After their opening match to Munster last weekend, the Dragons are looking to change their Irish fortunates as they take on European champions Leinster on Friday (9th September, 7:35pm). Head Coach, Darren Edwards, has named a twenty-five man, with Ashley Smith and Tom Brown being rested, Smith with a hamstring problem and Brown with a dead leg.
"This is a precaution," said Darren Edwards, "at this point in the season there's no point in risking players when we have a full squad."
Fullback Jamie Smith and Back Row Darren Waters could potentially make their professional debuts for the Dragons. The Men of Gwent continue to field a young team with another four players making their first professional appearances last weekend against Munster.
"One thing a young team doesn't lack is enthusiasm," said captain Tom Willis, "Though the result against Munster was ultimately disappointing, there's no reason that we can't go for a win and a bonus point away from Leinster.
"Leinster's record is impressive and they're a quality team. But the boys have taken a lot of confidence from Munster."
Dragons Squad for Leinster
Backs
Wayne Evans, Joe Bedford, Jason Tovey, Steffan Jones, Pat Leach, Tom Riley, Adam Hughes, Michael Poole, Jamie Smith, Mathew Pewtner, Martyn Thomas
Forwards
Phil Price, Nathan Williams, Ben Castle, Dan Way, Tom Willis, Rhys Buckley, Adam Jones, Rob Sidoli, Andrew Coombs, Gavin Thomas, Jevon Groves, Darren Waters, Hugo Ellis
Dragons play Leinster away at Royal Dublin Society, Friday 9th September, 7:35pm.
