WELLINGTON and Wiveliscombe rugby supporters will be hoping the weather will stay mild and dry allowing an open competitive game for the annual Boxing Day clash at Wellington (ko 2.15pm).

These matches are one-offs and present form and results count for nothing in the sometimes frantic encounters.

Wellington are not firing on all cylinders at the moment but they have been winners over recent seasons and will also be playing in home surroundings.

On several occasions over the years, both teams have had unsatisfactory starts to the season before going on to better times after a Boxing Day victory.

Wivey are going well at present due to being able to choose from a mainly injury-free squad so far this campaign.

The visitors will be desperate to avenge last year’s home defeat, with Wellington scoring a last-minute try to make it 17-14.

One thing is for sure – this fixture is still a special occasion in the rugby calendar for both teams and, as history has shown, players and supporters will be eager to renew old acquaintances over a pint or two after the game.