Sam Costelow has been handed his first competitive Scarlets start of the season, with the 21-year-old named at fly-half for Saturday’s EPCR Challenge Cup opener against Newcastle Red Bulls at Parc y Scarlets.
It is a notable call from the Scarlets, who made seven changes after last weekend’s dramatic late victory over Benetton. For Costelow, it is also a significant personal moment as he reaches his 50th Scarlets appearance and gets the chance to steer the side from the start in a European fixture.
A fresh half-back picture
Costelow’s selection helps define the Scarlets’ balance for a match that arrives quickly after a hard-fought win. In a competition opener, the half-back pairing is often where the tone is set, and the Scarlets have opted to trust Costelow with the key playmaking role as they look to carry momentum into another demanding test.
Director of Rugby Nigel Davies made clear that the performance against Benetton has set the standard for what comes next. He said last weekend was a massive result and that it is now important to maintain the momentum against a Newcastle side with plenty of talent and a record of being dangerous in the PREM.
Scarlets want to build on Benetton win
Davies also pointed to the wider squad picture, saying the club has spoken a lot about building depth and has brought in plenty of quality as it looks to start the EPCR Challenge Cup strongly. That is reflected in the changes for this game, as the Scarlets continue to shape a squad they believe can cope with the demands of a tough group.
The Scarlets also know the value of momentum at home. Davies highlighted the role of the supporters against Benetton and said it will be great to see them out in force again. With kickoff set for 20:00 on Saturday, the expectation is for another big Parc y Scarlets atmosphere as the team tries to open the competition with a statement result.
For Costelow, the spotlight is now straightforward. He has been trusted from the start, and this match offers a chance to show that the Scarlets can rely on him as they begin their European campaign.
