PREVIEW: Saracens v Richmond Today. Kick-off 1.30pm
CHAMPIONS Saracens have already been given a stern examination in defence of their Premier 15s title and are readying for another test against fierce rivals Richmond. Alex Austerberry's side came through a difficult opening day assignment, beating Bristol Bears 35-22 in a physical encounter that saw them repeatedly punished for infringements at the breakdown.
Saracens, who alongside Worcester will be breaking ground in becoming the first club to pay their players from this season, feel grappling with the Bears has set them up perfectly for today's derby.
“We learned lots as a group against Bristol, new combinations were tested in the heat of the contest and we have an accurate picture of where we are at as a group now,” said Austerberry.
“It was still a very tough fight but the pleasing thing for the coaches is that the players kept finding solutions and we found a way to win.
“I'm very pleased with the character the group has shown and we quickly moved on to the challenges Richmond will bring.”
Richmond came seventh last season and are targeting a top half finish this term, but fell to a thumping 101-0 defeat to Harlequins in the first round.
Head coach Mike Panoho has rung the changes, with prop Alex Zdunkek, Vicki Jackson and Lou Burgess brought into the starting XV and Sian Hobday reinstated at second row.
“We have trained exceptionally hard this week and have selected a squad we strongly believe will be ready to perform,” said Panoho.
“I am very confident in my players, they've responded extremely well and we're looking forward to another opportunity to test ourselves.”
