TOM COVENTRY has made two changes to the London Irish side which will line up against Gloucester on Sunday (3pm kick-off).
Tom Court replaces Tom Smallbone at loose head prop, while Elliott Stooke makes way for Will Lloyd in the second row.
Although beaten 26-16 by Saracens last time out, the Exiles’ head coach keeps faith with the same back line which served him well for large periods of the game in New Jersey last Saturday, meaning Greig Tonks retains his place at fly-half.
“We need to perform well and the signs are good – we played well against Saracens but unfortunately we let them get away at the end of the game,” said Coventry.
“If we continue to grow and come up with a collegial approach to the game, then I’m sure we will be OK.
“We had a great week in the United States (US) and we were very well hosted by the New York Jets.
“It was disappointing not to get the win over Saracens, but we played some very good rugby.
“On our return to England it was all about getting the lads through recovery and preparing them for this weekend’s game.
“We feel well prepared and things have gradually built as we’ve got closer to the game.”
The biggest crowd of the season thus far will be present at Madejski Stadium to back the hosts in what is this year’s St Patrick’s Day Game.
While those heading to the match will be hoping to witness a spectacle on the pitch, off it they will be kept busy with a Norton Rugby Skills Zone, fairground rides and live music.
“It’s one of the biggest days in the London Irish calendar,” added the coach.
“St Patrick’s Day is a huge day for people from Ireland, and we are expecting a big crowd at the game, who will hopefully enjoy a good game of rugby.”
LONDON IRISH: Maitland, Lewington, Hearn, Williams, Ojo, Tonks, Steele, Court, Cruse, Aulika, Lloyd, Symons, Narraway (c), Cowan, McCusker.
Replacements: Paice, Smallbone, Halavatau, Sexton, Sinclair, McKibbin, Brophy Clews, Mulchrone.
