Coghlan hits half century at Lions

Hooker Brodie Coghlan will make his 50th appearance for Dragons RFC as the team faces Fidelity SecureDrive Lions in the BKT United Rugby Championship at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday afternoon (kick-off 2.30pm UK time).

Head Coach Filo Tiatia makes seven changes to the side for the upcoming Round 14 clash in South Africa against the current in-form and new SA Shield holders.

Coghlan hits his milestone up front and is joined by the recalled Rodrigo Martinez.

Wales internationals Ben Carter and Aaron Wainwright return from international duty with Wales to join the pack while there is also a start for flanker Thomas Young.

Scrum half Niall Armstrong secures a starting spot – joining forces with co-captain Angus O’Brien at half back.

The final change is a call-up for Tonga international Fine Inisi who plays at outside centre.

Head Coach Filo Tiatia said: “Lions are a good side and they're also a smart team.

“They have different types of kicking plans. Because of the altitude, teams will try and defend the length of the kick, but they’ve got small, short, little dinks too. They are a challenge.

“They’re big men too, so the physicality won't be any different. We've got to get in the ground, and then it’s about how we impose our game, and we need to be physical against them.”

Reflecting on Coghlan’s achievement, Tiatia added: “I am super stoked for Brodie with his 50th. I have a strong relationship with all these boys and I love him, and so we’re really excited about this.

“He is playing his 50th against the Lions, after he debuted against them back in 2021. It’s great for his family too and they'll be super happy.

“It’s another milestone for a young man, and I’m looking forward to the boys putting a performance together for him.”

Dragons RFC: Cai Evans, Jared Rosser, Fine Inisi, Aneurin Owen, Rio Dyer, Angus O’Brien (cc), Niall Armstrong; Rodrigo Martinez, Brodie Coghlan, Chris Coleman, Seb Davies, Ben Carter (cc), Ryan Woodman, Thomas Young, Aaron Wainwright

Replacements: Elliot Dee, Jordan Morris, Owain James, Levi Douglas, Harrison Keddie, Rhodri Williams, Jac Lloyd, Fetuli Paea

Unavailable: Harry Beddall, Tinus de Beer, Che Hope, Robert Hunt, Rhodri Jones, Dylan Kelleher-Griffiths, Dillon Lewis, Morgan Lloyd, Mackenzie Martin