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TEAM NEWS | Five changes for Boxing Day
Mike Rayer has named his squad as Bedford Blues look to sign off 2022 in style when hosting the first Battle of Bedfordshire of this season in-front of a sell-out crowd at Goldington Road on Boxing Day.
After two tough outings on the road in recent weeks, Blues will look to conclude the first half of the Championship season by retaining their place in and around the Top Four, but are fully aware of the challenge that faces them against an Ampthill team who have found some joy at Goldington Road in recent seasons.
There’s not too much for either side to learn about the other with this the 13th meeting across a four-year period since a first on Boxing Day 2018 and Rayer makes five changes for the showpiece event compared to Jersey Reds last weekend.
That sees three alterations in the backs division as Michael Le Bourgeois returns from the shoulder injury that prevented him from a playing return to the island, while the Championship’s leading marksman, Will Maisey and George Hendy are also chosen in the Starting XV.
Hendy’s inclusion at full-back sees Matt Worley switch to his more familiar position on the wing.
The back five of the forwards pack remains unchanged from last weekend, while there are two front row changes to conclude the alterations within the side.
Osman Dimen is handed a first start of the season in the tighthead jersey, while Joey Conway returns on the other side of the scrum having fully recovered from injury. The prop duo will pack down either side of Jack Hughes.
Among the replacements, Kieran Curran – who joined the club earlier this week – goes straight in line for his Bedford Blues debut.
Bedford Blues Starting XV:
15. George Hendy, 14. Matt Worley, 13, Jamie Elliott, 12. Michael Le Bourgeois, 11. Dean Adamson, 10. Will Maisey, 9. Alex Day (C); 1. Joey Conway, 2. Jack Hughes, 3. Osman Dimen, 4. Luke Frost, 5. Robin Williams, 6. Karl Wilkins, 7. Jac Arthur, 8. Tui Uru
Bedford Blues Replacements:
16. Callum Burns, 17. Lewis Holsey, 18. Corrie Barrett, 19. Tom Lockett, 20. Kieran Curran, 21. Jake Garside, 22. Louis Grimoldby, 23. Tom Litchfield
