Doncaster Knights: Stedman set for ban comeback

Doncaster Knights No 8 Ollie Stedman is set to return to action after a three-match ban in tomorrow’s British and Irish Cup Pool 5 clash against Connaught Eagles at Castle Park (2.30pm).
Ollie StedmanOllie Stedman
Ollie Stedman

Half-back Michael Heaney is also set to feature for the first time since picking up an injury in the defeat against Yorkshire Carnegie at Headingley early last month.

Director of rugby Clive Griffiths, who made 12 changes to the side which drew 22-22 at Jersey on Saturday. is expected to field more regulars this weekend with such as Dougie Flockhart, Will Hurrell , Ben Hunter, Colin Quigley and Richard List all likely to feature.

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Although keen to pick up a win over what is effectively the Irish club’s second string, the Welshman readily admits that he’ll also have one eye on Saturday week’s Championship game against Moseley at Castle Park.

“It’s a massive game, as are our three league games after that, which will go a long way towards determining our chances of finishing in the top four,” said Griffiths.

“The league is the most important thing this season and I’m taking a different slant on the B & I Cup – especially given the start we’ve made to our league campaign.

“However, it’s still a very useful competition, especially when it comes to giving players game-time, and we were very proud to reach last season’s final.”

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The Galway-based club, who were short on numbers, fielded a very young side in their opening game against a Newport-Gwent Dragons Select last week and paid the price.

But they beat Leinister A, who won at Rotherham last week, in their last away game in the Irish Inter-Province competition and Griffiths in not underestimating them.