Any derby is likely to be a battle - Dragons versus Cardiff is no different.
Each team will be looking for any marginal advantage they can find during the game, meanwhile there will be plenty of key head-to-head battles on show.
With the additional spice of Wales spots up for grabs in new head coach Steve Tandy’s upcoming Autumn Internationals squad it is sure to be a fiery occasion on Friday night at Rodney Parade.
We take a look at the key battlegrounds for derby day.
Tinus de Beer v Callum Sheedy
No rugby preview is free without a key battle at fly-half and Friday night is no different with former Cardiff man Tinus de Beer taking on his previous club.
De Beer made the short switch along the M4 over the summer and has impressed so far with his tenacity in defence, along with taking the ball to the line as seen from Aaron Wainwright’s try against Sharks.
Sheedy’s kicking out of hand so far has been pinpoint, with a pair of crossfield kicks setting up two tries away at Munster and another v Connacht. With every point crucial, de Beer will be looking to maintain his 100% record off the tee so far this term.
Rio Dyer v Josh Adams
Two flyers who are no strangers to the tryline, Dyer and Adams have often been on opposite wings in the red of Wales, most notably at the 2023 World Cup.
Both are quality finishers, with superb work rate and are good under the high ball, providing stern tests to each other in attack and in defence.
Aaron Wainwright v Alun Lawrence
Both number eights have started the season on fire so far with Wainwright scoring against both Ulster and Sharks, while Lawrence won player of the match in Cardiff’s season opener against Lions.
Lawrence’s form over the past 12 months has been very impressive, showcasing his ball carrying ability with his power, while Wainwright’s skill is his footwork before contact allowing him to evade contact or hit arms rather than shoulders.
Ben Carter v Josh McNally
Two big men, two crucial leaders in their respective packs.
Wales international Carter has become a crucial figure at Rodney Parade, named captain for this season and last despite being only 24, McNally meanwhile has been a great addition since arriving from Bath ahead of last season.
The lineout will surely be key battling ground, while don’t underestimate the impact the boiler house will have on the scrum also.
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