BUDE head coach Sam Parker is ‘looking forward to the challenge’ as they prepare to take on Perranporth twice in the space of four days in Counties Two Cornwall.

The first of those is tomorrow afternoon as the third-placed Seasiders host at Bencoolen Meadow (3pm), before heading down the A39 on Wednesday night to face a Brewers outfit who are just two points behind having both played 17 of their 22 games.

Both sides are realistically battling it out for third as Bude’s recent home defeat to Helston means they will need a real slip-up from the West Cornwall side to reel them in.

Last Saturday saw Bude return to winning ways with a 71-0 victory at winless Bodmin which included No.8 Joe Wilson scoring five of their 11 tries.

Parker admits victory at Clifden Park was important and hopes they can use it as a springboard.

He said: “We were disappointed with a few recent results, but we had a good confidence boost against Bodmin. We managed to rest some players and give others a chance and it was a good opportunity to try out players in different positions to expand on the squad options.

“Looking ahead to this weekend, we have the challenge of Perranporth at home and we haven’t played them yet this season as the away fixture was postponed due to a flooded pitch.

“Having looked at their stats and results for this year we know that we are going to be in for a good battle of the backs, but we are confident that we can come out on top before we face them in the return trip on Wednesday evening.

“It is a short turnaround which is something we’re not really used to, but we have a good team lined up and are looking forward to the challenge.”

Elsewhere around the club this weekend, the seconds are due to go to their Penryn counterparts in the Counties Three Cornwall League Cup, while the in-form ladies are away to Cullompton on Sunday in Women’s NC 2 South West (West).

Although Bude remain second bottom, they could move level with Cully with a five-point victory, and with three games in-hand.

BUDE v Perranporth: Will Pharo; Cobi Yelland, Ed Hilliam-Cooke, Olly Denford, Oscar Davey; Brad Thomas, Ollie Rowland; Charlie Firman, Harvey Cholwill, Anthony Kennett; Freddie Saxton, Will Hockridge (capt); Finley Fry, Matt Maniglia, Joe Wilson. Replacements: Hayden Chater, Freddy Allen, Olly Mounce, Josh Rowland.