WELLINGTON stage a rugby double-header at the Athletic Ground this coming weekend, writes Barry Knott.

They play Plymouth Argaum in the Cornwall and Devon League on Saturday and Combe Down in the quarter-finals of the Somerset Vase the following day. Both games kick off at 2.30 p.m.

Wellington will field their strongest side for the league game. Coach Allyn Chetland said: “We have a much stronger first team squad than last season. We will just have to see who is available after Saturday’s match.” 

One player who may miss both games is former skipper and No 8 Micky Norman who has been struggling with a groin injury since the beginning of the year.

“It’s a difficult injury,” added Chetland. “He’s suffered such an injury in the past and knows not to return too quickly. He’s did not train last week.”

Wellington have been boosted by the availability of Cam Venn who has returned from his travels but another second row Harry Ramsey has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a wrist injury.

Wellington maintained their bid for promotion in the Cornwall and Devon League and extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches with a 40-7 away victory over Tavistock on Saturday.

“We played some really good rugby at times and got the job done,” said Wellington coach Allyn Chetland afterwards. “I thought we were far the better side. We went there to win the game and get a bonus point and that’s exactly what we did.”

Back rower Chris Kitto has a recurrence of a groin strain and is doubtful for both matches this weekend.

Wiveliscombe, who piled up the points in an 88-0 away victory over Bridgwater and Albion’s second string and moved up to third in Somerset Premier, have a rearranged derby match at home to Minehead Barbarians on Saturday. Wiveliscombe will be chasing the season’s double over the Seasiders, having beaten them 24-18 away earlier in the season.

Wellington 2nd XV have no match in Somerset One this weekend while Wiveliscombe 2nd XV are home to Bridgwater & Albion 3rd XV in Somerset Two South.