Nick Scott is fully aware that London Welsh’s friendly at Pontypridd tomorrow is the last chance to stake a claim for a starting place against Exeter Chiefs.

The Exiles travel to Sardis Road in their final pre-season fixture before the Aviva Premiership gets under way at the Kassam Stadium on September 7, when the Chiefs come to Oxford.

For Scott, a Championship winner with the Exiles 2012 and 2014, it’s a huge opportunity to make sure of a place in Justin Burnell’s plans.

“It’s the last chance to put a marker down to be in the team against Exeter on the opening weekend,” he said.

“We know how good a team Ponty are. It will be a huge challenge and they’ll be out to take our scalp.

“But it’s another opportunity to tweak things, try things, and improve our skills to go into the Premiership season on a high.”

Welsh will be hoping to return to winning ways after last Sunday’s 38-24 defeat at Wasps.

Scott, who went over for a first-half try, added: “It’s always good to get on the scoresheet.”

Meanwhile, Welsh's big-name summer signing, New Zealand scrum half Piri Weepu, arrived in the country yesterday ahead of the new season.

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