Ray Smart’s side sit top of the Counties 3 Hampshire table after securing bigs wins in their opening two games, but after a week off due to the late Queens funeral, a differing side will take to the field this week.

It is in the forwards where most of the changes occur, all three of the Smith brothers are on holiday for a few weeks, James Mroch is also unavailable & Tom Creed is out with an injured hamstring.

James Beck, who has recently moved to the island to boost front-row numbers within the Raiders camp gets an opportunity for some game time with the Vikings. He is also joined by Liam Welch, who has played for the black-and-yellows on several occasions last season, and brings an explosive option at number 8.

One noticeable name on the Vikings team-sheet is Rory Jones, the brother of former Cornish Pirates professional & now coach of the Raiders, Luke Jones. Rory was a longtime player in the local rugby scene, before he stepped away some years ago. He is now back involved and makes his first appearance of the season at full-back.

The Pumas have also started this season with two victories, and they will likely be the strongest side the Vikings have faced this season so far. The real test for St Jacques will now be how do the they fair, with many of their experienced players not involved this week. If nothing else, this provides a great opportunity for others players to stake their claim.

Although the forward pack has changed significantly, the back-line remains fairly settled, with the change of Jones the only difference from the recent win over Portsmouth Seconds. Skipper Matt Lomas does move from full-back to fly-half in a positional adjustment however.

Tom Veillard produced an assured performance at inside centre two weeks ago, and in partnering with Lomas the Vikings should have two quality playmakers on the field, which will only help their chances this weekend.

James Burger is also back in the Vikings side, after being required by Raiders in recent weeks. The back-row come new hooker is gaining valuable experience up front, as he makes the transition into his new position. He was very influential in the opening weekend victory over Fareham, and no doubt will have a big part to play against the Pumas.

Alex Lock also returns after holiday, this week in the back-row rather than at hooker, and Keiran Williamson is also back in the second-row engine room. He partners with Tor Ritchie-Bandy who is involved for the first time this season.

Barney Paul is on the replacements bench, fresh from his fleet footed half-marathon run last weekend. Jamie Mahy & Ivan Donaldson are also set to earn their first minutes this season, when they enter the fray as finishers.