Match Preview

After an opening day win, Wheatley 1st XV look to build on last weeks 21-3 win as they travel over to league rivals Chipping Norton this Saturday.

Both Wheatley and Chippy are new to the BBO Championship having been relegated from the premiership at the end of last season after Wheatley failed to win enough games and Chippy failed to actually play enough games (naughty). Due to this, both teams start as league favourites and the early meeting will be a chance for both sides to show their intentions.

Last season saw Chipping Norton finish with the bragging rights, with a 26-10 win, followed by a 27-0 win and they would have finished 7th in the league above if it wasn't for a 25 point deduction due to 'Fixture irregularities'. Like Wheatley, Chippy got their season off to a winning start, beating a much improved Oxford side 16-0.

A strong opposition requires a strong side and the Purple men have answered the call. The front row triumvirate of Alex 'the non disgraced captain' Acklam, Pete Mitchell and Alex Gabbidon return to the fold with the support of the experienced Lock, Nick Banton in the engine room. New boy Caillin Taylor will get the chance to make the number 6 shirt his own and (along with Gabbidon at prop) keep sullied former Captain Pooch on the sidelines come his return from injury. Daniel Bland dodged Her Majesties customs and has returned from his debaucherous trip to Amsterdam to pull on the number 7 shirt, whilst in Jack Aktinson's absence, James 'pick and go' Butler starts at number 8.

Aaron 'Still kicks like a footballer' Laman will again start at scrum half, with his (rugby) partner Andy Willis taking fly half duties whether he likes it or not. The non tarnished Hobdell (Joe) retains his place at number 12, whilst Callum Fraser takes a step in from the wing to fill Sanda's vacated number 13 spot. After scoring two tries and dislocating his elbow against Shire Hall, Dan Rule misses the game, handing his wing spot over to Gav Stanton, who will be making his long awaited return from injury. The only non rugby playing Kiwi Craig Buddle makes his season debut on the other wing, whilst young Jordan Hook will continue his strong start to the season at full back. Jake Durbin completes the squad, sunning himself on the subs bench.

Wheatley are under no impressions of the quality of their opposition and know last weeks mistakes will need to be eliminated, but Chippy will be facing a new team full of self belief and confidence and so should be equally as wary.

Kick off 3pm away to Chipping Norton. 12.30 meet for players.