Melrose v Ayr preview

Ayr are on the road again and this Saturday travel to the Borders to face Melrose at the Greenyards.  Despite a hearty home win over Stirling County last weekend, Ayr won't underestimate the challenge that awaits.

"Melrose have achieved their top spot following some excellent performances, including a sizeable victory at the start of the campaign on our turf, together with a strong team spirit," comments Ayr head coach Peter Laverie. 

"Our players will be keen to reverse the previous result.  Still, we need to focus on our performance on Saturday and ensure we do the basics well.  This will not be a game for the faint-hearted and I expect our big game players to step up to the mark and show what they are capable of."

Laverie is full of praise for his opposite number, John Dalziel, and his men.

"John has put together a hard-working, well-organised squad and they have some real threats throughout their team, none more so than their accomplished captain, Fraser Thompson.  On another note, I'm also looking forward to John's hospitality, in particular sampling the quality of his cellar."

There are few changes to Ayr's match day squad.  Stand-off Finn Russell is absent as he is on Pro12 duty in Connacht with Glasgow Warriors.  Ross Curle takes his place alongside October player of the month Murray McConnell at scrum-half.

Zimbabwe international prop Denford Mutamangira is named on the bench as Scotland under-20s prop D'arcy Rae will be starting for the second XV.  Warriors' James Eddie makes his fourth start in the pink and black shirt.


Team:
15. Grant Anderson (capt.), 14. Craig Gossman, 13. Robbie Fergusson, 12. Dean Kelbrick, 11. Kerr Gossman; 10. Ross Curle, 9. Murray McConnell; 1. Nick Cox, 2. Fergus Scott, 3. George Hunter; 4. Peter McCallum, 5. Scott Sutherland; 6. James Eddie, 7. Andrew Dunlop, 8. Callum Templeton.

Replacements:
16. Stuart Fenwick, 17. Denford Mutamangira, 18. Graham Fisken, 19. Peter Jericevich, 20. Richard Dalgleish.

Kick-off is at the earlier time of 2pm.  Follow Twitter for score updates.