Preview: Swindon Robins Vs. Somerset Rebels

SWINDON ROBINS will look to keep their unbeaten home record in check this bank holiday Monday, as World Champion Jason Doyle returns to the Abbey Stadium with a Somerset Rebels searching for victory. TotalSport Swindon’s Ryan Walker previews the action.

Facing each other just under two weeks ago for the first time this season, Somerset the home victors winning 50-40, Swindon manager Alun Rossiter will be hoping his riders can make amends as they search to establish themselves back at the top of the Premiership table.

A Swindon victory will see the Robins take their position as league leaders, and against a Somerset side yet to register an away victory this domestic campaign, Monday night provides the reigning champions with the perfect opportunity. 

However whilst Rossiter admits it is just another meeting for his side, all eyes will be fully focused on the return of Jason Doyle to the Abbey Stadium for the first time since he departed the club. 

After securing the league title in record-breaking circumstances with Swindon last season, followed by his first World Championship just weeks later, the Australian’s departure from the Wiltshire club over the winter period raised many eyebrows. 

And now returning to his old stomping ground, Doyle will surely be determined to put in a performance reminiscent of last year. 

Distracting is the return of Doyle a Somerset side with talented riders, including another former title-winning robin in Bradley Wilson-Dean, pose a serious threat. 

Swindon skipper Nick Morris will need backup from his teammates if they are to register their seventh league win of the season, but with strong pairings throughout the side, a Swindon win seems the most likely of results.

Outcome:Swindon win. Just.