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Jersey welcomes the Tigers

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Leicester Tigers arrived in the Channel Islands on Friday afternoon in preparation for their second game of the pre-season period.

After opening the summer programme with a match against Montpellier in Geneva a fortnight ago, Tigers have a game against Championship side Jersey this Saturday (3pm).

The Tigers squad, including members of the British & Irish Lions party who missed the match against Montpellier and club captain Toby Flood, met representatives of their hosts and sponsors from the Ashburton Group in St Helier as well as talking to supporters, all enjoying the sunshine at the start of Bank Holiday weekend, and gave interviews to the local media.

Director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: “We’re just two weeks away from the start of the season now so it’s important to get some game-time into the guys while also keeping in mind we have a long season ahead of us.

“Jersey Rugby Club and their sponsors were excellent hosts last season and we’re happy to have the opportunity make the return trip.

“They had a solid first season at Championship level and have ambitions for their future so we know they will be up for the game tomorrow and both teams will be looking forward to it with the big kick-off so close now.”

Cockerill was a live guest in the Channel Islands TV studios for the early-evening news programme before joining the squad and supporters at a barbeque at the St Peter home of Jersey RFC.

Asked about their hosts by CITV, Cockerill said: "Surviving last year in the Championship was key. It is a very hard league and this year they've strengthened their squad."

And looking ahead to Saturday's game, Cockerill added: "It will be a first hit-out for some of our players. We will have a good side out with a lot of Test players. We expect to perform and keep building for September 8."

More than 100 travelling fans joined the players at the Friday barbeque, starting their bus and ferry journey from Welford Road at 1am and arriving in Jersey by lunchtime.

"Support for the team is terrific," added Cockerill. "It is a long way to come to watch the team but we're pleased to see all those guys and it should be a good day on Saturday."