FOLLOWING two close-fought wins in the Wadworth 6x Dorset & Wilts One South, this weekend Dorchester’s first XV head into Vase action against Pewsey Vale in Wiltshire.

Both clubs play at the same league level with Dorchester currently second in their league while Pewsey Vale lie eighth in Dorset & Wilts One North.

Both clubs had similar league records last season and the expectation is for a close fought even match.

Last season saw Dorchester Seconds get to the final of the Vase competition and the club are aiming high this season so nothing less than a win will satisfy coach Ben Parker.

With only the one senior game this weekend, Parker has a full squad to pick his side from.

Following the selection meeting Parker said “This week’s selection has been good, with nine players returning, it has eased the pressure of recent weeks

“We have been back on the training pitch and working on points from Saturday’s close call against North Dorset.

“We are continuing to build momentum but cup games always present a different challenge.

“I don’t expect this to be any different and we are fired up to face some new opposition.”

With the hard-running Sam Jones taking a minor knock, he is rested and James Harries takes over in the back row.

Rob Parker remains at number 10 after a good performance against North Dorset and Laurence Burch takes a spot on the bench after leading the second XV last weekend.

The game kicks off at 2.30pm at Pewsey Vale and with a strong starting line-up and an experienced bench in place, Parker fancies his side’s chances.

Sunday at Coburg Road will be a busy morning for the youth section, with the under-7s and under-11s entertaining Oakmeadians, while the other age groups play away at Weymouth, Lytchett Minster, Blandford and Bridport.