Rugby Union: Northampton Saints expected to play strong side in Bedford Blues ...

Jim Mallinder. Picture: Andy Kearns

Northampton Saints boss Jim Mallinder is expected to play some of the England internationals at his disposal when he takes his side to Goldington Road to face Blues in a pre-season friendly on Friday.

British and Irish Lions stars Alex Corbisiero and George North will not be involved for the Saints, but it will still be a strong visiting side as both teams play their first match after the summer break.

“The first game of pre-season is always important,” said Saints Director of Rugby Mallinder, who guided his team to the Premiership final last year where they lost out to Leicester Tigers.

“The players have been working hard over the past few weeks, both in the gym and on the training field, and Friday is the first opportunity for them to get their hands on a ball in a match environment.

“Everyone is raring to go and really wants to play, and we’re looking forward to getting back to Goldington Road to play a Bedford team who impressed during their run to the Championship final at the end of last season.”

Blues Director of Rugby Mike Rayer has said that he will play all of his summer signings in the friendly, which is due to kick-off at 7.45pm.

Winger Neville Edwards, centre Corey Hircock, fly half Michael Le Bourgeois, prop Nico Steenkamp and hooker Charlie Clare will all receive game time, as will Sam Stanley who signed last week from Premiership side Saracens.

Tom Jubb and Nick Alterac, who became dual registered from Sarries, may also be available to experience Goldington Road in a Blues shirt for the first time.

“It may seem like only yesterday that we were heading up to Newcastle for the second leg of the Championship final, but the new season is fast approaching and I’m sure that everyone – players, coaches and fans alike – are itching for their first rugby fix,” said Rayer.

“We’ve had a great pre-season so far with all the lads looking in tremendous shape and they are chomping at the bit to get out on the pitch. We always want to test ourselves and a match-up against the Saints will give us a great opportunity to try out new combinations and see how the lads get on.

“Everyone loves a game against their neighbours and I’m sure that Jim Mallinder and his coaching team will have their stars all geared up for the game. It should be a cracker and everyone is really excited about the game.”

Blues have lowered their normal ticket prices for the match and a big crowd is expected for the local derby.

Games between the two sides have always been fiercely contested and many will remember the two league encounters when the Saints were in National Division One during the 2007/8 season.

Visit www.bedfordrugby.co.uk for further information.

Rugby Union: Northampton Saints expected to play strong side in Bedford Blues ...