The two clubs have collided 13 times in league competition, with the Hertfordshire men taking the first five before the worm turned.
However, fixtures between the two sides are notoriously hard-fought, with Stortford
becoming the first side to deny Rams a try bonus-point in an unusually low-scoring 10-6 away victory back in October.
Visitors dangerous on road
Tomorrow’s visitors remain a highly dangerous outfit – they are the only side to win at Rotherham Titans this term and also pushed Rosslyn Park and Plymouth Albion mighty close on the road – and Seb is under no illusions about the task at hand.
He explained: “Bishop’s Stortford are always a good side.
“They’ve changed their approach in the past 18 months and play a slightly more direct and physical style, using their forwards, but their backs are always a threat and they’ve been playing some great stuff off the scrum and line-out.
“Like every team at this level, you’ve got to watch them and again they bring something unique which we need to be on the money for. If we aren’t we will lose.”
Five changes for Rams
Rams make five changes to the starting line-up from last week’s narrow 25-22 setback at Sale FC, debutant Nick Barry and Ant Marris going from the off at prop, Harry Stone into the second row and Rowan Grundy and Solodrau Radianirova reuniting in midfield.
Commenting on the changes, the head coach continued: “I’m so pleased for Nick because he had a rough start to his time here with an injury, but he’s come back so well.
“He went back on loan to Camberley and did a terrific job there, and then he put in a
tremendous performance at Oxford University last Friday night.
“We’ve wanted to get him around the side for a long time, and with the effort he’s put in, it’s brilliant to do so now.
“It’s a tribute to Rowan to come straight back in because Joe Pannese has done a very good job – he’s been solid and shown he’s someone we can work with in this team moving forward.
“But what Rowan’s produced for the side this season meant it was a fairly easy decision to make.
“He’s been on top form, was unlucky to pick up a concussion a few weeks ago, but he’s now well rested and ready to go – it’s great to have him back in.”
Praise for supporters
Tomorrow’s fixture is Rams’ 10th home game of the season, meaning only three remain, and Seb is hopeful for a big crowd to watch along with England-France afterwards.
He ended: “The support this season has been incredible and with nine games to go, we’re now truly into the home straight.
“The season is strange because it goes on for eight months, but suddenly you’re into the business end.
“It’s tight at the top, teams are on form, anyone can beat anyone, and we’re very excited for one of our remaining home games – hopefully we have a big crowd who can make a difference again.”
