Davies Set for Ospreys Derby Return
Lock Seb Davies is set to return to the starting lineup for the Dragons RFC as they prepare for a derby match against Ospreys Rugby. This encounter is part of the BKT United Rugby Championship and will take place at the Electric Brewery Field on Saturday evening, with the match kicking off at 7:45 PM.
Changes in the Dragons Lineup
Head Coach Filo Tiatia has implemented three key changes to the squad that narrowly lost to Munster last week. The returning players include:
- Prop Wyn Jones
- Ryan Woodman in the six jersey
Additionally, Harri Keddie will shift to the Number Eight position due to international call-ups affecting Aaron Wainwright and Ben Carter. There is potential for Wales Under-20 back row Evan Minto to make his first senior appearance of the season as a substitute.
Match Day Squad and Strategy
The final adjustment in the match day squad is the inclusion of centre Fetuli Paea, who could also play for the first time since October. Senior Coach Dale MacLeod commented on the emotional elements surrounding the game, emphasizing the importance of focus and performance.
MacLeod’s Insights
“The team that plays rugby on the day will be the better team,” said MacLeod. He highlighted the need to control the match and put forth a strong performance, noting that Ospreys possesses a formidable forward pack. They are known for starting strongly and being tough to defeat on home ground.
MacLeod acknowledged Ospreys’ capability to disrupt plays and expressed enthusiasm about the competition among Welsh teams, stating, “It’s exciting that all four Welsh teams are starting to put some performances together.”
Dragons RFC Full Squad
The complete Dragons RFC lineup for the match includes:
- Angus O’Brien (c)
- David Richards
- Fine Inisi
- Aneurin Owen
- Rio Dyer
- Tinus de Beer
- Che Hope
- Wyn Jones
- Brodie Coghlan
- Robert Hunt
- Levi Douglas
- Seb Davies
- Ryan Woodman
- Harry Beddall
- Harri Keddie
The replacements include:
- Oli Burrows
- Jordan Morris
- Cebo Dlamini
- Shane Lewis-Hughes
- Evan Minto
- Rhodri Williams
- Fetuli Paea
- Cai Evans
Several key players remain unavailable for this match, including James Benjamin, Chris Coleman, Elliot Dee, and Rhodri Jones, among others.
Looking Ahead
This derby match promises to be a significant challenge for the Dragons. MacLeod believes that the outcome will come down to which team maintains focus and seizes critical moments throughout the game. Fans and players alike eagerly await what is expected to be an intense and competitive encounter.
