Scarlets expecting physical encounter in first derby clash

In the West v East clash, Scarlets take on Newport Gwent Dragons in the fifth round of the Guinness PRO12 on Sunday 5th October, kick-off 4pm.

Scarlets Head Coach Wayne Pivac has named a strong side for the derby clash as his side look to maintain their home winning record having not lost in the PRO12 at Parc y Scarlets in 2014.

Winger Kristian Phillips makes a return on the wing to partner Harry Robinson and Liam Williams in the back three with Michael Tagicakibau failing a late fitness test to make the matchday 23.

Scrum half Gareth Davies has been given the all-clear to return to the field of play after he was ruled out last weekend with concussion.

Number 8 Rory Pitman makes a return to the starting XV in the only change to the pack from last weekend's clash against Edinburgh.

Earlier this week Wayne Pivac said: "We're all looking forward to the derby. Everybody talks about the derbies - it'll be my first one and being at home that's fortunate. I'm expecting a very physical encounter from Dragons, they've emptied the tanks and taken a lot of energy into their games so far so we know they'll be very physical."

Scarlets team to take on Newport Gwent Dragons at Parc y Scarlets, Sunday 5th October, kick-off 4pm:

15 Liam Williams, 14 Harry Robinson, 13 Gareth Owen, 12 Scott Williams ©, 11 Kristian Phillips, 10 Rhys Priestland, 9 Gareth Davies, 1 Rob Evans, 2 Emyr Phillips, 3 Samson Lee, 4 Jake Ball, 5 Johan Snyman, 6 Aaron Shingler, 7 John Barclay, 8 Rory Pitman

Replacements:

Kirby Myhill, Phil John, Rhodri Jones, George Earle, James Davies, Aled Davies, Steven Shingler, Adam Warren