‘EXPLOSIVE’ Owen Conquer can offer the Dragons something different, but the number eight will have to keep developing at Ebbw Vale first.

The number eight has signed a senior academy contract with the Rodney Parade club after catching the eye with the Steelmen in the Premiership.

The strong-running back row forward’s exploits earned a call-up for Wales in the U20 Six Nations and he is currently in South Africa for the World Rugby U20 Championship.

The 19-year-old, who joined Ebbw last summer as part of a partnership with Christ College Brecon, will link up with the Dragons on his return.

While a first-team debut isn’t on the horizon, Conquer will get the chance to learn from working closely with Aaron Wainwright, Taine Basham, Harri Keddie, Ollie Griffiths, Dan Lydiate and new signing Solomone Funaki.

“Owen is different to anything that we have got – he is heavier and a bit like [former Scarlets and Ospreys number eight] Morgan Allen,” said head coach Dai Flanagan.

“He is explosive and just loves ball carrying, which is what we desperately need in Welsh rugby.”

However, the Dragons intend to follow a similar programme to those that have helped in the development of Ryan Woodman, Harri Ackerman, Joe Westwood, Che Hope and Morgan Lloyd.

LEARNING: Owen Conquer developed with Ebbw Vale in the PremiershipLEARNING: Owen Conquer developed with Ebbw Vale in the Premiership (Image: NCR Photography)

Conquer will be challenged to show the results of hard graft put in on the training paddock alongside the senior pros when playing in Super Rygbi Cymru.

“He will play a lot with Ebbw Vale while continuing his physical development,” said Flanagan. “If we can get any development games then he will play in them.

“Owen has never been a pro before so will benefit from being around the group and learning from experienced players. It’s a massive opportunity for him."