MALVERN RFC have selected a side in anticipation of a physical Midlands One game against Coventry's Barker's Butts at Spring Lane on Saturday.

Director of rugby Dave Robins said: "We agonised over selection this week. The back row especially was a problem because we saw some fine performances last week. However, in the end we had to plump for a mixture of size and mobility. Dave Merlin returns at number eight, whilst Alex Thomas just shaded the open side flanker spot for his potential ability to nail the playmaker at stand-off.

"As Ian White knows the Barker's side, having played with many of them as a colt, we have taken his intelligence reports on board, and he tells us that their fly half is crucial to their game plan. Steve Taylor resumes at blind side, so we can expect some ferocious tackling.

"Darren Handy comes in at hooker whilst Matt Williams gets his first league start, replacing the injured Jon Owen. With Richard Fleming still out, Simon Phillips continues in the centre, Alistair Hills appearing on the bench after his fine showing against Burton. Paul Hart also subs after his magnificent return to form last week after injury, whilst Kim Withnall is the replacement prop."

The match is scheduled to kick off at 2.30pm, but spectators are advised to arrive early in case of poor visibility and the referee deciding to bring forward the start.