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Cardiff Blues V Edinburgh 2017

Cardiff Blues V Edinburgh 2017

OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF... £3

v RUGBY | 01.09.17 | KO 7.35PM v v EDINBURGH RUGBY NEW FEEL IT ALL ’ CAPITAL THE LINE UP REGION Welcome 5 PLAYER INTERVIEW: PRO14 Welcome 7 Cardiff Blues Blues News 9 Westgate Street

Cardiff MATCH ACTION CF10 1JA

Tickets: 029 20 30 20 30 General: 029 20 30 20 00 enquiries@ cardiffblues.com

BluesCardiff @cardiff_blues 28 TheCardiffBlues cardiff_blues 36 Principality Premiership Round-Up CHAIRMAN: 38 The Squad Peter Thomas CHIEF EXECUTIVE: 46 Supporters’ Club Richard Holland 16 NON EXECUTIVE 49 Charity Focus DIRECTORS: Desert Island Discs 18 Paul Bailey PLAYER INTERVIEW Chris Nott REY LEE-LO Simon Webber IN OPPOSITION: John Huw Williams EDINBURGH RUGBY Sir Chris Sutton Martin Ryan FINANCIAL CONTROLLER: Kieron Window

EDITOR: Mike Brown CONTRIBUTORS: Ian Tabor, Owain Gruffudd and Cardiff Blues Supporters Club PHOTOGRAPHY: 52 Huw Evans Picture Agency ON 50 In The Community PRODUCED BY: Ignition Sports Media Ltd 64 Fixtures & Results DESIGN: Thomas Ridge 22 66 The Teams

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HEAD COACH’S NOTES DANNY WILSON

WELCOME BACK TO with some of the younger As ever your support is so CARDIFF ARMS PARK players putting their hands up important to us and means the again and our set-piece standing FOR THIS GUINNESS world. There is nothing better up to the English champions than a packed Cardiff Arms Park PRO14 OPENER and winning some key penalties. and in tight games that can AGAINST EDINBURGH. But it was merely a friendly and prove the difference. First of all, a big thank you to as I said on the night, that win, Our home support is loud, all of you that came to our pre- as pleasing as it was, will count passionate and extremely season friendly against Exeter for nothing if we do not back it knowledgeable. We appreciate last Friday. up tonight. every shout of support. It was a great occasion and Simply put, it all starts tonight! although one side of the While I thank you for coming We managed to claim two wins stadium was closed, having the out to support us in this opening over the Scottish capital outfit crowd compact on one side fixture tonight, I also implore last season but by no means will really gave us a taste of how we underestimate them. good the atmosphere can be at “First of all, a big . They are always a well drilled and organised team and that thank you to all of It was a very pleasing will only be heightened by the you that came to our performance on many levels, arrival of as pre-season friendly their director of rugby. against His record speaks for itself last Friday.” and he will undoubtedly bring an added steel to his side. It you to get behind your team this will be a big challenge but if season. we can replicate the kind of performance we saw last week I look forward to seeing you during this season then we will throughout the season and hope have a good chance of picking we can make you proud. up more wins. Thanks again, It is certainly an interesting season ahead with the new format to the expanded Guinness PRO14 and some mouth-watering ties in Europe.

4 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 5 Welcome to a grounding-breaking Championship season in the newly christened Guinness PRO14 where an historic chapter will be written after the arrival of the Toyota and the from . After a season where took home the final Championship title of the 12-team era, news of our expansion has only further whetted the appetite to see the action kick off. We’ve brought in a new conference system to enable us to add the Cheetahs and the Kings, while reducing the number of regular season rounds – down from 22 to 21 – and we’ve expanded the Guinness PRO14 Final Series with six teams now qualifying. That means your team has an even greater chance of reaching the knock-outs and emulating Scarlets’ sensation title win. We’ve also retained all of our existing Derby games which are sacrosanct to our clubs, players and, most importantly, the fans. We’ve also worked closely with our unions to schedule those Derbies away from in- ternational windows, too. Like you, we want to see the best players in the best games because we are hugely proud of the 295 Internationals who played in the Champion- ship last season, not to mention the 26 called up for the British & Irish Lions tour. As for our new arrivals, the Cheetahs and the Kings, these are teams whose approach to the game should fit in seamlessly with our Championship. Both teams like to play fast, attacking rugby and given that our tournament boasts some of the best Positive Play statistics across Europe we know they’ll be right at home. You only have to look at our recent champions in Scarlets, , Warriors and to see they type of adventurous rugby it takes to win our title. Looking back to the previous campaign we saw a record number of tries scored (711) while crowds were up and nowhere was that more evident than at the Final at . A new record attendance of 45,566 witnessed Scarlets’ scintillating play prove too much for Munster in a game that showcased the attacking calibre of our Cham- pionship. That’s one of the reasons that makes it so exciting to bring the first ever Guinness PRO14 Final to on May 26, 2018. I’m also delighted to say we will again implement an Early Bird offer for fans who de- cide to back their teams and buy their tickets well in advance on www.ticketmaster.ie where prices start from €5 for Children and €30 for adults. I also want to thank Guinness for their continued title sponsorship of the Champion- ship while Gilbert and have joined Specsavers as official partners and we’re delighted to have them. Our Championship gets terrific support from our broad- casters – , BBC Wales, BBC Northern , BBC ALBA, S4C and TG4 – and it’s fantastic to be working alongside them as we tell the story of this historic season ahead. Finally, I’d like to wish all our players, coaches, clubs and referees good luck for the season ahead as they make this Championship what it is for you as a fan. Enjoy the game, Martin Anayi Chief Executive Officer CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES NEWS

CARDIFF BLUES CAPTAIN

GETHIN GEARING UP “They’ve done a very good job with the exception of FOR PRO14 and organised it really well so and Scarlets, either home or that we’ve kept the fixtures that away. Cardiff Blues captain Gethin are important, the derbies, and While the exciting format will obviously bringing a new nation Jenkins has set a target of take some getting used to, for into the league, a strong rugby qualifying for the top tier of players at least little changes. Europe as the new Guinness nation in South Africa. Jenkins added: “For us, as PRO14 kicks-off. “We’ve been knocking around players, it doesn’t really change Danny Wilson’s men narrowly seventh place the last two missed out on a spot in the seasons. If the league was still in Champions Cup last season, the old format, the goal would “Cardiff Blues captain losing a play-off final against be try and get into Europe in Gethin Jenkins Stade Francais in June. that top six. has set a target of And despite changes to the “Obviously, the league has qualifying for the top format of the expanded PRO14, changed now but I think that is Jenkins, who is embarking on still the big target for us, to try tier of Europe as the his 13th season with the Blues, and qualify for Europe. new Guinness PRO14 insists the goal remains “That’s the competition kicks-off.” the same. everyone wants to be in and the a lot. You’re still playing against Jenkins said: “It’s exciting. Most league is where you prove your form to get into that. every team. of the teams in this competition know each other really well, they “We’ve got quite a small squad “I suppose the coaches will have play against each other week in, compared to some of the to do a fair bit of planning in week out. others, so we’re just looking to terms of where and when we put in the performances that we can target certain games and “It’s nice to have two new produced on occasions last year they’ll look at the tough games fixtures to look forward to for on a more consistent basis.” when you have to put your full the players and, having spoken team out even if players are to a few of the South African The Blues will face the teams in carrying bumps. It’s an exciting boys, they’re looking forward to Conference A both home and time for the competition.” it as well. away and those in Conference B,

The GUINNESS word and associated logos are trade marks © Guinness & Co. 2015. 8 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 9 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES NEWS CANTERBURY KITS SEASON MEMBERS LAUNCHED IN STYLE TREATED TO

OVER THE PAST WEEKS WE EXCLUSIVE Q&A HAVE LAUNCHED OUR NEW CANTERBURY HOME AND EUROPEAN JERSEYS – AND THE EVENING BEFORE transition coach and former WE HOPE YOU LOVE THEM CARDIFF BLUES’ FINAL PRE- scrum-half Richie Rees, new AS MUCH AS WE DO! SEASON FRIENDLY AGAINST signings Damian Welch and EXETER CHIEFS, WE THREW Jack Roberts, George Earle OPEN THE DOORS TO and British & Irish Lions call-up CARDIFF ARMS PARK FOR AN . EXCLUSIVE SEASON MEMBERS EVENT. It was the first in a series of exclusive events for Season Supporters who have snapped Members to ensure you get the up Season Memberships for the 2017-18 campaign were invited best possible value by joining to the Gareth Edwards lounge Wales’ Capital Region. For the 2017-18 season we for an exclusive Q&A session Memberships are still available have reverted back to the hosted by Rhys Williams. and can be purchased by calling more traditional Cambridge Head coach Danny Wilson 029 20 302030 or by visiting blue, with two more shades was joined by new backs www.cardiffblues.com/tickets of blue and horizontal stripes.

