David Young has named his 26 man squad for the Worthingtons Challenge match against Gloucester on Saturday 25 August 2.30pm kick off.
Director of Coaching David Young has named new summer signings Jason Spice, Paul Tito, Mamma Molitika and Tal Selley in the Cardiff Blues starting fifteen to play Gloucester in the Worthington’s Challenge on Saturday 25th August at the Arms Park (kick off 2.30pm).
The Blues have won two training fixtures against Pontypridd and Cardiff in the last two weeks in preparation for this weekend’s curtain raiser to the season, which starts in earnest the following weekend when Magners League champions the Ospreys visit the Arms Park.. The match against Gloucester has been given extra spice as the two teams will be competing for the Worthington’s Challenge Trophy.
“I think we’re not just stepping up one level but rather three or four levels for the match on Saturday,” Said David Young
“If you look at the Gloucester squad it’s quite frightening the strength they have. They were top of the premiership last year so they certainly will test us and we’ll see where we are after this match. It’s great preparation for us before going into the new season,” added Young.
Martin Anderson, Regional Director, Coors Brewers said, “Coors Brewers via its Worthington’s ale is proud to sponsor this game between two of the oldest and friendliest rivals in British rugby.
“Our connections with both clubs are rather special and we are delighted to be sole suppliers to both sides sharing a long and very happy relationship with both fine teams.
“The “Worthington’s Challenge” is fitting start to the new season with Worthington’s being the top selling ale in Wales and a leader in Gloucestershire too - the brand is synonymous with rugby.
“To honour this fixture the winning Captain will be presented with the Worthington’s Challenge Trophy and a cheque for £1000 to be donated to the winning clubs chosen charity. If Gloucester is victorious the fund will go to the “Gloucester Flood Appeal” and if it’s the Blues it will go to “Ty Hafan”.
There is sure to be a great atmosphere at the Arms Park. The bar and food outlets are open from 12.30pm in the courtyard and there will be a live band playing to entertain everyone. There will also be face painting and magician to entertain younger supporters. Entry is free to the courtyard for what is sure to be a great occasion.
Cardiff Blues: Nick Macleod, Ben Blair, Tal Selley, Marc Stcherbina, Rhys Williams, Dai Flanagan, Jason Spice, Xavier Rush (c), Robin Sowden-Taylor, Maama Molitika, Paul Tito, Deiniol Jones, Gary Powell, Gareth Williams, John Yapp
Replacements: Rhys Gill, Ross Johnson, Scott Roberts, Bradley Davies, Robert Sidoli, Mark Lewis, Ben White, Richard Rees, Nicky Robinson, Dafydd Hewitt, Tom Riley