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Stockton Vs Rovers

Stockton Vs Rovers

darren smith

Rovers head south on the A19 to face Stockton.

Rovers make the short trip to Stockton this weekend to take on Stockton 2nd XV, looking to maintain their 100 per cent start to the season and build on last week's tremendous victory over Redcar. The free-scoring Friaragemen have produced some excellent rugby so far this campaign and will be aiming to keep that momentum going.

There are a couple of changes to the side that impressed last weekend. Second-row pair Wilson and Calvert are unavailable, so Tyler Dean and Shane Jeffery come into the engine room. Winersgill returns to hooker following a warm-weather training camp, while Joe Little comes into the back row in place of Charters. Up front, props Clayton and Smith join captain Gunn and vice-captain Vincent in a pack that will be looking to lay the platform for another strong attacking display.

There is a familiar half-back partnership behind the scrum, with Stephenson at scrum-half and Barnfield at stand-off continuing a combination that has functioned so well throughout the season. Lithgo and Rochester line up in the centres, while a dangerous back three of Dixon, Keers and Trimble provide plenty of pace and power out wide. Trimble will be hoping to continue his outstanding form after crossing for five tries in last week's victory over Redcar.

The replacements bench features exciting young prospects Dunn and Owen alongside Pugh, Railton and Sanderson, giving Rovers plenty of quality options to call upon during the afternoon.

Supporters are reminded that kick-off is now the earlier time of 2.00pm, with the match taking place at Grangefield Academy.

Unfortunately, there is no fixture for the Heughers this weekend after Stockton 3rd XV were unable to field a side. While this is naturally disappointing for the players and coaches, everyone at Rovers understands the challenges clubs can face. Stockton are currently dealing with a number of injuries and availability issues, and we wish them every success in getting players back on the field and their three senior sides up and running again in the weeks ahead.

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