Ayr head to the legendary Greenyards tomorrow to take on Melrose in the toughest test of the season so far. With four wins from four matches under their belt, the men in pink and black look to continue their excellent form.
They will get an extra lift in the shape of Scotland international Ruaridh Jackson, who will have a very busy weekend, after coming off the bench at Scotstoun on Friday night for Glasgow Warriors' victory over Connacht.
Head coach Kenny Murray is excited at the prospect of the 35-cap player turning out for Ayr.
"To get an internationalist of Jacko's ability is a fantastic boost for our squad ahead of such a key game."
Jackson slots in at fly-half in place of the injured Sylvain Diez. Also not considered for the clash due to injury are Dean Kelbrick, Finn Russell, Murray McConnell and Nick Campbell.
Other selection changes include Zimbabwean international prop Denford Mutamangira gaining promotion from the bench to the starting line-up after a barn-storming second half last Saturday against Stirling County, and elite development player George Hunter. Hunter was on the bench for Glasgow Warriors last week and returns as a replacement for Ayr. Ross Curle returns after suspension.
"The squad realise that a win this week away from home would send out a big message to our competitors," says Murray. "Although we have competed well at home and in the cup finals, we have always been outplayed at the Greenyards. This is something we are keen to redress."
Murray is all too aware of Melrose's fast, expansive style of rugby.
"Our defence will have to be at its absolute best in order to stop key players such as Fraser Thomson, Andrew Skeen and John Dalziel."
Team (subject to change on match day):
Anderson, C Gossman, Fergusson, Dalgleish, K Gossman; Jackson, Jericevich; Mutamangira, Wisnewski, Cox; White, Sutherland; Fisken, Dunlop, Forrester (capt).
Replacements: Hunter, Fenwick, McCallum, Doneghan, Curle.
EH
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