Welsh Rugby
Cardiff Blues - We can cope without Roberts
ESPN Staff
April 16, 2013
Jamie Roberts dives into score for Wales, Wales v Italy, Six Nations, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, March 10, 2012
Jamie Roberts will play in the Top 14 next year © Getty Images
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Cardiff Blues coach Phil Davies is certain they have enough strength in depth within the region to fill the void left by the departing Jamie Roberts.

Roberts bid an emotional farewell to the Arms Park faithful on Saturday when he played his final home match for the Blues ahead of his summer switch to France with Racing Metro his expected destination.

The Wales international, who also qualified as a doctor this week, marked the occasion with a try but Davies is confident they can pose a threat in the centres despite losing the 26-year-old's services.

"Jamie's loss is disappointing but it will give others an opportunity here to fill the void," Davies told Wales Online. "Opportunities open up for other and that is professional sport.

"Cory Allen and Owen Williams are two young centres who have huge futures in the game. Along with Dafydd Hewitt and Gavin Evans, we also have experience to play alongside them."

Allen has shone for the Wales Sevens team this year and scored a memorable solo effort in the Hong Kong final. Williams has played the bulk of his rugby on the flank this season but Davies is hopeful of utilising the pair in the centres next term.

"We see Owen as a 13 in the future and he has played well for us this season," added Davies. "It is a case of needs must for us this season but playing on the wing has been a good experience for him.

"He came in at 13 against Toulon with only half an hours notice and did exceptionally well. I would have thought he would be in with a shout of the Japan tour."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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