Our European jersey maintains the #StayStrongForOws theme, again featuring horizontal stripes but with a lighter, royal blue as oppose to the navy we have seen in recent years. We launched both jerseys online with exclusive video content and they have flown off the shelves. All three current jerseys, plus a new range of training wear, are available in store and online now.

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FEED YOUR NEED FOR WELSH RUGBY

SCRUM V LIVE | SCRUM V SUNDAY | SCRUM V PODCAST

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2 SCRUM_V_ad_165x242.indd 1 24/08/2017 16:35 Cardiff17_Home_Ad_165x242mm.indd 1 24/08/2017 14:41 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES TAKE TO THE STREETS TO HAND DELIVER YOUR SEASON MEMBERSHIPS

WITH THE 2017-18 SEASON ALMOST UPON US, WE TOOK OUR PLAYERS ON THE ROAD TO PERSONALLY DELIVER YOUR SEASON MEMBERSHIPS. We promised supporters their memberships would arrive this week and we reserved a batch to be hand delivered. Players visited homes across the region to meet fans and to thank them for their continued support. Here are a selection of the best:

BLUES SOUTH 53 BLUES YOUTH SCORE DRAGONS NORTH 5 15 TRIES IN THE WRU Evan Lloyd's try was the only score during the first half at U16 REGIONAL AGE Cardiff Arms Park, but the Blues South side ran riot during the second half against Dragons GRADE CHAMPIONSHIP North. A TOTAL OF 15 TRIES WERE SCORED BY CARDIFF Tries from Anthony Price, Marvin BLUES' AGE GRADE SIDES LAST WEEK, AS BOTH Hutchings, a double from inside BLUES NORTH AND BLUES SOUTH PICKED UP centre Rhys Gentles and a Jamie Howells conversion saw the IMPORTANT VICTORIES IN THE WRU U16 REGIONAL home side build up a 27 point AGE GRADE CHAMPIONSHIP. lead.

The visitors looked to bounce Blues side lead by 24 points WEST 5 back through a Lewis Bates try, within the first 40 minutes. BLUES NORTH 38 but the hosts soon regained It only took five minutes for Rhys Thomas and Morgan their dominance as Oliver James Blues North to get on the Biggins crossed later in the touched down on the hour. scoresheet, as wing Morgan game, with Tyler Morris Gethin Rosser's conversion Biggins scored the first of his successful with two conversion made it 34-5. attempts of his own, stretching two tries of the evening. Replacement Benji Williams was his side's lead to 38 points. Furhter tries from Cavan Davies, next on the scoresheet, securing Rhys Anstey and Harrison Replacement Llyr Davies gave a quick fire brace, before captain Chapman, as well as two Ospreys West a consolation Lloyd also touched down for his conversions from the boot of score in the late stages of the second of the evening during Josh Phillips, saw the young game. the final play of the game.

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putting Summerhill away for his fourth try of pre-season. MATCH REPORT Shingler converted to bring the score to 10-7 as the 20-minute 21 CARDIFF BLUES mark approached, but they were unable to build upon their lead. 20 EXETER CHIEFS The Chiefs battled back once HT: 10 - 14 | 25th August 2017 | 19:15 | Cardiff Arms Park more and their power game 4,861 | PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY delivered a second try as Sam Simmonds was driven over from CARDIFF BLUES FINISHED a lineout. PRE-SEASON WITH A 100 dinked the ball to PER CENT WIN RECORD, the corner to nullify the Exeter AS AN ALED SUMMERHILL defence and Summerhill was on BRACE ENSURED A ONE- hand to collect in the corner to POINT VICTORY OVER AVIVA continue his red-hot streak. PREMIERSHIP CHAMPIONS, EXETER CHIEFS. Cardiff Blues continued to press with Keiron Assiratti and Corey Danny Wilson’s men trailed Domachowski combining in by four points at the interval, midfield like a pair of centres. despite the wing’s first-half The move continued with Willis The pack, containing a youthful 5m line eventually saw Slade effort. Halaholo breaking through and front-row of Domachowski, drop into the pocket, looking for They remained in the contest he offloaded to on Ethan Lewis and Assiratti, a drop goal. the outside but he was unable continued to impress as they however and claimed a morale- His effort, however, was charged to touchdown as he stretched to forced a penalty, which Evans boosting victory ahead of down by , the line. slotted. today’s Guinness PRO14 opener who showed impressive pace, against Edinburgh thanks to Jarrod Evans, on for Shingler, It was a tense final five minutes and the home side regained Summerhill’s second and the booted the Blues back in front for the hosts, as the Chiefs possession to finish pre-season boot of replacement Jarrod on 63 minutes but that was looked for a late winner. A with two wins out of two. Evans. quickly cancelled out by Slade. number of phases on the Blues’ Steven Shingler opened the scoring at Cardiff Arms Park with a penalty, after the Chiefs were caught holding on. Exeter instantly rallied back, as the Blues failed to secure the restart and although they did not fully capitalise with a score, they set up camp. Wilson’s men defended manfully, holding two driving lineouts at bay but, after six minutes inside their 22, the pressure eventually told with openside Don Armand burrowing over. Henry Slade added the extras to take the lead but it did not last long as Cardiff Blues hit-back. Matthew Morgan once again showed his attacking abilities as he stepped past several defenders to create an opportunity out of nothing. He scorched to the outside and drew the full-back before

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RHIF 1: MY GIRL, THE TEMPTATIONS Dyma'r gân gafodd ei chwarae ar gyfer ein DISCS dawns cyntaf yn fy mhriodas dros yr Haf. Cân orau Katie, fy ngwraig, ydi hi, felly dwi'n ei with... STEVE SHINGLER swyno hi gyda hon ar fore Sul! RHIF 2: FOLLOW ME, UNCLE NO.1 : MY GIRL, KRACKER THE TEMPTATIONS. Dyma fy hoff gan ers blynyddoedd! Heb os, y This was the song we played for my first dance gân gyntaf dwi'n ddewis ar gyfer carioci. at my wedding in the summer. It is Katie my RHIF 3: MAN IN THE MIRROR, wife's favourite song so I serenade her with on a Sunday morning! Hen glasur sydd yn dod ag atgofion melys o NO.2 : FOLLOW ME, UNCLE drip sgïo yn yr ysgol. Roeddwn yn rhannu KRACKER. ystafell gyda phedwar o fy hen ffrindiau It has been my favourite song for as long as o adref, a dyma'r gân oedd yn ein I can remember. It is undoubtedly my go-to deffro pob bore. Roedd un o'r bois yn karaoke song. gwybod pob gair ac yn ei chanu ar dop ei lais pob bore. Hefyd, dwi yn NO.3 : MAN IN THE MIRROR, joio 'bach o Jacko. MICHAEL JACKSON. An old classic which brings back fun memories from a school skiing trip. Four of my oldest friends from back home were sharing a room and every morning this would be the song we waked up. With one of my friends knowing it word for word and blasting it out every morning full volume and at top of his voice. Also I do love a bit of Jacko.

