DORSET and Wiltshire go into their game against Somerset at Bridgwater (May 14, 3pm) without their first choice goal-kicker.

Twin Counties joint team manager Martin Hill has decided they will not include Oakmeadians fly-half Jerry Cook until after a disciplinary hearing into his dismissal against Surrey is heard on Monday May 16.

Cook was shown the red card by referee Richard Parker-Sedgemore for alleged mis-use of his boot during Surrey's 38-22 victory over Dorset and Wiltshire at Bournemouth on Saturday May 7.

It is a big blow for the Twin Counties, especially as they will also be without two key front row players, Robert Elford and Russell Tinsdale, through injury.

Hill, whose side need a big win to have any hope of reaching the County Championship Plate semi-finals, said: "Unfortunately, we have lost our hooker and tight head prop to injuries sustained during our defeat against Surrey.

"Robert has suffered concussion while Russell has an ankle injury.

"Following the sending off of Jerry during that game, we do not think it would be right to play him until after his case is heard in front of the disciplinary panel on Monday.

"All this is definitely a big blow as we prepare for our final pool one game when we still have something to play for.

"But, unfortunately, that is the way the game goes."

The Twin Counties beat Hampshire 38-31 in their opening pool game, but need group leaders Surrey to slip up badly against bottom of the table Hampshire to have any chance of reaching the last four.

Even if Dorset and Wiltshire do win, they will probably need other results in the other two groups to go their way as well to progress.

The three pool winners, plus the best runners-up, will contest the semi-finals.

Hill said: "Somerset didn't start the tournament off too well, but their team that beat Hampshire 42-22 on Saturday is much improved with several Bridgwater and Albion players who helped the club win promotion from South West One this season.

"They are going to be a very strong side and I think they are playing at the best of their ability at the moment.

"Our players are going to have to step up two or even three leagues in some cases to actually compete against them. While we are going to give it our best shot, we are obviously a little bit apprehensive about how the game is going to pan out."

Dorset and Wiltshire: J Baker (Wimborne), M Morris (Wimborne), G Blackbarrow (Salisbury), G Leyland (Wimborne), D Burgess (Swanage), J Gaiger (Devizes), P Daniels (Swindon), H Hokianga (Oaks), M Marsh (Esher), A Williamson (Chippenham), F Van Schalkwyk (Oaks), D Bell (Salisbury), D Parker (Cheltenham), D Martin (Chippenham), T Herbert (Salisbury).