Saracens v Gloucester: Sarries must be wary of ‘dangerous’ Gloucester
BARNET, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 26: Nick Isiekwe of Saracens is congratulated by team mate Sean Maitland after scoring the fifth try during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Saracens and Worcester Warriors at StoneX Stadium on December 26, 2021 in Barnet, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Despite being seven points ahead and two places above their opponents, Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall says they are facing dangerous opposition on Saturday as they welcome Gloucester.
McCall’s side are second in the table and are many people’s favourites to lift a sixth Premiership title but face tough opposition in fourth placed Gloucester.
He told the club website: “Gloucester are a really strong team with good fundamentals. Their pack is strong with a good scrum, line-out and driving maul. Their half-backs are playing well, and they have an exciting back line.
“They are a dangerous side. This will be our sixth home game in the league and if we can win it will leave us in a good position.”
World Cup winner Vincent Koch returns in place of Harvey Beaton at prop, while Tim Swinson replaces Theo McFarland and Billy Vunipola is replaced by Andy Christie.
Ivan van Zyl replaces Aled Davies at scrum half, Nick Tompkins is replaced by Dom Morris in the centres and Rotimi Segun displaces Sean Maitland out wide.
Gloucester have surprised a number of teams this season but were narrowly beaten 20-17 by Harlequins last time out.
Director of Rugby George Skivington has made five changes with Santiago Carreras, Mark Atkinson, Jonny May, Charlie Chapman and Alex Seville coming into the starting 15.
Attack coach Alex King told the club website: “Their record speaks for itself. It’s a tough place to go but we’re incredibly excited for the challenge that presents itself. We know all about them but for us it’s all about focusing on our development and our learning.
“We want to get better and better and Saracens away is another test of where we are halfway through the season. We know what they bring, and we know what their strengths are.
“The boys have worked incredibly hard and are excited for the challenge that presents itself.”
