Wales’ rugby scene is buzzing with anticipation as the New Year’s Day derbies approach. The focus is on the dragons and the Scarlets, two teams desperate for a turn in fortunes.
Dragons Hope to Climb the URC Standings
The Dragons struggled throughout 2025, going winless until their victory over Lyon in the Challenge Cup on December 14. Just six days later, they secured a remarkable win against Connacht in the United Rugby Championship (URC).
Now positioned 15th in the league, the Dragons are eyeing a potential rise to 10th place with a victory against the Scarlets. The team, under head coach Filo Tiatia, finished at the bottom of the URC last season. They are determined to avoid being the lowest-ranked Welsh side for the first time since the 2019-20 season.
Encouraging Signs for the Dragons
Tiatia praised his players for their competitive spirit during a recent match against Cardiff. He noted, “There were some positives, and we stayed in the fight to try and win it at the end.” Despite a few shortcomings in physicality, the coach sees potential for improvement.
Suffering Scarlets Face Crucial Match
The Scarlets are currently at the bottom of the URC, though they have a game in hand. Recent performance declines were starkly highlighted during their match against Ospreys. Head coach Dwayne Peel acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, “The games are coming thick and fast.”
Peel’s side faces important fixtures against Pau and Northampton in the Champions Cup shortly, making the match against the Dragons critical. “We have to make sure we go to Rodney Parade with a spark and full of energy,” he emphasized.
Impact of the New Year’s Day Derby
A win for either team on New Year’s Day could dramatically alter the current standings in the URC. Both sides are keen to ignite their seasons and replicate last season’s success when they aimed for the top eight.
- Dragons currently rank 15th, aiming for 10th.
- Scarlets sit at the bottom, but have a game in hand.
- Upcoming matches include Champions Cup fixtures for both teams.
The New Year’s Day derbies promise to be intense, with playoff hopes hanging in the balance for both sides.
