A Boosted Dragons Outfit Set to Challenge the Champs
Newport Gwent Dragons are calling on the continued support of the region as they challenge the Magners League champions at Rodney Parade on Friday 9 May, kick-off 7.10pm.
Following the determined defeat over the Ospreys on Tuesday evening to secure their place in the Heineken Cup for next season, the Dragons will be aiming for another huge performance to end the season on a high for the region.
Head Coach Paul Turner watched the Magners League champions overturn his Dragons in Dublin last weekend yet he is confident that the Dragons can be hugely competitive in the reverse of the fixture and throughout next season.
“The team were put under immense pressure by the Leinster team last weekend as they achieved their Magners League title yet a win at home against the Ospreys and the relief of a Heineken Cup qualification has undoubtedly lifted the players this week,” said Paul.
“Leinster have announced a full strength squad who will be on a high following last weekend. The Dragons will have to be at their best this weekend and I’m sure if we receive the same support as we did against the Ospreys on Tuesday, this will lift the team for their final game of the season at Rodney Parade.”
On the Dragons overall commitment and determination on the field, Paul added:
“I’m pleased with the efforts of the team and am always conscious that winning develops confidence, as that’s what this game is about. We will be looking to be very competitive in the Magners League, EDF and Heineken Cup next season.
“There will obviously be new personnel coming in and players leaving and I’d personally like to thank all the players that are departing. I extend my best wishes to all these players who have put a lot of hard work on and off the field into taking the region forward.”
Colin Charvis - who sealed the Dragons latest win with a second-half score - will captain the side this weekend. He said:
“We welcome the champions to Rodney Parade this Friday, positive that our win over the Ospreys just days ago has injected a confidence into the side. We are looking to enjoy the final game of the season and invite all our fans to join with us for what should be a great game.
“I thank the fans for all their support this season and am pleased that we could reward them with a win and Heineken Cup qualification this week,” he added.
The team to face Leinster on Friday is as follows:
Kevin Morgan, Gareth Wyatt, Rhodri Gomer-Davies/ Paul Emerick, Phillip Dollman, Richard Fussell, Jason Tovey, Wayne Evans, Hugh Gustafson, Steve Jones, Patrick Palmer, Andy Hall, Luke Charteris, Colin Charvis (c), James Harris, Joe Bearman/ Lewis Evans.
Replacements: Ben Daly, Adam Black, Adam Jones, Lewis Evans/ Richard Parks, Paul Emerick/ Gareth Maule, Ceri Sweeney, Alex Walker.
