Blues Sign Powell

More Transfers
By Andrew Collins
August 10 2005

The Blues have signed another back-rower in a bid to strengthen their squad ahead of another long campain. Flanker and No.8 Andy Powell will today complete his move from the Scarlets signalling Dai´s ruthless intent on raiding the market.

His transfer comes after a dry period in the market, but a buy which will excite and impress a lot of fans. Following the signings of back rower, Xavier Rush, fellow ex-Scarlet, Mike Phillips and Australian Mark Strecherbina, the new squad seems to be taking shape.

Commenting on the transfer, a pleased Young said,

´Andy is obviously a quality acquistion for the region and will add strength and a real physical edge to our back row unit. His signing will make our back row even more competative.´

At 24, Powell will provide excellent rotation with Martyn Williams, Xavier Rush, Kort Schubert and Robin Sowden-Taylor, with Dan Baugh, Mark Lewis and Nathan Budgett beginning to move out of contention. However, they may be moved towards the Cardiff RFC side where this week Captain and No.8 McShane, 26, made his suprise exit to Neath.

Having played for Beziers, Neath, Leicster and the Scarlets, he brings value experience despite being so young.

What I like about the signing is the competition between Powell and Sowden-Taylor for that 6 spot. Whats also great to see is that he could even take 6 with Robin rotating with Martyn Williams, or have Xavier at 5 with Sid and Powell and Kort can battle it out for No.8, it adds great versatillity to our team and gives us extra options.

Powell will also bring supurb cover when Sowden-Taylor and Williams are represnting Wales during the 6 nations.

Powell said,

"I´m looking forward to the new season and playing with quality players they have at the Blues. The coaching set-up and facillities are very impressive and i cant wait for the season to start"

He´s not the only one!