NEWLY promoted Salisbury RFC have bolstered their side with three coups ahead of returning to life in South West 1 (East) tomorrow, writes Jake Allright.

County fullback Tom Lane, County lock Rob Best and Leeds University fullback Olly Bowden have joined the Castle Road outfit.

Pre-season aTrouncing Thatcham 112-24 and Wootton Bassett 22-0 has boded well for Dan Jeffries' charges.

However, they are without hooker Luke Esnouf and flanker Jamie Miller for tomorrow's home showdown with Reading (3pm).

Captain for the game is Liam Gilbert who will be playing at number 8.

Head Coach Jeffries said: “Our squad is strong so I think, if we can keep free from injuries and availability, we will be very competitive this year and build on the success from last season."

Matt Pallas, first team manager last year, is no longer involved due to work commitments.