WITH two games left of their National League Three London campaign Basingstoke RFC are just one point above the drop zone.

This was after their 41-24 defeat against visiting Barnes last Saturday, who are now right on the tails of their Hampshire rivals.

The next round of games for the two sides will see ’Stoke travel to Tonbridge Juddians who are fourth in the table, while Barnes entertain fifth-placed Guernsey on Saturday.

The final games for both sides are the following weekend, when Down Grange will play host to a visit from top-three side East Grinstead and Barnes travel to mid-table Westcombe Park.

Looking ahead to the weekend, Basingstoke RFC director of rugby James Croker said: “I am a Guernsey fan this weekend and I hope they can do us a favour.

“We will travel to Tonbridge looking to get a win which would make us safe.”

Earlier in the season, when these sides last met, ’Stoke were unlucky to come out on the wrong end of a 35-31 defeat at Down Grange.

The home side picked up a losing bonus point and a bonus point for four tries and if they are unable to win at Tonbridge on Saturday, this would be the next best outcome for ’Stoke.

Once again Croker will have to shuffle his line-up as captain Freddie Gleadowe and Toby Salmon suffered injuries in the Barnes loss.

George Scott is also unavailable, but Andy Hore is back and Croker is confident he can put a 15 on the pitch which will do a job for him.

Croker said: “Our destiny is in our own hands and we know Tonbridge will not roll over for us.

“We have to be ready for a physical battle and historically Basingstoke are a determined bunch and I am sure we can make something happen this weekend.”