Pirates' first grade team will head into its game without star second rower Angus Arnell, but with winning ambitions.

Tracey Goss, who has been playing entertaining rugby in previous weeks, will replace Arnell.

The Pirates number 8 John Kahler has been selected as captain in the absence of Michael Cook.

Coach Mark Robinson said: "John has been playing great rugby all season. His punishing defence and aggression in attack boosts the rest of the team.

"I think he's the best man for the job".

Aaron Robinson will return from injury taking over the fullback role.

Robert Harvey and Michael Deitrich are also back from injury.

Harvey will play outside centre and Deitrich will be back in his role as halfback.

Robinson said his team had been unfortunate with the coming and going of players due to injury and other commitments, but is looking forward to the clash with the Clams tomorrow.

An excellent game of rugby is expected as Old Bar is desperate for a win to keep any finals hopes alive and the Pirates are looking to redeem themselves after a shock loss to Old Bar in the first half of the season.

First grade starts at 3.30pm.

Second grade will kick off the day's proceedings, due to a bye for the under 16s and 18s.

The Pirates' second grade outfit has been playing quality rugby all season and should be able to continue its unbeaten record against Old Bar which is currently sitting on the opposite end on the table.

Coach Geoff Tombs is keen to see big games from Zac O'Keefe and Jared Smith, who have returned from injury.

Jason Reichelt and David Bailey will pair up again in the halves to direct the teams attack.

Coach Geoff Tombs said he was happy with how his team was playing and will be looking to mix up the game plan and play his team in different roles to get them well prepared for the finals.

First grade C Van Orschot, B Hardie, F Parras, A King, T Goss, M Reichelt, C Waters, J Kahler, M Dietrich, B Alexander, B Long, L Wall, R Harvey, P Dent, A Robinson.

Reserve Grade G Lee, B Kelly, J Nicholson, H Sutton, R Duffy, A Freeman, N Everson, P Besseling, J Reichelt, D Bailey, C Holding, J Gilmour, S Grieves, G Adams, S Martin, J Smith, Z O'keefe, R Oakeshott, A Montgomery, D McWhirter, L Richards, T Lewis.