MINEHEAD Barbarians will be looking to maintain their splendid form under New Zealand head coach Isaiah Graham-Hooper when they play away to Avon in Counties Two Somerset on Saturday, January 10.

The Babas gained their best result of the season just before Christmas when they beat 100 per cent leaders Clevedon 43-20 at home, never looking back after taking the lead in the opening minute.

Clevedon, who had won their opening nine matches, never knew when hit them and conceded another try within minutes as the Babas turned on the style.

Minehead go into Saturday’s game lying third in the table, having lost only two matches, while Avon are down in seventh spot, with a record of four wins and five losses.

Minehead trail leaders Clevedon, who are home to Imperial this weekend, by only six points, both sides having played the same number of games.

Burnham on Sea, in second place only three points ahead of Minehead, entertain Hornets who are lying fourth.

Fixtures, Saturday, January 10: Clevedon v Imperial, Rebels Rugby v Keynsham, St Bernadettes Old Boys v Oldfield Old Boys, Avon v Minehead Barbarians, Burnham on Sea v Hornets, Castle Cary v Chew Valley.

Meanwhile, Minehead Barbarians 2nd XV begin the New Year with a tough home game against leaders Burnham on Sea in Counties Four Somerset South - also on Saturday (2.30p.m.).

The Babas’ second string, in fourth spot, have lost only two matches this season and have games in hand on all the teams above them.

Burnham on Sea have a four-point lead over second-placed Morganians who have a crucial game in hand. Somerton are lying third, with seven victories from their fixtures.

Fixtures, January 10: Minehead Barbarians v Burnham on Sea, Morganians v Hornets, Wells v Yeovil, Wincanton v Weston super Mare, Bridgwater & Albion v Tor.