HARTPURY RUGBY Ehizode returns, Monks fit to start

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Created on Sunday, 18 April 2021 08:08

Last Updated on Sunday, 18 April 2021 08:15

Published on Sunday, 18 April 2021 08:08

Written by ANDREW BEACHAM

Hartpury will largely stick with the forward pack that helped them to a 15-13 home victory over Nottingham last time out, as they go looking for back-to-back wins in the visit to Ampthill today (1300ko).

The only change in the starting eight will be at lock, where the unlucky Scott Russell sustained a shoulder injury that will prevent him from playing again this season.

Fortunately, it is an area where Hartpury have some depth this season.  Ehize Ehizode returns to the starting line-up, with Arthur Clark continuing his development by offering real impact among the replacements.

Hard-carrying number 8 Morgan Monks (pictured) was also an early casualty against Nottingham but has made a good recovery and will be back to face Ampthill this afternoon.

On the bench, Ash Challenger, rotating back in for Mitch Walsh, is the only change.

The backs are more fluid, as a mixture of rotation and injury concern sees a number of ins and outs.

The debutant this week is Sam Smith, brother of centre Robbie, who makes his first competitive Hartpury appearance having previously played his rugby at neighbours Cinderford.  Sam has been training with Pury for a number of months.

Ben Foley and George Simpson are both recovering from knocks, although Foley – the club’s leading scorer – is fit enough to provide cover among the finishers.  This means that Wil Partington slots neatly back into the 15 shirt, with Jack Johnson completing the back three.

James Williams, who has been a stand-out presence in the Hartpury midfield this season, gets his first chance, since his return, to show what he can do as the starting outside half.  Joshua Bragman will be available from the bench and Luke Eves makes appearance 101, alongside Robbie Smith, in the centre.  Calum Waters returns as the back-up scrum-half, as Hartpury opt for a five/three split.

1. Lewis Holsey
2. Will Crane (c)
3. Shaun Knight
4. Dale Lemon
5. Ehize Ehizode
6. Will Safe
7. Max Clementson
8. Morgan Monks
9. Will Flinn
10. James Williams
11. Sam Smith
12. Luke Eves
13. Robbie Smith
14. Jack Johnson
15. Wil Partington

16. Nick Selway
17. George Porter
18. Ashley Challenger
19. Arthur Clark
20. Harry Wilson
21. Calum Waters
22. Joshua Bragman
23. Ben Foley

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