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IN OPPOSITION they realise that, the better it will be for everybody.” Despite being a mere weeks EDINBURGH into his rein at Myreside, Cockerill has made the move to appoint 22-year-old back row, , RUGBY as club captain for the campaign. Cockerill insists he can be IT’S BEEN A SUMMER OF proud of his achievements CHANGE AT THE SCOTTISH when reflecting back to his CAPITAL, WITH RICHARD recent stint at the French COCKERILL TAKING OVER south coast, and the success AS HEAD COACH AT he had has installed a MYRESIDE, FOLLOWING refreshed self-confidence in A BRIEF SPELL UNDER his own coaching abilities. THE LEADERSHIP OF FORMER Cockerill said: “When I took INTERNATIONAL, DUNCAN over as head coach (at HODGE. Toulon) they had six games to the final. We won six games Cockerill, a hooker by trade to get to the final, which has who lined-up alongside got to help your confidence and as a coach; knowing that Darren Garforth in the what you are doing is actually famous ‘ABC club’ at right. , has been brought in to change Edinburgh’s “They sacked Mike (Ford) fortunes on both domestic on the Monday and nobody and European fronts. And trained. There’s myself, Marc the former hooker del Maso and Giteau – who’s certainly has the coaching never coached – and we have credentials to spark a revival to beat at at Myreside. in front of 65,000 people. Cockerill was appointed full a short stint as head coach of “If they work hard and play “You have four days to get time head coach at Leicester French giants, Toulon. well, they will get picked (for prepped with a coach who’s Tigers in 2009, following two Scotland). If they don’t do it never coached and a scrum Cockerill would lead Toulon previous interim spells, a club for us, I won’t pick them and I coach who’s got Parkinson’s to the final, where which he represented on hope they don’t get picked for disease and has his own they were defeated 22-16 by more than 250 occasions. Scotland because they won’t issues. Clermont, with Morgan Parra deserve to. Cockerill brought back- racking up 17 points from the “You just have to find a way to-back domestic titles to boot for Les Jaunards. “I feel, rightly or wrongly, that to win against one of the best Welford Road in 2009 and too many guys at Edinburgh, teams. However, the 27-times capped 2010, and his role changed historically, have used it as a international is determined to “You think, “I’m leaving to Director of Rugby in 2010. place to play a few games of build a winning mentality at anyway so f*** it”. You Cockerill would also lead rugby, to get themselves fit the Scottish capital, as he is need to be a f****** Tigers to a Heineken Cup for the Test matches. Scotland “That’s the biggest club arena home in six months and people set to embark on his biggest strong personality in that final in 2009, where they don’t want that and I won’t in when you get coaching challenge to date. environment because are going, “Well, f***, you went narrowly lost out to a Rocky tolerate that, because I have no into that company – and I was everyone’s going, “You need Elsom-inspired Leinster in interest in the national team, more than capable of taking into a dysfunctional place, got “Everything is new to me here, to win”. So you say, “No the final, as well as another at all. that team by the scruff of the so you have to forge your problem, I’m used to winning” some order and made it work”. Premiership title in 2013. reputation all over again. I have neck and getting it to a point “That’s not my job. My job Your reputation could take to take this group by the scruff “The stadium is awesome and where it won six games on the In 2017, Cockerill’s time at the is to get whatever team of its neck and help them you have Toulon and Toulouse trot. double dents in the space of East Midlands came to an I’m coaching to do their realise their potential,” said queuing up. Where else end, and he would eventually job. They’ve got to do it for “We lost the final by six points, six months so I needed to get Cockerill. would you rather be? take over from Mike Ford for Edinburgh first and the sooner having not won away from it f****** right, which I did.”

22 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 23 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY THREE TO WATCH MAGNUS HAMISH SOLOMONI BRADBURY WATSON RASOLEA

BRADBURY HAS BEEN WATSON CAME RASOLEA JOINED NAMED EDINBURGH THROUGH THE EDINBURGH AHEAD CAPTAIN FOR THE OF THE 2016/17 2017/18 CAMPAIGN AT ACADEMY, BUT MADE SEASON, MAKING ONLY 22-YEARS-OLD. THE MOVE UP NORTH THE MOVE FROM IN 2011, SIGNING A OUTFIT The 6’4” back row joined CENTRAL CONTRACT , Edinburgh on an academy WITH THE SCOTLAND AND MAKING HIS contract in 2014, having graduated from the national SEVENS SIDE. DEBUT FOR THE age-grade system. CAPITAL SIDE DURING Having impressed on the circuit, LAST SEASON’S the open side was picked up Bradbury has represented GUINNESS PRO12 by Edinburgh, where he had Scotland at Under-17, become a key player since his OPENER AGAINST Under-18, Under-20 and debut in 2011. CARDIFF BLUES AT Sevens, and made his senior THE ARMS PARK. debut on the international The back row made his bow stage during the 2016 on the international stage Capable of playing either Autumn Test match against during the 2015 Six Nations at centre or on the wing, . clash against . However, he Rasolea was born in , would not make his first start in and was educated The back row, who recently Scotland colours until the 2016 at the Anglian Church penned a new three-year deal autumn series. Grammar School, where at the Scottish capital, has notable alumni also include 31 appearances and seven Watson, who was one of and Quade tries to his name in Scotland’s stand-out players Cooper. Edinburgh colours. during last season’s Six Nations campaign, 26-year-old Rasolea Tîm rygbi Prifysgol Caerdydd, Varsity Cymru 2017 rugby team, 2017 is another to have represented Fiji at signed a new Under-20 level, but deal recently, wore the famous extending his stay gold of Australia on at Myreside until the World Rugby Gweledigaeth Our outlook 2019. Seven Series, playing at the and Glasgow fyd-eang, is worldwide, legs. calon our lifeblood Gymreig is Wales

Bydd ein Diwrnod Agored nesaf ar Our next Open Day is 16 Medi 2017 16 September 2017 caerdydd.ac.uk/diwrnodagored cardiff.ac.uk/opendays

Noddwr balch Gleision Caerdydd Proud sponsor of Cardiff Blues 24 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 25 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY OPPOSITION STATISTICS This is one truck and trailer HEAD TO DID YOU KNOW? Cardiff Blues finished in 7th place in the you’ll be happy to see Guinness PRO12 last season and were HEAD unbeaten in the last four rounds. Blues only defeat in their last five encounters against Scottish opponents HEAD TO HEAD RECORD was 15-29 to in round 13 last season, whilst the last Scottish side to have won at the Arms Park was GUINESS PRO14 also the Warriors, in November 2015. Blues only defeat in round 1 since 2009 came when they visited Glasgow in 2013. Edinburgh Rugby head coach Richard Cockerill takes charge of his first PRO14 28 18 10 encounter after recent spells as head coach in the English Premiership and GAMES BLUES EDINBURGH ’s Top-14. PLAYED WINS WINS Edinburgh concluded the 2016/17 campaign with a pair of victories over LAST THREE RESULTS Dragons and Glasgow – with the Dragons win being their first over a Welsh Region GUINESS PRO12 for six matches. The Welshmen have won their last five fixtures against Edinburgh whilst their 15 APR - CARDIFF ARMS PARK 15 APR - RDS ARENA only reversal in their last nine encounters CARDIFF V OSPREYS EDINBURGH V TREVISO came at BT Murrayfield in November W 35-17 L 6-21 2014. 15 APR - CARDIFF ARMS PARK 28 APR - RDS ARENA CARDIFF V ZABRE EDINBURGH V DRAGONS Blues beat Edinburgh 34-16 at the Arms W 30-24 W 24-20 Park in round 1 last year. 6 MAY - 6 MAY - RDS ARENA CARDIFF V DRAGONS EDINBURGH V GLASGOW You might not want to see a truck and trailer during a match, W 26-24 W 29-18 TOP TRY SCORER but you’ll be happy to see ours! STANDINGS At DS Smith we can help your business become less wasteful and more e cient with integrated recycling and waste management solutions. GUINESS PRO12 That’s why, when our customers see one of our trucks, they know that it’s there to 7th - 53pts 9th - 31pts TOM DAMIEN make a real dierence to their business. And, as proud sponsors of the Cardi Blues, JAMES HOYLAND we can help you just like we’ve helped them. W11 D1 L10 W6 D0 L16 TOP POINTS SCORER FORMBOOK (LAST 6) GUINESS PRO12 www.dssmith.com/recycling 0800 7831 831 STEVE DUNCAN Proud Sponsors of the Cardi Blues @DSSmithRecycle LLDWWW LLLLWW SHINGLER WEIR #DSSmithRugby

