TEAM NEWS | Saracens Women v Gloucester-Hartpury
Head Coach Alex Austerberry says this next block of matches for Saracens Women, which starts on Saturday against Gloucester-Hartpury could go a long way to deciding their fate for the 2021/22 season.
The Women in Black are currently top of the Allianz Premier 15s after winning five matches in a row, and if they can continue their good form they can all but secure their place in the end of season play-offs.
After a break weekend the players will all be looking to hit the ground running on Saturday at StoneX, and Austerberry has named a strong side for their next challenge.
Kelsey Clifford, May Campbell and Alex Ellis start in the front-row, with Sonia Green and Catha Jacobs combining in the second-row.
Georgia Evans, Vicky Fleetwood and co-captain Marlie Packer continue at the base of the scrum after their impressive display by the pack in the derby victory over Harlequins a fortnight ago.
Ella Wyrwas and Holly Aitchison will re-ignite their half-back partnership, and will look to utilise the dynamic midfield of Alev Kelter and Cara Wardle.
Alysha Corrigan, Rachel Laqeretabua and co-captain Lotte Clapp will operate in the back-three, with searing pace between them which is sure to get the StoneX crowd on their feet.
On the bench there is a boost as Poppy Cleall returns to the match day squad, and Welsh international duo Kat Evans and Donna Rose will give the set-piece plenty of power when called upon.
Austerberry has challenged his players to continue their winning run this weekend.
“The next three games – Gloucester-Hartpury, Bristol Bears and Sale Sharks – are vital in terms of taking control of our destiny. We’re in a good place so we need to make sure we don’t let opportunities slip.”
Saracens Women team to play Gloucester-Hartpury:
1 Kelsey Clifford
2 May Campbell
3 Alex Elis
4 Sonia Green
5 Catha Jacobs
6 Georgia Evans
7 Vicky Fleetwood
8 Marlie Packer (cc)
9 Ella Wyrwas
10 Holly Aitchison
11 Alysha Corrigan
12 Alev Kelter
13 Cara Wardle
14 Rachel Laqeretabua
15 Lotte Clapp (cc)
Replacements:
16 Kat Evans
17 Mackenzie Carson
18 Donna Rose
19 Fi McIntosh
20 Poppy Cleall
21 Lisa Martin
22 Hannah Casey
23 Chantelle Miell
