Douglas have an unbeaten home record this season so it is a daunting task but one which coach McKinney is relishing. The Saints have competed well since promotion to this division and have only themselves to blame for notching up just two victories, thus far. Loss of patience and careless errors ending many promising attacks prematurely, has gifted our opponents more than their fair share of points. We have yet to learn the lesson to keep hold of the ball, eliminate risks and wait patiently for try-scoring opportunities to develop without being forced. Hopefully, with plenty of time to reflect on our game plan during the long pre-match preparations today, this will be the season's turning point; to break out of the cycle which sees us struggling in the drop zone.

The team will be missing the huge influence of Sammy Russell, who has work commitments, Louis McGowan, who is unable to travel and Adam Bramhall and James Whitelock-Wainwright who are both recovering from injury. But, Scott Southwell makes a welcome return at hooker having served 8 weeks on the side-lines for unwisely using inappropriate language allegedly directed at a didactic referee. (La lune ne garde aucune rancune!) Ben O'Connor, who has been getting rave reviews in the Crusaders, and scoring tries for fun, makes his debut on the wing. Returning to the match day squad, too, are Euan Nolan and Ben Sadler.

Finally, Douglas generously invited 12 Saints' officials to their pre-match lunch. Asking for place names they were surprised that all 12 had the surname "Kimpton"! The family are on the Island celebrating DOR Jamie Kimpton's birthday. Happy 60th Jimbo!