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JOSH TURNBULL READY TO MAKE UP FOR LOST TIME

28 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 29 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY

JOSH TURNBULL IS That meant the 29-year-old was Turnbull made his long-awaited “Massive credit to my wife who FINALLY FIT AND FIRING able to take part in a two week return to action in the pre- kept telling me to work hard and season victory over London AFTER FEARING HE conditioning block at the end you do see light at the end of of the season before enjoying a Scottish and followed it up with a tunnel when you start doing MAY NOT HAVE PLAYED four week break and he believes 40 minutes during last week’s games or training outside. Dan AGAIN FOLLOWING that made a huge difference win over Exeter Chiefs. Fish and Lewis Jones were in BACK SURGERY. both physically and mentally. Pre-season also saw fellow long- that injured group and seeing them coming back is a boost to The 2016-17 season was one of He continued: “The physios term casualties Lewis Jones and huge frustration for the versatile worked really hard and I did Dan Fish return to action, which all of us. forward, who has notched up 64 has added to the feel-good everything I could to come back “They say after a while you start appearances for Cardiff Blues. factor. at the end of last season, which to miss the game and I have During the opening months wasn’t to be but probably a Now Turnbull is relishing the missed it immensely. Going from of the season Turnbull was blessing in disguise. opportunity to make up for lost not knowing when you will be managing a number of niggles, “The rest of my body was able time. able to play to being back on and then the root cause was to rest and recover, I was able the pitch with your mates, you discovered to be a bulging disc He added: “I’m good, healthy to spend some really good time really enjoy those wins. Exeter in his lower back. and fit now. It was good to get away from the environment 60 minutes against Scottish and was a really big scalp for us, we Turnbull required surgery to resting mentally to comeback. then another 40 against Exeter, can build on those foundations correct the problem and that who are a good, well-drilled and into the season. was just the start of a long road “Sometimes mentally more than team as well. “I’m just excited, you want to back to playing rugby. One in physically players really need which he questioned whether a break and that’s done me a “It was the perfect opportunity throw yourself around and he would pull on a Cardiff Blues world of good and I’m just really to test yourself and that’s what know you can do what you did jersey again. looking forward to getting out we wanted to do as a group and before and as good as you did it there.” myself personally. before.” “Last season was definitely one of frustration,” said Turnbull with a wry smile. “I was keeled over at the waist, strength to come back and you “From October onwards I had with a crutch in one hand and wonder if it will ever get better.” niggling pain, which I tried to couldn’t stand up straight, it manage - my lower back, glutes Turnbull came very close to and hip flexors. was so frustrating and it was a returning to action at the end process where you take three of last season but the decision “We tried to manage it but come steps forward and then two was taken not to rush his the game on December 3, back. It took a long time for the rehabilitation. I felt terrible. I felt sick and my legs were weak so I had a scan and it revealed a nasty bulge in my lower back. “We gave it time to settle down but it didn’t and it was a case of having the op. Losing the sensation in your big toe, not being able to do a simple calf raise, sit down for longer than 10 minutes without a raging sciatic pain through my leg was frustrating, especially over Christmas with two little ones who want you to pick them up. “After the operation I questioned whether I would play again. I remember lying there during the Six Nations and struggling to move, to walk down the stairs and I thought, ‘I might be struggling to come back from this’.

30 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 31

CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY

MERTHYR 31 CROSS Lock Ben Murphy extended his 27 PRINCIPALITY PREMIERSHIP KEYS 29 side’s advantage to 17-7, as he BEDWAS 39 touched down from a driving Defending champions, Merthyr, line-out, with full back Matthew It was a disappointing start to ROUND-UP left it late to secure a two-point Jarvis converting, before Prosser the season for Pontypridd, who victory over a strong Cross Keys struck back with a penalty fell to a 12-point home defeat to side at The Wern. to keep Keys within touching Bedwas. CARDIFF, MERTHYR AND PONTYPRIDD WERE ALL distance. Cardiff Blues’ and It looked as if the visitors would Shane Lewis-Hughes impressed IN ACTION ON THE OPENING WEEKEND OF THE run away with a comfortable Keys brought the scores level PRINCIPALITY PREMIERSHIP. HERE’S HOW THEY for Ponty, and despite scoring victory, as they led 17-29 with early in the second half, as three tries at , it was GOT ON. five minutes remaining, but Dale captain Scott Matthews broke the visitors who came away with MacIntosh’s side dug deep to away, with Prosser once again maximum points. steal a victory in the final play of converting. Impressive pace by full back It took eight minutes for Bedwas NEWPORT RFC 19 the game. CARDIFF RFC 31 Llywarch ap Myrddin, who made Wing Matthew Prosser gave to open the scoring, as a quick the switch from Rodney Parade Keys opened the scoring the visitors the lead before tap penalty created space for A trip to Newport was first up to Cardiff Arms Park over the through centre Josh Barnett, ex-Merthyr prop, Nathan Buck, wing Matthew John to cross the whitewash, with outside half for Cardiff, as they faced off summer, and a neatly timed pass with Josh Prosser converting, powered over to create a Steffan Jones converting. for the first time on Rodney to Lewis sent the wing over. but the hosts struck back as 12-point gap with only eight Parade’s new surface. Thompson made no mistakes number 8 Phil Rees powered his minutes remaining on the clock. Dane Blacker and Daf Lockyer with the conversion. looked dangerous in attack, and Steve Law kicked off his career the attacking pressure from Ponty at the Blue and Blacks with Before the Amber and Blacks eventually told as Shane Lewis- a comfortable 31-19 victory, had the opportunity to regroup, Hughes powered his way over securing a crucial bonus point in as ap Myrddin and Lewis from a line-out set-piece. the process. combined once more, securing Diggy Bird converted to bring the Debutant wing Patric Lewis a quick fire double and opening scores back level, but it only took touched down for a hat-trick, up a 17-point lead. eight minutes for the visitors to regain their lead. while outside half Gareth Newport replied, as Will Evans Thompson racked up a personal touched down for a converted Close range scrums near the tally of 16 points to ensure try, but a length-of-the-pitch Pontypridd try line allowed victory. effort saw Steve Law’s side number eight, Morgan Allen, an opportunity to sneak his way regain their 17-point advantage. It was Thompson who opened under the posts, with Jones once the scoring at Rodney Parade, Thompson, ap Myrddin, Will again adding the extras. landing a penalty after eight Rees Hole and minutes. Newport’s Matt O’Brien all played their part, as Lewis Bird and Jones both exchanged penalties, and the visitors were looked for an immediate reply, secured his third try on his Blue 13-17 to the good as the half time and Blacks debut. but saw his effort drift wide of whistle blew. the posts. A fine individual effort by Wales Under-20 hooker, Elliott Cardiff’s lead was soon Thompson secured the bonus Shipp, extended Bedwas’ lead in extended to 10 points, as Lewis point, before ap Myrddin made the early stages of the second crossed for the first of his three a crucial try-saving tackle at the half, before replacement wing, tries of the afternoon. other end. Lewis Williams, struck back for Ponty, with Bird making no mistakes with a straight-forward conversion. However, Bedwas secured a bonus point, as Jones, who tallied 19 points on the day, slid in under the posts. However, late tries by Matthew way over the line to close the Dwyer and Ed Siggery, coupled A Dale Stuckey try gave the hosts gap to 5-7. with a pair of Jarvis conversion, hope of an unlikely comeback, The home side soon took the completed a stunning comeback but the result was put beyond doubt when Andrew Waite raced lead, as young outside half Ben for the defending champions. There were late scores for clear with 78 minutes on the Jones, one of the Ironmen’s the home side through Harri Cardiff and Merthyr face off clock. allocation of Cardiff Blues Lang and Henry Palmer, but tomorrow at Cardiff Arms Park, players for the season, produced Ponty travel to ’s Law’s side held on to claim a as both sides look to maintain some individual excellence, Eugene Park tonight, looking to momentous away victory on the their 100 per cent start to the running in from 40 meters. bounce back from the opening opening weekend. season. weekend’s disappointment.

