Parks: My desire forced move
New Cardiff signing Dan Parks said it was his desire to win trophies that prompted his move from Glasgow.
Parks signed a two-year contract with Cardiff this summer and he will become the first Scotsman to play for the club in the Magners League. He's said the move was one of the hardest decisions that he has had to make but one that was necessary in his career.
It does not matter what tier of rugby a club plays during the modern game, the pressure to win trophies from all angles has never been greater. Fortunately for Parks, he has joined a club full of quality and ambition.
Cardiff have a number of positives that should see them fighting for the league title by the end of the season. However, it's also important to consider potential weaknesses that could mute the influence of the team.
Cardiff strengths
Cardiff have a team full of very hungry young players. The majority of these players would have been involved last season when the club finished fifth in the league. This would have been very frustrating as the club came so close to securing first place.
There is real pace in the wide areas of the pitch. Ben White and Tom James are two examples of players that possess the ability to race down either flank and get over the try line during important games. Cardiff will fill the middle of the pitch with good passers to make sure this happens.
The club have a very good captain in Paul Tito. Tito retains the role for this season and is widely respected as one of the best captains in the Magners League. He will have a key role to play when the side are under pressure and not playing so well.
Parks said: "[At] Glasgow we always tried to win our Heineken Cup matches, but we always thought we had a chance in the Magners League. Over the last few years we were near the top [but we] just couldn't quite push on... maybe that was down to the depth we had in the squad. I think the Blues have a really good chance at challenging for the league."
Cardiff weaknesses
Belief will be one of, if not the main problem at the club this season. A lot of pundits said last season that they have never seen a better Cardiff side and yet the club could only manage to finish fifth.
Cardiff have waved goodbye to Andy Powell who held the middle of the team together at times last season. They have not brought in a top quality replacement to fill the middle of the field and this could mean that Cardiff crumble if they are put under extreme pressure.
Parks added: "I was happy with my form for Glasgow and Scotland last season but it is obviously a team effort. I think it was a good year for me personally culminating in the Six Nations where I felt we played quite well but without much success until the last game against Ireland – I came down with my girlfriend and a friend, with a van load of stuff, so everything is good."
Betting advice
Cardiff are worth a bet to win the Magners League this season because they are always there or thereabouts by the end of the league campaign. The best option is to wait a few matches and take a look at their early season form. If they look strong and fluent then go for it, but keep in mind that by waiting you could sacrifice some very good odds.
Tags: