, having missed out several weeks ago, after he picked up a head injury in a friendly against Guernsey Vets.

Tom Veillard will steer the Vikings ship from fly-half this week. The versatile back can fulfil a number of positions to a high standard, but is very much at home in the no. 10 jersey.

Taylor Quate is missing this week, after he picked up an injury against Andover. It is not as severe as first feared, meaning he could be back in the black-and-yellow shirt sooner rather than later. In his absence, Joe Le Roux will get another opportunity in the outside-centre jersey, having impressed there earlier this season.

Oscar Bailey has received a call up to the Guernsey Raiders side tomorrow, but thankfully Lucas Barker returns to the centres to partner Le Roux. He is a big ball carrier, as well as a solid distributor and will have a big part to play this week.

Tom Creed also returns to the side in the second-row, whilst replacement prop Jack Brook is in line to play his second game of the season from the bench.

The Vikings will be keen to ensure they do not slip up this week, as they will want to go into the second half of this campaign remaining unbeaten.

Kick-off is 12.30PM & live updates will be available on the Vikings Facebook & Instagram stories.