Last season saw the emergence of some the Scarlets own who have come through the ranks of the junior and academy sides and have provided an important role not only in the West Walian team but also in the Welsh team down under.
This season is an exciting one for the Scarlets, new coach Simon Easterby and his coaching team have tough decisions ahead. Do they ignite a new strategy on the home of rugby? Or continue to develop Llanelli's tradition of free flowing and highly paced and skilled play?
Scarlets are certainly on the up and the season ahead looks fantastic, but who are the ones to look out for? Vili Iongi had an impressive season for the Scarlets last year despite spending most of his time on the bench, he certainly had a massive impact when on the field and is surely a contender for the starting line up this season.
I asked Rob Mccusker 4 questions
How well do you think the Scarlets will do this season?
Rob: Over the past 2 seasons we have narrowly missed a Play-Off place, but this year I really feel that we can turn that disappointment into results, and achieve what we all know we are capable of.
How do you think Simon Easterby will change the way that Scarlets play?
Rob: Simon himself says that "We don't need to reinvent the wheel." He is just keen to fine tune what we already have, and make sure we are better at what we do, but undoubtedly we will continue to play 'the Scarlets way!'
Do you think the new signings will have an impact on the region?
Rob: I'm in no doubt that our new signings will have a major impact on our season. The coaches and back room staff have worked extremely hard to scour the globe for players who are right for the Scarlets, and will fit in to our environment and style of play. We have recruited wisely and reinforced areas of the squad in which we were lacking.
Who is the player to watch out for in the new season? (Apart from you!)
Rob: From what I have seen so far, the player to watch out for this season is Sione Timani! As we saw in glimpses last season, he is a massively strong ball carrier, but he is working extremely hard on his conditioning and is in phenomenal shape! No doubt he will devastate a few defences this year! So be warned!
Best addition to your side? The captain
Opening day prediction? A brilliant game from Scarlets and Leinster
Overall season prediction for your side? 3rd in the table
Other predictions? I think Rhys Priestland will improve
Who's going to win the RaboDirect PRO12? A close Final between Ospreys,Scarlets
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