Hammond – We’ll play a positive brand of rugby

Winger Dean Hammond insists Warriors will play a positive brand of rugby as they prepare for Saturday’s European Challenge Cup clash with Newport Gwent Dragons at Sixways (kick-off 3pm). 

Warriors will be searching for their first win in the competition when they take on the Welsh outfit, whom they play in the return fixture next Friday 16 December at Rodney Parade. 

And Hammond knows the scale of the tests that await his side over the next fortnight.

He said: “Newport are a very good attacking side so we’re going to have to be solid defensively. They are strong in defence too so we’ll stick to our structures and expect them to come at us quite hard.

“We’ll play a positive brand of rugby going forward into these two games but we know we are going to have to iron out a few of the mistakes that we’ve made in recent weeks if we are to get the result we want.”

Warriors will be looking to build some momentum ahead of their Aviva Premiership clash with Bristol Rugby on Boxing Day and Hammond says the European competition allows younger players to make the most of their opportunities. 

He continued: “We want to do as best we can to get through to the next stage of the competition. Hopefully off the back of them we will take a lot of confidence into Bristol.

“Young players like Jack Singleton and Andrew Kitchener have performed outstandingly well when given the opportunity. 

“Jamie Shillcock has also been superb and for someone of just 19 years of age stepping up and playing so well is great. You can’t ask much more of his attitude and performance. 

“Josh Adams is another example too. They are all enthusiastic around the park and they’re taking their chances as best they can.”

Hammond has bagged two tries in eight appearances so far this season and is hoping he can continue to impress and take his chances in the first-team. 

He added: “I want to be in the first-team week in week out and putting in consistent performances to help us turn some teams over.”

Tickets are available for Saturday's match from just £10 for Adults and £5 Juniors. Get yours now by clicking here, calling 01905 459309 or at the Ticket Office on matchday. 


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