The Eastleigh Pirates are setting sail for Guernsey this weekend, as St Jacques Vikings look to seize the opportunity for an important home victory.

Following last week’s improved performance away to Ellingham & Ringwood, head coach Layton Batiste has issued a clear challenge to his squad: bring the same intensity and deliver a result in front of their home supporters.

Batiste acknowledged the team’s struggles in the midseason, saying:

“We are well aware that the middle part of the season has not gone well for us in terms of results. But perhaps more disappointingly, our performance levels haven’t been where they need to be, particularly in the first two games of this year.

“We had been unable to establish a platform from the set-piece and were losing the gainline battle. Last weekend, that changed. We really stepped up against a strong Ellingham & Ringwood side.

“Even with several injuries during the match and players stepping into unfamiliar roles, we fronted up. The forwards put in a massive shift, which is exactly what we needed to see. While we didn’t get the result, with a few small tweaks, it could have been a much closer game.”

Looking ahead to this weekend, Batiste added:

“This week, we want to see the same intensity, but with further improvements on defence, which we’ve worked hard on. I know these players can step up and perform they just need to prove it to themselves and our supporters.”

To bolster their challenge against the Pirates, three key players return to the starting lineup.

Phil Le Noury joins the front row at hooker, bringing firepower to the pack and excellent set-piece ability. Previously a regular for the Guernsey Raiders, Le Noury has been recovering from injury and will be a valuable addition to the forwards.

Tom Creed takes his place on the blindside flank, while Luke Sayer starts in the centres. Both missed last week’s trip, but their return adds vital experience and quality to the side.

Lucas Barker, a versatile player, moves back to his original position at scrum-half. Recently deployed as a centre, Barker steps into the No. 9 shirt in the absence of Ewan Wakeham and Adam Giles.

The Smith brothers, Jacob, Mitchell, and Michael all feature once again. Jacob and Mitchell pair up in the second row, while Michael is named at tighthead. Jacob was a standout last week, scoring two tries in a strong performance.

Captain Tom Veillard will lead the side from fly-half, with Matt Lomas-Lloyd partnering Sayer in the midfield. Marcus Whitfield retains his place in the side on the wing after an excellent outing last week, where he delivered his best performance in a Vikings shirt.

Among the replacements, Taylor Quate makes a welcome return, joining Tom Judd and James Mroch on the bench.

Kick-off is at 12PM at Footes Lane, with the Guernsey Raiders vs. Tonbridge Juddians match to follow at 2PM.

The Guernsey Rugby Academy U15’s bring the curtain down at 3:30PM.