MINEHEAD Barbarians have a rearranged home game against Avon in Counties Two Somerset on Saturday (2.30p.m.) - and head coach Mick Orton admits he is struggling ‘massively’ with availability.

Among those not playing on Saturday include captain Joel Lynch, out injured for the rest of the season, and vice-captain Jacob Gower who took a knock at Weston last weekend.

“We have so many players unavailable I don’t know where to start, but I will never use this as an excuse,” said Orton who returned as coach this season after taking a year’s break from the job.

Avon are lying third and Orton added: “This is going to be a tough game - a difficult one. But we will put out the strongest side we can. We will always be competitive no matter what side we field.

“The lads showed plenty of character in gaining a draw at Weston last weekend when the side was far from full strength.”

Minehead were unbeaten at home this season until they lost 31-17 against Hornets II at the beginning of this month. They are lying fifth in the table, having won ten of their 17 matches. They have struggled to field strong sides away from home which is a problem many clubs have this season.

Minehead 2nd XV are also in action on Saturday when they play away to fifth-placed Morganians in Counties Four Somerset South. The Babas’ second string hammered Hornets IV 86-0 at home last weekend and are now second in the table.

Spectators at Minehead’s home matches this season certainly cannot complain about the lack of tries this season with both senior teams piling up the points.

Wiveliscombe’s first team have no match this weekend but the seconds play at home to Hornets III in Counties Three Somerset South, looking to improve on their 11th place.

Wivey’s first team are back in action in Counties One Western West tomorrow week when they play at Bideford, and will be chasing a season's double, having won 21-17 at home against the North Devon side early in November.