Three tries in the space of 12 second-half minutes ensured the Scarlets secured a 36-17 bonus-point victory over the Isuzu Southern Kings at Parc y Scarlets on Sunday evening.
Scarlets pulled away in the closing stages to claim an eighth victory of the Guinness PRO14 campaign and afterwards head coach Brad Mooar spoke to the media.
Here’s what he had to say …
Brad, what was your verdict on the game?
BM: “In terms of the first half, there was a lot of intent, but not a lot of accuracy. I had to remind the guys it was dry and to back their skillset and hold onto the ball a bit longer and work through the phases. I think we showed more of a respectful performance in the second half which showed more of what we are about and I was pleased for the boys that we were able to do that. It was great to see the response and get the five points.”
You must have been pleased with how the young players stepped up?
BM: “We need a squad that can handle the international windows and we have plenty in the Six Nations group. For us, we see that as ‘next man up’ and a great chance for others to get their opportunity. You could see the likes of Angus O’Brien playing at full-back and enjoying his rugby; Corey Baldwin continues to impress; Dan Davis came off the bench got a turnover, got a try; Dane Blacker looked sharp when he came on; Tommy Rogers who is an absolute favourite in the squad and has been working hard since July, gets a chance to come on the field and he gets a try and two lots of hugs from the boys and Josh Macleod continues to do a superb job. I also thought Ed Kennedy did really well. Shings had a bit of a stomach bug and Ed has come in and done a great job.”
What is the injury situation?
BM: “Steff (Evans) came off with a HIA, Kieran Hardy had a hamstring issue so we will wait to see on those.
“As for Rhys Patchell and James Davies, they are getting closer, it is just a case of waiting for that final tick. You saw Rhys out there warming up, he is looking really sharp, I’m looking forward to seeing him getting out there and getting his opportunity.
“We are pleased to get the five points and now we turn our attention to Munster, which is a big game. We are really excited about that and getting over to Limerick.”