Scarlets star Rhys Priestland looking to resolve wayward kicking
Scarlets star Rhys Priestland admits he will need to improve his concentration in order to solve his kicking issues this season
Rhys Priestland has admitted he needs to improve his concentration if the Scarlets fly-half is to solve his kicking issues this season.
The 25-year-old was a key member of Wales’ Six Nations Grand Slam-winning side last season but gave up the kicking duties to Leigh Halfpenny during the competition.
While Halfpenny has taken the kicking duties with Wales, Priestland remains first choice from the tee for the Scarlets but has struggled to find his range in recent weeks.
And he revealed that he has turned to Wales kicking coach Neil Jenkins to try to reverse his fortunes and get his kicking percentages back up.
He said: “The goal-kicking has been bitterly disappointing for me. Obviously, it’s never been a great strength of mine.
“I think it’s just my concentration in games would go and I just wouldn’t do the things I do in training. That’s what really bugs me. I don’t mind missing kicks if I’ve done everything I can do.
“I get frustrated when I know after I kick the ball I haven’t done what I’ve practised all week.
“It’s something I want to really improve on and make it an asset I do have.
“I’ve been working hard and I do feel I am moving in the right direction now.
“I’ve seen Neil Jenkins a few times. He goes round most of the regions and works with the kickers there.
“He’s been brilliant. He’s always got good advice to give you and I’ve been working on some things and hopefully I can show them on the field now.”
© Sportsbeat 2012
