Newport Gwent Dragons Skipper Tom Willis is looking forward to leading the team for the second time in just five days tomorrow when the Dragons clash with the Llanelli Scarlets at Rodney Parade in the Magners League, kick-off 7.05pm.
The former-New Zealand international joined the Dragons during the preseason period and is fast recognising the demands of the game here in Wales. He said:
“The game against the Scarlets presents us with a unique challenge due to the sharp turn around since our Magners League opener on Friday. The guys have attempted to optimise their recovery while covering the necessary details and preparations that we would for a normal break between games.”
Tom added: “Certainly the quick turn around hasn't allowed the lads time to dwell on the ‘what ifs’ from the last game. I’m confident that tomorrow evening you can expect a Dragons team that is determined to learn from its mistakes, improve its performance and bounce back in what’s sure to be a typical local derby that will bring out the best in both teams.”
Head Coach Paul Turner is no stranger to the tough challenges of the Magners League and recognises that the Dragons will have to be at their best tomorrow evening against a Scarlets team that beat Ulster at Ravenhill last weekend.
“The Scarlets are a strong side that will present us with a tough challenge on the field. They have started their season well and we are fully aware of their capabilities away from home,” said Paul.
“The local derby is always a huge fixture and a great rugby occasion for both teams and supporters. I’m looking for a huge performance from the Dragons tomorrow evening.”
The team to face the Scarlets tomorrow evening is as follows:
15 Phillip Dollman
14 Tal Selley
13 Rory Sidey
12 Marc Stcherbina
11 Richard Fussell
10 James Arlidge
9 Wayne Evans
1 Adam Black
2 Tom Willis (captain)
3 Rhys Thomas
4 Adam Jones
5 Luke Charteris
6 Joe Bearman
7 Richard Parks
8 Lewis Evans
16 Hugh Gustafson
17 Lee Harrison
18 Jamie Ringer
19 Grant Webb
20 Gareth Wyatt
21 Shaun Connor
22 Robert Lewis
