LAUNCESTON have made just one change from last weekend’s victory over Chew Valley for tomorrow’s crunch clash at leaders Exmouth in Regional One South West (2pm).

The All Blacks head to East Devon just five points adrift of the Cockles following their surprise loss at Royal Wootton Bassett, while Brixham, who are third, won 18-17 at second-placed Barnstaple.

It means there is a four-way battle at the top for the sole promotion spot.

Exmouth won the reverse fixture on matchday three back in September and have been impressive all season, losing just twice in their opening 11 games.

However, the Cornishmen have a decent recent record against Exmouth and have been boosted by the return of Mitch Hawken from injury. He comes in for Alex Bartlett who hurt his ankle at the weekend in a straight swap at tighthead-prop.

There is also a big name return on the bench as back-rower Torin Clarke has re-joined the club on a short-term loan from Plymouth Albion. He provides cover with Dom Ellery and Lloyd Duke out injured and will provide a potent weapon when called upon.

There is one other change on the bench as former Bude back Mitch Acres is preferred to Dan Pearce who needs regular game-time after his recent return from long-term injury.

The other big games involving teams at the top are Barnstaple’s trip to Chew Valley and Brixham welcoming St Austell.

Elsewhere, the Castles will hope to finally take to the field following a spate of recent cry-offs from opponents when they visit their St Ives counterparts.

Launceston are joint top of Counties Three Cornwall with Camborne Seconds and look a good bet for promotion.

They travel down to West Cornwall with a large squad of 21 to take on a home side who are more than useful at Alexandra Road.

The ladies rounded off their 2024 last weekend when they visited Yeovil and came away 41-5 winners in Women’s NC 1 South West (West).

LAUNCESTON: Ben Bryant, Zerran Hammond, Billy Martin, Cam Fogden, Ollie Bebbington, James Tucker, George Hillson; Ollie Martin, Levent Bulut, Mitch Hawken, Dan Goldsmith, Leion Cole, Tom Bottoms, Pete Bebbington, Brandon Rowley (capt). Replacements: Seb Cox, Torin Clarke, Mitch Acres.

LAUNCESTON CASTLES: Dan Pearce, Ollie Tomkies, Richard Jasper (capt), Tom Anderton, Cody Smith, Adam Collings, Corey Sillifant; Harvey Basford, Nathan Ferrett, Callum Johns, Ben Greene, Tom Walton, Tyler Westlake, Ollie Redwood, Fin Stiles. Replacements: Harvey Fry, Mark Knight, Kuda Chisango, Jack Swain, Tom Hargreaves.