All the changes are in the pack with Adam Black coming in for Rod Snow. The other changes see Michael Owen make his first start for The Dragons this season and he replaces Peter Sidoli whilst Jamie Ringer comes in for Ross Beattie. Coach Chris Anderson has named eleven replacements, which means he will have had the opportunity to see all his available squad in action prior to The Dragons first Celtic League match against The Blues.
Ulster and The Dragons are well acquainted having played each other on four occasions last season – twice in the Celtic League and twice in the Heineken Cup with the spoils currently even between the two sides – two wins apiece.
The Dragons know what to expect from the Irish side and are under no illusions as to how tough the match will be. “We are expecting a physical encounter much like last year,” commented team manager Jim McCreedy. “Ulster have a strong pack but they are much more than just a forward dominated team. In Paddy Wallace they have a fly half who controls the game well, he can kick for territory or unleash his dangerous runners. In James Topping they have a dangerous winger who is powerful and extremely quick whilst their centres are direct runners. It will be a difficult pre season match. However, we need matches that will test us, that is what pre season is all about, to ensure we hit the ground running when the Celtic League begins.”
Like The Dragons, Ulster have a new coaching team in place with Mark McCall as head coach and Allen Clarke his assistant.
The match is the first opportunity for supporters to see The Dragons in action at Rodney Parade with supporters relishing the opportunity to see the new signings play.
Dragons Team
Kevin Morgan, Gareth Wyatt, Hal Luscombe, Jon Bryant, Nathan Brew, Ceri Sweeney, Gareth Baber, Adam Black, Steve Jones, Chris Anthony, Ian Gough, Michael Owen, Jamie Ringer, Jason Forster (c), Richard Bryan.
Replacements
James Richards, Rhys Thomas, Rod Snow, Ross Beattie, Rhys Oakley, Peter Sidoli, Rhodri Jones, Craig Warlow / Daniel Griffiths, Steve Winn, Ben Breeze.
Ulster Team
Bryn Cunningham, James Topping, Shane Stewart, Jonny Bell; Tommy Bowe; Paddy Wallace, Neil Doak, Ronan McCormack, Paul Shields, Rod Moore, Matt Mustchin, Rowan Frost, Andy Ward (Captain), Neil Best, Campbell Feather
Replacements
Kieran Campbell; Paul Steinmetz; Seamus Mallon; Andrew Maxwell, Bryan Young; Nigel Brady; Simon Shawe; Tim Barker; Gary Brown.
