Eastleigh take a strong squad across The Solent to face Sandown & Shanklin as they aim to stay with London 3 South-West’s early frontrunners.

Prop Paul Taylor (shoulder) could be sidelined for a couple of weeks and Andy Innes steps in to take his place. Scrum half Ramsey Lind shone for the 2nds last season and pulls on the No 9 shirt for the seniors, writes CLIVE DOWNTON.

Sandown were despatched to the bottom of the league after losing 32-18 at Ellingham last Saturday while Eastleigh kicked off with a 28-15 home succcess over Purley John Fisher.

Eastleigh captain Paul Fudio said: “Sandown have a good up-and-coming side and are very physical in the pack, but we’ve had a very hard training session to be ready for a hard game.

“It’s our intention to win every game. We know that will not always be possible but that is what we strive for and train hard for.

“We know Sandown want to be up there as well, especially after losing their first game.”

Trojans aim to put an end to a downward trend at Andover.

The Stoneham Lane-based side lost their opener to Old Tonbridgians, who stepped up to London 3 South-West after winning a promotion play-off match. Trojans ended up at the same level following a second relegation.

They are keen to get some points under their belt but Andover, who picked up a losing bonus point last weekend, are confident they can win at home.

Andover coach Andy Waite said: “It’s great to back competing at this level and, although last week’s game with Old Mids didn’t quite go the way we wanted, we still outplayed them almost everywhere.

“We showed we can compete in this league despite having some key players missing.

“Trojans will be tough opponents, looking to bounce back immediately from their own disappointment, and it will be a difficult task for us.

“We are looking forward to the challenge and welcoming London League rugby back to the Goodship Ground.”

New Milton & District and neighbours Ellingham & Ringwood meet at Ashley Rec tomorrow on the back of opening day bonus point victories.

Ellingham put themselves top of SW3 with a 32-18 win over Sandown while Milton clocked up the same points but conceded 28 in their game with London Exiles.