The Scarlets have named a strong starting XV to face Newport Gwent Dragons on Friday evening in their Magners League fixture at Rodney Parade (KO 7.05pm).
The Dragons encounter is the first in a Welsh derby double-header for the Scarlets – who then face the Ospreys at Parc y Scarlets eight days later.
Head Coach of the Scarlets, Nigel Davies said: “These two games are massive for us as a region not only as local derbies but because it’s all about the momentum factor and getting into a winning habit – so that we can go into the next series of games on the back of success which helps breed confidence.”
There are only two changes to the Scarlets starting line-up that put in a commanding performance over Italians Aironi last weekend at Parc y Scarlets. The only changes are Josh Turnbull who starts at flanker along with experienced lock and Scarlets’ seasoned campaigner Vernon Cooper (354 appearances) who joins Lou Reed in the second row.
Davies added: “The Dragons are a team with a lot to play for this weekend as we have. And they will be hurting after their last performance so it will be backs against the wall for them and they’re a dangerous animal, when that’s the case.
“They will also be playing in their environment, which can be intimidating for visitors. The Dragons are always a different proposition at home and will come out all guns blazing and we are expecting that – so we know that physically we have to match them.”
Scarlets: Andy Fenby, George North, Regan King, Jon Davies, Sean Lamont, Stephen Jones, Tavis Knoyle, Iestyn Thomas, Matthew Rees (capt), Deacon Manu, Lou Reed, Vernon Cooper, Josh Turnbull, Johnathan Edwards, David Lyons.
Replacements: Ken Owens, Phil John, Rhys Thomas, Dominic Day, Jonny Fa’amatuainu, Martin Roberts, Gareth Maule, Rhys Priestland
