BASINGSTOKE RFC have their biggest game of the season so far on Saturday, when Hampshire Premier leaders Sandown and Shanklin are the visitors to Down Grange for a top of the table clash.
The Isle of Wight side only head the table on points difference as both sides have started their campaigns with five straight wins.
Both sides had a week off last weekend and so will be ready for this big early season clash.
However, Stoke head coach Simon Appleby is not putting any pressure on his players and said: “This is not going to be the defining game of our season, but of course we want to win it.
"We still have a lot of rugby to play and we set ourselves no targets this season. It is matter of guys enjoying playing and building something for the future. So far we have done well, but last time out we were not at our best."
This week the draw for the semi-finals of the Hampshire Vase was made and this has given Basingstoke a home match against United Servies. Fordingbridge and Millbrook are in the other final four game.
The semi-finals will be played on February 23.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here