IN-FORM Bridgwater & Albion return to South West 1 West action tomorrow, when they make the journey up the M5 to face Newent, writes Richard Walsh.

Albion are currently on a run of eight consecutive victories, but the Forest of Dean side play on a notoriously sloping pitch which has been the undoing of many visiting teams over the years.

Already this season the Gloucestershire side have beaten Launceston and St Ives at home, and although the Albion beat them 24-15 when they travelled to College Way back in November, they know they will have to be at their best to notch up the double.

In recent seasons it has been Newent who have run out the winners, with last year’s 23-20 defeat being the closest the Albion have come to triumphing at Watery Lane since the hosts were promoted to South West 1 West.

Director of rugby Geoff Sluman said: “Newent is always a difficult away fixture.

"Their sloping pitch is difficult to play on and of course they always make the maximum use of it.

“We haven’t won away there for a number of seasons now, but our squad are playing well and if they play to their potential they are capable of beating any side in the league.”

Albion follow up this big match with another next Friday, when they entertain local rivals North Petherton at College Way (ko 7.30pm).

Pethy, who are also in good form in South West 1, host Teignmouth tomorrow.

They are seventh in the table, with their visitors in 12th (third from bottom).

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ELSEWHERE tomorrow, Bridgwater & Albion 2nds host Keynham 2nds, and Morganians entertain Winscombe 2nds.

On Sunday, North Petherton Ladies travel to take on Women's South West 1 leaders St Mary's Old Boys.