Match Preview

Bees intent to dent Lichfield’s 100% record

The Bees welcome Lichfield to Portway this Saturday (26th September, KO 3pm) looking to dent their visitors 100% record.

Whilst the Bees have yet to register a league win in their first three games, Lichfield In contrast, have an unbeaten record so far, having defeated Sandbach 21-0 in their opening home game, narrowly beating Scunthorpe 20-24 on the road then beating Sutton Coldfield 58-19 last weekend.

“It is fair to say that the first three results have not gone the way we intended” said Bees Head of Rugby, Ian Matthews

“However, in each game the players have made progress and have shown glimpses of the rugby they are capable of producing. This week’s’ home game against Lichfield is the perfect opportunity for the players and the club to get the season up and running and play for 80 minutes.”

Injuries and availability issues will give an opportunity to further test the depth of the squad against a side who will no doubt present another stern challenge for the Bees.

In the back row Darren Forder makes a welcome return from injury, partnering Ash Scriven and Rob Gregg. In the front row, former strong man Kurtis Payne comes in at tight-head to make his league debut in a Bees shirt whilst at hooker, Michael Singleton comes in for Will Priestley having recovered from a head knock in pre-season.

Talking of hookers, in the backs Marty Hooker returns at scrum half and Jack Jolly will take the helm at 10 this week. In the centres, Mikey Whittle – who made his debut from the bench last week against Hinckley - makes his first start, partnering the industrious Wayne Child.

In the back three, Jimmy Oliver moves back onto the wing, with Ian Briggs returning at 15 following two impressive performances in the Development XV.

Dan Toth also gets the nod on the bench, joining Adam Gwilliam and the versatile Chris Fensome.

Birmingham & Solihull team selected v Lichfield Saturday 26th September 3pm KO:-

Ian Briggs, Jimmy Oliver, Mikey Whittle, Wayne Child, Nyle Beckett, Jack Jolly, Marty Hooker, Darren Forder, Ashley Scriven, Rob Gregg, Chris Goddard©, Matt Spink, Kurtis Payne, Mike Singleton and Pete Koziot. Replacements – Dan Toth, Adam Gwillam and Chris Fensome.

The Development side make the trip to play Luctonians 2nds (Saturday 26th KO 3pm).