CRAIG CHALMERS has made two changes to his team ahead of Melroses’ second British & Irish Cup match against Llandovery this weekend, writes Fiona Scott.
Roddy Grant is available from Edinburgh and will start on the flank with John Dalziel going into lock and Ross Ovens dropping down to the bench while Chris Keen replaces Colin Arthur, also in the replacements.
Speaking about his selection Chalmers said: “It was a real squad effort last week and I’ll be looking for the bench to make a big impact this week when they get their chance.”
Llandovery are currently leaders in the Principality Premiership and had a narrow margin win over Nottingham, the other team in the pool, putting them neck and neck with Melrose at the top of Pool Eight.
Chalmers added: I have had a good look at Llandovery and they are very complete side with large physical ball playing forwards and backs who are very quick and execute the basic skills very well.
“This will be our biggest challenge of the season so far, but if we can tighten up our defence, sharpen our lines and decision making in attack, ultimately take the scoring opportunities that come our way, then I believe we can get the win.”
Melrose team to play Llandovery at the Greenyards (2.30pm): F. Thomson; L. Mallin, B. Dick, J. Helps, U. Kalamafoni Jnr; A. Skeen, B. Colvine; N. Little, A. Walker, G. Holborn, J. Dalziel, R. Miller, R. Grant, G. Runciman, A. Nagle. Subs: W. Mitchell, C. Keen, S. Johnson, R. Ovens, S. McCormick, R. Mill, S. Chalmers.