The fly-half of the Dragons, Will Reed, has received medical clearance to participate in the upcoming United Rugby Championship (URC) match against the Lions. Despite sustaining a head injury in the team’s recent game against the Sharks, Reed has been deemed fit to join the Dragons for their second match of the South Africa trip.
In a further positive development for the Dragons, centre Steff Hughes is poised to resume his role as captain of the team as they prepare to take on the formidable challenge posed by the Lions. The Dragons have made seven changes to their lineup, with the inclusion of players such as Jordan Williams, Ashton Hewitt, Rhodri Williams, Rhodri Jones, Lloyd Fairbrother, and Harrison Keddie. However, the team is facing adversity with a total of 16 unavailable players.
Head coach Dai Flanagan has underscored the need for a robust offensive strategy in the initial 20 minutes of the match, emphasizing the significance of unity and consistency among the players. Flanagan acknowledged the team’s previous attempts to resolve issues individually, highlighting the imperative of a collective effort to secure a victory.
The Dragons’ upcoming match against the Lions presents a formidable challenge, with the Lions having demonstrated their strength by winning two of their last three league games and ascending to 10th place in the table. Meanwhile, the Dragons are currently ranked above only the bottom club, Scarlets, with just one win this season against the Ospreys.
As the Dragons prepare to face the Lions, they are also intent on breaking a streak of losses against South African opponents and securing their first away win in over a year. With these aspirations in mind, the Dragons are diligently working to produce a compelling performance on the field.
The lineups for the upcoming match have been finalized by both teams, with the Lions and Dragons preparing for an intense battle. The stage is set for a fiercely contested encounter between key players from both teams, promising an enthralling display of rugby skill and determination.
The match officiating duties will be entrusted to Andrea Piardi as the referee, with Stephan Geldenhuys & Hanru van Rooyen serving as assistant referees, and Gianluca Gnecchi as the TMO.
As the Dragons and Lions make final preparations for this highly anticipated URC encounter, rugby enthusiasts can anticipate a captivating display of skill and determination from both teams as they compete for victory.