Match preview

9 November 2012, 12:01pm

Rokoduguni makes debut for Bath Rugby

Recent signing Semesa Rokoduguni will make his first team debut for Bath Rugby tomorrow when they face Newport Gwent Dragons at the Recreation Ground in the first round of the LV= Cup, kick-off 14.15.

Rokoduguni starts on the left wing, with Olly Woodburn making his first senior appearance of the season on the right. Matt Banahan and Dan Hipkiss combine in the centres once more, with Ollie Devoto starting at fullback for the first time.

Tom Heathcote and Mark McMillan form a new half-back partnership, both also making their first starts of the season.

Charlie Beech and Anthony Perenise scrum down either side of Brett Sharman, making his first start for the Club at hooker, whilst Stuart Hooper and Will Spencer link up in the second row. Simon Taylor is back at number 8, as Guy Mercer and Josh Ovens fill the flanker roles.

There is a notable return from injury for Ryan Caldwell who starts on the bench, with Ken Dowding and Luke Adamson, on loan from Bridgend and Salford Reds respectively, also named as replacements.

Last year saw us remain unbeaten in the LV= Cup pool stages, securing bonus point wins in each round, and narrowly missing out on a final spot following a 16-17 defeat by the old enemy, Leicester Tigers.

It all started with a seven try 16-46 victory over tomorrow's visitors the Dragons at Rodney Parade, and the team will need your support to get off to an equally bright start in this year's campaign. Tickets are still available from the Bath Rugby Ticket Office either in person, or on 0844 448 1865 so book yours now and join us for the start of our LV= Cup crusade.

Bath Rugby team to face Newport Gwent Dragons

15 Ollie Devoto

14 Olly Woodburn

13 Dan Hipkiss

12 Matt Banahan

11 Semesa Rokoduguni

10 Tom Heathcote

9 Mark McMillan

1 Charlie Beech

2 Brett Sharman

3 Anthony Perenise

4 Stuart Hooper (c)

5 Will Spencer

6 Josh Ovens

7 Guy Mercer

8 Simon Taylor

Replacements

16 Will Tanner

17 Ken Dowding

18 Kane Palma-Newport

19 Ryan Caldwell

20 Will Skuse

21 Chris Cook

22 Luke Adamson

23 Richard Lane