VERSATILE back Dean Hammond is convinced Warriors will make it successive wins over Newport Gwent Dragons in the European Challenge Cup if they stay strong defensively.
The Springbok, who dived over the whitewash in last Saturday’s 33-20 victory over the Welsh outfit at Sixways, insisted there is no reason why the club can’t claim the win in the return fixture at Rodney Parade this Friday, if they continue to play a positive brand of rugby.
The 24-year-old, who has been prolific in this season’s Aviva Premiership – scoring two tries in seven games, is also confident Warriors’ fellow youngsters will continue to take their opportunities.
“Newport are a very good attacking side, so we’re going to have to be solid defensively. They are strong in defence too, so we’ll stick to our structures and expect them to come at us quite hard,” said the former South Africa Sevens player.
“We’ll play a positive brand of rugby going forward, but we know we’re going to have to iron out a few of the mistakes we’ve made in recent weeks if we are to get the result we want. We want to do as best we can to get through to the next stage of the competition.
“Young players like Jack Singleton and Andrew Kitchener have performed outstandingly well when given the opportunity.
“Jamie Shillcock has also been superb. For someone of just 19 years of age stepping up and playing so well is great. You can’t ask much more of his attitude and performance.
“Josh Adams is another example too. They’re all enthusiastic around the park and they’re taking their chances as best they can.”