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Andrews: Jenkins’ influence vital

Andrews: Jenkins’ influence vital

Scott Andrews has hailed the influence of Gethin Jenkins on his career as the two Welsh props get set to face each other in the Heineken Cup on Saturday.

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The Blues travel to France to take on Toulon with Andrews looking forward to testing himself against a star studded pack which also includes the likes Carl Hayman and Andrew Sheridan.

But it is Jenkins for whom Andrews reserves special praise. The two props started together in Wales’ game with Australia last year while Andrews came through the Blues’ ranks when Jenkins was first choice for the region.

“Coming through with the Blues I looked at him and the other props here so I just tried to learn off them,” said Andrews.

“The way Gethin in particular went about his game, you don’t get much better than that.

“He was good with the youngsters but once you were in the team you were the same as everybody else. If you were off the mark he wouldn’t be afraid of telling you. He makes sure everyone’s on the money.”

After a tough start to the season, Andrews has impressed, most noticeably in Wales’ games with New Zealand and Australia but also against Toulon at the Arms Park earlier this season.

“Gethin is pretty professional. As soon as you get on the pitch he’s pretty switched on, he’s a massive defensive player and contributes a lot around the park too,” Andrews added.

“We’ll probably have a bit of fun but once you’re on the field you concentrate on your role.”

After signing a two year contract extension with the Blues this week, Andrews is looking forward to the game in France. Phil Davies’ side can’t make the knockout stages but travel to France on the back of a fine away win over Munster.

“Last weekend was massive. Munster don’t lose many games at home but we were quietly confident going there,” said Andrews.

“We haven’t had the results but we’ve been playing well and we’ve been waiting for a result like that. Hopefully they’ll continue now.”

Another away win against the side top of the French Top 14 will be a tough ask but Andrews is welcoming the challenge.

“Toulon this weekend is going to be tough again but we’re looking forward to it,” he commented.

“It’s going to be a big challenge, possibly the biggest of the season. I think we matched up to them fairly well at home but it will be a different kettle of fish away.

“They’ll be coming all guns blazing but we’ll go there with confidence after our last game.”  

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