Bristol

Dan Ward-Smith: Can he stay injury-free?

Club Details

The Memorial Stadium

Filton Avenue

Horfield

Bristol

BS7 0BF

Stadium Capacity:12,000

Website:www.bristolrugby.co.uk

Founded: 1888

- 2008/9 Season Preview -

Skybet title odds - 50/1

Last time around: Following up the memorable third-place finish in 2006/07 was always going to be a tough ask for a squad the size of Bristol's. And so it proved with Richard Hill's men sliding six spots down to ninth last term. However, the notable highlight of the West Country side's season had to be their 17-0 home victory over Stade Français in a Heineken Cup cracker!

This time around? Once again the majority of their new summer signings have come from National Division One, barring the signatures of Adrian Jarvis and Rob Sidoli. Leaving the club are several first-team backs in centres Sam Cox, Rob Higgitt and David Hill, which could see them struggle to make the top six...maybe even escape the trapdoor!

Coach: Former England scrum-half Richard Hill worked wonders two years ago and in patches last term one saw glimmers of team rugby played at its best! A canny motivator who can lift a player to his peak and it would come as no surprise if he silenced the doubters once again this time around.

One to watch: Injury has marred Dan Ward-Smith over the past two years but his promise has never been questioned. The number eight looks in peak physical condition once again post pre-season and his combination with nine Shaun Perry will be integral to Bristol's hopes.

In: Adrian Jarvis (Harlequins), Rob Sidoli (Cardiff Blues), Vungo Lilo (Cornish Pirates), Junior Fatialofa (Exeter), Chris Ashwin (Newbury), Sam Alford (Launceston).

Out: Brian O'Riordan (tbc), Craig Morgan (tbc), Rob Higgitt (Scarlets), Sean Hohneck (Viadana), Sam Cox (Viadana), Josh Taumalolo (Grenoble), Jason Strange (coaching Dragons), David Hill (Toshiba, Japan), Dave Hilton (retired), Gareth Llewellyn (retired).

PR Prediction: 11th