Nabaro called up for Old Reds as their cup challenge begins

OLD Reds have demonstrated their determination to mount a serious campaign for glory in the Charles Saunders Combination Cup by calling up Luke Nabaro for tomorrow's home quarter-final with Cleve (2.30pm).

The former Bristol winger and Hong Kong international has barely featured this season because of injury.

But Nabaro proved his fitness with an outing last week for Reds' 3rds and now links up in midfield with newcomer James Wilmott.

Reds, back in the competition after a break of some 12 seasons, have selected their strongest available side.

They're without player-coach Graeme Beveridge, who is representing the Lions in Bermuda's World Rugby Classic, and that means summer arrival Jack Steer slots in at scrum-half with Ashley Groves at fly-half.

The sides have already met this season, Cleve clinching a 13-6 home win in South West One West, and another close encounter is expected.

Also in cup action tomorrow are holders Avonmouth who face Thornbury in a replay of last season's final which ended in a 23-15 victory for coach Wayne Hone's squad. After a torrid start to life in National Three South West, Avonmouth have won their last two league outings and these loyal and committed supporters of the Combination Cup will be keen to maintain momentum ahead of a crucial series of matches leading into the festive break.

In National Two South, in-form Dings Crusaders face a testing trip to fourth-placed Redruth. Marcus Brooker returns at centre, Josh Venner steps in at scrum-half for Steve Plummer who is not available and in the back row Stean Williams replaces the injured Mike Uren.

A bumper crowd is expected. Redruth are marking Remembrance weekend by offering free admission to members of the Armed Forces while the Military Wives' choir will be performing at half-time and in the clubhouse after the match.

Clifton, who slipped 13-6 at home last week to Bournemouth, will be looking to bounce straight back away to bottom side Barking, who have yet to win a game and conceded 524 points in ten outings.

The Vase kicks off this weekend. Clashes include Gordano entertaining Sulians tomorrow, and Winscombe hosting Minehead Barbarians on Sunday (2pm).

St Bernadettes have been awarded a walk over after Avon withdrew from the competition.