Portsmouth Valkyries and Havant Ladies RFC both on the road in return to league action

'Although we beat them fairly well earlier in the season, we won’t be taking anything for granted,' said coach Mark Witcher.

The visitors have several players missing, including Natasha Davison, Abbi Reid and Georgie Outhwaite.

'Having Cheryl Goodwin back at outside half has given us the go forward ball needed for the backs to really start attacking out wide,' said Witcher.

'Nineteen-year-old Megan Musgrave has been an absolutely fantastic discovery for us at openside flanker. '

'With four more games left to play, we have shown that we are more than capable of competing in this league after last season's promotion.’

Valkyries have also reached the quarter-finals of the National Intermediate Cup.

They aim for a last four place when they take on divisional rivals Cullompton on February 16.

Leaders Havant Ladies start a run of three successive away NC1 South East (South) League games at Ashford Ladies.

'It is important to make an impact in this game and put in place our game plan in preparation for the rest of the league fixtures,' said coach Dean Dryhurst.

'London Irish are hot on our tails and this league could be decided in our final game away to Guernsey or on points difference.

'Ashford this weekend will be a good test of mindset and preparation.'

Natasha Bullock remains captain with Lucy King supporting as vice-captain.

Havant's second team, the 'Sirens, are making great progress and recently played their third friendly, against Valkyries 2nds at Rugby Camp.

'Having a second team gives the opportunity for returning injured players to get that valuable game time and balance up the side,' remarked Dryhurst.