A big budget, a hugely respected international coach and experienced proven squad – all backed by enthusiastic fans – make Bristol an easy fit for the promotion favourite’s jacket.
Yet with that tag comes the pressure to not just perform, but also to produce – with the opposite true of most of their opposition, the majority of whom will not be expected to leave the field smiling.
Despite losing their opening match at Exeter’s Sandy Park when Cornish Pirates struck late to deny them victory, they are already in a top-four play-off spot, thanks to an emphatic win at home to London Scottish last Sunday.
Jersey’s director of rugby Ben Harvey is reasonably pleased with his team’s showing so far, but he believes they have great potential.
