The Scarlets will bid an emotional farewell to Stradey Park when they play host to Bristol in the EDF Energy Cup on Friday night.
Welsh outfit preparing to say goodbye to 'special place'
The Scarlets will bid an emotional farewell to Stradey Park when they play host to Bristol in the EDF Energy Cup on Friday night.
Llanelli's revered rugby arena was the venue for famous Scarlets victories over New Zealand in 1972 and Australia in 1984 and 1992.
But the EDF Energy Cup clash against Bristol is the final game before fly-half Stephen Jones and colleagues move to a new stadium, Parc y Scarlets.
The Scarlets No.10 said: "The ground is not like any other as far as I am concerned.
"It has such a spirit when it's packed, with supporters singing at the tops of their voices. It is a special place.
"Some of the games that stick in my mind are the big European nights.
"Playing teams like Leicester at home - an English side dominating the rugby scene and one of the best in the world - and then beating them, with the crowd in great voice and us playing our best rugby.
Fantastic evening
"Those games at home are the ones when I am absolutely in my element, and it does inspire you.
"The game against Bristol is going to be huge. It is an important match but equally a very special occasion and it will be a fantastic evening for everyone to be involved in."
A Scarlets win would edge them closer towards a semi-final appearance, while Bristol will be eliminated if they lose.
Bristol boss Richard Hill hands a first start of the season to fit-again prop Darren Crompton and Australian recruit Mat Turner also features following a two-try display against Northampton three weeks ago.
Hill also appreciates the significance of Friday's encounter, adding: "It is always a shame to see a real, old-fashioned ground go.
"There is huge tradition and a lot of history there.
"You can't get a ticket for love nor money. There will be people on the roofs and on the floodlight pylons. It will be some occasion and we are looking forward to being involved."
