Newport Gwent Dragons play Llanelli Scarlets
Newport Gwent Dragons host the Llanelli Scarlets in the Magners League. The Scarlets have started the season well and are currently in third place after the first three matches. In contrast the Dragons find themselves 10th in the table having
picked up only one win so far.
The Dragons will look to improve after being defeated by Connaught 40-17 in the opening game of the season. The only try came from Will Harries, while Matthew Jones slotted over four penalties.
In their second round game they defeated Glasgow in an entertaining encounter at Rodney Parade. The score finished 23-11 with Robin Soden-Taylor and Aled Brew scoring the tries. However, the Dragons away form was evident again as they were well beaten 43-21
against the Cardiff Blues.
The Scarlets have started the season better than their Welsh rivals. They lost to Benetton Treviso 34-28 in their opening game and were unlucky not to have taken more from the game. They did manage to pick up a crucial away bonus point.
Since then they have beaten Connaught 35-33 at home in a thrilling game. Sean Lamont crossed the line in the last move of the match during the seventh minute of injury time. The late try won the game for the home side.
In their last match the Scarlets beat Italian side Aironi 49-10 at home in a convincing display. The Italian side are a weak outfit and have failed to win a match so far this season.
The Dragons away will prove to be a more difficult prospect for the Scarlets. Dragons captain Tom Willis is expected to return from a rib injury and play in his first game this season. The likes of Toby Flatleau, Ashley Smith, Jason Tovey and Nathan Brew
are also close to full fitness and may be considered for the game.
New signing Tom Cheeseman may be given his debut after the centre transferred to the club from Bath this week. The Dragons have a number of injuries from their game against the Cardiff Blues and long term injuries to Matthew Watkins, Joe Bearman and Martyn
Thomas.
Stephen Jones’ kicking will be key factor for the Scarlets as will his plays. Scottish winger Lamont will cause the home side some difficulties if he gets the ball in the loose and has the chance to counter attack. The Australian veteran David Lyon will
provide some much needed physicality up front as will Matthew Rees as hooker who will need to throw well during the lineout.
The Scarlets will go into the match as favourites. They have a stronger pack and the reliable Stephen Jones to kick his penalty goals. Recent history would also suggest that the Llanelli side are likely to prevail since they have travelled to Rodney Parade
twice last season and won on both occasions.
The Dragons coach Paul Turner will hope his side improve and told the BBC that “It’s a long season and the Magners League remains our bread butter.”
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