MINEHEAD Barbarians’ senior sides return to action this Saturday, September 19, when they welcome Ilfracombe Sharks for a pre-season friendly.

The Barbarians have enjoyed a positive pre-season, with strong numbers at training and plenty of quality on show as players compete for places ahead of the new league campaign.

Following the RFU’s decision to delay the start of the league season until September, the return of competitive rugby to Minehead will be a welcome sight for players and supporters alike.

The afternoon gets underway at 12.30pm with a special curtain-raiser featuring players who have taken part in the club’s popular Barbarians Super 6 Touch Rugby sessions. The initiative has brought together players of all ages, genders and levels of experience, highlighting the inclusive nature of the club.

The bar and kitchen will also be open from 12.30pm, with the club hoping to attract a large crowd for an afternoon of rugby and socialising.

The main event kicks off at 3pm, with a large Barbarians squad expected to feature.

Director of Rugby Luke Milton is looking forward to seeing the players transfer their hard work in training onto the pitch.

He said: “The players are ready for a game. It has been a long pre-season and we are looking for their efforts in training to be shown on the pitch, with some clinical, physical and entertaining rugby.

“We have a large squad available, so we can manage player minutes and look at potential combinations for both XVs ahead of the league games. It is also the players’ first chance to impress the coaching team.

“We are really grateful to Ilfracombe for making the trip over the hill. With a big crowd expected, it should be a great way to start our season.”

Minehead Barbarians v Ilfracombe Sharks, Saturday, 3pm, Tom Stewart Field. 'Touch' rugby curtain-raiser 12.30pm