London 2NE: Table-topping local rivals Norwich and Diss ready to clash
Norwich are set be boosted by the return of front row forwards Pip Scott and Tom Whiskin, pictured scoring, but remain without JC Brown following a concussion injury at Holt three weeks ago. Picture: Andy Micklethwaite - Credit: Andy Micklethwaite
Mackenders hosts Norfolk's match of the day tomorrow when Diss entertain local rivals Norwich in a top-of-the-table encounter.
Both teams go into the game with unbeaten records after six games of the London 2NE campaign, with Diss top courtesy of Norwich drawing 17-17 at Holt.
The visitors are set be boosted by the return of front row forwards Pip Scott and Tom Whiskin but remain without JC Brown following a concussion injury at Holt three weeks ago.
Norwich director of rugby, David Everitt, said: 'We lost three times to Diss last year but we are looking forward to another local derby with a bit of spice. The game will be won up front and at the breakdown, two areas where Diss are very strong so we must be competitive in those aspects of the game.'
Everitt reflecting on last week's 25-8 home win over Ipswich, added: 'Our discipline against Ipswich was much improved and we will need to maintain that against a very strong Diss pack.'
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Diss go into the clash having rather fortuitously won 20-17 at a Sudbury team who possessed the most talented and dynamic back division in the league last weekend.
The confrontation with Norwich will without doubt have a different feel to it.
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Forward exchanges will be evenly robust and in the three quarters both sides will certainly be vying to gain an advantage when chances arise.
One key area for Diss to focus on will certainly be discipline. For long periods against Sudbury, Diss were reduced to 14 players and this ultimately cost them maximum bonus points
Coaches Roger Coombs and David Smith are able to select a side that reflects consistency within selection and a growing confidence to adapt to all situations following six straight wins.
The three quarter line remains the same with Jack Peacock and Jamie Burroughs yet again controlling affairs from half back. The back three combination of Giles West, Phillip Le Leivre and Sean McClure will certainly be hoping for more opportunities to express their attacking credentials.
Number eight John Laurie sustained an injury last week and is replaced in the back row by Matt Cullum, with captain Fraser moving to No8. New recruit Kimmy Latu makes his debut from the bench and the ever reliable George Gooderham also returns to the fold.