An already thin programme of matches for tomorrow was cut still further when Southampton called off their first and second team matches with Portsmouth.

This was much to the disappointment of Portsmouth's director of rugby, Nigel Morgan, who stated that his club were desperate for a game having only played once in seven weeks and with an important Intermediate Cup match on January 6 looming.

However, Southampton's Dave Griffiths pointed out that the club were left with little alternative when it became obvious how few players were actually available this coming weekend.

One match definitely still on is Basingstoke's visit to Plymouth Albion in National League 3 South.

A visit to the unbeaten league leaders is probably something no-one at Basingstoke would have wished for this particular weekend, especially as the Devon outfit achieved a comfortable victory at Basingstoke only three weeks ago.

Nigel Redman, Basingstoke's coach confirmed how difficult it is going to be, stating, "We've just about got a team but I don't think the seconds will be able to play. Injuries and unavailability have hit us very hard.

"It was always going to be a tall order going to go to Plymouth, we know that, but the players are up for it. We shall leave early Saturday morning and go down there and give it everything.

"It is important we go there and build on the success we had at Redruth and put last week's home defeat at the hands of Westcombe Park to the back of our minds."

Redman remains optimistic that Basingstoke have the basis of a team that can succeed in this league and is looking to the New Year for a change of fortune.

He said, "I hope we can put all of the injuries and unavailability behind us in the New Year. The players who make themselves regularly available deserve that and things will improve when we have everyone regularly available."

The only other match involving a first fifteen definitely confirmed was the one which pits Millbrook against Havant Dolphins at Redbridge Lane.

HIGH RISE: United Services win a lineout during their 13-5 London League 4 South West victory over Southampton last weekend.