Influential Reynalds set to return

GUERNSEY are confident of having their orchestrator-in-chief, Jordan Reynalds, return to their line-up tomorrow. The Australian fly half was absent from last week's nail-biting 17-18 injury-time win away at Effingham & Leatherhead due to a calf problem and was due to undergo a fitness test last night.

He was sorely missed by the green-and-whites on that occasion.

'We always appreciate what he brings to the side,' said captain Andy Bailey.

'Jordy has been assistant coach as well this season and he is having a large impact on our rugby.

'It is the organisation and leadership that a quality number 10 brings to a side which are missed if he is not playing. If you are not a great rugby follower, I think you might not appreciate the pressure that brings with it.

'Certainly, last week we had the ball in positions where we were looking at what to do with it and were looking for guidance, which Jordy would usually give.

'But he is just one member of a squad and everyone has to put their hand up and take responsibility on their shoulders.'

Definitely missing once again for Guernsey is hip-injury victim Jim Elliott while there are a few others with niggles, but Bailey expects them to be fit to play.

The skipper expects a decent battle from visitors Winchester at Foote's Lane, a side whom Guernsey beat by a single point at home last season but who defeated the Sarnians in the return fixture.

'We have had six wins on the bounce now, so we have a right to be confident,' Bailey said.

'In saying that, Winchester had a good win last week against London Irish Amateur, so they will be on a high and by all accounts they have been playing good rugby.

'Looking at their results so far, it seems to be a little bit of an inconsistent season for them, but we know that they are capable of beating us, so we have to be on our game.'

The character shown by Guernsey in the win over E&L seven days ago should stand them in good stead, though.

'We do back ourselves, which is important.

* Tomorrow's match at Foote's Lane kicks off at 2.30pm.