Dwayne Peel hails Gareth Davies after derby win at Arms Park

Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel praised Gareth Davies as “the ultimate professional” after the scrum-half delivered another decisive performance at Cardiff Arms Park in a 21–17 United Rugby Championship victory over Cardiff.

Davies continued his strong record at the venue by scoring two tries for the third consecutive match there. In his 18th season with the Scarlets, the 35-year-old showed his pace and awareness by intercepting from inside his own half and racing more than 60 metres to score the match-clinching try.

He had earlier crossed from close range in the second half after a sharp blindside break.

The Wales and British & Irish Lions international was named player of the match after the final whistle. His two tries took his overall URC tally to 57, the most by any Welsh player in the competition and placing him just one try behind Tim Visser and DTH van der Merwe in the all-time standings.

“I can’t speak highly enough about him because he’s the ultimate professional and keeps himself in great shape,” said Peel.

“He said to me before the game he fancied another double so he backed that up.”

Peel said Davies’ professionalism and preparation continue to set standards within the squad. He also acknowledged that the match tested Scarlets’ resolve, particularly after three yellow cards left them under sustained pressure.

Despite that, Peel felt his side defended well, took their chances, and showed strong unity to secure an important away win.

“It wasn’t great for the nerves. Three yellow cards put us in a difficult position, but we fought hard," he told BBC Wales.

“We took our opportunities when they came and I thought we fought well for each other. It was a great win.”

As for Davies, he said: “I enjoy a couple of tries at the Arms Park, I enjoy playing here.

“It was a good game of rugby, Cardiff threw everything at us and we weathered the storm. I thought we played well in the second half and deserved the win.