36 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 37 CARDIFF

BLUES DOWN JAMES Position: PROP Position: LOCK Position: LOCK Position: FLY HALF Position: PROP JARROD EVANS JARROD GEORGE EARLE

Weight: 122.6kg Weight: 121.3kg Weight: 117.4kg Weight: 89.7kg TAUFA’AO FILISE Weight: 130kg SCOTT ANDREWS SCOTT Height: 6ft2 Height: 6ft7 Height: 6ft5 Height: 5ft9 Height: 6ft5 SQUAD D.O.B: 01/08/89 D.O.B: 29/08/87 D.O.B: 09/01/87 D.O.B: 25/07/96 D.O.B: 26/05/77 2017/18 SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY DAN FISH DAN RHYS TOM

Position: FLY HALF Position: PROP Position: SCRUMHALF Position: BACK ROW Position: FULL BACK Position: PROP Position: CENTRE Position: WING DANE BLACKER DANE Weight: 89kg Weight: 117kg Weight: 78kg BOTHAM JAMES Weight: 98kg Weight: 86.4kg Weight: 115.2kg Weight: 105kg Weight: 102.3kg Height: 6ft1 Height: 5ft10 Height: 5ft10 Height: 6ft2 Height: 6ft1 Height: 6ft2 Height: 5ft11 Height: 6ft1.5 KEIRON ASSIRATTI D.O.B: 10/05/91 D.O.B: 30/06/97 D.O.B: 06/07/98 D.O.B: 22/02/98 D.O.B: 19/12/90 D.O.B: 30/10/86 D.O.B: 06/07/90 D.O.B: 17/04/87

SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY BEN JONES RHYS CARRE RHYS LEWIS JONES SION BENNETT Position: BACK ROW Position: LOCK Position: PROP Position: LOCK Position: BACK ROW Position: PROP Position: FLY HALF Position: SCRUM HALF

Weight: 122.6kg Weight: 108kg Weight: 130kg Weight: 116.1kg Weight: 103.8kg GETHIN JENKINS Weight: 119kg Weight: 76kg Weight: 81.5kg

Height: 6ft2 Height: 6ft7 Height: 6ft3 COOK MACAULEY Height: 6ft5 Height: 6ft1 Height: 6ft2 Height: 5ft9 Height: 5ft9.5 D.O.B: 01/08/89 D.O.B: 01/09/97 D.O.B: 08/02/98 D.O.B: 31/12/91 D.O.B: 29/04/93 D.O.B: 17/11/80 D.O.B: 08/10/98 D.O.B: 24/11/92 CALLUM BRADBURY CALLUM

SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY REY LEE-LO OWEN LANE OWEN

Position: WING Position: LOCK Position: HOOKER Position: PROP Position: WING Position: CENTRE Position: CENTRE LEWIS DILLON Position: PROP KRISTIAN DACEY KRISTIAN Weight: 105kg Weight: 116kg Weight: 109.1kg Weight: 118kg Weight: 100kg Weight: 99kg Weight: 86kg Weight: 127kg Height: 6ft6 Height: 6ft6 Height: 6ft1.5 Height: 6ft Height: 6ft1 Height: 6ft CAMERON LEWIS Height: Height: 6ft1 D.O.B: 05/04/90 D.O.B: 17/05/96 D.O.B: 25/07/89 D.O.B: 19/09/96 D.O.B: 20/12/97 D.O.B: 20/02/86 D.O.B: 24/09/97 D.O.B: 04/01/96

SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY COREY DOMACHOWSKI COREY

38 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 39 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY

Position: BACKROW ETHAN LEWIS Position: HOOKER Position: CENTRE Position: FULL BACK CAPITAL Weight: 113kg Weight: 110.9kg HARRI MILLARD Weight: 94kg Weight: 78.1kg Height: 6ft4 Height: 6ft Height: 5ft9 Height: 5ft7.5

D.O.B: 20/09/97 D.O.B: 28/03/94 D.O.B: 27/08/96 MORGAN MATTHEW D.O.B: 23/04/92

SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY BREAKFAST SHANE LEWIS-HUGHES PROUD TO SUPPORT CARDIFF BLUES 2017/18 JOSH NAVIDI JOSH KIRBY MYHILL KIRBY Position: HOOKER Position: FLANKER Position: PROP Position: HOOKER Weight: 107.8kg Weight: 104.7kg Weight: 121kg REES MATTHEW Weight: 111.2kg Height: 6ft1 Height: 6ft1.5 Height: 6ft Height: 6ft2 D.O.B: 05/02/92 D.O.B: 30/12/90 D.O.B: 18/09/87 D.O.B: 09/12/80 ANTON PEIKRISHVILI ANTON SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY GARYN SMITH GARYN

JACK ROBERTS JACK Position: CENTRE Position: FULL BACK Position: FLY HALF Position: CENTRE Weight: 91kg Weight: 95kg Weight: 92.5kg Weight: 94.3kg Height: 5ft8 Height: 6ft2.5 Height: 6ft3 Height: 5ft11 STEVEN SHINGLER STEVEN D.O.B: 20/11/91 D.O.B: 18/09/87 D.O.B: 20/06/91 D.O.B: 12/07/95

SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY BRAD THYER Position: FULL BACK Position: PROP Position: BACK ROW Position: BACK ROW

Weight: 93.4kg Weight: 114.5kg TURNBULL JOSH Weight: 112.2kg Weight: 100.7kg

Height: 6ft2 Height: 6ft Height: 6ft4 WARBURTON SAM Height: 6ft3 ALED SUMMERHILL D.O.B: 22/11/94 D.O.B: 07/02/93 D.O.B: 12/03/88 D.O.B: 05/10/88

SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY

40 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 41

Capital SW Blues programme ad MPG A4 2018.indd 1 30/08/2017 10:05 CARDIFF BLUES 242X165mm SPORT (Open Day).qxp_Layout 1 22/08/2017 15:42 Page 1

WE GOTHE

Position: LOCK Position: SCRUM HALF Position: BACK ROW Position: FULLBACK NICK WILLIAMS DAMIAN WELCH DAMIAN

Weight: 120kg Weight: 91.1kg Weight: 129.8kg RHUN WILLIAMS Weight: 87kg

EXTRA WILLIAMS LLOYD Height: 6ft6 Height: 6ft Height: 6ft3.5 Height: 6ft1 D.O.B: 28/07/82 D.O.B: 30/11/89 D.O.B: 02/12/83 D.O.B: 05/06/97 MILE SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY

Position: SCRUM HALF Weight: 83.4kg

TOMOS WILLIAMS TOMOS Height: 5ft11 D.O.B: 01/01/95

SPONSORED BY The University of has a strong sporting background, an excellent reputation for sport degrees, and impressive facilities to train and study in.

Our brand-new, full-sized indoor 3G football pitch will be the only one in Wales, and will be built to FIFA Pro standard and World Rugby 22 standard. It will guarantee training all year round for our rugby, football and coaching students. OPEN DAYS 2017 CARDIFF BLUES STAFF DANNY WILSON ROBIN SOWDEN-TAYLOR MATT SHERRATT Wednesday 13 September HEAD COACH STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH BACKS & ATTACKS COACH Saturday 21 October RICHARD HODGES RYAN WHITLEY CLIVE JONES ELITE PERFORMANCE PATHWAY SENIOR STRENGTH & CONDITIONING Director of Development MANAGER COACH Saturday 25 November DUANE GOODFIELD GAFYN COOPER BEN WARBURTON Forwards transition coach RUGBY OPERATIONS MANAGER PHYSIOTHERAPIST RICHIE REES RHODRI MANNING WAYNE MORTIMER Backs transition coach Book your place: HEAD OF PERFORMANCE ANALYST MASSAGE THERAPIST CHRIS BERRY NICKY ROBINSON JOHN MILES ANALYST SENIOR PERFORMANCE Kicking / Transition coach 03455 76 77 78 HEAD OF MEDICAL SERVICES RICHARD HUGHES SHAUN EDWARDS MIKE BIERI MOBILITY & RECOVERY COACH Defensive consultant southwales.ac.uk/opendays TRAINING GROUND MANAGER STEFFAN BENNETT DR. GARETH JONES PHYSIOTHERAPIST Academy performance analyst TEAM DOCTOR @USWSport The University of South Wales is a registered charity. Registration No. 1140312 42 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 43 To celebrate 30 years in business

