Carl Meyer is targeting victory in Newport Gwent Dragons’ derby clash with Cardiff Blues at Rodney Parade a year after stepping up from club rugby.

The South African full-back was playing for Ebbw Vale but has since become a regular for the Dragons in the absence of the injured Hallam Amos.

And he will start against the Blues on Sunday in their huge GUINNESS PRO12 clash which could also prove crucial in the battle for a European spot.

However Meyer is just focused on getting a win under his belts with the Dragons.

“Last year I watched the derbies on telly when the Dragons won in Cardiff and lost at Rodney Parade,” Meyer told the South Wales Argus.

“I am just so grateful for having this opportunity – the coaches have shown faith in me and given me the chance to play.

“I think it has gone really well for me so far this season and the coaches keep giving me analysis to help me get better and I am working hard every week. I am slowly getting more comfortable at full-back and I am really enjoying it.”

The Dragons will be without No.8 Taulupe Faletau who misses out through injury, and they have made five changes in all.

Dorian Jones returns at fly-half, while in the front row T Rhys Thomas and Brok Harris are both included.
Matthew Screech comes into the second row, and Lewis Evans replaces Faletau.

The Blues have also stuck with much of the team that lost to Montpellier last week, with just three changes.

Tavis Knoyle replaces Lloyd Williams at scrum-half, while James Down and Josh Turnbull come in at lock and blindside flanker respectively.

And coach Danny Wilson, who has previously spent time with the Dragons, is expecting a physical encounter.

“I have been on both sides of it,” said Wilson.

“Being at the Dragons early in my coaching career, I saw it from the home advantage side of things.

“I have also gone there with the away side, with the Scarlets, and seen how that crowd is, with their tails up.

“They are a very passionate crowd and I think it’s a great venue to play at.

“The challenge of going to Rodney Parade and playing has been talked about and well documented.

“You have got to go there extremely motivated and use it as a driving force to your performance.

“You’ve got to keep that crowd as quiet as you can because they definitely are a catalyst for the Dragons, a 16th man so to speak. They drive them forward when they are passionate and on the front foot.

“Quietening that crowd down and trying to take the sting out of the Dragons will be an important part of the day.”

At Rodney Parade, 3.05pm. Live on Sky Sports and S4C
Referee: Ian Davies (WRU 39th competition game)
Assistant Referees: Neil Hennessey, Sean Brickell (both WRU)
Citing Commissioner: Dennis Jones (WRU)
TMO: Gareth Simmonds (WRU)