Gloucester-Hartpury Head Coach Susie Appleby makes minimal changes to the side that defeated DMP Sharks last weekend for Saturday’s Tyrrells Premier 15s derby match away at Bristol Bears Women, the only changes coming in the pack.

The back line that started last weekend’s game is unchanged, but there are a handful of changes in the pack.

Erica Mills moves from the back row into the second row and her spot on the blindside flank is taken by Charlotte Faux. Meanwhile, Bethan Lewis returns from Wales duty and replaces Sian Williams who is unavailable for work reasons.

It’s a strong looking set of replacements with four full internationals named in Cerys Hale, Shona Powell-Hughes, Ellen Murphy and Millie Wood.

Appleby was pleased with last weekend’s performance and result but knows that Gloucester-Hartpury will have to be better still at Shaftesbury Park against a Bristol side looking to bounce back after their defeat at Worcester last weekend.

“We were pleased with some aspects of our return to the league last week and it was a good win over DMP but we know we still have to improve a lot to consistently be in the top three.

“Bristol will be disappointed after last week, they are a very good side and it’s always tough going to Shaftesbury Park.

“We’ve made one change, Charlotte Faux coming in to replace Sian Williams who is unavailable due to work. Charlotte has been excellent for the BUCS team and deserves an opportunity.

“Rachel Lund retains the 13 shirt and Erica Mills moves back into the second row. It’s great to be able to welcome back Bethan Lewis and Cerys Hale who have both been in excellent form for Wales.

“It’s a fast track down there, both teams like to move the ball, we are looking forward to an exciting local derby!”

Gloucester-Hartpury Women:

Mia Venner; 14. Ellie Underwood, 13. Rachel Lund, 12. Lleucu George, 11. Kelly Smith; 10. Ceri Large, 9. Mo Hunt (capt); 1. El Perry, 2. Connie Powell, 3. Katie Dougan; 4. Erica Mills, 5. Zoe Aldcroft; 6. Charlotte Faux, 7. Bethan Lewis (vice-capt), 8. Ti Tauasosi

Replacements:

Cerys Hale, 17. Ranni Samuda, 18. Elle Febrey, 19. Gurpreet Dhaliwal, 20. Shona Powell-Hughes, 21. Ellen Murphy, 22. Millie Wood

Gloucester-Hartpury opt for continuity for local derby at Bristol Bears Women

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