Saracens First Up For Returning Reds

Saturday, 13 March 2021 11:35

Jersey Reds will play a competitive match today for the first time in more than a year.

Recently-relegated Saracens are the opponents. They suffered defeat to Cornish Pirates in their first match of the season last week.

Tough result, we'll be back.

Well played, @CornishPirates1. #StrongerTogether ⚫️🔴 pic.twitter.com/Rfp3TOiMi1
— Saracens Rugby Club (@Saracens) March 6, 2021

Reds Director of Rugby Harvey Biljon says that sets up the match perfectly.

"Undoubtedly there is a reason Saracens are the giant that they are - it's because they've been in this situation before, they've prepared and would be composed and ready to come back.

"We're expecting them to try and set the record straight."

Jersey had a bye last weekend and are the only RFU Championship side not to get underway yet.

Seven players will make their debuts, with Lewis Wynne named as captain.

Scott van Breda has returned to the club on loan and will start at centre.

Biljon says it's a huge boost to have him back.

"Scott will bring not only experience and composure into a big game, but we've needed players - especially with the number of injuries we've got.

"We've got Kurt Heatherley, Ryan Hutler, Sam Leeming, Jack Roberts. All of these guys have been out for a fair while and while we've got these injuries we've needed a boost and Scott has definitely added that."

Saracens are without some big names such as the Vunipola brothers, as they are with the England camp at the Six Nations tournament.

The match starts at 1:30pm.