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TEAM NEWS | Squad named for Derby Day
Mike Rayer has named his squad as Bedford Blues look to end their Premiership Rugby Cup exploits on a strong footing when making the short trip to Ampthill on Saturday (KO 2pm).
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There’s not too much left to learn for either side with this the third fixture between the two teams this season, and 19th since 2019/20, with both have having their standout moments over that timeframe.
Bedford have taken the Derby Day spoils on both occasions at Goldington Road in 24/25 but will be wary of retaliation from their neighbours who will look to benefit from home advantage at The Olney Field.
Over 50 points have been shared in recent times and another humdinger is again expected in-front of a strong attendance.
For the game, Rayer makes six changes to the Starting XV which battled to a thrilling victory over Premiership heavyweights, Bristol Bears last time out.
Rotation of the front row jerseys continues as Joey Conway and Tommy Herman are restored, while Joe Howard completes a hat-trick of forwards alterations in the blindside flanker position.
There is the same number of changes in the backs division including a return on the wing for Jake Garside, his third Blues appearance of the season, while Joel Matavesi and club captain, Alex Day are also chosen from the first whistle.
Among the replacements, there is a welcome return for Rory Ward after HIA protocol, however Rayer remains without six members of his squad this weekend.
Bedford Blues Starting XV:
15. Louis James, 14. Jake Garside, 13. Lucas Titherington, 12. Joel Matavesi, 11. Matt Worley, 10. Will Maisey, 9. Alex Day (C); 1. Joey Conway, 2. Tommy Herman, 3. Oisin Heffernan, 4. Luke Frost, 5. Alex Woolford, 6. Joe Howard, 7. Jac Arthur, 8. Fred Tuilagi
Bedford Blues Replacements:
16. Nathan Langdon, 17. Jamie Jack, 18. Austin Hay, 19. Rory Ward, 20. Cameron King, 21. James Lennon, 22. Ewan Baker, 23. Michael Le Bourgeois
Unavailable for selection this week:
James Fish, Shay Kerry, Dean Adamson, Jamie Elliott, Pat Tapley, Alfie Garside