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CM5158_67PlateChange_Press_242x165_CardiffBlues.indd 1 30/08/2017 09:52 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES CARDIFF BLUES SUPPORTERS' CLUB SUPPORTERS CLUB MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

#bluesfamily #staystrongforows #walescapitalregion Please tick a box is this a: New Application □ Membership Renewal □ Season: …...... Membership Number (renewals): …...... FIRST PRO14 START FOR THE CARDIFF BLUES First Name: …...... Membership Type: Adult □ Junior □ Welcome to our visitors and a narrow away win defeat of the reigning English Surname: …...... DOB (if Junior – Under 18): …...... Edinburgh in the first over Newcastle (14-10) in champions Exeter Chiefs last CONTACT DETAILS PRO14 game at the Arms their warmup games this friday the Blues will be looking Address: ...... Park, our visitors suffered season. to start this campaign with a win …...... a narrow home loss at After the impressive squad win at home in this cross conference home to Sale (20-24) over London Scottish and the game. …...... Postcode: …...... Contact telephone number: …...... CARDIFF BLUES SUPPORTERS CLUB AWAY TRIPS Email address: …...... MEMBERSHIP CBSC will be running ADDITIONAL MEMBERS trips to the Scarlets on CBSC membership for the current season is on sale from the For additional members with a different postal address, please use a separate application form Saturday 28th October CBSC website or in person from committee members in the (KO 7:35pm) and we are Name: …...... Contact details (if different) Jack Matthews bar under the Arms Park South stand before looking at options for the or after home games. Membership costs £10 for adults and Sale away game New Renewal Adult Junior telephone: …...... £5 for juniors (under 18); your membership pack includes on 9th December. If you □ □ □ □ a specially designed 2017/18 season CBSC membership pin want to book or register in OWS colours, and a membership card. All members get an interest in any of these Membership Number: …...... Email: …...... priority access to CBSC events throughout the season and trips then you can do so junior members also have a chance to be CBSC flag bearers on the CBSC website or in Name: …...... Contact details (if different) at a home match during the season. Membership also gives person with a committee you a vote in the player of the month awards and the end of member in the Jack New □ Renewal □ Adult □ Junior □ telephone: …...... season Player of the Year award. Also included are discounted Matthews bar before or after home game travel prices for official CBSC away trips in the pro12 and Membership Number: …...... Email: …...... for the upcoming European Challenge cup fixtures. Pre-sold Come on the Blues! membership packs will be available for pickup from the jack Simon Harrington Name: …...... Contact details (if different) Matthews bar. Juniors Ambassador New □ Renewal □ Adult □ Junior □ telephone: …......

Membership Number: …...... Email: …...... STAY STRONG FOR fund. Throughout the season Catherine Smart, Graeme we will be running fundraising Prance, Chris Stork, Carol PAYMENT TYPE OWS events for Owen and as a start Esposti, Simon Harrington, Once again Cardiff Blues £1 from every membership fee James Lewis, David Elsmere, Please tick box □ Cash Total Paid £ …...... Supporters Club will be will be donated to the fund. Richard Taylor and Kate focusing our fundraising efforts Our committee this season is Parkinson. Cheque Total Paid £ …...... on the Owen Williams charity confirmed as Sarah Hopkins, □ Please make cheques payable to Cardiff Blues Supporters' Club

Please return your completed application form to: CBSC, 3 Crystal Avenue, Heath, Cardiff, CF23 5QJ FOR MORE INFORMATION, LOG ONTO OUR NEW OFFICIAL WEBSITE Or Email: [email protected] WWW.CARDIFFBLUESSC.CO.UK (E-MAIL [email protected]), Or you can pay by debit or credit card online at www.cardiffbluessupportersclub.co.uk (small fee applies) JOINING OUR FACEBOOK GROUP @CBSUPPORTERSCLUB OR FOLLOWING US ON TWITTER @CARDIFFBLUESSC OR INSTAGRAM @CARDIFFBLESSC

46 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 47 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES CHARITY FOCUS RFC FUNDRAISE sponsored bike ride, which was FOR THE BRITISH HEART started by Caddy. A number FOUNDATION. of cyclists from Beddau RFC have also previously supported This evening is a change from #StayStrongForOws. the norm as we support Beddau RFC – a local club within our Now Cardiff Blues are pleased region, who have endured six to stand alongside Beddau at months of tragedy. this difficult time and tonight’s The club has a rich history of bucket collection will go towards producing players for the top the British Heart Foundation and level, including current Cardiff funding a defibrillator at Mount Blues captain Gethin Jenkins. Pleasant Park. During the past months, the The British Heart Foundation lead club near Pontypridd have lost the fight against cardiovascular seven key figures, all in tragic disease – the biggest funder to circumstances. cardiovascular research in the UK. Tom Owen, Edward Hallett, Lee Our thoughts remain with those Caddy, Mike Phillips, Scott Barnes, at Beddau RFC and the family and Jeff Sutton and Daniel Palk have friends of the seven members lost. all passed away. For more information on the club’s Numerous fundraising events continued fundraising efforts have taken place including please visit www.Facebook.com/ memorial matches and the annual BeddauRugbyFootball

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48 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 49 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY IN THE COMMUNITY 100 PER CENT FOR BTEC AND GIRLS ONLY STILL RECRUITING. CAMP SUCCESS GIRLS ONLY CAMP A HUGE SUCCESS EARLIER TODAY MORE THAN 50 GIRLS FROM ACROSS CARDIFF BLUES REGION TOOK PART IN OUR FIRST GIRLS ONLY CAMP.

The aspiring players worked on a variety of rugby skills at THE CARDIFF BLUES Cardiff Arms Park and the camp, which was run in BTEC IS NOW ENTERING Crickhowell continue as centres, conjunction with the Welsh with the new addition of Rugby Union, with an emphasis ITS THIRD YEAR HAVING Bryncelynnog Comprehensive on fun. ACHIEVED A 100 School, which boasts a number Players from both Cardiff Blues between 6-15 years-old, which girls-only rugby camp at such a PER CENT SUCCESS of Cardiff Blues players among Women and the men’s first team more than 1,000 have attended. prestigious venue is so inspiring RATE IN UNIVERSITY its alumni. attended the one-day event at for these young girls. Offering touch, tag and contact ADMISSIONS. Cardiff Blues Community Cardiff Arms Park. Manager Nadine Griffiths said: for all, with a focus on fun and “We have seen thousands of Students in the final year of the Cardiff Blues Community skill development they are the new girls trying rugby over the “I’m so pleased and extremely Level 3 Extended Diploma in proud of our BTEC program. Manager Nadine Griffiths said: perfect opportunity to start out past two years in a new ‘spring- Sport BTEC enjoyed amazing “It is great to welcome so many in the sport. summer’ offering at girls’ only results and have all been “We are still the only region girls onto our first ever girls only cluster centres which has been accepted to higher education to offer this provision and our Cluster centres, April-August camp here at the Arms Park. boosted by the Wales Women’s university courses. staff have done an amazing (Cardiff Blues region) display at this year’s World Cup “Hopefully it has inspired them in Ireland. to follow their rugby heroes • Capitals, Llandaff North and one day pull on a Blues • Mariners, Old Pens “The success of the cluster Women’s shirt in the future. centres have highlighted the • Islanders, Barry “It is great to be able to hold the huge demand that is there for girls to play rugby and we must camp at Wales Women’s home • Bridgers, Llantwit Fardre for Six Nations matches and capitalise on this to ensure every with the great coverage of the • Miners, Ystrad Rhondda girl has the opportunity to play job, teaching and inspiring all recent Women’s Rugby World rugby in an environment that of our students to reach their we are looking forward to seeing • Timbers, suits them. full potential, which is clearly more and more girls inspired to evidenced by our great results • Steelers, Merthyr “This camp is a great starting take up the sport.” of 100 per cent university • Red Kites, Gwernyfed point for girls to be coached acceptance.” The Blues and WRU currently by Blues players at their home run eight cluster centres WRU Game Changer, Katy ground, inspiring them to follow For more information please around the region for girls aged Evans said: “To be able to offer a in their footsteps.” visit www.cardiffbluesrepc.com

