INFLUENTIAL centre Chris O’Neil will be fit for Upton Rugby Club’s important home clash against Manor Park tomorrow (3pm).

O’Neil left the field through injury in Upton’s disappointing 22-11 derby defeat against Ledbury last weekend in Midlands Three West (South).

Club spokesman Rob Heeley says O’Neil has recovered from the knock and Upton will look to make home advantage count.

Heeley, Adam Jones and Chris Thomas are likely to return to the pack after several promising youngsters were given a chance against Ledbury. Winger Callum Macleod is set to make his competitive debut and Joe Ayres returns at full-back after illness.

Heeley said: “We are hoping we can bounce back and, against Ledbury, I think the team missed experience.”

Despite leading Ledbury 11-9 at half-time after Max MacFarlane’s try and kicks from Dan Keyte, Upton came unstuck.

Heeley said: “Manor Park were the only team we beat home and away last season so confidence is high, particularly at home.

“In 24 matches this season there have only been two away victories in the whole of the league so playing at home is a massive advantage.”