“We’re expecting a tough game” – Richards
Director of Rugby Dean Richards is expecting a challenge from Enisei STM in this Sunday’s European Rugby Challenge Cup fixture at Kingston Park (KO 3pm) as a side blending youth and experience takes to the field.
Speaking about the weekend’s selection to Falcons TV, Richards said: “We’re expecting a tough game from the boys from Russia. We’ve kept some young boys involved and some of those who played well over in Brive, Marcus retains his place while Zach comes in as well and we’ve brought some boys who need a bit of game time as well.”
Alex Tait, Jon Welsh and club captain Will Welch are among the experience heads called into Sunday’s squad, with the DOR highlighting the back row as a potent area in the selection.
“Welchy is club captain and has the experience we really need. Coupled with Mark Wilson, it looks pretty good you’ve got Temmy who comes in who played well over in Brive and gets another run this week.”
With international and premiership experience in plentiful supply on the bench also on the bench, 20 year old Craig Willis finds himself in esteemed company as he stands ready to be involved after a good performance against Brive.
Richards explains, “Craig acquitted himself well in Brive and he was unlucky not to be selected to be honest with you, but with Taity coming back and Hammers fit, Craig gives us cover for TC at fly half”
With the enigma of Enisei losing some of their mystique following last weekend’s fixture against Connacht in Siberia, Richards maintains that the Russian side will pose a good challenge to his team.
“They will be physical and strong but the play with structure which people don’t normally associate with Enisei. It will be a hard game but it’s a game that we need to win, we want to win and we will go out there and play our hearts out.”
For more of Dean’s thoughts on this weekend’s team and opposition, [click here][1] for Falcons TV
[1]: https://youtu.be/lITz2T7I1do
