Centre Steve Bryant is set to return from injury for trip to Bristol where Redingensians Rams take on Old Redcliffians in National 3 South West (2.30pm).

Bryant has recovered from a nose operation so the side is likely to be at near full strength after last week’s disruption against Old Patesians.

James Brooks and Luke Flower resume at half-back, Ollie Poole is on the wing and versatile skipper Andy Amor reverts to the No 6 shirt. Matt Weller comes into the front row because of teacher Jack Steadman’s school commitments.

Rams have shown their potential in winning seven out of eight games – perhaps not always prettily – and are third just three points behind leaders Exmouth with a game in hand.

Rams coach Mike Tewkesbury admits: “It’s another difficult encounter against West Country opposition.

“These sides are determined, whatever their position in the league, and don’t just roll over. We had to work hard to beat Old Centralians and Pats in the last two games.”

“The boys will have to be more clinical in their finishing and turn possession into points.”

Rams: Duffelen; Poole, Bryant, Massey, Foxley; Flower, Brooks; Weller, Henderson, Baker, Bryson, Hughes, Amor, Hopkins, Guttridge. Reps: Steadman, Davies, A N Other.

Reading RFC

READING RFC return to Southern Counties North action when they host second-bottom Buckingham on Saturday (2pm ko).

Reading Abbey RFC

READING Abbey face a crunch clash in the Berks, Bucks & Oxon Premier against the league’s other unbeaten side, Swindon College Old Boys.

Abbey sit one point above their visitors this Saturday ahead of the top-of-the-table contest at Rosehill (2.30pm ko).