Taunton Titans kick-off their 2012-13 campaign at Hyde Park tomorrow (Saturday) when the Redruth Reds are the visitors for the opening match of the season in the National Two South.

Coach Tony Yapp's men have not had it easy in pre-season friendly matches against Plymouth Albion where they lost 82pts-19 and a 7pts-13 defeat to Welsh First Division outfit UWIC.

But they completed their preparations with a 73pts-31 victory over Somerset neighbours Chard who were able to step in at the last minute for a friendly after scheduled opponents Weston-super-Mare withdrew from the fixture.

The pre-season results will mean nothing, however, when Saturday comes and the Titans take to the field at Hyde Park against visiting Redruth.

Yapp said the coaching team were pleased with their pre-season progress and that with a "little rub of the green" should do them well this season.

He said: "We've adjusted well to the budget restrictions and with the help of Exeter Chiefs, the University and other elite level clubs we have assembled a talented squad of players.

"I would have liked a couple more old heads to 'steel' the team but as yet have not found the type of players we want for the Titans. It's a long season and there is time yet to strengthen."

Redruth, the pride of the Duchy's rugby elite, present the sternest test to the Titans. After a long summer of recruitment, preparation and training Titans will need to be at their very best to meet the Cornish challenge.

Just two points separated the teams in two thrilling encounters last season. Redruth took the spoils 35pts-34 in Cornwall with Taunton reversing the score to edge a 35pts-34 victory at Hyde Park.

The game kicks-off at 3pm on Saturday. Full report - see next week's Gazette.