Bristol forwards coach Brain challenges youngsters to shine

John Brain has challenged Bristol's youngsters to maintain the momentum built by the club's in-form first-team stars when they go to Neath tonight.

Bristol have won their last three Championship matches, claiming bonus points in each of them and scoring 18 tries in the process.

But Brain and head coach Paul Hull have made 12 personnel changes to the side that beat Nottingham 35-11 five days ago, with 10 players aged between 18 and 22 picked to start this evening's British & Irish Cup opener.

And with regulars such as Dan Norton, Adrian Jarvis, Roy Winters and Jason Spice putting their feet up, forwards coach Brain has challenged the youngsters to take their chance at the Gnoll.

"This is a meaningful fixture, so these guys have to understand what it's about to perform in a hostile environment," said Brain.

"I think playing down at the Gnoll is as much a test of character as it is of your rugby ability. We've got to front up – and, if we don't, it will be a long night.

"Neath have been scoring a lot of tries and a lot of points, so they've certainly got some firepower and we'll be tested defensively. Every time we go on the field, we look to perform and we look to win, so that's the priority at Neath.

"We've established some good momentum as a club over the last three league games, so in my mind, these players have the responsibility to sustain that momentum. That is the key thing for us – but, in saying that, we know how difficult it will be.

"Winning this competition is something we have not talked about at all. We're dealing with this as the next game and trying to do as well as we can."

The break from Championship action at a time when Bristol Rugby are in such fine form is something of a frustration for Brain.

But he has also acknowledged the significance of being able to rest some of those who have carried a heavy workload during the opening three months of the Championship season.

"It is frustrating in a way, but the upside of this situation is that we're able to rest quite a few tired bodies," said Brain.

"I'm thinking of people like Jason Spice, Adrian Jarvis, Dan Montagu, Roy Winters and Dan Norton – those guys have been very important players for us in the first 11 league games and they now get some complete rest, mentally and physically."

"I think there's a balance to be struck there and I think the chance for some of our guys to recuperate mentally and physically probably balances out the fact we will lose a bit of momentum."

With Nathan Budgett now back from injury – and Mat Turner and Ross Johnston making their comebacks this evening – Bristol's injury woes are finally easing.

Winger Lee Robinson should be involved soon after breaking his nose, leaving only long- term absentees Ed Barnes and Bertrand Bedes in the treatment room.