R League: Celtic provide backbone for Wales

Jun 15 2007 by Our Correspondent, South Wales Echo

FOUR players with Celtic Crusaders experience are in the Wales A side for the Home International match against Scotland at St Peters tomorrow (3pm).

Prop Karl Hocking, who scored nine tries in 15 appearances for the Crusaders last season, captains the side which also includes centre Paul Morgan, back row Dean Scully and full-back Neil Dixon.

All four were released by the Crusaders at the end of last season, Scully signing for Neath Port Talbot Steelers with the others rejoining Welsh champions Blue Bulls.

Crusaders Academy player Owen Lewis, who also turns out for Valley Cougars, is at scrum-half, team-mate Jon Breakingbury, a former professional with Sheffield Eagles, is on the wing.

Welsh coach Wayne Williams said: “Last season was the first time since the Home Nations began Wales A did not return with the trophy, which was a huge disappointment.”

Wales: N Dixon (Blue Bulls), J Breakingbury (Cougars), D James (Bulldogs), C Roets, P Morgan (both Blue Bulls), G Jones (Demons), O Lewis (Cougars), M Wheeler (Titans), M Davies (Demons), K Hocking (Blue Bulls, capt), J Bowd (Titans), D Scully (Steelers), M Entwhistle (Tigers). Subs: S Mayley (Tigers), J Davies (Demons), J Hill (Tigers), C Fox (Blue Bulls), J Thatcher (Demons)