50 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 51 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY

REY LEE-LO IS a double but it will be difficult London Scottish and Exeter DETERMINED TO BUILD with all the competition in the Chiefs and only returned to full UPON AN IMPRESSIVE centre with Jack coming back training on Monday following a 2016-17 CAMPAIGN to Wales, the two young boys long and arduous summer with Harri and Garyn, and Willis as Samoa. WHICH SAW HIM SCOOP well. THE PETER THOMAS’ He featured in three of the “I’ve watched them all in the PLAYER OF THE SEASON Islanders’ four Tests, including a last two weeks and I think I’ll be AWARD. rain sodden defeat to Wales in starting out at fifth choice. I’ve Apia, which featured five of his The Samoan centre was an ever- got to fight my way back into present feature in the Cardiff that starting team but that’s Cardiff Blues teammates. Blues midfield and starred always good and pushes you The 31-year-old enjoyed the harder, it should be a good year.” throughout with a combination experience but is now champing of power and an elusive running Lee-Lo has played no part in at the bit to take the field with game. the pre-season victories over his regional teammates. That stellar season saw him pick up the main award back in June and he is hoping fierce competition at centre – with Lee-Lo, Willis Halaholo, Jack Roberts, Garyn Smith, Harri Millard and Owen Lane all vying for places – will drive him to new heights in 2017-18. Lee-Lo said: “I was really shocked to win the award. There are so many good players in the squad but it was an honour and privilege to receive it. “Hopefully it will be another good year and I can try to go for

LEE-LO LOOKING TO TAKE CENTRE-STAGE ONCE AGAIN

52 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 53 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY

He continued: “The summer break now, probably six or seven Lee-Lo added: “I told him my was good, I went back home weeks so I can’t wait to get in first year was a struggle to for a few weeks and then to the with the boys. I’ve been going adapt but I slowly got into it and Island and played Wales. in now and then to do some of I saw that with Willis at the end the fitness but this week was my of the season. “Obviously we lost but it was first proper one.” good to see the boys. The “He’s had a longer break than weather wasn’t the best but it Lee-Lo is also relishing the the other boys because he was a good game – I told the opportunity to develop his played back to back seasons in boys it would be nice but I’ve midfield partnership with Willis NZ but he’s looking really good never seen weather like that in Halaholo. Halaholo arrived in in training. I reckon he’ll have a Samoa. It worked out well for Wales last November, on the really good year. the Welsh boys because they’re back of a full Super Rugby and “But the only reason we play the used to it. ITM Cup season, but the duo, way we do is because the boys “We played four games and lost who played together at the giving us space, the big boys all four. It was a difficult summer. quickly reaquinted up front and the nines and 10s We have good players, good themselves. controlling the game. If we see coaches and management but it it’s on then we call for it but it’s Combined, they beat more just didn’t come our way. It was not going to happen all the time. defenders in the PRO12 than any hard to take not winning any other centre pairing, making up “I just can’t wait to play now, I’ve games. three of the top five and Lee-Lo been knocking on Danny’s door “After the last game my body expects more to come from his and am looking forward to a big was sore but I’ve had a good good friend. year.”

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Welcome to Cardiff Arms Park. • Keep gangways on the announcement is about to be The safety of spectators is an terraces and in the stands made to either a section or the important consideration in clear at all times. whole of the ground. Please staging sporting events and one assist us by following any • Do not go onto the field of that Cardiff Blues management instruction given either through play except in an emergency takes seriously. We do however the PA system or by the Safety or when invited e.g. pitch Stewards. need your cooperation in access at the end of a game. maintaining a safe environment MEDICAL PROVISIONS and appreciate your understand • Do not leave your children that bags will be searched when unattended and prevent them During each event Cardiff entering the ground and other from running around the Blues provide medical cover security measures that we may ground. for Spectators. If you have a need to implement e.g. asking problem please contact your • When waiting for relatives nearest Safety Steward. you to open your coat on entry or friends keep away from and/ or searching. If you have entry/ exit points to avoid GROUND REGULATIONS any concerns regarding security congestion. please speak with a Safety Copies of the Ground Steward who will report the SAFETY Regulations are displayed matter to the Safety Control ANNOUNCEMENTS at each entrance and are on Room. the Cardiff Blues website. Before a safety announcement Spectators who do not comply We also ask that you assist us you will hear a two tone signal with these may be refused entry with the following: (Bing Bong); this means a safety or ejected from the ground.

BAR ANGEL ENTRANCE (North Stand & ) FOOD

KEY :

SIR GARETH EDWARDS LOUNGE 1 (PLATINUM CLUB)

NORTH STAND 2 MEMBERS BAR / [ THE LOUNGE ]

CAPITAL THE PACK BAR (PUBLIC) NORTH TERRACE CORNER 3

4 HEINEKEN FAN ZONE (PUBLIC)

DR JACK MATTHEWS BAR (PUBLIC) 2 2 2 2 2 2 5

WEST 6 BAR (PUBLIC) HOSPITALITY BOXES ( 1 - 26 ) FAMILY STAND 7 THE BLUES LOUNGE

8 SKY LOUNGE CARDIFF ARMS PARK EAST HOSPITALITY BOXES 9 SAFETY CONTROL ROOM 10 3 (27-37) 10 FIRST AID

VIEWING AREA 2 2 2 2 SEE WHO ELSE HAS ALREADY CHOSEN MACRON: 9

1 SOUTH TERRACE 2 7 SOUTH STAND 6 5 QUAY STREET ENTRANCE MEDIA (South Terrace & Family)

4 GATE 2 (South Stand) RIVERSIDE GARAGE - CARDIFF ROAD - 8 TAFFS WELL CARDIFF - CF15 7RF (WALES) TEL. +44 7973151553 PRINCIPALITY STADIUM [email protected] 56 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 57

2017 29 08_Cardiff Blues_MP.indd 1 29/08/17 18:25 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY TODAY’S MASCOT

NAME: HARRI JACOB AGE: 10 YEARS OLD SCHOOL: YSGOL GYMRAEG Y FENNI CLUB: MINI STEELERS U11 FAVOURITE PLAYER:

WE ARE ALSO DELIGHTED TO WE ALSO WELCOME WELCOME THIS EVENING’S FLAG CARDIFF SCHOOLS U11, BEARERS, WHO ATTENDED CARDIFF WHO ARE HERE TO BLUES’ FIRST EVER GIRLS CAMP PARADE THE THREE EARLIER TODAY! NATIONAL TROPHIES THEY WON LAST SEASON.

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CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY

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K LEE-LO CLOCKS IN TO WATCHES OF WALES DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT REY LEE-LO TOOK TIME OUT accept a watch kindly provided Lee-Lo featured in three of OF HIS SCHEDULE LAST WEEK by long-standing sponsor Samoa’s four summer Tests and TO VISIT WATCHES OF WALES Watches of Wales. was given an extended break AND COLLECT HIS PRIZE FOR over the summer but he is now Paul Hornblow, owner of the WINNING THE PETER THOMAS back in action and available to luxury watch specialist based PLAYER OF THE SEASON face Edinburgh on Friday. AWARD. in Morgan Arcade, said: “We are delighted to support Cardiff Lee-Lo added: “I’m really grateful The electric centre was away Blues’ annual awards and present to Paul and Watches of Wales on international duty when Rey with a watch following his for kindly giving me such a great the awards took place at the stunning season. watch. Reardon Smith Lecture Theatre in the National Museum of Wales “I am sure we will see more of “I was truly humbled and Pro-Copy Business Centre in June. the same from Rey in the 2017-18 honoured to win the award back He received the accolade, season as Cardiff Blues continue in June, it was such a shock but a Parc Ty Glas, Llanishen, Cardiff CF14 5DU sponsored by DS Smith, via to move in the right direction and great feeling and I am now ready video message but now back we look forward to continuing to give my all to Cardiff Blues e: [email protected] t: 02920 689 999 in Cardiff he was delighted to our great working relationship.” again in the season ahead.” www.altodigital.com 60 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 Wales’ Capital Region | www.cardiffblues.com | Tickets: 02920 302030 61 CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY CARDIFF BLUES v EDINBURGH RUGBY

