Newport Gwent Dragons have named Aled Brew at outside centre for their derby clash with the Ospreys at Rodney Parade on Friday (7:05pm).
Aled Brew’s move from wing is brought about by the absence of centre Adam Hughes, following the ankle injury he sustained in last week’s fixture against the Scarlets.
Head Coach Darren Edwards said the positional change was carefully thought out “Aled Brew’s move to 13 from the wing will be a challenge for him but getting the ball to our fastest players has to be a priority and Aled is proven to be a devastating strike runner. With Tonderai and Will on the wings, there are plenty of options out wide.”
The Dragons will be captained by blind side flanker Danny Lydiate, who will lead the side for the first time on Friday night. Darren Edwards was confident that Lydiate was up to the challenge, “We have seen him grow within the Dragons environment over the last few seasons and the extra experience he has gained through the World Cup has certainly put him in good stead to lead the side today.”
Centre Ashley Smith returns to the Dragons backline at inside centre in place of Lewis Robling and Will Harries comes in to take Brew's wing spot. Jason Tovey has recovered from the knee injury which forced him off during the Scarlets game to take his place at fly half.
In the pack, the only change is at open side flanker where the injured Gavin Thomas is replaced by recent Welsh squad member Lewis Evans who is due to make his 50th RaboDirect PRO12 appearance.
Although there is high demand for tickets for Friday’s game, there are still tickets available for the clash. To make sure you are there for what promises to be a great Welsh derby contact the ticket office on 01633 670 690 or you can buy tickets online by clicking here.
Newport Gwent Dragons
Martyn Thomas, Will Harries, Aled Brew, Ashley Smith, Tonderai Chavhanga, Jason Tovey, Wayne Evans, Nathan Williams, Lloyd Burns, Nathan Buck, Adam Jones, Rob Sidoli, Danny Lydiate (c), Lewis Evans, Toby Faletau
Replacements
Steve Jones, Phil Price, Dan Way, Jevon Groves, Darren Waters, Joe Bedford, Lewis Robling, Matthew Jones
