L&Y have a tough proposition first up in the New Year with locals rivals Southwold bringing their Development XV to Gunton Park this Saturday. Despite Southwold shipping 65 points at home in their earlier encounter, the visitors have promised to bring a side capable of turning over that result with a number of university players available before going back to college. L&Y will know from their own experiences this season that it is perfectly possible for a team to earn some revenge for a heavy defeat within a few weeks.

Training has gone as well as can be hoped this week after a long Festive break and some awful weather. Thankfully the players have come back in good shape and the majority of the team have avoided the covid disruptions. Just like any other club a few players have had to declare unavailability by either testing positive or shielding close relatives. The front five picks itself with Alfie Tiffin, Kyle Hallam and Jordy Yeates starting up front, Brett Thomas and Alfie Webber in the engine room, leaving Josh Williamson and Josh Beamish to rotate in. Regular open side Jake Gouldby is isolating so Harry Norman moves to no7, Richie Hyde comes in at blindside and captain Ray Hauraki remains at no8. Oscar Anderson partners Chris Burt at halfback, Alex Marshall moves to 12 alongside Joe Brighty, and the back three are Syd Butcher, Tom Lawler and Ethan Harrowven. Gareth Bowker provides versatile cover for the backs.

A pre-match lunch is still going ahead and kick off is scheduled for 2pm. It looks set to be an exciting encounter.