MINEHEAD Barbarians will be looking to avenge a heavy away defeat by Hornet 2nd XV when they play the Weston side at home in Counties Two Somerset on Saturday, February 1 (2.30).

The Babas crashed 61-5 away to Hornets in late October, and head coach Mick Orton said: “Hornets have not got a first team game on Saturday, so much will depend on what side they put out.

“Obviously, we will be fielding the strongest side we can, but there will be players missing - there always is. But it is no good moaning about it; you’ve just got to get on with it. However, we’re a difficult side to beat at home.”

With Minehead not having a game last weekend, Avon moved above the Seasiders on points difference after they beat fourth-placed Clevedon 25-24 at home in a thrilling match.

Title favourites Midsomer Norton have stretched their lead at the top of the table to 15 points after they received a walkover last weekend from Nailsea and Backwell. They play away to Imperial this weekend, a team they beat 101-7 earlier this season - and one of three matches in which they have scored more than 100 points.

Minehead Barbarians 2nd XV, fourth in Counties Four Somerset South, play away to Bridgwater & Albion who are lying ninth.

Meanwhile, Wiveliscombe will be hoping to bounce back after their loss at Bude last Saturday when they play at home to second-placed Paignton in Counties One Western West. Wiveliscombe were not at full strength at Bude and went down 33-26.

Wiveliscombe 2nd XV will be looking to step up the pressure at the top of Counties Four Somerset South when they play at home to Tor.

Wivey are 14 points behind leaders Martock, who do not have a game, but have three matches in hand. Wiveliscombe play at home to Martock in March..