COACH Stuart Busfield admits his under-strength Tamar Saracens side will face a massive challenge on Friday night when they take on Brixham and Devonport Services in a treble-header pre-season fixture at the Rectory (7pm).

Last season’s Devon One champions had been due just to face Western Counties West outfit Services.

But after Brixham were left without a match when Kingsbridge pulled out of a planned fixture it was agreed they could join the action with three 40 minute games.

Saracens are far from full strength, with a number of players away on holiday, but Busfield said it is a good chance for other members of his squad to test themselves against higher league players.

“We are not as strong as I would like, but it will be a good experience for some of our guys, who have never played against teams at that level,” said Busfield.

“Whatever happens, there will be positives to take from it.

“If we do have a difficult night at least the players will now how big the gap is. At least when we come to play teams our own level we will find it easier.

“We are just looking forward to it. We’re relishing the challenge.

“It’s also a good chance to build relationships with Services and Brixham.”

He added: “It’s our first run-out. It’s just disappointing we’ve got players missing, mostly down at Broadmasters. I think we’ll be 10 players down. I would have loved to have fielded a really strong side, but I’m sure the other teams will have players missing as well.

“We’ve got some new faces who are likely to feature on Friday. It’s a chance to see a few guys in action.”

Tamar Saracens, preparing for their first season in the Cornwall/Devon League, have lost a couple of players to higher league clubs, including former Launceston prop Ryan Dingle, who has joined Ivybridge.

But they have boosted their squad with a couple of new players, including a South African back-rower and Plymouth Argaum forward Courtney Richards.