Having defeated Garioch in their opening Pool A clash at the end of January, reigning champions Watsonians are on the road to face Howe Harlequins.

Ahead of the trip, Watsonians head coach Freddie Main said: “We’ve got an opportunity to give new players a run out on Sunday and to try players in alternative positions, which is exciting, and after a few weeks without a match the players are really keen to get back out there.”

Howe captain Emma Wood said: “We are all very excited to play our third game of the Sarah Beaney Cup this weekend against Watsonians.

“It will definitely be one of the hardest games the Quins have ever played but we are all ready to test ourselves against a top team. We are using the Cup games to gain experience and improve our game play. Bring on Sunday!”

Also in Pool A, Stirling County host Garioch.

“We are looking forward to the game this weekend and taking on a team who are an unknown to us which is always an exciting challenge,” County skipper Rachel Shankland stated.

“Although coming to us from a lower league, we won’t be underestimating Garioch’s strength and ability.

“This game is going to be an opportunity for us to try out some new players who have recently joined us. After a tense and close match where we took the win against Cartha we are definitely looking to ramp up to the next level for this one and build on things.”

Garioch bounced back from their spirited loss at Watsonians to defeat Howe Harlequins 31-12 last weekend.

In Pool B, Corstorphine host Ayr with the former having won one game to date and the latter yet to play.

“We’re looking forward to getting back into the Cup competition.” Corstorphine head coach Eric Jones said.

“Our players took advantage of the week off at the start of the month by travelling to Ireland and playing Suttonians Tribe which was a great experience for the team.

“In the league fixture against Ayr they gave us a difficult half last year through at Millbrae so we know they can live with us, but we’ll be looking to make the most of home advantage.”

The match may be moved to the Peffermill Playing Fields 3G pitch, weather dependent, and Ayr head coach Andy Duncan stated: “Hopefully the weather can take a back seat after a disruptive period both regards to training and games.

“We are looking forward to starting our Cup campaign against Corstorphine and we are expecting a tough, competitive game.

“The girls are excited to get back on the pitch, shaking off any cobwebs and taking on the challenge in front of them.”

In the same pool last year’s runners-up Hillhead Jordanhill will look to build on their bonus point win at Stewartry on January 26 when they host Heriot’s Blues.

Inverness Craig Dunain and Shetland kick off the National Plate’s weekend action on Saturday in Pool A.

In the same pool Glasgow University host Broughton on Sunday with Kelso, who have two wins from two, travelling to Oban Lorne in Pool B on the same day.

There are seven National Bowl matches coming up, starting on Saturday when Stornoway and Hamilton, who both have one win from one to date, meet in Pool A.

On Sunday there are a further six matches with the highlight potentially being undefeated Pool C sides Biggar and Livingston meeting.

Check the fixtures section of the website for all kick-off times

Photo credit: Watsonians v Garioch – Graham Gaw