Jack’s the lad to fire up Dragons – ex-Lion Taylor

It was a tough 2012/13 at Rodney Parade but one of the undoubted bright sparks was the progression of the 18-year-old from Newbridge.

Dixon, who is 6ft 2ins and 16st, made 18 appearances in the Dragons midfield and proved to be formidable in defence and dangerous in attack.

His good form continued into the summer when he took part in his second Junior World Champion-ship, helping Wales finish as runners-up.

Under-20s team manager Taylor, from Blaenavon, believes that the Dragons will reap the benefits in the coming campaign.

“Jack has no end of growth – not necessarily physically, he’s massive already – in his game,” said Taylor, who won 52 caps.

“He is making a huge impact on the field but what has been most impressive is the way that he has led the team.

“When he first came into the Under-20s he was a young boy with plenty of potential.

“But now he has grown into a leader and a go-to player. When he speaks everyone listens and when times are tough he is one of the boys that will step forward, make a big carry or big hit.

“He has been outstanding for us. He is blessed physically but is growing up emotionally and mentally as well, and the Dragons will benefit from that.”

Dixon could well have been heading into the new season with international caps to his name but was picked for the Junior World Championship in France rather than the tour to Japan.

Taylor, the first man to score at the Millennium Stadium in the famous win against South Africa in 1999, believes the Dragons centre and plenty of his Wales Under-20s teammates will soon be on the Test stage.

“It’s a tough step at the moment because Wales are doing so well and they are all pretty young too,” he said. “But it’s good that they have competition coming through and Jack is one of those that will be pushing hard.

“He has the potential to play international rugby and if he keeps working hard then it’s a case of when, not if.”