Gibbs keen to sign off with win
The Kiwi is returning to New Zealand and coach Ben Dudley accepts losing the powerful number eight will be a blow.
‘Damian has been fantastic at number eight for us and we will really miss him,’ said Dudley.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad‘This season he has proved a real dominant force for us with his excellent go-forward, ball-carrying skills.’
Portsmouth are looking to complete a league double over their visitors but Dudley is expecting a stern test
The home side make one change in the three-quarters, with Jake Turner starting at scrum-half and Simon Morgan moving to outside-half.
US Portsmouth turn their attention back to survival in London three south west with New Milton & District visiting Burnaby Road.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe home side have a number of players returning, including influential pair Tom Blewitt and Luke Peters.
One change in the pack sees Mayo Onilia stepping in for Sam Porter at number eight.
‘New Milton are sitting second from bottom but as we know they are more than capable of playing good rugby,’ said Services director of rugby Matt Davis.
‘We are hoping to pick up two wins from the next three games which, hopefully, will help us stay in this league.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdHampshire One leaders Fareham Heathens could find themselves vulnerable against Fordingbridge at Cams Alders.
The home side are without five regulars because of unavailability.
‘This will be a real test of the depth of our squad,’ said unhappy coach Bernie Rhodes.
‘We are having to patch and fill with a couple of players making their debuts.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad‘Fordingbridge are a team you can never take lightly and they did the league double over us last season.’
Bottom-of-the league Locksheath Pumas face a difficult task at Chineham.
In Hampshire two, Southsea Nomads host league leaders Romsey.