After another frustrating result last week, losing to Ipswich by one point, Norwich host newly-promoted Stowmarket, who beat Ipswich two weeks ago.

With an injury to Phil Buckley, Paul Micklethwaite moves to hooker and is replaced in the back row by Jonty Newton, who had an excellent game for the Lions last week.

Newton is from Devon and played rugby at Southampton University before getting a job in Norfolk two weeks ago. He has been very impressive in training and playing for the second string.

The prolonged unavailability of Mike Lawton means Patryk Golebiowski, a product of the Norwich youth system, gets his first start in the senior side at the age of 17.

Looking back to the frustrating 36-35 defeat at Ipswich, Director of Rugby David Everitt said: 'It was another indifferent day for this Jekyll and Hyde squad – at times they were patient and efficient in attack but then let themselves down with poor tackling and game management. In the two defeats we have suffered so far, the games have gone to the last play of the match before the result went against us. We have not been able to put the games away and out of reach of our opponents when we have clearly had the upper hand.

'The coaches have done their part in providing the players with the tools to achieve their objectives but it is up to the players to put this into practice. Given that Stowmarket beat Ipswich the previous week we can expect another stern test of our abilities. The players and coaches have worked hard this week in trying to prevent another performance that is good in some areas and not others.'

The Lions host Norwich Union and the A XV are at Watton.

Southwold, who lost for the first time in London Two North East last week when they were edged out 26-25 by visitors Woodford, travel to South Woodham Ferrers.

Lakenham Hewett Ladies lost 25-0 at Southwold in their first away game of the season. The visitors were unable to get on the scoresheet despite a brave display and some good carries from Charlotte Richardson, Lauren Mann and Chantelle Richardson.