WITH the weather wiping out Titans’ holiday programme, the Taunton team face their first league game of 2013 with a trip to Dings Crusaders tomorrow.

Dings established Bristol bragging rights with a 21-15 victory over Clifton in their last game to confirm they are the in-form team. And they also scored an impressive 25-22 win over promotion-chasing Henley on December 15.

Only two points separated the teams when they last met at Hyde Park in September.

In a tense, nervous encounter, Titans edged that one 18-16 but will need to be in better form if they are to bag the points on Saturday.

A passionate and gutsy second half performance saw Titans produce possibly their best 40 minutes of the season in their stunning fight back against top of the table Worthing in their last game. It had home fans on their feet.

Play with that level of passion and intensity and the Titans can win in Bristol, otherwise Dings will be quick to seize the ascendency.

As Henley found, Dings are an uncompromising and hard team to beat on their own turf if they get on top. Titans will need to be at their best if they are to win this one.

Southend’s talented scrum half from last season has returned to the Seasiders ranks as one of their two new signings. It suggests Southend are strengthening to fight off relegation.

With Southend visiting Hyde Park at the end of January, the Taunton men really need points at Dings on Saturday.

The next game at Hyde Park sees the visit of Shelford on January 12 (2.30pm).