Dwayne Peel: Scarlets can avenge past defeats and create history against Glasgow

In a much-anticipated semi-final against Glasgow Warriors, a 12,000 strong home support will be in attendance as Peel’s side look to progress from the last four of the European Challenge Cup on Saturday afternoon (5.30pm). 

Having reached European semi-finals in 2000, 2002, 2007 and 2018, two of which Peel was part of as a player, the Scarlets have the chance to make it fifth time lucky in reaching their maiden European final infront of their home support. 

Peel’s side will be looking for more of the fighting spirit shown in the memorable but nail-biting quarter-final encounter with French giants ASM Clermont Auvergne three weeks ago.

The Scarlets progressed 32-30 in a close-fought encounter at Parc y Scarlets with Sam Costellow’s last-gasp pressure conversion providing the Welsh side the victory after wing Ryan Conbeer’s try in the closing minutes had levelled the scoreline.

The West Walians though will come into the first semi-final as underdogs against South African Franco Smith’s in-form Scottish team fresh from six wins on the bounce in all competitions.

Having suffered back-to-back away defeats in recent weeks against the Dragons and Glasgow in the United Rugby Championship, the Scarlets will be seeking a response and revenge against Smith’s side.

The Scarlets locked horns with their Scottish rivals at Scotstoun Stadium in the Welsh Shield a fortnight ago with the Glasgow side triumphing 12-9 in terrible conditions.

That was followed by last weekend’s below-par performance against the Dragons, which saw the Scarlets way off their best as the opening match of Judgement Day ended in a 31-14 defeat. 

Dwayne Peel’s side never recovered from a catastrophic opening which saw them concede three tries in 17 minutes after having lock Vaea Fifita sent to the sin bin.

A return to form, however, with victory will earn Peel’s side a place in the final of the cup competition against the winners of the second semi-final between Toulon and Benetton Rugby in Dublin next month.

The winners of that contest earning the reward of a place in the Heineken Champions Cup next season, joining Welsh Shield winners Cardiff Rugby. 

For Peel, the match represents a chance to learn from lessons of the past and a chance to write into the history books of the club. 

Having been part of two losing semi-finals as a player at the club, the former Wales international feels the match will be tough but if his side can compete as they have done at times this season, they can come out on top.

“We have been in this position before with Llanelli in the Heineken Cup. It is important we reference that”, said Peel.

“It hurts and when you think back to the last semi-final, when we lost to Leicester, it still to this day is probably one of the worst defeats I had in terms of feelings after the game.

“It’s a chance for this group. Not many of these guys have been where we are now in terms of semi-finals, especially the youngster guys.

“It is about enjoying it. I want this team not to go out there and just focus on protecting things. You have to be bold and go out to win the game and not sit on leads. I will try and encourage the players to do that.

“Glasgow are in form at the minute, they are under new management in Franco Smith, and he’s done a good job there.

“We’ve had consistency and steeliness over the last couple of months but didn’t have it against the Dragons. We have to look at ourselves. That goes for staff and players.

“In all aspects, we need to raise standards. We have to make sure we come in with a positive mindset and go up a few levels ready for a huge game.

“They are playing an attractive style of rugby and they’ve been difficult to beat. They will come to play, they kick less than most sides.

“I’m sure it will be a great occasion, so it will be fantastic for them and the fans.”

(Lead image: Scarlets Rugby)