Edinburgh make four changes ahead of Scotstoun showdown
Edinburgh Head Coach Richard Cockerill has named his side for this weekend’s 1872 Cup second leg against Glasgow Warriors at Scotstoun Stadium (Saturday 30 December, kick-off 3.15pm) – live on Sky Sports.
The team selection includes just four changes to the side that recorded a dramatic victory in the first leg at BT Murrayfield last weekend.
Damien Hoyland is the only alteration to an otherwise unchanged back three. The winger – who scored a terrific solo effort in last season’s corresponding fixture – joins Duhan van der Merwe on the wing, whilst Blair Kinghorn continues at full back.
In the midfield, James Johnstone – who last week penned a permanent two-year deal with the club – links up with the experienced Phil Burleigh. Sam Hidalgo-Clyne and Jaco van der Walt continue their half-back partnership.
In the front row, Matt Shields replaces the suspended Simon Berghan. The tight head will pack down alongside Murray McCallum and Stuart McInally, who once again skippers the side.
The experienced pairing of Grant Gilchrist and Ben Toolis form a skilled second-row, whilst Hamish Watson and Viliame Mata link up with Jamie Ritchie – an impact substitute in last weekend’s victory over the same opponent – in the back-row.
On his selection, Cockerill said: “The players showed a great deal of passion and desire in last weekend’s victory over Glasgow and we will need the same levels of commitment if we are to come away with a positive result at Scotstoun this weekend.
“We know how tough an opposition Glasgow are, especially at home, but I know the squad will be ready for the battle.”
Edinburgh team to face Glasgow Warriors in the Guinness PRO14 at Scotstoun Stadium on Saturday 30 December (kick-off 3.15pm) – live on Sky Sports
15. Blair Kinghorn (56)
14. Damien Hoyland (54)
13. James Johnstone (12)
12. Phil Burleigh (67)
11. Duhan van der Merwe (4)
10. Jaco van der Walt (4)
9. Sam Hidalgo-Clyne (97)
1. Murray McCallum (29)
2. Stuart McInally (112) CAPTAIN
3. Matt Shields (3) 4. Ben Toolis (79)
5. Grant Gilchrist (110) 6. Jamie Ritchie (41)
7. Hamish Watson (78)
8. Viliame Mata (24)
Replacements:
16. Neil Cochrane (64);
17. Jordan Lay *;
18. Elliot Millar-Mills *;
19. Fraser McKenzie (91);
20. Cornell du Preez (93);
21. Nathan Fowles (46);
22. Chris Dean (55);
23. Darcy Graham (3)
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