Today’s Black List interview sees Phill Lawrence chat to new signing Ashley Evans

Q. Hi Ash and welcome back to Neath! Some supporters won’t realise you’ve already had one appearance in the famous Black Jersey before, but what’s your first rugby memory??
A. My first rugby memory would be playing at Cwmgwrach RFC where I started the journey with Neath’s Pat Horgan being part of the coaching staff.

Q. Who was your inspiration to get into rugby??
A. Parents, brother, and the boys I grew up with.

Q. Who were your rugby (or other sporting) heroes growing up?
A. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Usain Bolt, Shane Williams.

Q. You have played against us for Bridgend before, but what about your best on-field memories?
A. Best on field memory has to be the dying minutes of the JWC 2013 semi final in France.

Q. It must be good to see Rowland at the Club after all the success he brought to Neath during his previous spell, and in his time abroad…
A. Definitely, he’s going to be a big boost to the team this year with the experience he has.

Q. What are your highlights during your career so far and what would you like the Team to achieve this year?
A. My Highlight so far has to be reaching the JWC 2013 Final (lets not talk about the result and who it was against) and also Wales 7s tournaments in Dubai, South Africa, Vegas and Wellington. I would like to see Neath back up the top end of the Premiership table, where they belong!

Q. Some quirky and quickfire questions… What’s the funniest thing you have seen on the field?!
A. Rhodri Hughes getting his pants pulled down

Q. Favourite and Worst Grounds?
A. Favourite – Westpac Stadium Wellington, Hurricanes Ground
Worst – Dowlais RFC – freezing

Q. Toughest Opponent?
A. 15’s – Seabelo Senatla

Q. Biggest joker at Neath/Elsewhere?
A. I don’t really know the boys that well yet… but I have a feeling I will sooner rather than later!!

Q. Favourite Meal/Drink
A. Dominos Pizza & Fanta Fruit Twist

Q. Any superstitions/Pre-match rituals?
A. I must tie my left boot before my right, own headphones for music.

Q. What’s your message for the Neath faithful for the coming season?
A. Keep doing what you always have, it’s amazing the difference the support makes.

Thanks for your time Ash and good luck for an injury free and successful season!

You can see the rest of the Black List features by clicking here