By Zippy
October 29 2004

Second in a 3 part series looking at where and how the former Celtic Warriors are. Todays part takes a look at how the forwards are doing.

The Forwards

Mefin Davies

Where Did He Go? Neath RFC

Hows He Doing?

Mef’s plight was highly publicised in the summer as he could not find a club, he then reached legendary status when he turned down a lucrative contract with Stade Francais as it would have meant the end of his international status.

 

Was going to sign for Ponty but they could not afford his wages, Neath could and with Leighton Samuels as a mystery sponsor he is able to carry on full time.

 

Has played several games for the Ospreys and would be a popular choice for Wales Autumn Internationals.

 

Cory Harris

Where Did He Go? Newcastle Falcons

Hows He Doing?

A mystery how he was not picked up straight away, signed for Bridgend as a development officer and had a lively start to the season when he was red carded after a few mins after coming on as a sub against Caerphilly.

 

Then in came Newcastle Falcons and Cory could not turn the offer down, will be vying with Colin Charvis for the 7 jersey after Andrew Mowers retirement.

 

Mathew Rees

Where Did He Go? Llanelli Scarlets

Hows He Doing?

Had a run of games for the Scarlets due to Robyn McBryde’s injury, has been one of the bright lights in an otherwise dismal start to the season from Llanelli.

 

Won’t be long till “Smiler” is in line for an international call up.

 

Maama Molitika

Where Did He Go? Harlequins

Hows He Doing?

Had a few games early in the season for Quins, the side didn’t get off to the best of starts and Quins have picked the tried and tested.

 

Always plays well at the end of the season.

 

Richard Parks

Where Did He Go? Leeds Tykes

Hows He Doing?

Another who took time to find a contract, a surprise after he had a good season with the Warriors and that he is able to play anywhere in the back row.

 

Played a few games for the Tykes but has been left out of the last few games, will need to up his game and impress Phil Davies.

 

Nathan Budgett

Where Did He Go? Cardiff Blues

Hows He Doing?

Has not really played a lot of rugby last season or this season, was named in the Ponty side a few weeks back only to withdraw.

 

It is hoped he can recapture his form of several years back.

 

Gethin Jenkins

Where Did He Go? Cardiff Blues

Hows He Doing?

“Melon” was forced to play out of position for Wales last year and received some undue criticism, when he plays loosehead he is more than a match for anyone in the world.

 

Steve Hansen rated him as the best prospect in the Welsh squad because of his gym results.

 

Will want the Cardiff Blues to start playing a lot better.

 

Robert Sidoli

Where Did He Go? Cardiff Blues

Hows He Doing?

“Sid” missed the summer tour to have an operation after an injury plagued season with the Warriors.

 

So far there is little evidence he will recapture his form of 2002.

 

Here’s hoping for an improvement!

 

Deniol Jones

Where Did He Go? Cardiff Blues

Hows He Doing?

One of the shock candidates for Warriors player of the year after some great performances and general consistent play.

 

Generally underrated and will need to prove himself once again at the Blues.

 

Its not easy to do that in a losing side.

 

Brent Cockbain

Where Did He Go? Neath-Swansea Ospreys

Hows He Doing?

Suffered tragedy after his baby boy died about a month ago, our thoughts go out to Brent and his family.

 

Returned with vigour to the Ospreys line up as they kept up their 100% record in the Celtic League.

 

Will be looking for some big performances in the Autumn Internationals.

 

Ryan Jones

Where Did He Go? Neath-Swansea Ospreys

Hows He Doing?

Has kept up the promise he showed with the Warriors, a great ball carrying 8 and has been rewarded with a call up to the Welsh squad.

 

Chris Horsman

Where Did He Go? Worcester Warriors

Hows He Doing?

Won’t be long till “Horse” is a legend at Wuss’ter and starred in their recent win over French giants Brive.

 

Is looking to play for the Welsh national side and commuting from Wales every day.

 

We could do with him, one of the most complete tight heads in the world.

 

Richard Bryan

Where Did He Go? Newport-Gwent Dragons

Hows He Doing?

The consistent number 8 was just what the Dragons pack needed after departure of Bobby Skinstad.

 

Looking to represent Wales and on his performances this season it remains a possibility.

 

Mark Lewis

Where Did He Go? Cardiff Blues

Hows He Doing?

One of the Warriors squad members who battled when the internationals were away, showed great promise.

 

Has had a few starts for the Blues but as mentioned with some other players difficult to make an impression in an under performing side.

 

Nick Kelly

Where Did He Go? Newport RFC

Hows He Doing?

Signed for the premiership champions after failing to gain a regional contract, playing well as Newport have made a good start to defending their title.

 

Christian Loader

Where Did He Go? Bath

Hows He Doing?

Perhaps not the best move with Bath having established props in Barnes and Bell and the potential of young Matt Stevens.

 

He may get his chance later in the season.

 

Andrew Joy

Where Did He Go? Bridgend Ravens RFC

Hows He Doing?

Was unlucky with the Warriors got injured then in came Mathew Rees and never got another chance.

 

Playing well at Bridgend and will be looking for a regional contract in the future.