Back Row Stability

Back Row Stability

There are not too many changes in the Steelmen back row roster but one new arrival that is making the journey along the A465 is Merthyr and Coleg y Cymoedd product Owen Jones. A fast raiding, ball handling open side Owen will fit into the 15 man game approach and at 6ft 1” and 90kg will not lack physical presence and will challenge hard for the 7 shirt. Owen has been capped for Wales at 7’s and impressed in the Blues Region BIC team and is joining Ebbw Vale to take an opportunity to play on a more regular basis in the Premiership.

Owen Jones

Owen with complete with fans’ favourite Ronny Kynes as he enters his 7^th season with the Steelmen. Ronny reached 150 games during the 2016-17 campaign and his character on and off the field have played a major part in the Steelmen success story.

Ronny will be joined by his close friend and work colleague Cameron Regan who will look to put an injury ravaged season behind him and once again add his high octane and skillful performances to the Steelmen’s forwards. The team have missed his skill and character in all aspects of the club and all will be delighted to welcome him back.

Another back row stalwart to remain loyal to the Steelmen cause is Rhys Clarke who completed 100 games in his fifth season with the Steelmen. Despite being hampered by a shoulder injury Rhys has delivered strong and committed performances in the second row, 6 and 8 shirts. The Penallta product is looking for an injury free season and continuing to enjoy his rugby at Eugene Cross Park

Two players who joined in January are committed to the Steelmen, Jonathan Davies and Mike Preece. Jon made a big impact with his pace, strong carrying and aggression in the Fosters Cup and in subsequent Premiership games. He produced excellent performances in the 4, 6 and 8 shirt that also clearly showed his try-scoring prowess picking up 4 tries in a handful of games. With a full pre season behind him, all at the club expect him to be a major influence in the new season.

Mike has made a few appearance in the Fosters Cup and from the bench in league games after joining from Risca. He has displayed a real aptitude for the physical work of the back row and is a young player that will develop throughout the coming season

Rory Pitman, having departed the club at the end of January through injury and mutual agreement, is likely to ply his trade in Jersey and we wish him well for the future

Jack Goodey will also be leaving the club after joining in late November and we wish him success with his rugby career