Dean Ryan has backed a maturing Will Reed to grasp his opportunity if he features against the Vodacom Bulls in the United Rugby Championship tonight (kick-off 5.15pm UK time).
Playmaker Reed – a product of the Dragons Academy – has been named on the bench for the Loftus Versfeld Stadium clash in Pretoria and will make his senior debut if introduced.
The 20-year-old has been turning heads for Newport RFC in the Premiership this season and has earned his senior call-up.
And Ryan has put faith in the Wales Under-20s ace to step up if needed.
“I’ve spent a lot of sleepless nights trying to work out whether playing Will Reed against the Vodacom Bulls is an experience that is positive – I think it is,” said Ryan.
“I’m really positive about him. I think he has grown in maturity being here and I know the players are very excited about seeing him take the field.
“There are several others that we look forward to seeing feature too.
“It’s exciting to see Lennon (Greggains) back fit. But in the context of what we are up against, this will be a big first experience.”
Follow all the match updates from South Africa on our social channels tonight from 5.15pm.
I’m really positive about him... I think he has grown in maturity being here and I know the players are very excited about seeing him take the field...
