Lloyd Williams insists discipline is key, as Cardiff Blues prepare to take on Newport Gwent Dragons at Constructaquote Stadium in Caerphilly.
Danny Wilson’s side face their east-Wales rivals in the final fixture of the regular Guinness PRO12 campaign, looking to build momentum ahead of the end-of-season play-off for a place in next year’s European Champions Cup.
Three Cardiff Blues players were sent to the sin-bin during last weekend’s 30-24 victory over Zebre, but the scrum-half insists it is vital his side win the battle of the breakdown against a dangerous Dragons pack.
“At the start of the week, we spoke about the fact that the Zebre game wasn’t our best performance, but there were some positive in the game and at the end of the day we came away with a win, and that was the most important thing,” said the Welsh international.
“It was disappointing that we allowed them back into the game, and the yellow cards didn’t help.
“It’s something we’ve looked at, because the Dragons will be another physical side in the breakdown, so it’s important we get that right and make sure we’ve got 15 men on the field at all times.
“They have a number of players who are good over the ball and can force turnovers, and that’s something we’ve concentrated on this week.
“They’re a tough team to face when they’re at home, and even though results may not have gone their way, their performances have certainly improved over the past month. It’s going to be a huge game for both teams."
Due to a fixture conflict, Dragons have been forced to move their final home fixture of the season to the Constructaquote Stadium, and Williams has fond memories of playing at Caerphilly during his semi-pro playing days.
“I’ve played at Caerphilly a few times when I was playing for Cardiff RFC and Glamorgan Wanderers in the Premiership. We will train there a day before the game, which will give the boys an opportunity to get used to the facilities.
“We haven’t looked too far forwards, towards the play-off, as we’ll do that once the Dragons game is out of the way. It will be important for the squad, because we all know what we can do on the pitch and as a player you want to face the best sides.”
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