Kasolo predicts upfront battle

By BEN JAYCOCK

@therugb

Preview

Bristol v Saracens Today. 3pm

THE final match in the Premiership before a two-month pause for the Six Nations sees second-placed Saracens travel to fourth-placed Bristol Bears.

Saracens have won 11 of their 12 games this season and each of their previous 12 league matches against Bristol by an average margin of 17 points.

But Saracens flanker Sharifa Kasolo anticipates a full-blooded battle.

“Bristol will be tough as we saw from the Christmas Cracker,” said Kasolo. “Just like us, Bristol take pride in their attack and set-piece. It's going to be a battle upfront and a footrace in the wide channels.”

Dave Ward makes two changes to the Bristol side that beat Trailfinders last week with winger Ella Lovibond and tighthead Elliann Clarke coming into the side. There is also a long-awaited return to action for Welsh international Courtney Keight, who is named in the matchday squad for the first time in more than nine months.

On the bench for Saracens, Bryony Cleall is set to make her second debut for the side, having rejoined the club from Harlequins.

Kelsey Clifford starts at loosehead, with Akina Gondwe moving to the bench while Rosie Galligan returns to the second row. Louise McMillan moves to blindside flanker and Georgia Evans to number 8.

Lotte Clapp is captain from the left wing, with Paige Farries moving back to the right wing and Jess Breach to full-back.