Eastbourne Eagles have replaced Ben Hopwood with Ellis Perks in their line-up.

The switch is believed to be intended to free up space within the points limit to make a further change later this week.

Perks impressed as guest No.1 in the win at Coventry yesterday.

But news that Hopwood has been left out will shock many Eagles fans.

A stunned Hopwood admitted "Gutted isn't the word" in an immediate reaction on Facebook.