Dwayne Peel's brutally frank take on playing 'European juggernaut'

Dwayne Peel has not dressed it up – Scarlets head to Bordeaux knowing exactly what awaits them.

Speaking ahead of today’s Investec Champions Cup round two clash with defending champions Union Bordeaux Bègles, Peel was candid about the scale of the challenge after reshuffling his side following last weekend’s narrow defeat to Bristol.

The Welsh side have made eight changes, with an all-international front row drafted in and Max Douglas shifting to lock as Josh Macleod moves to blindside. Injuries rule out Tom Rogers, Johnny Williams and Archer Holz.

“There were a couple of key moments last weekend which we didn’t nail, which on reflection was disappointing. It shows Champions Cup rugby is cutthroat, but effort-wise it was definitely a step in the right direction,” said Peel.

“What Bordeaux have is massive depth in their squad. They have a game of power, pace, skill and have world-class players.

“European juggernaut is a term that is passed around from time to time and that is what they are at the moment. It is a massive challenge for us, but that is why this tournament is so special, you get to play against these teams to see where you are.

“What’s important is that you don’t delve too much into the footage of Bordeaux, you have to use a match like this as an opportunity to take your game over there and try and upset them as much as you can. That is what I am asking of our boys.

“Bordeaux is a brilliant place to play rugby. It will be a great atmosphere, a big crowd with lots of Scarlets fans over there as well. I am looking forward to a fantastic occasion.”

Scarlets team to face Union Bordeaux Bègles:  15 Jac Davies; 14 Tomi Lewis, 13 Joe Roberts, 12 Eddie James, 11 Ellis Mee; 10 Joe Hawkins, 9 Dane Blacker; 1 Alec Hepburn, 2 Marnus van der Merwe, 3 Henry Thomas, 4 Max Douglas, 5 Jake Ball, 6 Josh Macleod (capt), 7 Dan Davis, 8 Fletcher Anderson.

Reps: 16 Ryan Elias, 17 Kemsley Mathias, 18 Harri O’Connor, 19 Sam Lousi, 20 Jarrod Taylor, 21 Archie Hughes, 22 Sam Costelow, 23 Macs Page.