🏉 Scarlets are gearing up for a challenging Champions Cup clash as they journey to take on the reigning champs, Union Bordeaux Begles, this Saturday. Dwayne Peel has shuffled the deck with eight changes after last week’s tight defeat to Bristol Bears.
🚑 Injuries have sidelined Welsh stars like Tom Rogers and Johnny Williams. Tomi Lewis steps in for Rogers, while Joe Roberts takes over from Williams, joining Eddie James in the midfield. The back-three is rounded out with Jac Davies and Ellis Mee. At half-back, we see a fresh pairing in Dane Blacker and Joe Hawkins.
💪 The Scarlets’ front-row gets a revamp with Alec Hepburn, Marnus van der Merwe, and Henry Thomas leading the charge. Max Douglas partners with Jake Ball in the second-row, with Captain Josh Macleod taking the blindside and Dan Davis the openside. Fletcher Anderson continues at No. 8, while Archie Hughes makes his return on the bench.
🎙️ “We missed a few key moments last weekend,” admits Peel. “Champions Cup rugby is relentless, but our efforts show we’re heading in the right direction. Bordeaux is a powerhouse, brimming with depth, power, pace, and skill. They’re tough, but this is the thrill of the tournament—facing the best to measure where we stand.”
🇫🇷 With Bordeaux’s formidable record, averaging nearly 45 points per game, the Scarlets face a true test. Yet, it’s an opportunity to seize the moment and shake things up at Stade Chaban-Delmas. “Playing in Bordeaux is special,” Peel added. “It promises to be a grand occasion with a lively atmosphere and a solid contingent of Scarlets fans!”
🔴 Here’s the starting XV for Scarlets:
Jac Davies; Tomi Lewis, Joe Roberts, Eddie James, Ellis Mee; Joe Hawkins, Dane Blacker; Alec Hepburn, Marnus van der Merwe, Henry Thomas, Max Douglas, Jake Ball, Josh Macleod (capt), Dan Davis, Fletcher Anderson.
🙌 It’s sure to be an electrifying encounter! Who’s excited to see Scarlets take on Bordeaux in this European rugby showdown? Let us know your thoughts! 🏉🔥