Lamb to face old friends

WHILE former Gloucester fly-half Ryan Lamb makes the headlines as he faces his former club on Sunday, the Cherry and Whites will be glad to see the back of the man he keeps out of the London Irish starting line-up.

Australian fly-half Peter Hewatt was the architect of Gloucester's downfall the last time the sides met at the Madejski Stadium.

He generally saves his best for Gloucester games but will have to make an impact from the bench if he is to do so this time around.

The Exiles can still name an internationals-laden line-up, including the Armitage brothers, Delon and Steffon, locks Nick Kennedy and skipper Bob Casey and last year's Guinness Premiership Player of the Year, Seilala Mapusua, team-mate of Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu in the Samoan national team.

"Gloucester have a good, skilful squad that has been strengthened by some astute signings," said London Irish head coach Toby Booth.

"From what we've seen of them they are playing with a new freedom and flexibility and showed their intent in defeating Bath at home last weekend.

"Matches between the two teams at Madejski Stadium are always competitive and entertaining so supporters can expect an exciting contest."