THE possibility of mild weather could result in a bumper crowd for Wellington’s big rugby derby at home to Wiveliscombe (2.30).

And for the first time in several years, Wiveliscombe will start as slight favourites following some impressive displays in Somerset Premier this season.

However, the form book goes out of the window in derby games and Wellington will be up for it following two successive home wins in Western Counties West.

Wellington are also officially coachless following the departure of head coach Laurence Ovens although Allyn Chetland has done a good job in keeping the first team focussed.

Wellington president Greg Dyke said: “We all look forward to this match. There will be no holding back from either side.

“Although I shouldn’t say it, I reckon Wivey fancy their chances this year. They have been playing well.

“Our two clubs have much in common. We are both roughly the same size and we have players who have gone on to join Wivey and vice versa.”

Wiveliscombe are likely to be at near full-strength although they will be without former skipper and No 9 John Ker who suffered a back injury in the recent 41-0 home victory over St Bernadettes Old Boys.

With no serious rugby being played elsewhere in the area, the match is likely to attract a crowd of about 800.

Of course, much of the size of the gate will depend on the weather but there will be no snow to contend with as at Wellington four years ago when both sets of supporters helped to clear the white stuff from the Athletic Ground. 

This was a super-human effort and the game was one of the few to be played in the Westcountry that day.

The match is also financially important because the clubhouse at the Athletic Ground will be heaving with both sets of supporters.

The club’s 2nd XVs will play each other on the same pitch in the morning, with a 11.00 kick-off.