SCARLETS: Plumtree closing in on return as Tom Allen arrives and Domachowski targets South Africa

Taine Plumtree is closing in on a return for the Scarlets after training this week, head coach Dwayne Peel has said.

The back-rower could feature against Newcastle in Saturday’s Challenge Cup opener at Parc y Scarlets, or the week after, depending on how he pulls up.

“He trained today, so I’m hoping he won’t be too far away, so whether he makes it this week or next week, we’ll make a call on how he pulls up after training today,” Peel said.

Fletcher Anderson back as Tom Allen arrives

Plumtree’s return would add to a back row already boosted by Fletcher Anderson. Anderson came off the bench at half-time to help turn the 27-26 win over Benetton after a groin injury kept him out of the opening rounds.

“It’s good to have him, obviously Fletcher coming back last week was important for us, and Taine as well,” Peel said.

Tom Allen is due to arrive this week. “Tom Allen will arrive this week as well, so that’s another timely boost for us,” Peel said.

Corey Domachowski aiming for the Stormers and Bulls

Loose-head prop Corey Domachowski was facing around eight weeks out with a chest injury at the end of September. He is now hoping to make the trip to South Africa.

“Corey Domachowski isn’t too far away, we’re hoping he’ll make the South Africa trip next week as well,” Peel said.

The Scarlets face the Stormers in Cape Town on Saturday 24 October and the Bulls in Pretoria a week later.

Carwyn Leggatt-Jones back in the fold

Teenage fly-half Carwyn Leggatt-Jones is back after an off-season injury that cost him all of pre-season, and will travel to South Africa.

“He’s only just coming back into the fold with us, and he’ll come to Africa with us next week, so I’m sure we’ll have some game time over the next couple of weeks,” Peel said.

The arrival of Cullen Grace has been delayed.

“So, a couple of boys to come back as well on top of that, so it’s positive from that perspective,” Peel said.

Newcastle first at Parc y Scarlets

First up is Newcastle Red Bulls on Saturday night (8pm), in the opening game of the Scarlets’ Challenge Cup campaign.

Author

Richard Bond

Swansea-based sports journalist.
Twitter: @RichBond00
Email: RichardBond@swanseabaynews.com