Lions vs. Horsham:
Saturday 21st October promises a gripping encounter as the Lions lock horns with Horsham in a battle to escape the clutches of the lower league stratum. Horsham, last season’s Regional 2SE champions, raised eyebrows with a memorable Papa Johns Cup run culminating in a Twickenham final. Their form this term, however, has yet to mirror those heights, though a hard-fought victory against Maidenhead last week will certainly inject much-needed confidence.
Both sides find themselves uncomfortably ensconced at the league’s base, an undesirable position for any rugby enthusiast. The ramifications of a win extend far beyond mere points; it’s a chance to vault several places and reignite their campaign. The Lions’ lineup mirrors the formidable squad that impressed against Brighton, with an infusion of fresh faces. The pack remains a rock-solid foundation, while returning star Harry Warr promises a resurgence in the backs. With Hancox back in his natural habitat at inside centre, and a reshuffle on the wings, this Lions ensemble is poised for redemption.
A particularly notable acquisition comes in the form of Lewis Dennett, a seasoned fly-half with a globetrotting rugby odyssey. Dennett’s experience in both the Championship and the Australian Shoot Shield brings an intriguing dimension to the Lions’ attack. On the bench, the return of Meaden alongside the formidable Napier and Martin serves as a potent reminder of the depth at the Lions’ disposal. Chapel Gate is set to be the crucible of a resurgence, as the Lions aim to build on their spirited performance at Brighton.
Nomads vs. Eastleigh:
The Nomads face off against Eastleigh, helmed by the former Lions maestro, Will Croker. The season’s start hasn’t been kind to either side, with both clubs tallying a solitary victory in five outings. Eastleigh’s strength at home is a formidable factor, even in the face of adversity. The Nomads, beset by injuries and availability issues, have struggled to field their optimal lineup. Yet, this challenge presents an opportunity to defy the odds against a traditionally imposing Eastleigh side.
The Nomads’ lineup sees a significant reshaping, with new additions and familiar faces bolstering the ranks. Crawshaw and ????, the latest recruits, promise to infuse fresh dynamism into the squad. The return of Leadbetter adds further experience to the mix. The Nomads are poised to present a significantly stronger front than the unit that fell short against Trojans. With a reinvigorated side, they’ll be eyeing mid-table consolidation as they enter the weekend hiatus.
Wanderers vs. Puddletown:
In their third outing this season, the Wanderers confront league leaders Puddletown in a bid to shrug off early setbacks. Puddletown, with two wins and a solitary defeat, enter the fray as the pace-setters. Meanwhile, the Wanderers, grappling with injuries and administrative hiccups, find themselves in 8th place, hampered by a 5-point deduction. An emphatic 60-point triumph over Oakmeadians signals Puddletown’s intent, setting the stage for a fiery showdown.
The Wanderers’ roster is a harmonious blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents, each eager to etch their mark on this encounter. With experienced heads guiding the charge, the Wanderers are poised to showcase their mettle against the table-toppers. As they gear up to face whatever Puddletown has in store, the Wanderers stand resolute in their quest to make a resounding statement.
Keep your eyes peeled on social media for our full team announcements tomorrow from 4pm.
