FORMER Sale Sharks fly-half Dan Mugford is in line to represent Taunton RFC in the Somerset Cup this Saturday, after making his long-awaited return from injury on Tuesday night.

The 28-year-old, who hails from Exeter, suffered a leg break and ankle dislocation which required ankle reconstruction surgery and kept him out of action for the best part of a year.

His comeback came as part of a Taunton side who took on Exeter Under-23s at Ivybridge on Tuesday evening.

A visiting side made up of Warriors (2nd XV) and fringe players gave a good account of themselves before two late tries sealed the win for Exeter.

Taunton Titans head coach Tony Yapp told the County Gazette: “It was an opportunity for our Warriors players to get competitive rugby, as they haven’t had that often enough this season.

“It was a close game and an enjoyable one.

“Dan Mugford had a good runout, playing for 25 to 30 minutes and scoring a try.

“He’s rusty after his injury but will find his feet quickly.”

In terms of Mugford’s involvement with Taunton going forward, Yapp added: “This was his first contact game in quite some time, so we will wait and see.

“He’s likely to be involved on Saturday, but we won’t rush him.

“If he’s fit for selection he will come into the reckoning [for the 1st XV], as he’s such a good player.”

With no league match for the Titans on Saturday, it’s a chance for some players to rest, and for others to test themselves away to Weston Hornets in the county cup (2.30pm).

“The Somerset Cup is a big opportunity for Warriors players to stake their claim for a first team place,” said Yapp.

“They’re loyal, good players, but our squad depth this season means they have not had as many Titans appearances as they would have liked.”