Rhys Thomas and Luke Charteris arrive back to the Newport Gwent Dragons camp after the Autumn Internationals. Both Welsh squad members will strengthen the Men of Gwent when they prepare to face three times European champions Toulouse this Saturday, kick-off 2:35.Dragons lock, Charteris returns fresh from victory over the Wallabies and enters the game against the group five leaders in positive mood:
“While away with the Wales squad I learnt a lot from the environment and am looking forward to bringing that type of intensity to the Dragons for this weekend’s Heineken Cup game against a quality side,” said Luke.
He added: “I’ve got a little bit of homework to do this week, reacquainting myself with all the calls and systems, but it’s great to be back with the boys and it’s good to see that they are all feeling confident ahead of this weekend.”
Dragons prop Rhys Thomas is recalled to the team to boost the front-row problem, as Jamie Corsi continues his recovery period. The tight-head commented:
“It was a great experience to be involved in the Wales squad and I’m also pleased to return for the opportunity to play one of the best teams in Europe. On a personal level I’m looking to get in some game time and also to help to team back to winning ways.”
Toulouse will be without influential half-back Jean-Baptiste Ellisalde who sustained a broken finger in last week’s victory over Bayonne. The 31-year-old French international is the only colossal name they will miss as Toulouse attempt to enforce their European dominance.
A decision on the fitness of player/coach Colin Charvis is expected tomorrow. The defence coach and veteran flanker is recovering from a knee injury, but his experience may prove vital in France.
Paul Turner is hoping to challenge Toulouse, but realises they will be massive underdogs. He commented:
"Yet again we are faced with a tough challenge away from home and against one of the best squads in Europe.
"Their Top 14 form has been good of late and we will have to be at our best defensively and offensively to get the desired result.
"You've got to lay down your mark, you've got to gain their respect early.
"It's a big test and one we feel we're capable of meeting. It's about going into the cauldron and performing."
He continued: "You've got to be bold and technically good defensively. We've prepared well, it's a big challenge.
"We're excited about it. It's what playing in this competition is all about.
The squad to face Toulouse is as follows:
Backs: Phillip Dollman, Marc Stcherbina, Ashley Smith, Rory Sidey, Richard Fussell, Gareth Wyatt, Rhodri Gomer Davies, James Arlidge, Shaun Connor, Wayne Evans, Robert Lewis
Forwards: Adam Black, Rhys Thomas, Gethin Robinson, Danny Lydiate, Tom Willis, Steve Jones, Jamie Ringer, Colin Charvis, Joe Bearman, Hoani MacDonald, Luke Charteris, Andrew Hall, Lewis Evans
2 comments:
I hope they can pull off a shock win, it would be amazing!!!!
I agree with John, Shock win!!!
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