Clifton set for tough test as league leaders Barking visit

Fourth-placed Clifton are preparing for their toughest test of the season as leaders Barking head for Cribbs Causeway in the match of the day in National Two South (2.30pm).

The Essex side, who have won all 10 of their games so far, arrive with a reputation for an extremely efficient set-piece, as well as the most miserly defence in the league which has conceded only 117 points to date.

But it is a clash Clifton are relishing after two very different challenges in recent weeks.

Director of rugby Darren Lloyd said: "I'm very interested to see how we can adapt to Barking, who are very structured and organised, particularly after beating a Richmond side that came here with a positive mind-set and a willingness to attack and then winning in the rain and mud at Lydney, who tried to bully us all afternoon."

Lock Darren Barry has been selected, dependent on Bristol duties, while centre Steve Leonard returns after illness.

Dings Crusaders are without flying winger George Watkins for the trip to Southend, so his place goes to Orlando Stott with the versatile Neil Dipple filling the No 15 shirt.

Tom Lukjaniec is back at fly-half while in the pack there are returns for prop Josh Lloyd and hooker Dave Wheeler. Lock Luke Bellinger makes his debut in place of Gareth Lloyd, who has not recovered from a blow to the face in last week's home win over Worthing.