With harsh weather having struck the country in the early part of 2026 and the Kent side’s normal home base of The Slade waterlogged, a fast-paced encounter awaits at the alternative venue.
And the DoR is delighted to have the chance to snap a two-game losing streak, albeit wary of the quality which saw TJs overtake his side into sixth place in the table last weekend.
He said: “TJs started the season strongly, got some good results and while we had a decent win against them, they’ve hit some top form recently with a fantastic win at Rosslyn Park and another against a dangerous Dings.
“They’re playing some very good rugby and we’re under no illusions how tough a game it’s going to be.”
‘Surface will make a difference’
Commenting on the change of pitch, he continued: “Credit to them they’ve got a decent alternative and we’re grateful to them for getting the game on.
“The 4G will make a difference – rather than playing on a pitch which is soft underfoot we’ll be on a fast-paced artificial surface.
“At this time of year, you don’t want rescheduled fixtures – having come back from the Christmas break you want to be playing and we’re looking forward to it.”
Rams make two changes to their starting line-up with Ryan Lomas in for James Baker at tight-head prop and fit-again Luke Graham back on the wing.
The South African youngster has five tries in as many games as he returns following a two-month lay-off, and Seb is pleased to see the finisher back in action.
He explained: “We’ve taken a little bit more time with Luke on this occasion, but he’s been good with his recovery and I think he’s maturing.
“The challenge for him was to take more responsibility healing his knocks because he’s had good support from both clubs (Bath and Rams) since he’s come over, and I think he understands he’s a major factor in looking after his body.
“He’s been very professional, listened to the medical team and while he was probably ready to go last week, we wanted to protect him a little and are now excited to get him out there this weekend.”
‘We’re producing plenty of good stuff’
Rams head into the contest on the back of a tough run which has seen them win just twice in eight fixtures, but the DoR remains upbeat and believes morale is high in the camp.
He concluded: “They’re great lads and we understand the direction we’re going in as a team.
“By knowing that we feel we can deal with the bumps in the road, and I’ve always said you don’t want to get overly excited and think you’re God’s gift when you win a game, but equally you don’t want to get too down when you lose.
“Sale were quality last week, Dings were fantastic before Christmas, but we’re producing plenty of very good stuff and it’s not so long go we took seven points from 10 off the top two and 12 from 15 in that three-match spell.
“I’m happy with where we’re at.”
*The nearest postcode to the site is TN11 9BB (Haysden Country Park).
Travel information
Please drive west past the school, which will be on your right-hand side, along Brook Street towards Penshurst.
Take the second turning on the right, following the brown sign for Haysden Country Park and Lower Haysden, into Lower Haysden Lane.
Continue along this road for approximately 400 metres; the entrance to the car park will be on the right, signposted “Vizards”.
There are 60 parking spaces available for cars and Vizards is a 15-20 minute drive from the clubhouse.
**Supporters are advised the viewing area is both slippery and muddy, so suitable footwear is advised.
