FOLLOWING two strong wins last weekend, Dorchester’s first and second teams look to end the year on a high note.

The first XV travel to Salisbury to take on their second string in Wadworths 6X Dorset & Wilts One South, whilst the seconds entertain Salisbury Thirds in Two South at Coburg Road.

Both kick off at 2.15pm.

Currently top of the table by two points, first-team coach Ben Parker is keen for his side to remain there over the Christmas break.

With as Parker calls it “The curse of Christmas” there are a number of changes in his previously settled side.

Alan Gale moves into the front row and the injured Lee King is replaced by Brad Mullins.

Last week’s try-scoring debutant Thomas Harries makes the starting line up replacing the unavailable James Newsam.

Jack Ward also steps up into the first team from the colts following some good second XV showings, yet more young talent coming through the junior section at the club.

Both Harry Wheeler and Luc Scadden also return to the first team, Scadden having scored a number of tries in the second team’s demolition of Oakmeadians Seconds last weekend.

Despite the changes and several players being unavailable, Parker points out it shows the club in a strong position with younger talent coming through to fill the spaces.

He said: “If you’re good enough you’re old enough.

“Discipline and handling have been the focus this week, and despite poor conditions we have trained hard in preparation for the weekend.”

Meanwhile, Weymouth & Portland forwards coach Simon Litster is hoping for a repeat of his side 22-20 win over North Dorset Seconds when the Seahorses travel to New Milton Seconds in Dorset & Wilts One South tomorrow.

He said: “Let’s hope for a repeat this week. We’re hoping to get our third win and take some pressure off ourselves. After Christmas we start with the return fixtures.”

Dorchester’s second XV squad sees Liam Kershaw continuing his run of games and the inimitable Chris Elliott continue his comeback from injury.

Captain Rob Parker will look to repeat last weekend’s fantastic performance and pick up another big win.

Following the senior games tomorrow, the club’s annual Christmas party is taking place (6.30pm).

Other games this weekend at Coburg Road see three Dorset & Wilts Cup games for the county town under-12s, 13s and 14s. They welcome Bournemouth, North Dorset and Bridport respectively