TEN new players are in line to make their debut for Cinderford in the club’s opening National League One fixture tomorrow against Darlington Mowden Park.

New signings Davy McGregor, Francicso Bruno, Sid Blackmore, Louis Silver and Lucas Slowik all start for their first league appearance at Dockham Road, while Will Goodrick-Clarke, Dino Dallavelle, Jimmy Williams and Ben Penfold all start on the bench.

Jack Shields will also turn out for the side having worked his way up from the United XV.

The side’s average age is just 23 years old and director of rugby Nic Corrigan is expecting a serious test of his young team after an ‘intense pre-season, with lots of change on and off the pitch’.

“Darlington Mowden Park are a strong side who train full-time with a large amount of investment into them over the past few seasons,” he said.

“They will be a stern challenge first up and we have a challenge not only to earn their respect but that of our supporters as well.

“It will not be a straightforward season and we all have to show patience.

“However, in a home World Cup year to work in this group of people is a great honour for me personally and I am proud of how hard the players and all staff have worked this preseason.

“I am looking forward to review of the United fixture at Worthing as well as this is a vital part of the program to continue to develop talent in that area of our club.”

Cinderford squad: Mike Wilcox (capt), Lucas Slowik, Sam Hanks, Robbie Winchle, Alex Pickersgill, James Moffat, Louis Silver; Chris Bundy, Davy McGregor, Francisco Bruno, Roger Birkin, Matt Lane, George Mills, Sid Blackmore, Jack Shields.

Replacements: Will Goodrick-Clarke, Dino Dallavelle, Milo Reynolds, Jimmy Williams, Ben Penfold.