Wales coach King has Irish assignment

Mar 26 2008 Western Mail

WALES head coach Simon King is looking forward to a tough assignment against the U18 Six Nations Festival hosts Ireland at Musgrave Park tonight.

Wales go into their first game having recently tasted international action at this level against England, Scotland and a French selection.

“It doesn’t come much tougher than the host team in the first game,” said King.

“But in every tournament you look forward to getting a game under your belt and we have prepared well.”

Wales have named a strong side with a pack that includes a large contingent from the Dragons.

Blues hooker Rhys Williams is named as captain for the clash.

“We’ve been down to Musgrave Park and we are really pleased with the facilities,” said King.

“I think the boys will enjoy playing here and now we just want the festival to get underway.”

Wales team: J Loxton (Blues); A Hughes (Dragons), B John, A Beck (Ospreys), I Coombes (Dragons); M Jarvis (Ospreys), R Downes (Blues); D Watchurst (Dragons), R Williams (Blues, capt), S Maguire, T Crandon (Dragons), J Galley (Scarlets), D Francis, R Jenkins, J Thomas (Dragons)