Full back Will Talbot-Davies knows now is the time to deliver in the 15 jersey – and has vowed to be his own man and not try to replicate injured ace Jordan Williams.
Academy product Talbot-Davies will line up at full back this evening (Friday) as Dragons tackle Worcester Warriors in the European Challenge Cup at Rodney Parade (kick-off 8pm).
The Solihull-born back has been given a chance to impress in recent games after a serious knee injury suffered by Jordan Williams.
And the 22-year-old – who has played 20 games for the region – is determined to put his own mark on the position.
“We’ve had a few injuries this season and it provides opportunities for others in the squad,” he said.
“The make-up of a good squad is that the boys coming in behind are able to take the reins.
“It’s been nice to have an opportunity, although in negative circumstances, and good to get some game time. I’ve enjoyed having some solid minutes under my belt and playing regularly.
“Now, I feel, is the time to string a solid run of games together and starts.
“In the past I’ve covered the wing and back three, but now I want to play in the 15 jersey for as long as I can and take the opportunity that has arisen.
“The coaches have told me not to try and emulate what Jordan is,” he added.
“We are both different players and Jordan is just Jordan – we all know he is X-Factor and is a brilliant player and can beat anybody.
“We’ve different attributes and Dean has spoken to me about that.
“I need to focus on what I can be good at and what my strengths are - not get bogged down on what Jordan has done over the last few years.
“We have spoken about being consistent and solid and helping the team out by picking my lines out in attack.
“I like to beat defenders, I’m not just a chuck it up sort of player. I still want to get the ball in my hands as much as possible, take people on and get the ball wide because we have got some great players in the back line.”
Dragons have made four changes for tonight’s game – with Cory Hill returning after 11 months out of regional action.
Worcester, meanwhile, have also named a powerful side and Talbot-Davies admits it is all set up to be a pre-Christmas cracker.
“After last week’s game we were pretty disappointed and it felt like a missed opportunity,” said Talbot-Davies, reflecting on a 34-28 loss at Sixways.
“But when you look back and reflect on things, you appreciate that it is a six-game group stage so that bonus point is massive going into this week’s game.
“We have another chance to go against them and if we come away with a good result, and beat them over two legs, we will be in a good place.
“We were generally quite pleased with how we played last week, there were obviously things to improve on,” he added.
“After going down to 14 men after 15 minutes it was always going to be a long day at the office, but we fronted up and did well to dig in and get that bonus.”
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I need to focus on what I can be good at and what my strengths are - not get bogged down on what Jordan has done over the last few years...