OFFICIAL PARTNERS Principal Partners CF10 is a new supporter organisation for all those with for Cardiff Blues, as we face a passion for Cardiff rugby. We’re deeply grateful to the Scottish capital side in the opening round of fixtures for the Cardiff Blues for the help that they’ve given us over fifth time in nine seasons. the last year and for allowing us to have a regular slot in the match programme. Today we’re going to tell you Now under the coaching of former Leicester Tigers boss a little about ourselves and then talk a little bit about Richard Cockerill, it's been a today’s opponents. summer of upheaval for an Official Partners Edinburgh side that have failed SO WHAT IS CF10? WHY JOIN? to finish in the top half of the league since being runners-up in • A Supporter’s Trust whose As a member you will: 2008/09. main aim is to increase our • Be involved in shaping the They will be looking to involvement in decision future at a critical time in the overcome what has become a making at Cardiff Arms club's history bogey fixture, with the Scots not Park-after all, it’s our game claiming victory at CAP since and our club! • Be part of a continuous dialogue between supporters September 2012. Four straight • A cooperative which is and management Cardiff Blues wins culminating overseen by an elected in a bonus point victory on the Board of nine Directors, • Be a shareholder in both the opening day of last season. established under the trust and in Cardiff Blues Ltd Tries from debutants on the day Cooperative and Community (as the trust holds shares in Nick Williams and Steve Shingler, Benefit Societies Act the company). as well as Tomos Williams and 2014, and regulated by the • Help ensure that heritage is a penalty try for the forwards, Financial Conduct Authority cherished and protected and secured a 34-16 victory to begin Official Suppliers our regional role more clearly • A member of the national last September's unbeaten run. promoted body, Supporters Direct That win added to a record • Be involved in a movement • A genuinely independent of six Cardiff wins in seven for positive change group with the largest season openers, including three membership of any • Help us be stronger together! defeats of Edinburgh, with supporter organisation Wales' Capital Region scoring at CAP and that acts as a an average of just over 33 points ‘critical friend’ to the Board HOW DO I JOIN? per game. and other stakeholders You can do so online at https:// After an encouraging pre- • An organisation that is both cf10rugbytrust.org/join or season there is certainly a hope political and campaigning meet us in the Pack Bar before that form can be added to, and and which has all aspects of and after any home Cardiff us Cardiff Blues fans have an Cardiff rugby at its heart Blues game or in the bar at RFC important role in supporting the games. players. Let's make our historic • A group that helps ensure home a fortress once again! that the proud traditions Cardiff Blues Business Club of Cardiff rugby are upheld TODAY’S GAME AND FINALLY and preserved whilst fully So that’s the politics, now let’s promoting the regional role think about the rugby and the Don’t forget to follow the of the professional team- very first Guinness Pro14. Our Supporters Club for information change is good, but our opponents tonight, Edinburgh about travel to away games, history and heritage are key Rugby, will be both a new #StayStrongforOws and other to defining who we are. challenge and a familiar foe important events at CAP.

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2016/17 FIXTURES & RESULTS

DATE K/O OPPOSITION COMP Home/Away 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 AUG SAT 19th 15:00 LONDON SCOTTISH PRO14 Away M Morgan A Cuthbert G Smith W Halaholo A Summerhill 2T S Shingler 1C 1P L Williams R Gill M Rees T Filise S Davies D Welch M Cook E Jenkins J Navidi FRI 25th 19:45 EXETER CHIEFS PRO14 Home (D Fish) (O Lane) (K Phillips) (H Millard) (T James) (J Evans 2P) (T Williams) (C Domachowski) (K Myhill) (K Assiratti) (M Cook) (J Down) (J Turnbull) (capt, S Bennett) SEPT Fri 1st 19:35 EDINDURGH RUGBY PRO14 Home FRI 8th 19:35 PRO14 Away Sat 16th 19:35 GLASGOW WARRIORS PRO14 Home SAT 23rd 15:15 PRO14 Away SAT 30th 13:30 PRO14 Away OCT Fri 6th 19:35 DRAGONS PRO14 Home Sat 14th 15:00 BRISTOL RUGBY B&I CUP TBA 20/21/22 TBA LEINSTER RUGBY B&I CUP TBA SAT 28th 19:35 SCARLETS PRO14 Away NOV Sat 4th 19:35 PRO14 Home Fri 24th 19:35 CONNACHT RUGBY PRO14 Home DEC FRI 1st 19:35 GLASGOW WARRIORS PRO14 Away 8/9/10 TBA B&I CUP Home 15/16/17 TBA DONCASTER KNIGHTS B&I CUP TBA THU 26th 14:00 DRAGONS PRO14 Away Sun 31st 15:15 SCARLETS PRO14 Home JAN 5/6/7 TBA OSPREYS PRO14 Away 12/13/14 TBA LEINSTER RUGBY B&I CUP TBA FRI 19th 19:45 BRISTOL RUGBY B&I Cup Away FEB 9/10/11 TBA TOYOTA CHEETAHS PRO14 Home 16/17/18 TBA MUNSTER RUGBY PRO14 Home 23/24/25 TBA ZEBRE PRO14 Away MAR 2/3/4 TBA BENNETTON RUGBY PRO14 Home 23/24/25 TBA PRO14 Home APR 6/7/8 TBA TOYOTA CHEETAHS PRO14 Away 13/14/15 TBA SOUTHERN KINGS PRO14 Away 27/28/29 TBA OSPREYS PRO14 Home MAY 4/5/6 TBA TBA PRO14 TBA 4/5/6 TBA TBA PRO14 TBA 18/19/20 TBA TBA PRO14 TBA 18/19/20 TBA TBA PRO14 TBA Sat 26 TBA TBA PRO14 TBA

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T P C D T P C D

MATTHEW MORGAN 15 FULLBACK/CEFNWR 15 ALEX CUTHBERT 14 WING/ASGELLWR 14 REY LEE-LO 13 CENTRE/CANOLWR 13 WILLIS HALAHOLO 12 CENTRE/CANOLWR 12 JUNIOR RASOLEA ALED SUMMERHILL 11 WING/ASGELLWR 11 DOUGIE FIFE JARROD EVANS 10 OUTSIDE HALF/MASWR 10 LLOYD WILLIAMS 9 SCRUM HALF/MEWNWR 9 NATHAN FOWLES RHYS GILL 1 PROP/Y RHENG FLAEN 1 DARRYL MARFO (C) 2 HOOKER/BACHWR 2 STUART MCINALLY TAUFA’AO FILISE 3 PROP/Y RHENG FLAEN 3 SEB DAVIES 4 LCOK/YR AIL RENG 4 ANTON BRESLER DAMIAN WELCH 5 LCOK/YR AIL RENG 5 JOSH TURNBULL 6 FLANKER/BLAENASGELLWR 6 JOSH NAVIDI 7 FLANKER/BLAENASGELLWR 7 JOHN HARDIE NICK WILLIAMS 8 NO.8/WYTHWR 8 MAGNUS BRADBURY REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS KIRBY MYHILL 16 MATCH 16 NEIL COCHRANE COREY DOMACHOWSKI 17 17 KEIRON ASSIRATTI 18 OFFICIALS 18 WP NEL

MACAULEY COOK 19 REFEREE: 19 SION BENNETT 20 George Clancy 20 CORNELL DU PREEZ AR1: Nigel Correll TOMOS WILLIAMS 21 AR2: Adam Jones 21 SAM HIDALGO-CLYNE STEVEN SHINGLER 22 TMO: Brian MacNeice 22 CITING COMMISSIONERS: TOM JAMES 23 John Charles & Alan Jones 23 GLENN BRYCE

NEXT AWAY FIXTURE Principal Partners

Match Sponsor Friday 8, September, 19:35 TICKET OFFICE GUINNESS PRO14 HOTLINE: THANKYOU FOR YOUR 029 20 302 030 CONTINUED SUPPORT

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