Scarlets manager – and occasional hooker – Sara Davies takes time out to look forward to this weekend’s opening games.
As Scarlets manager are you looking forward to this weekend’s kick-off of the WRU Women’s Regional championship?
Yes I am looking forward to it as this is fast becoming a highlight of the season. Last year’s tournament was a great success because a few players really put their hand up during the tournament and their reward was a place in the Wales World Cup squad. The tournament gives players an opportunity to test themselves against the best around. It’s an exciting opportunity and I’m really looking forward to see who steps up to the plate this year.
Sunday’s opening game is a rematch of last season’s title decider, does that add any extra spice to your match against the Dragons?
I think we all know that Sunday is going to be tough day at the office for us. Last year’s final was a really tough game. So yes I think it will add some spice with both teams feeling that they have a point to prove.
Who do you see as the main title contenders this season?
I’m going to sit on the fence here. I think just like last season its wide open and all the regions are strong in different areas. I’d like to think that the Scarlets will be a main contender just like last year but it will come down to Sunday to see how ready we are.
Are you excited with the assembled Scarlets squad?
Yes – I’m always excited when I see the Scarlets girls together. Last year we had a real bond as a group and it’s the same this season, we have a few new faces involved this year which is always exciting. Its great to see the girls back playing after the World Cup. Two of the real stand out players for me at the World Cup were Sioned Harries and Catrin Edwards and luckily they are both Scarlets. We also have a few youngsters in the team who are really starting to grow in confidence – this can only be a good thing for us. We have a real mix of experience in the side and it’s nice to see the new players learn from the more experienced ones.
Will you be donning the boots yourself?
They may need to be desperate before they ask…. but if the call comes from the coaches for me to play like it did last year then I’m sure I’ll dust the old boots off and give it a go. Playing in the final game last season was a real honor and one I would replicate if asked.