DORCHESTER need to defeat Bradford-on-Avon away tomorrow in a Wadworth 6X Southern Counties South relegation battle (2.15pm).

The county town side face a hugely important game against the division’s bottom side and will aim to pick up the bonus point on offer in a bid to climb away from the basement.

Bradford have won none of their games thus far and Dorchester only three. In the reverse fixture, Dorchester came out 45-24 on top and will need a good performance to build momentum.

In a slightly more cohesive game last weekend they narrowly lost 26-21 to Walcot and a more disciplined game should see them overcome this week’s opponents.

With a number of injuries still on the list, Dorchester again make changes. Liam Kershaw moves across to tighthead with Josh Ovey starting at hooker. Greg Hallett and Steve Tucker continue in the second row, with Josh Hosford returning to the back row.

Dave Gower is recalled to scrum-half following Louis Verkaik’s concussion whilst Jack Chatfield remains at full-back. Joe Prior provides front row cover from the bench along with Matt Read and Cameron Wills.

With the outcome of the game likely to have a big say in the relegation battle, Dorchester need a huge performance to get the win and build some confidence in a bid to chase down the teams above them in the league and remain in the Wadworth 6X Southern Counties South league.

The coaches and captains will be calling for each player to step up to the mark and play a disciplined and confident game.

With the seconds sitting clear at the top of Dorset & Wilts Two South, their recent performances have deserved that position. This week they welcome Wimborne Thirds who sit one from bottom in the league.

With some local pride at stake this will not be an easy game for Rob Parker’s men. Dorchester racked up 50 points in the away fixture and will want to pick up another big win to boost their points total.

With Chris Elliott out for what appears to be the rest of the season, the front row make changes, bringing in Dave Rawles. Parker opts for the experience of Dave Clark at scrum-half and Matt Fry in the centre to take the game to the opposition. Kick-off is 2.15pm.

The Gladiators’ XV are hoping that Blandford Seconds can field a team having called off their previous Dorset & Wilts Three South fixture.

Tony O’Connell fields a strong squad of experience and flair, looking to pick up the full five points to put the team in contention and close the gap to Poole. Kick-off is 2.15pm.

On Sunday morning, Dorchester’s under-13s lock horns with North Dorset and the Colts take on Trowbridge in the Dorset & Wilts Cup (2pm).

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