The former New Zealand international joined the Dragons during the pre-season 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.”
He 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.”
Dragons: Phillip Dollman; Tal Selley, Rory Sidey, Marc Stcherbina, Richard Fussell; James Arlidge, Wayne Evans; Adam Black, Tom Willis (capt), Rhys Thomas, Adam Jones, Luke Charteris, Joe Bearman, Richard Parks, Lewis Evans.
Replacements: Hugh Gustafson, Lee Harrison, Jamie Ringer, Grant Webb, Gareth Wyatt, Shaun Connor, Robert Lewis.
Scarlets: M Stoddart; D Daniel, R Higgitt, G Evans, D James; S Jones (capt), S Martens; I Thomas, M Rees, K Meeuws, V Cooper, L Reed, D Jones, D Lyons, G Thomas.
Replacements: D Manu, K Owens, S MacLeod, S Easterby, M Roberts, C Thomas, N Brew.
Referee: James Jones (WRU)
