HAVANT have a major point to prove on their own turf this weekend when Hooks Lane stages the final of the Hampshire Caffrey's Cup.

The team, coached by Dave Cook and Simon Morgan, held sway as Hampshire's senior club but lost that status last April when Basingstoke gained promotion to the National Leagues and also lifted the Hampshire Cup.

Basingstoke provide Sunday's opposition and Havant would like nothing better than to regain their position as top dogs in the county.

The North Hampshire side aim to prevent that and view success in the cup as a vital ingredient in providing the impetus to hang onto their National League position despite their present dire league situation.

Chairman of Rugby, John Byett, said a major aim at Basingstoke was to retain the cup.

There have been many intense battles between these two arch-rivals over the years and Sunday's game promises to be as uncompromising as ever. Both teams have begun the war of attrition by playing their cards very close to their chests over actual team selection.

Basingstoke have stuck to their normal practice of not naming a side until after the final training session and Havant have named just a squad.

Havant do have a number of injury doubts but Byett said Basingstoke would be able to name from a full squad.

"It's been going well lately and we're full of optimism," stated Havant coach Morgan, while Byett suggested: "If we play like we have in recent victories, we should be okay."

Kick-off is not until 4pm because Sunday is also a big day for the Havant mini/junior section who stage their 25th anniversary festival prior to the final.

There is some league action tomorrow, principally in London 4 South West where Southampton visit Cobham seeking to stave off relegation fears.

The visitors have a number of changes with Ian Budd recalled at lock for the unavailable Mark Mauger and John Miles resuming at scrum-half. Meanwhile, Darren Smith, Dave Griffiths, Martyn Sheridan and Ross Bailey all switch positions.

"Our scoring difference is okay but we need the match points," said skipper Griffiths. "Anything we get up their will be a bonus."

Tottonians visit United Services in a south coast local derby, while Fawley entertain Cranleigh.

Gosport & Fareham should remain on course for promotion from London 3 South West when they visit Old Wimbledonians.

Trojans are due at Hamble for a much-postponed Hampshire 1 fixture.

Victory will keep Trojans on track for a home game in the play-offs and they stick largely with the regular side, although Kev Baker replaces the absent J-P Cook at prop and there is a doubt about Jason Ruawai.

More Rugby stories in the 'Weekend Rugby' guide in tonight's Daily Echo.