Coventry Set for First Home Fixture Against Bedford Blues

by Alex Didlick

Round 2 of the Champ season sees Coventry Rugby welcome Bedford Blues to the Butts Park Arena. Fresh off a tightly contested match at Sixways, the Dogs will be looking to get back to winning ways in front of their home crowd. Likewise, Bedford Blues will be eager to respond after falling short against Ealing Trailfinders last weekend, making this a vital early-season clash for the two sides.

Alex Rae’s team selection reflects a squad with great depth and ensures players continue to build match sharpness as the season gathers momentum.

The front row sees one change from last time out, with Aristot Benz-Salomon replacing Toby Trinder at loosehead. Skipper Jordan Poole and Matt Johnson complete the front row, looking to build on a solid performance at Sixways.

Behind them, Jack Shine and Senitiki Nayalo continue their partnership in the second row. It’s a special weekend for Nayalo in his 100th appearance for the club, and he’ll be looking to add to his first-half try and assist last time out. The back row sees Chester Owen make his first start of the season alongside Tom Ball and Morgan Strong, adding balance and mobility to a strong pack.

In the backs, the developing partnership of Sam Maunder and Josh Thomas will look to create chances and get players into the game once again. Thomas’ kicking display last week, despite the strong winds, provides confidence when relied upon. The midfield sees Dafydd Rhys-Tuieti pick up his first start of the season. He looked energetic in preseason after recovering from his injury over summer, alongside Oli Morris, who looked a consistent threat against Worcester.

On the wings, Peter Sullivan and David Opoku-Fordjour will be looking to continue their scoring form, whilst Tom Bacon retains his place at full-back.

Among the finishers, Rae has opted for a 6-2 split for the first time this season. Suva Ma’asi, Toby Trinder, Elliot Salt, and Dan Green will be ready to provide plenty of muscle to the front row, with Alan Ferrie and Mackenzie Graham completing the forwards options. In the backs, Rae will have experience and versatility to call upon, with Josh Barton and Ewan Baker primed to fly out of the blocks.

Starting XV

1. Aristot Benz-Salomon
2. Jordon Poole ©
3. Matt Johnson
4. Jack Shine
5. Senitiki Nayalo
6. Chester Owen
7. Tom Ball
8. Morgan Strong
9. Sam Maunder
10. Josh Thomas
11. Peter Sullivan
12. Dafydd Rhys-Tuieti
13. Oli Morris
14. David Opoku-Fordjour
15. Tom Bacon

Finishers:
16. Suva Ma’asi
17. Toby Trinder
18. Eliot Salt
19. Dan Green
20. Allan Ferrie
21. Josh Barton
22. Ewan Baker
23. Mackenzie Graham

Tickets for the first home match of the season vs Bedford Blues are available at www.coventryrugby.co.uk/tickets/