That led to O’Brien – who was near a Wales call-up for 2026 Six Nations – getting his large shot in between skilled scrum-half Richie Rees and stalwart centre Ashley Smith.
“It was my first season being within the senior surroundings,” mentioned O’Brien, who completed with former South Africa fly-half Morne Steyn as his reverse quantity.
“I used to be a younger child and I suppose it gave me confidence as a result of it was an ideal expertise. I might solely actually performed for Cross Keys earlier than that so to have a begin out at Stade Francais and get a win on the market was huge.”
Stade, who’re third within the High 14, have rotated their squad for the fixture in opposition to Dragons however boast formidable depth and can anticipate to earn a house quarter-final in opposition to both Zebre or Pau.
Nevertheless, Dragons have been a more durable nut to crack this season and go into the fixture recent from spirited showings in opposition to Stormers and Lions in South Africa.
“They’re an excellent group and are going rather well within the High 14 however it’s an thrilling problem we’re all trying ahead to,” mentioned O’Brien, who handed 500 factors for the membership final weekend.
“They’re very harmful and a very good attacking outfit however it’s an thrilling alternative within the knockout stage and we’re able to get after it.”
