By Duncan Wood
September 9 2002

It's a welcome return to playing action for several first team squad members and a welcome chance to shine for many others. A strong looking team is the proverbial blend of youth and experience.

With two defeats in their opening two matches, the players in the first XV will be looking over their shoulders and the guys appearing against Newport will be looking to stake their claim.

It's a powerful looking line up. Every one of the backs has first team experience with the exception of Duncan Hayward and even he has been involved with the first team squad on several occasions.

The front row could easily start a Premiership game - all three are internationals. The back five is a mixture of youth and experience with Richard Hunt returning temporarily from his loan at Pontypool and Richard Martin-Redman looking to push his claim for a senior contract.

It's good to see some of the first teamers returning from injury. Andrew Higgins has been out since suffering a neck injury against Northampton back in April. I can't remember the last time I saw Luke Nabaro in action and Neil McCarthy will be keen to show that he is ready to face Northampton if required.

Bristol Shoguns United vs Newport
Tuesday 10 September, Rodney Parade, kick off 7.30pm

Matt Carrington, Jamie Williams, Andrew Higgins, Duncan Hayward, Luke Nabaro, Shane Drahm, Peter Richards, Paul Johnstone, Neil McCarthy, Emiliano Bergamaschi, Richard Hunt, Scott Morgan, Craig Short, Rhys Oakley, Richard Martin-Redman.

Replacements:
Paul Hodgson, Tom Luke, Jon Clarke, Andrew Sheridan, Matt Styles, Chris Rowland, Matt Bourne, Miles Johnson.