Bristol back Ed Barnes says there is a bit of tension in the squad ahead of their crucial match against Plymouth Albion on Sunday.

Paul Hull's side could cement the last promotion play-off spot in the Championship if they beat their West Country rivals at the Memorial Stadium.

Barnes told BBC Bristol:"There have been a few nerves floating around.

"Fingers crossed when we get to Sunday we'll finish strong - we know it's a big game."

The 30-year-old continued: "It's a massive game for Plymouth as well so hopefully there will be a good crowd at the Mem and a good win for us."

Just two points separate the two sides with Bristol clawing back a four point deficit over the last two games to snatch back the final promotion play-off berth from their opponents at the weekend.

Bristol come into the match having won four consecutive matches for the first time this season.

Sixteen months I ended up not playing for and it was tough watching the boys but I'm just grateful to be back playing now. Ed Barnes

"It's finally coming together and hopefully that will continue and get us into the play-offs," added Barnes.

"In the last few matches we've put together more like an 80 minutes worth of rugby rather than just a 40 or a 60."

It has also been a tough campaign for Barnes himself having missed all of last season with a double rupture to his Achilles tendon.

"It was one of the biggest lows of my life to be fair," he said.

"I was playing in the Premiership and I'd just had my first England Saxons cap which was amazing for me.

"Sixteen months I ended up not playing for and it was tough watching the boys but I'm just grateful to be back playing now.

"It's taken me a while to get back into it, just catching and passing the ball and the basics really.

"But I'm confident with my Achilles now and my rugby so I'm enjoying every match."

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