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Young Rotates Squad For Bridgend Battle

Young Rotates Squad For Bridgend Battle

Cardiff and Bridgend do battle in the Celtic League on Saturday, and coach Dai Young has continued his policy of squad rotation, making five changes from the side that beat Newport last weekend.

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The Blue and Blacks will tackle The Ravens without former Rugby League star Iestyn Harris in the starting line-up.

Harris’ goal-kicking has guided Cardiff to three consecutive wins, but Dai Young has opted to rest Harris, Young says youngster Nicky Robinson will step up to the plate and perform well.

“Nicky is a fine player and he needs to play games. He has not moaned about not being in the team, and has just put his head down and got on with it.

“Now he has an opportunity to play and he must grab it with both hands. I’m sure he’ll rise to the challenge.”

Nicky’s brother Jamie will miss the game. He is still suffering from a dead leg suffered in Saturday’s victory against Newport.

The Cardiff coach decided not to risk the Welsh international against Bridgend, fearing the problem could lead to further injury if aggravated.

Dai Young has admitted that team selection is the hardest part of his job.

“We’ve not had many injuries this season so I’ve had to leave people out, other players have been playing so well that it’s hard to leave them out.

“It’s perhaps the hardest part of my job – trying to keep everyone happy is not easy.”

The Blue and Blacks go into Saturday’s clash with the Ravens knowing maximum points will push his side ever closer to quarter-final qualification, but Young says his side must not get carried away.

“A lot of people keep saying that we must get a bonus point against Bridgend but it’s dangerous to think like that.

“We just need to get the win first and worry about bonus points later.”

The Cardiff coach also feels that his side must improve up front if they are to beat Bridgend on Saturday.

“We are always looking to improve our game but up front is one such area where we can do better.

“It won’t be easy on Saturday, as although Bridgend have been losing games their performances have still been good,” Young said.

Saturday’s game will also mark a special occasion for Cardiff centre Pieter Muller who will be making his 50th appearance for the club.

Cardiff: Rhys Williams; A Sullivan, N Walne, P Muller, C Morgan; N Robinson, R Powell; T Payne, A Lewis, K Fourie, H Senekal, J Tait, R Appleyard, M Willaims, D Baugh. Replacements: G Powell, G Woods, A Jones, D McShane, R Smith, I Harris, M Allen.

Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)

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