WELLINGTON face the best team in Regional Two South West tomorrow (Sat) when they play at home to leaders St Austell, note the 2p.m. kick-off, writes Barry Knott.

Supporters do not need reminding that Wellington fielded a weakened side at St Austell in late September and crashed to an 80-nil defeat.

Wellington expect to field a much stronger squad tomorrow, although full-back and kicker Alex Davy and back rower Will Hodgson are unavailable.

“St Austell won by a big score at Teignmouth last weekend so they’re going to be full of confidence,” said Wellington coach Allyn Chetland yesterday. “It is going to be difficult but I think we can give them a run for their money.

“We have shown that when we can field a near full-strength side we can be a test for anyone, especially at home.

“Like many rugby and football clubs we are looking to an earlier kick-off time to save money on the lights.

“It was looking pretty dimpsy towards the end of last weekend’s 2nd XV game.”

Wellington’s game at Chard was called off early last Saturday morning. “It is just over the hill so we thought Chard might have left it a bit later before letting us know,” added Chetland.

Wellington 2nd XV, who are now seventh in Counties Three Somerset South and would be higher had they not had ten points deducted, are away to their North Petherton counterparts.

Wellington managed to play on the club’s second pitch at Beech Grove last weekend when they beat Wiveliscombe 33-22 - a win which put them just above their rivals.

Meanwhile Wiveliscombe, whose game at home to Bideford last weekend was postponed because of the weather, are away to Pirates Amateurs who put up a spirited fight before losing 26-20 at home to 100 per cent and title favourites Cullompton last weekend.

Wiveliscombe, who were chasing a double against Bideford, are lying sixth with a record of six victories and six losses.

Wiveliscombe 2nd XV are home to Bridgwater & Albion 2nd XV in Counties Three South West. Bridgwater have had 20 points deducted this season which has left them near the foot of the table.

Wiveliscombe have slipped to eighth in the table after their defeat by Wellington.