SWINDON College Old Boys face the toughest game of their league campaign when they face top of the league Reading Abbey.

The Berks, Bucks & Oxon Premier pacesetters, who are unbeaten this season, are the only side to inflict a defeat on Mark Lea’s side.

College know a win at home this weekend will put the pressure on their visitors who are 10 points ahead of the Nationwide Pavilion side with Lea’s team having a game in hand.

“We look to win every game, but the fact that Reading are the only loss for our first team this season is motivating the boys more for the game,” said Lea.

“We need to play our game and not worry about what they do too much. Keeping discipline and defending well will be crucial.

“Even if we get a bonus point win against Reading at the weekend, we would then need to score heavily in the remaining games to have a chance of closing the points difference enough to win the league.

“However, a win would show an improvement over the second half of the season and would also give the lads more confidence as we approach some tricky cup games.’’ With College competing on two fronts in league and cup, the injuries are starting to take their toll.

Last week centre Scott Buchannan and back row Matt McKee picked up knocks which will rule them out of this weekend.

However, Lea has managed to strengthen his side and will hand first-team debuts to centre Bobbi Tilling and tighthead prop Luke Sawyer.

“Reading are a very good team in all departments,” added Lea.

“Last time we played them there was no obvious weakness, so we expect the same from them this weekend.

“We are aware we will need to bring our ‘A’ game if we want to compete and show them what we can do.”

Meanwhile, Supermarine will go in search of their first win of the campaign when they face local rivals Bradford on Avon in Southern Counties South.

Swindon will be looking to put an end to a four-game losing streak in Suth West One East when they host Windsor at Greenbridge Road.